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  • Best Homeschool Spelling Curriculum for Charlotte Mason Families: A Real Mama’s Guide

    Best Homeschool Spelling Curriculum for Charlotte Mason Families: A Real Mama’s Guide

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever watched your child copy spelling words twenty times in a row while their eyes glaze over, you know that feeling in your gut — the one that says there has to be a better way. When I first started homeschooling, I grabbed a traditional spelling workbook because that’s what I knew. Flashbacks to my own 1990s classroom, right? But here’s the thing: Charlotte Mason had some pretty revolutionary ideas about spelling, and once I understood her approach, everything clicked into place.

    So let’s talk about finding the best homeschool spelling curriculum Charlotte Mason style — one that honors your child’s natural learning process and doesn’t feel like pulling teeth every morning.

    What Charlotte Mason Actually Said About Spelling

    Charlotte Mason believed spelling is primarily a visual skill, not an auditory one. She wasn’t a fan of spelling lists memorized in isolation or the classic “spell it out loud five times” method. Instead, she advocated for children to see words correctly — over and over — through quality literature and careful copywork.

    Her approach was simple but profound: prevent misspellings rather than correct them endlessly. When a child sees and writes a word correctly from the start, it gets stamped into their visual memory. It’s the same reason I can still picture certain words from books I loved as a kid.

    This doesn’t mean we ignore spelling instruction entirely. It means we approach it differently — through living books, copywork, studied dictation, and natural exposure rather than drill-and-kill worksheets.

    Our Favorite Charlotte Mason Spelling Methods

    Copywork: The Foundation of It All

    Copywork is the bread and butter of Charlotte Mason spelling. Your child copies beautiful, meaningful passages from real books — paying attention to each word, each letter, each punctuation mark. It’s spelling, handwriting, grammar, and literature appreciation all wrapped into one gentle practice.

    We keep a nature journal specifically for copywork from our nature readings. My kids have copied everything from descriptions in The Sibley Guide to Birds to passages about local Florida wildlife. When they’re copying words like “sandpiper” or “mangrove,” they’re learning to spell words that actually mean something to them.

    Studied Dictation: The Next Step

    Once your child has a solid foundation in copywork (usually around age 8-10), you can move into studied dictation. Here’s how it works:

    1. Choose a short passage from their current reading

    2. Let them study it carefully — looking at tricky words, punctuation, everything

    3. Remove the passage and dictate it back to them

    4. They write it from memory

    The key is that they study it first. No surprises. No setting them up for failure. This builds confidence and trains that visual memory Charlotte Mason valued so highly.

    Prepared Dictation for Younger Ones

    For my younger elementary kids, we do a simplified version called prepared dictation. They might study just a sentence or two, and I’ll point out any words that might trip them up. We talk about them. They notice them. Then they write.

    It sounds almost too simple, but that’s the beauty of it.

    Curriculum Options That Fit the Charlotte Mason Approach

    Now, some families piece together their own spelling program using copywork and dictation from living books. That’s absolutely valid — we did it for years. But if you want a bit more structure (no shame in that game), here are some options that align well with Charlotte Mason principles:

    All About Spelling — While it’s technically an Orton-Gillingham program, many CM families use it for children who need more explicit phonics instruction. It’s hands-on with tiles and teaches spelling rules systematically.

    Spelling Wisdom — This is probably the most purely Charlotte Mason spelling curriculum out there. It uses prepared dictation with passages from classic literature. Beautiful and simple.

    Simply Spelling (from Simply Charlotte Mason) — Another solid option that walks you through the studied dictation process step by step.

    Natural Speller — A reference-style book organized by phonetic patterns. Great for families who want to create their own word lists based on their child’s reading.

    You can find many of these through homeschool retailers like Rainbow Resource or Timberdoodle, which is helpful for comparing options and reading reviews from other homeschool families.

    What We Actually Do in Our Florida Homeschool

    Honestly? We keep it pretty relaxed. Our spelling instruction is woven into everything else we do rather than existing as its own separate subject.

    Morning time includes copywork from whatever living book we’re reading. Right now, that’s a lot of nature study passages since we’re outside so much — Florida winters are basically the perfect outdoor classroom weather. When we’re learning about our backyard chickens, my kids might copy a passage from Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens or their own kid’s chicken care book.

    We also do a lot of nature journaling, which sneaks in spelling practice without anyone really noticing. When you’re labeling a sketch of a Gulf fritillary butterfly or writing observations about what the hens did today, you’re practicing spelling in context. It sticks better because it matters to them.

    For my child who needs more structured phonics work, we supplement with explicit instruction. Charlotte Mason herself recognized that some children need different approaches, and there’s nothing wrong with that. We use manipulatives similar to the hands-on style of Math-U-See — tactile and multi-sensory.

    Tips for Making Charlotte Mason Spelling Work

    Start with books they love. The whole approach falls apart if you’re using dry, boring passages. Use their read-alouds, their nature guides, their beloved chapter books.

    Keep it short. Charlotte Mason was big on short lessons. Five to ten minutes of focused copywork beats thirty minutes of mindless repetition every single time.

    Don’t over-correct. If they misspell a word during dictation, simply show them the correct spelling and move on. No drama. No red pen massacre.

    Trust the process. Spelling ability develops over time with exposure to good books and consistent, gentle practice. Most kids aren’t strong spellers at age 7. That’s okay.

    A Word About Developmental Readiness

    Here’s something I wish someone had told me earlier: some kids just aren’t neurologically ready for spelling until later. If your 6-year-old is struggling, it might not be a curriculum problem. It might just be a “not yet” situation.

    Charlotte Mason started formal spelling instruction around age 8 or 9. Before that, it was all about exposure through reading aloud and very simple copywork. Give yourself permission to slow down.

    Finding Your Family’s Rhythm

    The best homeschool spelling curriculum Charlotte Mason style is ultimately the one that fits your family — your child’s learning needs, your daily rhythm, your sanity levels. For us, that means keeping it integrated with nature study, copywork, and real books rather than isolated worksheets.

    Some mornings, our spelling practice happens at the kitchen table with fresh eggs from the coop cooling on the counter and our labradoodle snoring at our feet. Other days, we’re journaling outside, sketching what we see and labeling it carefully. It’s not Pinterest-perfect, but it’s working.

    And honestly? Watching my kids become confident writers who actually enjoy putting words on paper — that’s the whole point, isn’t it? Not perfect spelling tests, but kids who love language and aren’t afraid to use it.

    You’ve got this, mama. Trust the process, trust your kids, and keep it simple.

  • How to Teach Kids About Ecosystems with Backyard Science (No Curriculum Required)

    How to Teach Kids About Ecosystems with Backyard Science (No Curriculum Required)

    If you’ve ever watched your kid squat down to examine a line of ants marching across the patio, you already know something important: children are natural scientists. They don’t need fancy labs or expensive curriculum to understand how the world works. They need time, space, and a little guidance — and honestly? Your backyard is one of the best science classrooms you’ll ever find.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Here in Northwest Florida, we’re surrounded by an incredible diversity of life — from the longleaf pine ecosystems to our coastal marshes to whatever’s happening under that rotting log by the fence. And when it comes to teaching kids about ecosystems, I’ve found that the best approach isn’t opening a textbook. It’s opening the back door.

    What Is an Ecosystem, Anyway? (In Kid Terms)

    Before we get into the how, let’s keep the what simple. An ecosystem is just a community of living things interacting with each other and their environment. That’s it. The plants, the bugs, the birds, the soil, the water, the sunshine — all working together.

    When I explain this to my elementary-age kids, I tell them: “Everything in our backyard has a job, and everything is connected.” The chicken poop fertilizes the grass. The grass feeds the grasshoppers. The grasshoppers feed the birds. The birds spread seeds. And around we go.

    Once they start seeing those connections, they can’t unsee them. That’s the magic.

    Start with Observation (Charlotte Mason Had It Right)

    If you’re familiar with Charlotte Mason’s approach to education, you know that nature study isn’t a subject — it’s a way of seeing. And ecosystem science fits perfectly into this philosophy.

    We don’t start with definitions or worksheets. We start with sitting still and paying attention.

    Grab a nature journal and some colored pencils, head outside, and just… look. Ask your kids questions like:

    • What do you notice today that you didn’t notice yesterday?
    • What animals do you see? What are they doing?
    • What do you think that bug eats? What might eat that bug?

    You don’t need to have all the answers. In fact, wondering together is half the fun. When my kids asked why the mockingbirds always hang out near our elderberry bush, we got to talk about food sources, shelter, and how one plant can support a whole chain of creatures.

    Create an Ecosystem Map of Your Backyard

    One of our favorite projects is making a simple map of our backyard ecosystem. This works beautifully for elementary-age kids and can be as basic or detailed as you want.

    Here’s how we do it:

    1. Walk the perimeter together. Note the different zones — sunny spots, shady corners, wet areas, dry patches.

    2. Sketch it out. Draw a rough map in the nature journal, including trees, bushes, garden beds, and any water sources.

    3. Add the living things. Over several days, observe and add animals, insects, and birds to the map where you see them most often.

    4. Draw the connections. Use arrows to show who eats what, who lives where, and how things relate.

    My kids loved adding our chickens to the map and tracing all the ways they’re part of the ecosystem — eating bugs, scratching up soil, fertilizing the garden beds. Even our labradoodle made it on there (she’s our official squirrel patrol).

    Hands-On Backyard Science Ideas

    Bug Hunting and Identification

    Nothing teaches food webs faster than catching bugs and asking, “What eats this?” A bug catcher kit is a backyard essential around here. We catch, observe, identify, and release.

    For closer investigation, we use a pocket microscope to look at wings, legs, and other tiny details. My kids were mesmerized the first time they saw an ant’s antenna up close.

    Bird Watching

    Birds are perfect ecosystem teachers because they’re easy to observe and clearly connected to everything else — they eat bugs and seeds, spread plants, and become food for larger predators.

    We keep a Sibley bird guide on our back porch and tally which species visit. In Florida, we get everything from blue jays to painted buntings to the occasional hawk eyeing our chicken run (not on my watch, buddy).

    Decomposition Station

    This sounds grosser than it is, and kids LOVE it. Find a spot in your yard where leaves, sticks, or food scraps are decomposing. Check it weekly and observe what’s happening. Who’s living in there? How is the material changing?

    This is where you get to talk about decomposers — fungi, bacteria, worms, and insects that break things down and return nutrients to the soil. The circle of life, happening right under their feet.

    The Chicken Connection

    If you have backyard chickens, you’ve got a built-in ecosystem lesson. Our hens are constantly demonstrating nutrient cycling, pest control, and the predator-prey relationship (we’ve had many conversations about why we lock them up at night).

    For families considering chickens or wanting to go deeper, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is excellent for parents, and there’s also a great kid’s guide to keeping chickens that makes my elementary kids feel like real chicken scientists.

    Make It a Regular Practice

    The real secret to backyard ecosystem study isn’t one big lesson — it’s showing up consistently. In the Charlotte Mason tradition, we call this “nature study,” and it doesn’t have to be complicated.

    We aim for 15-30 minutes a few times a week. Sometimes we have a focus (today we’re counting pollinators). Sometimes we just wander and see what we find. Both are valuable.

    Over time, your kids will start noticing things you’d miss. They’ll spot the spider web between the tomato plants. They’ll tell you the anoles are more active after rain. They’re building scientific observation skills without even realizing it.

    Florida-Specific Ecosystem Ideas

    Living in the Pensacola area gives us some unique opportunities:

    • Coastal ecosystems: If you can get to the beach or a salt marsh, compare what lives there versus your backyard. What’s different? What’s the same?
    • Pine flatwoods: If you’re near any preserved longleaf pine habitat, explore the understory. Talk about fire ecology and why controlled burns help these ecosystems thrive.
    • Water sources: Ponds, creeks, and even drainage ditches host their own little worlds. (Just bring the bug spray — preferably something like Wondercide that won’t make you cringe.)

    Let Them Get Dirty

    I know this sounds obvious, but I’ll say it anyway: let your kids get messy. Let them dig in the dirt. Let them pick up the worms. Let them come inside with mud on their rain boots and a beetle in their pocket.

    This is how kids learned about the natural world for generations before screens took over — through touch, smell, observation, and wonder. It’s what I think of as “1990s childhood” science. No apps required.

    Bringing It All Together

    Teaching kids about ecosystems doesn’t require a degree in ecology or a stack of curriculum. It requires a backyard, some curiosity, and the willingness to say, “I don’t know — let’s find out.”

    When your kids understand that everything is connected — that the butterfly needs the flower, the flower needs the bee, the bee needs the tree, and the tree needs the soil — they start seeing the world differently. They become observers, protectors, and stewards.

    And honestly? Those afternoons spent crouched over an anthill or sketching a mockingbird are some of my favorite homeschool moments. No worksheets, no grades. Just us, learning together in the place we call home.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, someone just found a caterpillar and we need to figure out what it’s going to become.

  • Non-Toxic Furniture Polish Safe for Homes with Kids: What We Actually Use

    Non-Toxic Furniture Polish Safe for Homes with Kids: What We Actually Use

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever watched your kid lick the coffee table (just me?), you understand why finding a non-toxic furniture polish safe for homes with kids suddenly becomes a priority. Between sticky fingers, impromptu snack stations on every flat surface, and the general chaos of childhood, our furniture sees a lot of action. And I don’t know about you, but I’d rather not have my kids absorbing a cocktail of synthetic fragrances and petroleum-based chemicals through their skin every time they sprawl across the dining table to color.

    Here in Florida, we deal with humidity that can be rough on wood furniture, plus all the sand and sunscreen that inevitably gets tracked through the house. Finding something that actually works while keeping our home intentionally non-toxic has been a journey — and I’m happy to share what I’ve learned.

    Why Traditional Furniture Polish Is Worth Avoiding

    Most conventional furniture polishes contain ingredients I can’t pronounce and definitely don’t want building up on surfaces my kids touch constantly. We’re talking about things like:

    • Synthetic fragrances — often hiding dozens of undisclosed chemicals
    • Petroleum distillates — linked to respiratory irritation
    • Silicones — that build up over time and can actually damage wood
    • Propellants — in aerosol cans that affect indoor air quality

    When I started looking into what was actually in the bright yellow can under my sink, I realized we needed a change. Not in a panic-throw-everything-away kind of way, but in a slow, intentional shift toward better options.

    Simple Non-Toxic Furniture Polish Options That Actually Work

    The DIY Route: Olive Oil and Vinegar

    Honestly? The simplest solution is usually the best one. Our go-to furniture polish is something my grandmother probably used:

    Basic Recipe:

    • 1/4 cup olive oil
    • 1/4 cup white vinegar
    • 10 drops lemon essential oil (optional, but it smells lovely)

    Shake it up in a glass jar, apply with a soft cloth, and buff. That’s it. The olive oil conditions the wood, the vinegar cuts through grime and water spots, and the lemon adds a fresh scent without synthetic fragrance.

    I keep a small jar of this under the kitchen sink, and it works beautifully on our dining table, bookshelves, and the kids’ wooden toys. In our humid Florida climate, I use it sparingly — a little goes a long way, and you don’t want to over-oil furniture in high humidity.

    Beeswax Polish for Deeper Conditioning

    For pieces that need more love — like the antique dresser we inherited or our well-worn homeschool table — I use a simple beeswax polish. You can buy pre-made versions or make your own with beeswax and coconut oil. This is especially nice for raw or unfinished wood pieces.

    The beeswax creates a protective barrier that holds up well to the daily wear and tear of homeschool life. And trust me, between nature journals, watercolor projects, and the occasional chicken egg that makes it inside for observation, our table sees everything.

    Castile Soap for Cleaning First

    Sometimes furniture doesn’t need polish — it needs a good cleaning first. A few drops of castile soap in water, applied with a damp (not wet!) cloth, works wonders for removing the mysterious sticky spots that appear overnight in homes with kids. Follow up with a dry cloth and then your polish of choice.

    What About Store-Bought Options?

    I get it — not everyone wants to DIY everything. On busy weeks (which is most weeks, let’s be honest), having a good ready-made option matters.

    Look for furniture polishes that are:

    • Free from synthetic fragrances
    • Made with plant-based oils
    • Free from petroleum products
    • Packaged in non-aerosol containers

    Grove Collaborative is a great place to find cleaner options for home care products, including furniture polish. They do the ingredient vetting so you don’t have to spend hours reading labels.

    Caring for Wood in a Florida Home

    Living in Northwest Florida means dealing with humidity levels that can wreak havoc on wood furniture. Here’s what I’ve learned:

    Don’t over-polish. In humid climates, too much oil-based polish can make furniture feel tacky or attract dust. I polish our main pieces maybe once a month, with simple dusting in between.

    Watch for water rings. Between sweaty glasses and the kids’ water bottles, water rings happen. A paste of baking soda and non-gel toothpaste, rubbed gently with a soft cloth, usually takes care of them.

    Let wood breathe. I try not to leave things sitting directly on wood surfaces — we use cotton placemats and trivets made from natural materials.

    Creating an Intentionally Non-Toxic Home (Without Losing Your Mind)

    Switching to non-toxic furniture polish is just one small piece of creating a healthier home environment. It’s the same reason we use Wondercide for pest control around the house and yard — when you have kids and pets running around, you start thinking differently about what you’re bringing into your space.

    Our mini labradoodle is constantly underfoot, and the kids are always barefoot and touching everything. Making these small swaps over time adds up to a home that just feels cleaner in the truest sense.

    I’ll be honest — I don’t stress about perfection. We still have some conventional products around, and I’m not going to panic if we’re at someone else’s house where they use regular furniture spray. But in our own space, where we have control, we choose differently when we can.

    The Connection to How We’re Raising Our Kids

    This might sound like a stretch, but hear me out: caring about non-toxic furniture polish is part of the same mindset that leads us to homeschool with a Charlotte Mason approach, to get outside every single day, and to let our kids get dirty and explore.

    It’s all about being intentional. About questioning the “normal” way of doing things and asking if there’s a better path.

    We want our kids to grow up with fewer chemicals in their bodies, yes — but we also want them to grow up knowing that the easy answer isn’t always the best answer. That taking time to make something yourself, to research and learn and choose carefully, is a skill worth having.

    So while I’m teaching them to identify birds in our backyard or tend to the chickens or press wildflowers into their nature journals, I’m also (maybe without them realizing it) teaching them to think critically about the products we use and why.

    A Few More Non-Toxic Swaps Worth Considering

    If you’re working on reducing toxins in your home, furniture polish is a great starting point. Here are a few other easy swaps that have made a difference for us:

    • Non-toxic sunscreen — essential for Florida kids who live outside. We’re constantly reaching for safer sunscreen options before heading out.
    • Food-grade diatomaceous earth — we use this in the chicken coop and around the garden for natural pest control.
    • Simple, unscented castile soap for all-purpose cleaning

    Wrapping Up

    Finding a non-toxic furniture polish safe for homes with kids doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A simple olive oil and vinegar mix handles 90% of our needs, with beeswax polish for occasional deeper conditioning.

    The goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress. Small, intentional swaps that, over time, create a home environment that’s a little gentler on our kids, our pets, and ourselves.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go wipe down the coffee table. Someone definitely licked it again.

  • Backyard Chickens Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment from a Florida Chicken Mama

    Backyard Chickens Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment from a Florida Chicken Mama

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    You’ve seen the dreamy Instagram photos — fluffy hens pecking around a picturesque garden, kids collecting eggs in little baskets, the whole homestead aesthetic. And now you’re wondering: is backyard chicken keeping actually worth it? Or is it one of those ideas that sounds magical until you’re knee-deep in chicken poop at 7 AM in July Florida heat?

    Friend, I’ve been there. We’ve had our backyard flock for several years now, and I’m going to give you the real, honest truth about what chicken keeping actually looks like — the beautiful parts and the messy parts. Because you deserve to make this decision with your eyes wide open.

    The Genuine Joys of Backyard Chickens

    Fresh Eggs Are Everything They’re Cracked Up to Be

    Let’s start with the obvious: the eggs really are better. Those deep orange yolks, the way they taste richer and more flavorful than anything from the grocery store — it’s not just in your head. When your hens are eating bugs and kitchen scraps and getting sunshine, it shows up in what they produce.

    There’s also something deeply satisfying about walking out to the coop and collecting breakfast. My kids still get excited about it, and we’ve been doing this for years. It never gets old.

    The Best Nature Study Teachers You’ll Ever Have

    If you’re a Charlotte Mason homeschooler like us, chickens are basically a living curriculum. We’ve learned about life cycles, anatomy, animal behavior, and even some hard lessons about predators and loss. My kids can tell you about the pecking order, how hens communicate danger, and why our rooster does that little dance.

    We keep Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens on our bookshelf for reference, and my kids love flipping through A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens when they have questions. It’s become part of our nature study rotation, and honestly, observing our flock has taught us more about animal husbandry than any textbook could.

    They Actually Help Your Yard

    Chickens are incredible pest control. Our flock devours mosquito larvae, fire ants, and all sorts of creepy crawlies that would otherwise be feasting on us. In Florida, where the bugs are basically aggressive, this is no small thing.

    They also turn kitchen scraps into compost gold. Vegetable peels, leftover rice, watermelon rinds — the girls take care of it all and turn it into the most beautiful garden fertilizer you’ve ever seen.

    That 1990s Childhood Magic

    This might sound sentimental, but watching my kids care for living creatures — feeding them, checking their water, learning their personalities — feels like the kind of childhood I want for them. No screens, just real responsibility and connection. The chickens have names. My kids know which hen is bossy and which one likes to be held. That matters to me.

    The Real Challenges Nobody Talks About

    Florida Heat Is Hard on Chickens (and You)

    I need to be honest with my fellow Florida folks: summer chicken keeping is not for the faint of heart. Chickens don’t handle heat well, and our Pensacola summers are brutal. We’ve had to get creative with frozen treats, extra waterers, and shade solutions.

    A good nipple waterer system has been essential for keeping clean, cool water available all day. We refill it constantly in July and August.

    The Daily Commitment Is Real

    Chickens need care every single day. Every. Single. Day. Rain, shine, vacation, sick kids, busy homeschool weeks — they still need to be fed, watered, and locked up safely at night.

    We eventually invested in an automatic coop door, and honestly, it was worth every penny. It gives us a little flexibility and peace of mind, especially on mornings when everything else is chaos.

    Predators Are Everywhere

    In Northwest Florida, we deal with hawks, raccoons, possums, and neighborhood dogs. We’ve lost hens, and it’s heartbreaking every time. Secure housing is non-negotiable, and even then, you have to stay vigilant.

    Mites, Lice, and Other Unpleasantries

    Chickens can get parasites. It’s part of the deal. We do regular coop cleanings and dust with food-grade diatomaceous earth as a natural preventative. It helps, but you still have to check your birds regularly and treat issues when they pop up.

    The Costs Add Up

    Feed, bedding, coop maintenance, supplements, veterinary care if needed — it’s not free. If you’re doing this purely for cheap eggs, I hate to break it to you: grocery store eggs are cheaper. We do this for the quality, the experience, and the education. But go in knowing that this is an investment.

    Is It Worth It? My Honest Take

    After years of keeping chickens in our Florida backyard, here’s what I’ve landed on: it’s absolutely worth it for our family, but it’s not for everyone.

    If you’re looking for a way to connect your kids to where food comes from, to slow down and observe the natural world, and to add some genuine responsibility and rhythm to your days — chickens might be your people. Er, your birds.

    But if you travel constantly, hate early mornings, or want something low-maintenance, this probably isn’t your season for a flock. And that’s okay.

    Tips If You Decide to Take the Leap

    • Start small. Three or four hens is plenty for a family. You can always add more later.
    • Build your coop stronger than you think you need. Florida predators are creative.
    • Research breeds for heat tolerance. We’ve had good luck with Leghorns and Easter Eggers in our climate.
    • Connect with local chicken keepers. There are Facebook groups for Pensacola-area folks that have been incredibly helpful.
    • Accept that you’ll make mistakes. We all do. The chickens are pretty forgiving.

    A Few Final Thoughts

    Our chickens have become part of the family — as much as our mini labradoodle, honestly. The kids check on them first thing every morning. We’ve laughed at their antics, cried when we’ve lost them, and marveled at the simple miracle of a fresh egg.

    Is it work? Yes. Is it messy? Absolutely. Is it worth it for a family trying to raise kids close to the land, with wonder and responsibility and a little bit of that old-fashioned magic?

    For us, it really is.

    If you’re on the fence, I’d say start researching, visit a local farm if you can, and trust your gut. You’ll know if chickens are right for your family. And if you decide to dive in, I’ll be here cheering you on — probably while refilling a waterer in the August heat, but cheering nonetheless.

  • Best Outdoor Learning Resources for Florida Homeschool Families

    Best Outdoor Learning Resources for Florida Homeschool Families

    If you’re homeschooling in Florida and trying to get your kids outside more, you’re already ahead of the game. We’ve got year-round growing seasons, incredible wildlife, and enough sunshine to make outdoor learning a daily reality — not just a nice idea for spring.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    But here’s the thing: having access to nature doesn’t automatically mean you know what to do with it. I remember standing in our backyard during our first year of homeschooling, watching the kids poke at something in the grass, thinking, “This is great… but now what?” We had the outdoors. We had the curiosity. What we needed were the right tools to turn exploration into actual learning.

    Over the past few years, we’ve figured out what works — what gets used over and over, what sparks real wonder, and what just collects dust in the garage. If you’re building a nature-based or Charlotte Mason homeschool in Florida (or honestly anywhere with decent weather), these are the outdoor learning resources that have made the biggest difference for our family.

    Start With Observation Tools

    Nature Journals

    Charlotte Mason had it right — the best way to learn about nature is to slow down and actually look at it. We use these simple blank nature journals for sketching, pressing leaves, and jotting down observations. Nothing fancy. Nothing intimidating. Just a place to record what we see.

    My kids aren’t artists (and neither am I), but that’s not really the point. The act of drawing something — really looking at the veins on a leaf or the way a beetle’s legs bend — changes how you see it. Even my kindergartner participates by drawing wobbly circles and calling them “rolly pollies.” It counts.

    A Good Field Guide

    We keep The Sibley Guide to Birds on our back porch at all times. Florida has an incredible variety of birds — we’ve spotted everything from painted buntings to ospreys right from our yard. Having a real, physical field guide (instead of just Googling everything) makes identification feel like detective work. The kids race to find the matching picture, and honestly, I’ve learned more about birds in the past two years than in my entire life before homeschooling.

    Pocket Microscope

    This one surprised me with how much we use it. A pocket microscope is small enough to carry on walks and powerful enough to see things that blow kids’ minds — the scales on a butterfly wing, the texture of tree bark, the weird details on a beetle shell. It’s turned “Mom, look at this bug” into actual mini science lessons more times than I can count.

    Gear That Gets Kids Outside

    Rain Boots

    This might sound too simple to include, but hear me out: good rain boots remove one of the biggest barriers to outdoor play. Muddy yard? Who cares. Afternoon thunderstorm just ended? Perfect time to explore. Florida summers mean daily rain, and instead of keeping everyone inside, we’ve learned to embrace the puddles.

    My kids wear their boots practically year-round. They’re essential for checking on the chickens too — because nothing ruins your morning like stepping in wet chicken poop in sneakers.

    Bug Catching Supplies

    We live in Florida. We have bugs. Lots of bugs. Instead of fighting it, we’ve leaned in. A bug catcher kit lets kids catch, observe, and release all kinds of creatures — from dragonflies to beetles to the occasional very confused anole lizard who wandered into the wrong container.

    We pair this with a bug collection and observation kit that has magnifying containers, tweezers, and a little field guide. It’s the kind of hands-on science that doesn’t feel like school, which is exactly the point.

    Art Supplies for Outdoor Study

    Charlotte Mason emphasized “painting from nature,” and while I’m not raising the next Audubon, I do think there’s something special about creating art outside. We bring Faber-Castell watercolor pencils on nature walks — you can sketch with them dry and then add water later for a painted effect. They’re forgiving for beginners and portable enough to toss in a backpack.

    Even if the finished product looks nothing like the flower we were trying to capture, the process matters. My kids notice colors and shapes they’d otherwise miss. And honestly? Some of their nature journal pages are pretty charming.

    Curriculum Resources for Outdoor Learning

    If you’re looking for more structured support — especially if you’re using Florida’s PEP homeschool scholarship — there are a couple of places I always recommend.

    Rainbow Resource has an incredible selection of nature study curricula, field guides, and hands-on science materials. I’ve ordered from them more times than I can count, and their search filters make it easy to find Charlotte Mason-friendly options.

    Timberdoodle is another favorite — they curate kits that include a lot of outdoor and hands-on learning components. Their science picks tend to be excellent, and they carry many of the observation tools I mentioned above.

    Both of these are PEP-approved vendors, which makes purchasing easier if you’re using scholarship funds.

    Don’t Forget Free Play

    Here’s the part where I remind you (and myself) that not every moment outside needs to be educational with a capital E. Some of the best outdoor learning happens when kids are just… playing. Building forts. Digging holes. Chasing the dog around the yard while she barks at the chickens.

    We keep a basket of lawn games on the back porch for when the kids need to burn energy but I need them to stay outside a little longer. Bocce ball, ring toss, ladder golf — these aren’t academic, but they’re physical, they’re outside, and they keep screens off.

    I also invested in a pair of walkie talkies for when the kids want to explore the “far corners” of our half-acre lot like they’re on some kind of expedition. It gives them independence and gives me peace of mind.

    A Note About the Florida Heat

    Let’s be real: outdoor learning in Florida requires some strategy, especially May through September. We do most of our nature time in the early morning or late afternoon. We take water everywhere. And we’ve accepted that some days, it’s just too hot — and that’s okay.

    But even in the heat, there’s so much to explore. Summer storms bring out frogs. Our chickens are most active in the cooler parts of the day. The golden hour light in our backyard is genuinely beautiful. You work with it instead of against it.

    Final Thoughts

    The best outdoor learning doesn’t require a ton of stuff or a perfect plan. It requires showing up — getting outside, slowing down, and letting curiosity lead. The tools I’ve shared here are just that: tools. They’re not the magic. The magic is in watching your kid spend twenty minutes studying an ant hill, or hearing them identify a bird call without any help, or seeing them run inside covered in dirt with something cupped carefully in their hands.

    That’s the kind of childhood I’m trying to give my kids. Less structured, more wonder. Less screen time, more mud. It’s what I remember from my own childhood in the ’90s, and it’s what I hope they’ll remember from theirs.

    If you’re in Northwest Florida and figuring out this whole nature-based homeschool thing too, I hope this list helps. We’re all just learning as we go — kids and mamas alike.

  • How to Do Composer Study with Elementary Kids (The Simple, Beautiful Way)

    How to Do Composer Study with Elementary Kids (The Simple, Beautiful Way)

    If you’ve ever wondered how to do composer study with elementary kids without a music degree or a house full of instruments, you’re in good company. I felt the same way when I first started homeschooling. Classical music felt intimidating — something for fancy people in concert halls, not a mama in yoga pants trying to get through morning chores while the chickens squawk outside.

    But here’s what I’ve learned: composer study is one of the simplest, most beautiful additions to your homeschool. And it requires almost nothing from you except a willingness to press play.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    What Is Composer Study, Anyway?

    In the Charlotte Mason tradition, composer study is simply the practice of exposing your children to great music — regularly, gently, without worksheets or quizzes. The idea is that children absorb beauty the way they absorb language: through repeated, living exposure.

    You’re not teaching music theory. You’re not drilling facts about time signatures. You’re inviting your kids into a relationship with beautiful music, one composer at a time.

    And honestly? It’s become one of my favorite parts of our homeschool week.

    Why Composer Study Belongs in Your Homeschool

    We live in a world of constant noise — notifications, jingles, algorithmic playlists designed to keep us scrolling. Composer study is a quiet rebellion against all of that. It teaches our kids to slow down, to listen deeply, to recognize beauty when they hear it.

    Charlotte Mason believed that music was a birthright, not a privilege. Every child deserves to know Beethoven and Handel and Vivaldi — not because it makes them smarter (though studies suggest it might), but because great music feeds the soul.

    Plus, it’s the kind of education that sticks. My kids now recognize Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite when it plays in a store. They have opinions about whether Mozart or Bach is “better” (spirited debates, y’all). That’s the fruit of simple, consistent exposure.

    How to Get Started: The Simple Method

    Step 1: Pick One Composer Per Term

    Don’t overcomplicate this. Choose one composer to focus on for 6-12 weeks. That’s it. We typically follow the school term rhythm, so we study three composers per year.

    Some great starting points for elementary kids:

    • Vivaldi (The Four Seasons is perfect for nature-loving families)
    • Mozart (accessible and playful)
    • Beethoven (dramatic and memorable)
    • Handel (especially around Easter — Messiah is stunning)
    • Tchaikovsky (ballet music captures little imaginations)

    Step 2: Play Their Music Regularly

    This is the heart of composer study: regular listening. We aim for 2-3 times per week, about 10-15 minutes each session.

    When do we listen? During:

    • Morning time (while we do memory work or poetry)
    • Lunch
    • Art time
    • Quiet afternoon rest
    • While the kids play outside (yes, I’ll put a speaker on the back porch)

    You don’t need fancy equipment. A phone, a Bluetooth speaker, and a streaming service work just fine. I like to create a playlist at the beginning of each term so I’m not scrambling.

    Step 3: Learn a Little About Their Life

    Once a week or so, we read a short biography or picture book about our composer. We keep it simple — maybe 10 minutes of reading aloud.

    For elementary kids, I love the “Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Composers” series by Mike Venezia. They’re funny, illustrated, and give just enough information without overwhelming. You can often find these at the library or through curriculum suppliers like Rainbow Resource.

    We’ll also look up a portrait of the composer and maybe find their birthplace on a map. That’s it. No reports. No tests.

    Step 4: Invite Response (But Don’t Force It)

    Sometimes my kids want to draw while they listen. Sometimes they want to dance. Sometimes they just want to build LEGOs and let the music wash over them. All of those responses are valid.

    If your child loves to draw, keep a nature journal or sketchbook handy during listening time. A set of Faber-Castell watercolor pencils can make this feel special — we sometimes do “musical watercolors” where the kids paint whatever the music makes them feel.

    But honestly? Don’t stress about output. The goal is exposure and enjoyment, not production.

    Making It Work in Real Life

    Keep It Short

    Fifteen minutes is plenty for elementary kids. Some days we do less. Charlotte Mason was big on short lessons, and this applies to music too. Better to leave them wanting more than to drag it out until everyone’s glazed over.

    Use What You Have

    You don’t need a curriculum (though some families love having one). You don’t need instruments. You don’t need to understand music yourself. You just need to press play and be present with your kids.

    Let It Be Background Sometimes

    Not every listening session needs to be focused. Sometimes Baroque music is just playing while we eat lunch or while I’m folding laundry. That still counts. Familiarity breeds affection.

    Connect It to Nature Study When You Can

    This might be my favorite part. Vivaldi’s Four Seasons is basically a nature study soundtrack. We’ll listen to “Spring” while we’re outside observing the birds at our feeder (the Sibley Birds guide gets pulled out a lot during these sessions). Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony pairs beautifully with a morning in the backyard, watching the chickens scratch around and the dog chase lizards.

    Music and nature study together? That’s the good stuff, y’all.

    A Sample Composer Study Week

    Here’s what a typical week might look like in our house:

    Monday: Listen to two pieces during morning time. Brief narration — “What did you notice? How did it make you feel?”

    Wednesday: Listen during art time. Kids draw or paint while the music plays.

    Friday: Read a few pages from our composer biography. Look at a portrait. Listen to one more piece.

    That’s maybe 45 minutes total for the whole week, spread across three days. Simple. Doable. Beautiful.

    Resources We Love

    For curriculum, Timberdoodle offers some wonderful music appreciation options if you want something more structured. But truly, you can do this with library books, YouTube, and Spotify.

    The key is consistency over complexity. Show up week after week, press play, and trust that your kids are absorbing more than you realize.

    The Long Game of Musical Education

    Composer study isn’t about raising prodigies or checking boxes. It’s about giving our kids a rich inner life — a storehouse of beauty they can draw from for the rest of their days.

    I think about this when we’re sitting on the back porch in the late afternoon, Florida humidity settling in, the kids sprawled out with books while Chopin plays softly from the speaker. The dog is dozing. The chickens are doing their thing. And my kids are absorbing something true and good and beautiful without even trying.

    That’s the 1990s childhood I’m trying to give them, updated for today. Less noise. More substance. Space to just be with beautiful things.

    You can do this, mama. Press play. It’s enough.

  • Non-Toxic Garage Floor Cleaner Safe for Pets: What We Actually Use

    Non-Toxic Garage Floor Cleaner Safe for Pets: What We Actually Use

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve got a dog who tracks through the garage, chickens who occasionally wander in looking for spilled feed, or kids who sit on that concrete floor to put on their rain boots — you’ve probably wondered the same thing I did: What on earth can I use to clean this garage floor that won’t poison everyone I love?

    It’s one of those questions that seems simple until you start reading ingredient labels. Or until your labradoodle licks the floor where you just mopped. Or until your free-range hens decide the garage is their new favorite hangout spot.

    Y’all, I’ve been there. Let me share what actually works for us.

    Why Most Garage Cleaners Are a Problem

    Here’s the thing about conventional garage floor cleaners: they’re designed for industrial messes. Oil stains, grease, tire marks. And to tackle those tough jobs, manufacturers load them up with some pretty harsh stuff — petroleum-based solvents, synthetic fragrances, sodium hydroxide, and other chemicals that can irritate skin, damage respiratory systems, and be genuinely toxic if ingested.

    For a sterile warehouse with no living creatures around? Maybe that’s fine. But our garage?

    Our garage is where our mini labradoodle waits by the door for walks. Where the kids store their bikes and bug-catching gear. Where I keep the diatomaceous earth for the chicken coop and the extra bags of feed. Where — let’s be honest — someone is always barefoot even though I’ve asked them a hundred times to put on shoes.

    A space that connected to our living space needs to be treated like living space. Period.

    What Makes a Cleaner “Pet-Safe”?

    When I started researching non-toxic garage floor cleaners safe for pets, I realized I needed to define what “safe” actually meant for our family. Here’s what I look for:

    No Harsh Chemical Fumes

    If I can smell it from across the house, it’s probably not great for anyone’s lungs — human, canine, or poultry. Florida garages get HOT, and heat intensifies off-gassing. A cleaner that seems mild in January becomes a fumigation chamber in August.

    No Residue That’s Harmful If Licked or Walked On

    Dogs lick their paws. Chickens peck at everything. Kids touch the floor and then touch their faces. Any cleaner I use needs to be safe once it dries — or better yet, safe even when wet.

    Actually Works

    I’m not going to pretend that plain water and good intentions will remove a motor oil stain. We need something with actual cleaning power. Non-toxic doesn’t have to mean ineffective.

    Our Go-To Non-Toxic Garage Floor Cleaning Routine

    After a lot of trial and error (and one memorable incident involving baking soda paste and a very confused dog), here’s what actually works for us:

    For Regular Cleaning: Castile Soap + Hot Water

    This is the workhorse. I fill a bucket with hot water, add a few tablespoons of unscented castile soap, and mop the whole floor. Castile soap is plant-based, biodegradable, and rinses clean. No residue for paws or bare feet.

    I usually do this every couple of weeks, or after we’ve had a particularly muddy week. (Florida rainy season, anyone?)

    For Tough Stains: Baking Soda + Vinegar + Elbow Grease

    For oil drips or mystery stains — and there are always mystery stains when you have kids — I make a paste with baking soda and a little water, apply it to the stain, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then spray with white vinegar. The fizzing action helps lift the grime. I scrub with a stiff brush and rinse well.

    Is it as fast as spraying industrial degreaser? No. Does it work without making my dog sick? Yes.

    For Deep Cleaning: Washing Soda Solution

    A few times a year, I do a deep clean with washing soda (sodium carbonate). It’s stronger than baking soda but still non-toxic and biodegradable. I dissolve half a cup in a gallon of hot water and mop the whole floor, then rinse with plain water. This cuts through the built-up grime that regular mopping misses.

    Products That Make Non-Toxic Cleaning Easier

    I’m all about simple DIY solutions, but I also appreciate when someone else has done the formulating work for me. For household cleaning in general, we’ve been really happy with Grove Collaborative. They make it easy to find concentrated, non-toxic cleaners that actually work, and I can set up recurring orders so I never run out.

    For pest control around the garage (because Florida), we use Wondercide sprays. They’re plant-based and safe around pets, which matters when you’ve got a curious dog who investigates every corner.

    And that food-grade diatomaceous earth I mentioned? It’s great for natural pest control in the garage too. I sprinkle it in corners and along the walls where bugs like to travel. It’s completely non-toxic to mammals and birds but effective against crawling insects.

    A Note About Chickens and Garages

    If your backyard chickens have access to your garage — whether by design or by their own stubborn determination — you need to be extra careful. Chickens will eat almost anything, and they spend a lot of time with their beaks on the ground.

    Before I let our girls explore the garage (supervised, because they WILL find trouble), I make sure the floor has been cleaned with something completely non-toxic and thoroughly rinsed. No exceptions.

    This is also why I store chicken supplies like feed and supplements carefully. Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens has a great section on keeping chickens safe from common household hazards — it’s one of those resources I come back to again and again.

    Making It Part of Your Routine

    Honestly, the biggest shift wasn’t finding the right cleaner — it was accepting that a non-toxic garage floor requires a little more intentionality than just grabbing a spray bottle and calling it done.

    I’ve built garage cleaning into our rhythm. Quick sweep after outdoor adventures. Mop every other week. Deep clean at the start of each season. It’s not complicated, just consistent.

    And the payoff? I don’t worry when my daughter sits on the garage floor to pull on her rain boots before heading out to check on the chickens. I don’t panic when the dog sprawls out on the cool concrete on a hot day. I don’t cringe when the kids dump out their bug collection kits to examine their finds right there on the floor.

    That peace of mind? Worth every minute of extra scrubbing.

    The Bottom Line

    Finding a non-toxic garage floor cleaner safe for pets isn’t about finding some magical product — it’s about simplifying your approach and being willing to put in a little extra effort. Castile soap, baking soda, vinegar, and washing soda will handle almost everything. A few trusted non-toxic brands fill in the gaps.

    Our garage will never be pristine. There will always be muddy paw prints, scattered chicken feathers, and mysterious kid-related spills. But it’s clean enough, safe enough, and — most importantly — it’s a space where our whole family can move freely without me worrying about what they’re being exposed to.

    And honestly? That’s what non-toxic living is about. Not perfection. Just intention. Making choices that protect the people and creatures we love, one small decision at a time.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, someone left the garage door open and I have a chicken to chase back to the coop.

  • Best Chicken Treats That Are Actually Healthy: What We Feed Our Backyard Flock

    Best Chicken Treats That Are Actually Healthy: What We Feed Our Backyard Flock

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever walked out to your coop with a bowl of kitchen scraps and watched your chickens come running like you’re holding gold, you know the joy of treat time. But here’s the thing — after our first year of keeping backyard chickens, I started wondering if everything we were tossing over the fence was actually good for them. Turns out, not all chicken treats are created equal, and some of the stuff you’ll see recommended online can actually cause more harm than good.

    So today I’m sharing what we’ve learned about the best chicken treats that are actually healthy — the stuff our flock goes crazy for that also supports their egg production, feather health, and overall wellbeing. Because just like feeding our kids, I want to be intentional about what goes into our animals too.

    Why Healthy Treats Matter for Backyard Chickens

    Chickens aren’t just little garbage disposals (even though they act like it sometimes). What they eat directly affects their egg quality, immune system, and longevity. Too many treats — especially the wrong kind — can lead to obesity, reduced laying, and nutritional deficiencies.

    The general rule of thumb is that treats should make up no more than 10% of your flock’s diet. The rest should come from a quality layer feed. But within that 10%, you can really boost their nutrition with the right choices.

    When I first started researching chicken nutrition, I picked up Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens and it became my chicken-keeping bible. It goes deep on nutrition, health, and husbandry in a way that’s thorough but still accessible. If you’re serious about keeping a healthy flock, it’s worth having on your shelf.

    Our Favorite Healthy Chicken Treats

    Leafy Greens and Garden Scraps

    This is the easiest category because it’s basically free if you have a garden. Our chickens go absolutely bonkers for:

    • Kale and collard greens
    • Lettuce (especially the outer leaves)
    • Swiss chard
    • Cucumber ends and peels
    • Zucchini (we have an abundance every Florida summer)
    • Watermelon rinds — a lifesaver in our brutal July heat

    Here in Northwest Florida, we can grow greens nearly year-round, which means our flock gets fresh produce even in January. If you’re not gardening yet, the wilted stuff from your fridge works great too. Those slightly sad spinach leaves? Chicken gold.

    Mealworms and Black Soldier Fly Larvae

    Protein is huge for chickens, especially during molting season when they’re regrowing feathers. Dried mealworms are like chicken crack — seriously, they lose their minds — but I try to use them sparingly because they’re high in fat.

    Black soldier fly larvae (often sold as “BSFL” or under brand names) are actually more nutritious with better calcium-to-phosphorus ratios. We keep a bag in the feed room and use them as a training treat when we need the girls to go back in the run.

    Herbs from the Garden

    This is where things get fun, especially if you’re already into a nature-based lifestyle. Chickens benefit from many of the same herbs we use:

    • Oregano — natural immune support
    • Basil — antibacterial properties
    • Mint — pest deterrent and cooling in summer
    • Lavender — calming and helps repel insects in the coop
    • Parsley — packed with vitamins

    I’ll often toss a handful of fresh herbs into the run or hang bundles in the coop. It’s like aromatherapy for chickens, and the kids love helping harvest.

    Fermented or Sprouted Grains

    If you want to level up your chicken-keeping game, try fermenting their regular feed or sprouting grains like wheat berries or barley. Fermentation increases nutrient availability and adds probiotics. Sprouting creates fresh greens from a bag of seeds.

    We do this especially in winter when fresh greens are harder to come by. It takes some planning, but it’s a great hands-on project for homeschool science too — hello, germination lesson!

    Pumpkin and Squash Seeds

    Every fall, we save the guts from our pumpkins and butternut squash. The seeds are believed to have natural deworming properties (though not a replacement for actual treatment if you have a parasite problem). The flesh is nutritious too, and chickens will pick a pumpkin clean if you let them.

    What to Avoid Giving Your Chickens

    Not everything is safe. We steer clear of:

    • Avocado pits and skins — contain persin, which is toxic to chickens
    • Raw or dried beans — contain harmful lectins
    • Anything moldy — can cause respiratory issues
    • Salty or heavily processed foods — their little kidneys can’t handle it
    • Chocolate or caffeine — toxic
    • Onions and garlic in large amounts — can affect egg taste and cause anemia

    When in doubt, I look it up before tossing it over the fence.

    Making Treat Time Part of Your Homeschool Day

    One of the unexpected blessings of backyard chickens is how naturally they fit into a Charlotte Mason approach. My kids have learned so much about animal behavior, nutrition, and responsibility just by caring for our flock daily.

    We’ve started keeping notes in our nature journals about what treats the chickens prefer, how their egg production changes with the seasons, and which hen is the bravest about trying new foods (it’s always our Buff Orpington, in case you were wondering). It’s real, living science happening right in our backyard.

    For families just starting out with chickens, I always recommend A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens. It’s written at an elementary level and covers feeding, care, and even simple health checks in a way kids can actually own. My oldest used it to create her own chicken care checklist.

    Keeping the Coop Clean While You’re At It

    Healthy treats are only part of the equation. A clean coop matters too. We sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in the nesting boxes and dust bathing areas to help with mites and lice naturally. And we upgraded to a nipple-style chicken waterer last year to keep their water cleaner — game changer, especially in Florida where everything gets algae in about five minutes.

    A Few Final Thoughts

    Feeding our chickens well is just one small piece of the intentional life we’re building here. It’s connected to growing a garden, cooking from scratch, and teaching our kids where food actually comes from. There’s something deeply satisfying about collecting eggs from hens you’ve raised on good food and sunshine.

    If you’re thinking about getting chickens — or if you already have them and want to do better — just start where you are. Swap out the stale bread for some leafy greens. Toss in some herbs. Watch your flock thrive.

    And if you need me, I’ll be out back with a bowl of watermelon rinds and a very enthusiastic group of hens at my feet.

    Happy homesteading, friend.

  • How to Keep a Family Nature Journal Together (Without It Feeling Like Another Chore)

    How to Keep a Family Nature Journal Together (Without It Feeling Like Another Chore)

    If you’ve ever pinned a dozen gorgeous nature journal spreads on Pinterest and then felt guilty about your blank notebook collecting dust, friend — you’re in good company. I’ve been there. The watercolor mushrooms, the perfectly labeled bird sketches, the pressed wildflowers arranged just so. It’s beautiful, and it can feel completely unattainable when you’ve got elementary-age kids, a dog underfoot, and chickens who need feeding.

    But here’s what I’ve learned after a few years of Charlotte Mason-style homeschooling in the Florida humidity: keeping a family nature journal together doesn’t have to look like those Pinterest spreads. It just has to be yours.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Why a Family Nature Journal (Instead of Individual Ones)

    When my kids were really little, I tried giving them each their own journal. You can probably guess how that went. One got lost under the couch. One became a “drawing book” full of Minecraft-inspired creatures. And mine? Pristine. Untouched. Because I was so busy helping everyone else that I never picked up a pencil myself.

    That’s when we switched to a shared family nature journal, and everything changed.

    A family nature journal becomes a collective memory book. It captures what we noticed together — the armadillo that wandered through the backyard last spring, the mockingbird nest in the crepe myrtle, the weird fuzzy caterpillar we still haven’t identified. Everyone contributes according to their ability, and nobody’s intimidated by blank pages because there’s always something already in there.

    It’s also beautifully Charlotte Mason. She believed in training children to see — really see — the natural world around them. A shared journal invites that kind of slow attention without the pressure of performance.

    Choosing the Right Journal

    This matters more than you’d think. You want something sturdy enough to handle multiple hands, watercolors, pressed leaves, and the occasional smear of Florida mud. But not so precious that everyone’s afraid to mess it up.

    We’ve had good luck with large sketch journals that have thick, mixed-media paper. A quality nature journal with heavier pages holds up to watercolors, colored pencils, and even glued-in specimens without bleeding through. I keep ours in a basket by the back door so it’s always ready to grab when we head outside.

    Some families prefer a three-ring binder so pages can be added, rearranged, or removed if someone’s not happy with their work. There’s no wrong answer — just pick what you’ll actually use.

    What to Put In Your Family Nature Journal

    Here’s where things get fun. And I want you to release any perfectionism right now. A family nature journal is not an art portfolio. It’s a record of your family’s outdoor life.

    Simple Things Anyone Can Add

    • Quick sketches — They don’t have to be good. Truly. A wobbly drawing of a lizard with “anole – brown one” scribbled next to it is perfect.
    • Observations in words — “Found three different kinds of mushrooms after the rain. One smelled bad.”
    • Pressed leaves, flowers, or feathers — Tape them right in. Florida’s full of interesting specimens.
    • Rubbings — Tree bark, textured leaves, even interesting sidewalk cracks.
    • Lists — Birds spotted this month. Bugs found in the garden. What the chickens ate today.
    • Questions — “Why do woodpeckers like the dead palm tree?” You can look it up later. Or not.

    Tools That Make It Easier

    We keep a small nature study kit that lives with our journal. Inside: Faber-Castell watercolor pencils (they work dry or wet, which is forgiving for kids), regular pencils, a small ruler, and a glue stick. That’s really it.

    For identifying what we find, our Sibley bird guide gets the most use — we’re in a flyway here in Northwest Florida, so we get some interesting visitors, especially in spring and fall. I also keep a pocket microscope in my bag for looking at feathers, insect wings, and leaf structures up close. The kids fight over it, which I consider a win.

    Making It a Habit (Without Making It a Chore)

    This is the part where I tell you that we journal every single day like clockwork, right? Ha. No.

    Here’s what actually works for us: we aim for once a week, and we give ourselves grace when it doesn’t happen. Friday mornings are usually our nature study time. We head outside — sometimes just to the backyard, sometimes to a local trail or the bay — and we notice things. Then we come back, and everyone adds something to the journal while it’s fresh.

    Some weeks, that means elaborate watercolor spreads. Other weeks, it’s a quick pencil sketch and a note about the weather. Both count.

    Tips for Different Ages

    • Kindergarten and younger: They can draw (scribbles are fine!), point out what to write, or help press flowers. Don’t stress about handwriting.
    • Early elementary: Let them write their own observations, even with misspellings. Invented spelling is part of learning.
    • Upper elementary: They can take the lead sometimes — researching an animal, writing longer observations, or trying more detailed sketches.

    The goal is participation, not perfection.

    Our Favorite Nature Journal Moments

    Some of my favorite pages in our family journal aren’t the prettiest ones. They’re the ones with stories attached.

    There’s the page from last summer when we found a black racer snake skin draped over the fence — completely intact. We measured it (four feet!) and taped a small piece into the journal. There’s the spread about our chicken Ginger’s first egg, complete with a traced outline because my daughter insisted we document the “historic event.” There’s the one from the week we counted seventeen different birds at our feeder during a cold snap.

    These pages aren’t Instagram-worthy. But when we flip through the journal together, the kids remember exactly where they were standing, what the air smelled like, how excited they felt. That’s the whole point.

    Start Where You Are

    If you’re reading this and thinking, “This sounds great, but I still don’t know where to begin,” I get it. So here’s your permission slip: start ugly. Start small. Start today.

    Grab whatever blank notebook you have around the house. Take your kids outside for fifteen minutes. Notice one thing together — a cloud shape, a bug, a weed growing through a crack. Draw it badly. Write a sentence about it. Date the page.

    Congratulations. You’ve started a family nature journal.

    You can always upgrade to nicer supplies later. You can develop your own system and traditions over time. But the most important thing is to begin — to show your kids that the natural world is worth paying attention to, worth recording, worth remembering.

    And honestly? In a world full of screens and schedules, sitting together with pencils and a shared journal, noticing the small wild things in your own backyard — that feels a little bit like the 1990s childhood I’m trying to give my kids. Unhurried. Curious. Real.

    So grab that notebook, head outside, and see what you find. I’d love to hear what ends up on your first page.

  • Florida Homeschool Convention: What to Expect Your First Time

    Florida Homeschool Convention: What to Expect Your First Time

    If you’ve got your first Florida homeschool convention circled on the calendar and you’re feeling equal parts excited and overwhelmed, I get it. I remember walking into my first one thinking I’d just “pop in and look around.” Three hours later, I was carrying two tote bags stuffed with curriculum samples, had signed up for four email lists, and somehow agreed to consider Classical Conversations (spoiler: we didn’t do it, but the enthusiasm was contagious).

    Whether you’re heading to the big FPEA convention in Orlando, a smaller regional gathering, or one of the faith-based conferences scattered around our state, here’s what I wish someone had told me before I walked through those doors.

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    Why Even Go to a Homeschool Convention?

    Honest question, right? We live in the age of YouTube reviews and Instagram curriculum hauls. But there’s something about flipping through a math curriculum with your own hands, asking a vendor a specific question about your kid who hates writing, or sitting in a workshop and realizing you’re not the only one who feels like a hot mess by Thursday.

    For our family, conventions have become less about buying all the things and more about:

    • Getting re-inspired when the February slump hits hard
    • Connecting with other homeschool families (especially helpful if you’re newer to Florida or just feeling isolated)
    • Seeing curriculum in person before committing your PEP scholarship funds
    • Hearing from speakers who remind you why you chose this path

    What to Expect at a Florida Homeschool Convention

    The Exhibit Hall

    This is the main event for most of us. Picture a massive room filled with booths — big publishers like Sonlight and Apologia, smaller Charlotte Mason-aligned companies, co-op representatives, and everything in between.

    A few things to know:

    • It’s loud and crowded, especially on Saturday mornings. If you’re overstimulated easily (hi, me), aim for early Friday or late Saturday afternoon.
    • Vendors are enthusiastic. They want to talk to you. This is great if you have questions, but feel free to smile and keep walking if you’re just browsing.
    • Bring a big tote bag. You’ll collect catalogs, samples, freebies, and probably a few impulse purchases.

    I always make a point to visit the Rainbow Resource booth — their catalog is legendary, and their in-person prices are often the same as online with no shipping wait.

    Workshops and Speakers

    Most conventions offer a full schedule of breakout sessions. Topics range from “Teaching a Reluctant Reader” to “Homeschooling Through High School” to “Nature Study on a Budget.”

    My advice? Pick one or two that speak to where you are right now. Don’t try to attend everything. You’ll burn out before lunch.

    If you’re Charlotte Mason-curious like us, look for workshops on nature journaling, living books, or habit training. I’ve found some of my favorite resources this way — including the simple nature journal we use almost daily in our backyard.

    The Used Curriculum Sale

    Many Florida conventions have a used book sale area. This is gold, y’all. You can find gently used curriculum for a fraction of the price — and sometimes discover a gem you wouldn’t have tried otherwise.

    Get there early. Bring cash. And don’t be afraid to dig.

    What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)

    Bring:

    • A notebook or your phone for jotting down titles, booth numbers, and thoughts
    • Comfortable shoes — you’ll be on your feet for hours
    • Snacks and a water bottle — convention center food is overpriced and underwhelming
    • Your PEP scholarship approved vendor list if you’re planning to make purchases (more on this below)
    • A friend, if possible — it’s more fun and you can divide and conquer

    Leave at Home:

    • Your kids, at least for the first visit. I know, it sounds harsh. But you’ll think more clearly without breaking up arguments over who gets to hold the free pencil.
    • The pressure to buy everything. Seriously. Take pictures. Grab catalogs. Go home and think.

    Making the Most of Your Florida PEP Scholarship

    If you’re using the Florida PEP scholarship like we are, conventions can be a smart place to spend some of those funds — but only if the vendor is on the approved list.

    Before you go, check ClassWallet for approved vendors. Many big publishers are on there, but not all convention booths will qualify. I’ve learned the hard way to check before I fall in love with something at a booth.

    That said, I’ve picked up things like Math-U-See manipulatives and nature study supplies at conventions and submitted receipts without issue.

    Florida-Specific Convention Tips

    Our state is big, and conventions pop up in different regions throughout the year. Here are a few to know about:

    • FPEA (Florida Parent Educators Association) — the largest, held in Orlando each May. This is the big one with national speakers and hundreds of vendors.
    • Teach Them Diligently — rotates locations, sometimes comes through Florida
    • Regional and faith-based conferences — smaller but often more intimate. Great for connecting with local homeschoolers in your area.

    If you’re in the Pensacola or Northwest Florida area like us, the drive to Orlando is a haul. I usually make a weekend of it — and yes, I may or may not have texted my husband multiple updates about the chickens while I was gone. (They were fine. They’re always fine.)

    A Few Resources Worth Looking For

    Every family is different, but here are some things I always keep an eye out for at conventions:

    • Nature study tools — things like the Sibley Birds guide or a pocket microscope for outdoor exploration
    • Art supplies — especially quality watercolors for nature journaling
    • Charlotte Mason-aligned publishers — Simply Charlotte Mason, A Gentle Feast, and others often have booths
    • Hands-on science kits — perfect for elementary-age kids who learn by doing (and getting messy)

    You Don’t Have to Do It All

    Here’s the thing no one tells you: conventions can be overwhelming because there are a thousand ways to homeschool, and every single one of them will be represented in that exhibit hall.

    You’ll see the classical booth and wonder if you should be doing Latin. You’ll pass the unschooling table and question everything. You’ll meet a mom whose kids are three grade levels ahead and feel like a failure.

    Take a breath. Remember why you chose to homeschool. For us, it’s about raising kids who play outside until dinner, who know where their eggs come from, who have space to wonder and wander. That doesn’t require the fanciest curriculum or the most packed schedule.

    Conventions are a tool — a really fun, really exhausting tool — but your homeschool is built at home, one slow morning at a time.

    Final Thoughts

    If you’re on the fence about attending a Florida homeschool convention, I’d say go — at least once. Walk the exhibit hall. Sit in a workshop. Buy yourself an overpriced coffee and people-watch for a bit.

    You’ll come home tired, probably with a few new ideas and maybe a bag full of free bookmarks. But more than that, you’ll come home reminded that you’re part of a bigger community — thousands of Florida families doing this same wild, wonderful thing.

    And when you get back, the chickens will still be waiting. The dog will still need a walk. And your kids will still be learning, whether you bought the shiny new curriculum or not.

    Happy convention-ing, friend. You’ve got this.