The Rhythm of the Pond {Pond Study – Week 13}

As we reach the middle stretch of our year-long pond study, I’ve noticed a quiet shift taking place — not so much in the pond itself, but in us. The children have grown more at ease here. They no longer rush to spot something new or tick off a species list; instead, they seem to settle into the rhythm of the pond.

Find out more! If you’d like to know more about why we decided to do a year long pond study, this is the post for you!

The pond has become a companion, not just a project.

Sometimes, the best kind of learning happens when you stop trying to learn at all.”

A Day with No Plan: Playing to the Rhythm of the Pond

This week, we came with no plan — no sketches to complete, no data to collect. Just open eyes and open time.

The children took the lead in this slower rhythm. They sprawled on the grass, watching the ripples shimmer across the pond’s surface, their eyes tracing the lazy path of a drifting feather. Someone spotted the Canada ducks diving and bobbing for fish, while another child called out softly about the terrapins basking on the half-submerged log.

Every so often, a pair of ducks pecked and waddled along the shore, completely unbothered by our quiet presence.

This is a great point to read about when we helped an injured duck!

We noticed a moor hen nesting near the reeds — a patient, hidden sort of beauty that only reveals itself if you wait long enough.

Read More! Last week we learnt all about the variety of pond birds in the UK

Just as we were all lulled by the stillness, a heron glided in with graceful power, landing for only a moment before lifting off again — a silver-grey whisper against the blue.

Just Playing Around

The children drifted in and out of observation, climbing trees, gathering daisies for chains, and laughing in the kind of free, earthy way that only happens when no one’s rushing.

The pond has become more than a study site now; it’s a familiar friend. There’s a sense of ease here — of knowing the rhythms of this small ecosystem, and of belonging quietly within it.

Click here to read about the animals and plants we have found around our pond

Reflections

As I watched the children weave daisy chains under the same tree where we recorded our first spring frog calls, I realised how this study has changed us.

What began as a science lesson has turned into a relationship — one built on patience, play, and presence…and the rhythm of the pond.

And perhaps that’s the truest kind of nature study there is. 🌸