If You Go Down to the Pond Today…….

….you’re sure to get a surprise! (sung badly out of tune to ‘if you go into the woods today…) You may or may not remember our year-long pond study?  Although we do not ‘officially’ pond anymore, the pond in question is situated in our village and so we often walk past or dander down for……

Week 49: One Year Pond Study: Bird Study – Moor Hens

We have two resident Moorhens, who have been there each time we have visited the pond this year.  We have never seen them fly, they are there regardless of the times we go (night-time, early morning etc), they have nested and reared their young and are basically a permanent fixture at our pond. Moorhens are……

One Year Pond Study: Week 47 – A Quick Visit and a Surprise

Here is our pond this week: Spring is finally peeking around the corner and the trees are responding afresh with buds for a new season.  It lifts one’s spirits and I am so glad we have the different seasons to enjoy anew. This particular pond visit was a very quick one, crammed in on our……

One Year Pond Study: Week 44 – Winter Ash Tree Study

I’m really enjoying these last visits to the pond.  Looking back over the year, especially over the seasonal activities we have done, it is satisfying to have a visual record of the changes that have occurred.  This post is a quick photo collage looking back on all four seasons of the Ash tree: I can……

One Year Pond Study: Week 43 – Checking out the Overflow

Here is our pond this week: The pond seems so quiet at the moment.  There is little to report, with no gulls, two Moorhens and only four Mallards. The children went off exploring as I snapped away at the wildlife (and them): T12 has decided to write a letter to the RSPB (with whom he……

One Year Pond Study: Week 42 – Canada Geese Study

Thank you to everyone who was praying and thinking about me, and for all your good wishes and emails (and for Phil and Vicky for looking after our five children, so Gary could come with me).  I had the scan this morning and they said it was nothing to worry about, just to keep an eye……

One Year Pond Study: Week 41 – Ponding with Young Children

Not much has changed since last week, and as we have had Gary’s parents staying with us, we haven’t had the opportunity for a full study.  I thought instead I would look back over the past ten months and reflect on those things that have worked to encourage the younger two to pond along side us.……

One Year Pond Study – Week 40: Back After a Break

This is kind of a catch up post for the few weeks I missed over the Christmas period.  During this time, although we were at the pond, we did not go camera in hand.  More likely we were passing on our way to the local shops!  However this week we managed to make a proper……

Changes at the Pond: A Real-Life Homeschool Nature Study

The pond has transformed into a dynamic learning environment, showcasing lessons in ecology and conservation. Observations of human impact on natural habitats have sparked curiosity and deeper inquiries among children. Through hands-on activities and shared experiences, the process emphasizes the importance of nature, change, and familial connections in learning.

Autumn Tree Study

This week’s informal autumn tree study emphasizes the value of consistent observations over time. Focusing on an Ash tree, it highlights seasonal transformations from budding in spring to leaf loss in autumn, while also reflecting on changes in the pond environment. The study fosters observation skills, patience, and a deeper connection with nature among children.

Autumn Pond Renovations

This week at the pond has been a lesson in change which has been rapid, visible, and at times, a little disheartening. In this post we’ll be checking in on the autumn pond renovations. With autumn now firmly upon us, we expected to witness one of the richest seasons for our pond study. Leaves are……

Pond Renovations {One Year Pond Study}

Recent pond renovations near a local study spot have transformed the area into a unique learning opportunity for homeschoolers. The changes include ecosystem restoration and improved biodiversity, which can lead to discussions about environmental management. Parents can engage children with hands-on activities and deeper learning questions while observing nature’s dynamic processes.

Spotting a Swan {One Year Pond Study}

In a recent pond study, a family experienced a rare moment by spotting a friendly swan, which sparked various learning opportunities in subjects such as science, geography, and art. This encounter highlighted the value of consistent observation in nature and underscored the joy of spontaneous learning during their year-long exploration.

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