Nature Journaling

Ms. Emily

Nature Journaling in the Upper Elementary Classroom

In a Montessori Upper Elementary setting, integrating nature journaling with mindfulness practices can be a powerful way to engage students with the natural world while fostering concentration, observation skills, and a deep connection to the environment.

Each nature journaling session begins with a grounding exercise. Students focus on their senses by noting five things they can see, four things they can hear, three things they can feel, two things they can smell, and one thing they can taste. This helps anchor them in the present moment.

Next, students find a quiet spot in nature and spend 10 - 15 minutes silently observing their surroundings. They can take notes on what they notice, focusing on details like colors, shapes, textures, and movements. The children also listen to the sounds of nature. This could include bird calls, rustling leaves, or the flow of water. They can describe these sounds in their journals.

Now the students can begin their journaling. Students are able to:

  • Draw and sketch: Students may sketch plans, animals or landscapes, paying attention to detail and what they observe.
  • Writing reflections: After their observations, students can write about their experiences, what they noticed, and how it made them feel. 

Nature journaling affords students the opportunity to engage in self-directed learning, make interdisciplinary connections, and gain the opportunity to reflect and share. This approach aligns with Montessori principles by nurturing independence, encouraging hands-on learning, and fostering deep respect and connection to the natural world.


By Ms. Emily, Upper Elementary Educator

By Ms. Savannah November 4, 2025
A thriving Montessori environment is never built by educators alone. It blossoms through the partnership between school and home. In our classroom, we have already seen how family involvement enriches children’s experiences, strengthens their confidence, and fills our days with excitement and connection. This year, many of you have shared pieces of your family life with us, and those moments have made a meaningful impact. From coming in to read with the children, to supporting class events, to sending us stories of your child’s growth at home. Each gesture has helped create a sense of belonging that children can feel. When children see the adults in their world working together, they move through their day with greater ease, trust, and joy. Here are a few ways family engagement helps build our classroom community: Shared Values & Consistency at Home and School: Small routines at home such as encouraging children to dress themselves, take responsibility for their belongings, or help with food preparation mirror the independence we nurture at school. Children feel grounded when expectations are aligned. Grace, Courtesy & Respectful Communication: When families model taking turns to speak, greeting others warmly, and using kind, respectful language, children carry those same practices into their social interactions at school. Celebrating Families and Cultures: When a parent shares a family tradition, a favorite recipe, or a cultural celebration, the classroom becomes a place where every child feels seen and valued. These exchanges help children appreciate diversity and build connections with one another. One of my favorite parts of Montessori is that it is a community journey. We, as educators, are learning alongside you: observing, reflecting, and growing every day. Your questions, curiosity, and partnership inspire us to deepen our practice and support your children in meaningful ways. As we continue through the year, I invite you to stay connected in ways that feel comfortable for your family whether that means joining a classroom event, practicing independence routines at home, or simply sharing a moment of your child’s joy or success. Every bit of involvement brings richness to our shared community.  Thank you for all the ways you support our classrooms. Your presence truly makes a difference, and we are grateful to be walking this Montessori journey with you.
By Ms. Katie October 7, 2025
“Within the child lies the fate of the future.” – Maria Montessori