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Homeschooling Favorite Books
19
items This list is a collection of the homeschool books that have truly made a difference in our Rooted & Wild learning. These aren’t just busywork — they’re resources that inspire curiosity, spark creativity, and keep kids engaged in real, hands-on wa...
Sections
4
Nature & Science Exploration
Reading, Copywork & Journaling
Art & Creativity
General Homeschool Helpers
Nature & Science Exploration
Why we love it: This workbook makes early learning fun with puzzles and activities all about plants, animals, and weather. It’s a gentle way to introduce younger kids to science without overwhelming them.
Nature Smarts Workbook Ages 4-6: Animals & Soil
Why we love it: Perfect for slightly older kids who are curious about the natural world. The activities feel more like games than “school,” which means my kids actually want to use it.
Nature Smarts Workbook, Ages 7–9: Wildlife & Geology
Why we love it: You don’t have to live on acres of land to make this one work — it helps kids see their own backyard as a science lab. The simple experiments get kids moving, observing, and asking questions.
Backyard Science and Discovery - Book
Why we love it: This is more of a family resource than a workbook. It’s beautifully illustrated and gives us ideas for hands-on outdoor lessons we can all do together.
Nature School: Lessons to Inspire Kids' Love
This is our go-to for nature study. The drawings are gorgeous and it makes science feel approachable.
Nature Anatomy: Curious Parts & Pieces
Simple explanations, clear pictures — my kids actually get concepts when we flip through this.
Illustrated Elementary Science Dictionary
Reading, Copywork & Journaling
Why we love it: My kids love having their “own” space to sketch bugs, leaves, and weather. It’s simple, not intimidating, and encourages them to observe closely.
Nature Journal for Little Explorers
Why we love it: This pairs beautifully with Nature School. It’s packed with activities, puzzles, and journaling prompts that reinforce what kids learn outside.
Nature School: The Workbook
Why we love it: A gem for daily inspiration — 365 activities and prompts that keep us connected to the seasons. It’s an easy “grab-and-go” guide when I need quick homeschool ideas.
The Kids' Nature Book: 365 Indoor/Outdoor Activities
Art & Creativity
Why we love it: Honestly, I learn as much from this as the kids do. It teaches observation through drawing and helps kids (and parents) slow down and really see nature.
The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing & Journaling
Why we love it: This one keeps us grounded when life gets busy. It reminds us to slow down, unplug, and get outside together. The activities are simple but meaningful.
Nature Play Workshop for Families: 40+ Outdoor Learning
Why we love it: Great for structured creativity. The prompts are clear and help even reluctant writers or artists find something to put on the page.
Nature Journal for Little Explorers: Kids Log
General Homeschool Helpers
Why we love it: Math through stories! Instead of dry drills, this series shows kids how math applies to cooking, building, and everyday life. It makes math feel more natural and less stressful.
Math Lessons for a Living Education
Why we love it: Our “rainy day” favorite — it’s packed with outdoor activities and survival basics. We’ve used it to spark everything from stargazing to garden scavenger hunts.
Usborne Outdoor Book: Fun Activities for Kids
Why we love it: Bright, colorful, and straightforward. They’re great for short lessons, extra practice, or when I need something open-and-go.
DK Children's Books: Workbooks
Why we love it: This is the classic of classics for nature-based homeschooling. It’s huge but filled with timeless guidance for observing plants, animals, and the seasons. I dip into it often for lesson ideas or when my kids ask those “mom, what is t...
Handbook of Nature Study by Anna Botsford
Why we love it: This book is a treasure trove of games, crafts, and experiments that fit perfectly with the seasons. It’s one we return to year after year, because the activities grow with our kids.
The Big Book of Nature Activities: Year-Round Guide
This book gave me permission to let homeschooling feel like life, not a classroom. It’s freeing and encouraging.
The Brave Learner: Everyday Magic in Homeschool
Every time I read this, I remember why I wanted to homeschool in the first place. It’s like a pep talk for the soul.
The Wild and Free Family: Forging Your Path