SUMMER
NATURE
JOURNALING
CLASSES
6-week nature journaling classes rooted in Western Wisconsin
Over six weeks, students will:
Explore forests, rivers, and local ecosystems
Learn simple sketching, shape, and color techniques
Journal through drawing, labeling, and brief written reflections
Practice slowing down and noticing details
Build confidence through consistent, supported practice
Each student works through a printed nature journaling booklet and leaves the session with a completed keepsake journal reflecting their observations across the summer.
These 6-week nature journaling classes offer children a calm, outdoor learning experience designed to help them slow down, observe carefully, and build confidence through drawing, writing, and hands-on exploration in nature.
Each week, students meet in local outdoor spaces to practice nature journaling through simple sketching, labeling, and short written reflections. The focus is not on artistic skill or performance, but on learning how to notice the natural world with curiosity, patience, and care.
This is not a drop-in activity or a camp-style program. It is a guided practice that builds rhythm, familiarity with place, and confidence over time.
Session length: 6 weeks
Dates: June 8 – July 13
Day: Mondays
Class length: 90 minutes per week
Group size: Small groups — up to 8 students (ages 6–9) and 10 students (ages 10–14)
Setting: Outdoor-first, local nature spaces
Materials: All core journaling materials provided
session details
Age Groups & Times
Ages 6–9: 10:00–11:30 AM
Ages 10–14: 12:30–2:00 PM
(Age groups meet separately.)
Places We’ll
Get to Know
Over the six weeks, students will spend time getting to know three local nature spaces more deeply. Each location is visited for two consecutive weeks, allowing students to slow down, build familiarity, and notice seasonal and ecological changes over time.
• Weeks 1–2: Glen Park Loop (along the Kinnickinnic River)
• Weeks 3–4: Kelly Creek Nature Preserve (a limestone, spring-fed tributary of the Upper Kinnickinnic River)
• Weeks 5–6: Baldwin School Forest loop
Specific meeting points, parking details, and weekly reminders are shared with registered families in advance.
TEACHING APPROACH
Classes are inspired by Charlotte Mason–style nature study, emphasizing short lessons paired with meaningful practice, careful observation before explanation, and respect for each child’s pace.
The goal is not mastery or outcomes, but the cultivation of habits of noticing that extend beyond class time and into everyday life.
No grades. No pressure. No expectation of artistic talent.
class options
Registration is for the full 6-week session to support continuity and group rhythm. Because classes are intentionally small and held outdoors, enrollment is limited.
Families will receive weekly location details, weather updates, and meeting reminders through a private WhatsApp group created for each class.
REGISTRATION & COMMITMENT
Frequently Asked Questions
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We understand that summer schedules vary. Students are welcome to rejoin the following week and continue their journaling practice.
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Students should wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor exploration. Families should also send water and any personal items their child may need. All journaling materials are provided.
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While students draw and observe closely, the focus is on noticing and relationship with place rather than formal art or science instruction.
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Parents are welcome to remain nearby or on-site if that feels supportive for their child. We ask that parents observe from a distance and allow students to engage independently during class time, as this helps children build confidence and fully enter into the learning experience.
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It’s very normal for children to take a little time to settle into a new group. We move slowly, offer gentle guidance, and allow space for children to warm up at their own pace. Parents are welcome to share any helpful context during registration.
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Classes are held outdoors and will proceed in light rain or cooler weather with appropriate clothing. In the case of unsafe conditions (severe storms, extreme heat, or air quality concerns), families will be notified of adjustments or cancellations in advance.
Rachel Johnson is a Certified Nature Journaling Educator through the Wild Wonder Foundation and is currently completing her Master Naturalist certification, deepening her understanding of local ecosystems and stewardship.
