10 Fall Nature Studies for Homeschoolers of all Ages

Fall is the perfect time for some outdoor learning blending science, math, language arts, art, and even history into hands-on, seasonal learning. Use the crisp air and changing leaves as a backdrop for exploration and learning. Here are 10 fall-themed nature studies suitable for all ages, designed to combine family time with the of spark curiosity in kids of all ages. 

1. Leaf Classification and Identification 

Subjects: Science, Math, Art:  Take a walk gathering leaves as you go. Younger learners can sort leaves by color, shape, or size, practicing basic math skills like categorization and counting. Older students can use field guides or apps to identify tree species, exploring botanical taxonomy. Create leaf rubbings or press leaves for art projects.  

2. Pumpkin Life Cycle Study 

Subjects: Science, Language Arts, Math: Use pumpkins to explore plant life cycles. Dissect a pumpkin to examine seeds, pulp, and discussing growth stages. Younger kids can draw or write a simple story about a pumpkin’s journey from seed to jack-o-lantern. Older students can research pumpkin cultivation or calculate seed counts for statistical analysis. Go to the library or research online to discover seasonal folklore. 

3. Migration Patterns of Birds 

Subjects: Science, Geography, Writing: Depending on where you live, fall brings bird migration. Observe or watch videos showing migration patterns of birds in your area or take a more widespread look. Younger learners can map migration routes on a simple world map, while older students can research why birds migrate, using data on climate or food availability. Have kids write a journal entry or story from a bird’s perspective or create a migration-themed poem. Binoculars, library books on birds, and a notebook add to the fun. 

4. Acorn and Nut Exploration 

Subjects: Science, Math, History: If possible, in your area, collect acorns, walnuts, or chestnuts. Most grocery stores have these in the bulk food area. Take time to study and discuss seed dispersal and tree reproduction. Younger kids can count or sort nuts, while older students can research nut ecosystems or the role of nuts in food chains. For a history tie-in discuss historical uses of acorns by Indigenous peoples. It’s also exciting for young learners to experiment with buoyancy by floating nuts in water. Older kids may enjoy trying to grind acorns into flour (with adult supervision) to connect to practical life skills. 

5. Weather Tracking and Patterns 

Subjects: Science, Math, Technology: The changing weather of fall is perfect for a meteorology unit. Have kids track daily temperatures or rainfall using a weather app. or simple thermometer. Younger learners can graph temperature changes, while older students can research weather changes of past years analyzing and discussing seasonal trends.  

6. Mushroom and Fungi Study 

Subjects: Science, Art, Writing: In fall’s damp conditions, fungi thrives. Take a nature walk to spot mushrooms (avoid touching unknown species). Younger kids can sketch or paint mushrooms, describing textures and colors for language arts. Older students can research fungi’s ecological roles, like symbiotic relationships with trees or decomposition. Create a spore print for an art-science blend or write an original myth about mushrooms. 

7. Apple Harvest and Chemistry 

Subjects: Science, Math, History: Visit an orchard or buy several varieties of apples keeping track of the different names.  For a fall snack, sample and rate the difference varieties noting the unique flavors. Younger kids can count seeds or create apple print art while, older students can test pH levels or experiment with oxidation (why apples brown). Read and discuss the history of apple cultivation, from Johnny Appleseed to modern orchards. Bake an apple recipe to integrate math (measuring ingredients) and for yummy, practical skills. 

8. Insect Behavior in Fall 

Subjects: Science, Math, Art: Observe insects like ladybugs or bees preparing for winter. Younger learners can tally insects spotted on a walk, later creating bar graphs. Older students can research hibernation or migration in insects and map their journeys. Draw detailed insect sketches to blend art and science or write a persuasive essay on the importance of pollinators for environmental awareness. Pop some corn and watch one of the many movies with insects as main characters for a family night. Discuss the differences between the fictional depiction of insects with the facts learned 

9. Soil Composition and Decomposition 

Subjects: Science and Environmental Studies: Up for some dirty learning? Dig into fall’s rich soil to study its components. Younger kids can separate soil into layers (sand, clay, organic matter) using a jar and water. Older students can analyze decomposition rates of leaves versus food scraps. Discuss composting to tie in environmental science. Connect to history by exploring how soil health impacted ancient agriculture. 

10. Fall Sky and Astronomy 

Subjects: Science, Math, Mythology Bundle up, clear fall nights offer skies perfect for stargazing. Look through books or apps and help students identify constellations. Read stories from mythology to spark interest. Older students can calculate the distance between stars or research seasonal changes in the night sky, like the autumnal equinox. Create a constellation-inspired art project or write modern mythology to blend creativity and science. 

These fall nature studies offer endless opportunities to make learning a hands-on experience that celebrates the season. You may want to create fall journal showing off all the learning that was hidden in the great outdoors complete with art projects, science experiments, graphs, and pictures. Take time to head outside, explore, and let fall’s wonders inspire your family’s learning.