A Charlotte Mason Guide to Nature Journaling
A nature journal is a tool for guiding your child or student in observing and reflecting on the natural world. It encourages them to see and appreciate the intricate details of creation. Through nature journaling, your child learns to train their eye to look more carefully and for longer periods, sharpens their senses, cultivates a sense of wonder, and fosters a lifelong connection to nature.
In a nature journal, you might include:
- Sketches or watercolor paintings of leaves, flowers, or insects based on careful observation to align with Charlotte Mason’s emphasis on attentiveness.
- Notes on observations, including dates and locations.
- Reflections or thoughts inspired by what you see.
- Relevant quotes, poems, or scripture.
Trees
I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the sweet earth’s flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in Summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.~Joyce Kilmer
As a teacher or parent, you can encourage your child or student to engage in nature journaling regularly by making it an enjoyable and shared activity. Take nature walks together and share in the discovery process by occasionally pointing out something you notice, without overwhelming their own observations. Model your own journaling practice to inspire them while giving them the freedom to find their own connections.
Introducing Nature Journaling to Your Child
When introducing nature journaling to your child, the goal is to nurture their interest and enjoyment without overwhelming them. Remember, you are beginning a lifelong joyful experience, not creating a one-time masterpiece.
- Start with a Shared Activity
- A good time to begin is on a nature walk together.
- Pick something interesting you notice, like a brightly colored leaf or a unique rock, and invite them to look closely.
- Sit with your child and create your own simple nature journal entry. Show them how you observe and record details, but avoid making your journal appear unattainably perfect.
- Encourage Freedom
- Allow them to choose what to observe and how to record it. They might want to sketch, write, or both. They may want you to write for them.
- Avoid over-correcting or taking over the process. Let their creativity and observations lead the way.
- Celebrate Their Work:
- Praise their effort and curiosity rather than the accuracy or skill of their drawing.
- Highlight their observations: “I love how you noticed the little veins on the leaf!”
- Make It Routine:
- Build nature journaling into a regular part of your schedule. Frequent practice helps them develop their skills and deepen their connection to nature.
Getting Started: Notebooks and Supplies
Choosing a Notebook
The ideal nature journal should be practical and durable. Here are some recommendations:
- Size: A 5″ x 7″ spiral-bound sketchbook fits easily in a child’s hands or a small backpack—perfect for a nature walk. It’s light enough for them to carry. It should lay flat to make it easier to sketch and paint comfortably. This size gives enough room for a sketch (e.g., a leaf or bird) and a short narration (“It was green and jumped”), but it’s not so big that it overwhelms a beginner.
- Paper Quality: Acid-free paper, ideally 90 lb or heavier, to better handle light watercolor without buckling and to ensure durability for repeated use..
- Format: Unlined pages allow for sketches and notes.
Essential Supplies
To get started, you’ll need the following:
- Pencils: A pencil for outlingin and labeling.
- Eraser: A soft eraser to avoid damaging the paper.
- Watercolors: Beginner-friendly set, like Prang or Koh-I-Noor, are sufficient, as it offers vibrant colors, is easy to use, and is affordable, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out.. For more advanced work, consider Winsor & Newton Cotman watercolors or the expanded field set.
- Brushes: A few round brushes with fine points in various sizes. Charlotte Mason recommended finer-tipped brushes for capturing intricate details in dry brush work. However, having a variety of sizes in a set also allows for painting broader areas, such as skies or backgrounds, making it versatile for different tasks.
- Water Jar and Paper Towels: For cleaning brushes and blotting excess water.
- Optional Tools:
- A small ruler for measuring specimens.
- A scratch piece of paper for testing colors.
A reference chart of your watercolor set (paint swatches you create labeled for each color). This is helpful because watercolors often look different in the palette than they do on paper, allowing you to accurately see how the colors will appear in your journal.
The Dry Brush Technique: Background and Purpose
The dry brush technique is a hallmark of Charlotte Mason’s approach to nature study, emphasizing careful observation and deliberate painting to bring the beauty of the natural world to life. This method isn’t just about creating art; it’s a practical way to train students in skills and habits that deepen their connection to nature.
Unlike modern interpretations of “dry brush,” which often focus on rough or textured effects, Mason’s method emphasizes precise, controlled strokes that add clarity and vibrancy to the subject. This distinctive approach nurtures meaningful habits in nature journaling:
- Enhancing Observation: Painting fine details, like the veins of a leaf or the texture of a petal, helps students notice and appreciate nature’s complexity.
- Building Memory: The act of painting fixes the image in the mind, creating a vivid and lasting impression.
- Fostering Patience: Dry brush painting encourages careful, intentional strokes, teaching the value of discipline and attention to detail.
This technique is foundational in nature journaling within the Charlotte Mason philosophy, offering a meaningful way for students to engage deeply with the natural world. While other watercolor methods can be explored as skills grow, the dry brush method is a strong starting point that aligns beautifully with Mason’s vision for nature study.
Alternate Mediums for Today
While Charlotte Mason championed dry brush watercolor, she valued materials that were practical and accessible. It’s possible she would have embraced other mediums if they aligned with her principles of careful observation and truthful representation.
For instance, colored pencils can be an excellent alternative for creating detailed sketches, especially in the field, where watercolors may be less practical. Pen and ink are ideal for capturing intricate patterns or textures, offering precision and contrast. For older students, digital tools provide opportunities to experiment with layering, correcting mistakes, and refining their work—all while maintaining a focus on observing nature closely.
Modern alternatives might include:
Colored Pencils: Ideal for young children or those new to art, offering control and vibrancy.
Pen and Ink: Excellent for fine details and combining with watercolor washes.
- Digital Tools: Charlotte Mason was forward-thinking, and if digital tools like tablets and styluses (e.g., iPads with Procreate) could encourage careful observation, she might see value in them for older students or teachers. Digital tools offer benefits like color mixing, layers, and easy corrections while still requiring attention to detail.
- Pastels or Chalk: These mediums could be used for quick studies of landscapes or larger subjects, emphasizing broader patterns rather than intricate details.
Photography (As a Supplement): While Mason likely wouldn’t advocate replacing hand-drawn work with photography, she might see value in using photos as a reference for later journaling or for capturing fleeting subjects, such as wildlife.
While exploring alternate mediums and methods for nature journaling can be enriching, it’s important to ensure these tools do not detract from the heart of Charlotte Mason’s philosophy: the development of attentiveness, patience, and a deep connection to nature.
Dry Brush Painting Tutorial: A Leaf Study
The following is a tutorial to help walk you through the basic steps of dry brush painting a leaf. The authentic methodology from a certified Charlotte Mason teacher and PNEU headmistress, Eve Andersen, is available on a 3 part DVD set here.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
A real leaf as your subject.
Your nature journal or watercolor paper.
Watercolors, brushes, and a water jar.
A paper towel and scratch paper for testing colors.
Step 2: Observe Your Leaf
Spend a few moments studying your leaf. Note its shape, the texture of the veins, and any color variations. Observe how light interacts with its surface.
Step 3: Prepare Your Paint
Activate your paints with a drop of water.
Prepare three shades of color closely matching the colors of your leaf. To do this, use a mixing palette or the lid of your watercolor set. Aim for a consistency similar to thick cream or syrup—wet enough to move smoothly on the paper while retaining vibrant color, but dry enough to avoid puddles. Prepare enough of each color to complete your leaf without interruption.
Prang Watercolors: Use less water to create vibrant colors. Start with a small amount of yellow, gradually mix in blue to achieve light, medium, and dark greens. Add tiny amounts of other colors from the palette, such as a touch of brown or red, to create subtle variations.
Light Green: Mostly yellow with a touch of blue.
Medium Green: Equal parts yellow and blue.
Dark Green: Mostly blue with a touch of yellow.
Winsor & Newton Set: Begin with a base of yellow and add blue incrementally to achieve desired greens. Experiment by incorporating small amounts of other colors, like yellow ochre or ultramarine (blue) for nuanced hues.
If the dark green becomes too blue, you can adjust the hue by adding a small amount of yellow. Yellow will balance the blue tones and bring the green closer to a natural shade. Ensure you mix it gradually to avoid overpowering the blue and creating an unintended color.
Always test your paint on a paper towel or scratch paper first before painting your leaf.
Step 4: Outline the Leaf
Using a #2 round brush with a some light green, gently paint the outline of the leaf and its main veins. Try to paint it life-size. Keep the brush strokes light and precise.
Step 6: Paint in Layers
Start with the light green to fill in the main areas of the leaf, leaving the veins lighter or unpainted.
Gradually layer medium green to add depth.
Use dark green sparingly for shadows or areas of contrast.
Step 7: Add Details
Once the base layers are dry, use a fine brush to add veins, edges, or any unique markings on the leaf.
Incorporate subtle hints of brown or yellow if visible on the leaf.
Step 8: Final Touches and Labeling
Step back and assess your painting. Add any finishing touches to enhance the details.
Label your painting with the date, location, and leaf species (if known). To keep your journal tidy, consider placing the label in the bottom corner of the page.
Common Challenges When Teaching Dry Brush
While teaching the dry brush technique, some challenges may arise, but they’re all part of the learning process. Here’s how to navigate common issues:
Rushing Through: If a child paints too quickly, encourage them to slow down. Demonstrate focusing on small sections of the leaf and use gentle reminders like, “Let’s take our time to see every detail.”
Frustration with Results: Children may feel discouraged if their painting doesn’t match their expectations. Praise their effort, such as noticing a detail or choosing a good color, and remind them that every painting improves with practice.
Distractions: If the task feels overwhelming or too detailed, break it into steps. Focus on the leaf’s outline first, then layer in colors and textures.
Comparisons: If a child compares their work to others, gently refocus them on the joy of observing and discovering through journaling. Remind them that their journal reflects their unique perspective.
By addressing these challenges with patience and encouragement, you’ll help foster their confidence and instill a lifelong habit of observation, creativity, and joy in exploring the natural world.