Did you know one short nature study can teach a complete science lesson? In just a few minutes, Cindy West of No Sweat Nature Study introduces seasonal science topics designed to spark curiosity in elementary and middle school learners. These quick lessons make it easy to fit meaningful science into your day—and they're the perfect way to get a taste of the deeper learning in No Sweat Nature Study video classes. For information about bonus materials, please visit https://ourjourneywestward.com/podcast.
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Sep 28, 2026 · 11:36
You can see a lake's waves and shoreline, but the land beneath the water holds the key to understanding it. Listen in to learn how a lake fills and changes, why its water can…
Sep 7, 2026 · 14:09
From a cheetah's flexible spine to a kangaroo's springlike tendons, animal movement depends on body parts working together. Learn how specialized legs, tails, claws, fins, and…
Aug 25, 2026 · 16:19
Flower colors do much more than make a garden beautiful! Pigments and reflected light create the colors we see, while ultraviolet patterns, shape, scent, and even blooming time…
Aug 10, 2026 · 16:58
What makes late summer so special in nature? Learn what's happening with plants and animals as summer winds down, how changing daylight plays a role, and why those familiar…
Jul 27, 2026 · 14:22
The ocean is huge, yet many animals choose to live in groups. Join Mrs. Cindy to learn why schools, pods, and colonies give ocean animals an advantage. Visit the Coral Reef show…
Jul 16, 2026 · 13:48
Can an animal really live without a brain? In this episode, you'll meet three surprising ocean creatures that do just fine without one and discover the clever ways they're…
Jun 23, 2026 · 11:54
Why does a watermelon have a thick rind while a grape has only a thin skin? In this episode, we'll discover how different fruits protect their seeds, conserve water, and survive…
Jun 8, 2026 · 14:30
From speedy runners to powerful fliers, insects have some impressive athletic abilities. In this episode, we'll explore which bugs are among the fastest and learn why speed isn't…
May 25, 2026 · 14:43
Benjamin Franklin asked bold questions that helped scientists better understand lightning and electricity. In this episode, Mrs. Cindy encourages kids to slow down, observe the…
May 11, 2026 · 13:19
Learn how turtles, beetles, armadillos, and hedgehogs use armor-like protection to survive in the wild in this informative episode about animal defenses and adaptations. Join the…
Apr 27, 2026 · 12:34
Explore how the full moon affects plants and animals, including nocturnal behavior, moonlight changes, and possible plant responses to lunar cycles. Want to explore this further?…
Apr 13, 2026 · 10:59
Plants keep growing even when no one is around. So what's helping them? Learn how sunlight, water, soil, and air work together to support plant life behind the scenes. Want to go…
Mar 23, 2026 · 12:48
Why do so many classic stories feature talking animals? In this episode, we'll think about how animal characters help authors share big ideas in memorable ways, and how careful…
Mar 9, 2026 · 14:34
From shooting stars to glowing comets to the Northern Lights, learn about some of the most amazing things you can see in the night sky! To learn more about how auroras form, join…
Feb 23, 2026 · 15:12
Waterfalls don't just sound loud, they roar for a reason. Learn how gravity, turbulence, trapped air, and canyon echoes combine to create one of nature's most powerful sounds.…
Feb 9, 2026 · 12:31
Can a tomato really be cube-shaped? Mrs. Cindy uses this surprising question to explain how plant traits change over time and how humans influence the foods we grow. This topic…
Jan 26, 2026 · 12:28
Did you know there's a tiny ocean creature with a punch so powerful, it creates underwater shockwaves? Discover the fascinating mantis shrimp and other animals with seemingly…
Jan 12, 2026 · 12:50
Do some animals really seem smart… or are we just imagining it? In this episode, discover the difference between instinct and intelligence, explore how fables use animal…
Dec 30, 2025 · 14:12
What did Galileo first see through a telescope in the 1600's? Listen and find out! In the companion video class for members, 1st-8th graders will learn h ow telescopes work,…
Dec 9, 2025 · 15:25
What if your Christmas trip meant riding a camel through the desert or a horse-drawn sleigh through the snow? Find out how animals helped people travel long ago in this fun mix…
Nov 24, 2025 · 13:42
This holiday episode unwraps the surprising history behind oranges in Christmas stockings. Join Mrs. Cindy as she blends seasonal science with a little old–fashioned Christmas…
Nov 10, 2025 · 16:16
Which animals are still stirring at night during the autumn season? The entire family can listen to this episode to find out! In the companion video class for members, 1st-8th…
Oct 27, 2025 · 14:56
Can snow really make the world quieter? Discover the science behind nature's winter hush in this frosty episode! Explore the science of frost and discover how icy crystals form,…
Oct 13, 2025 · 11:33
How do animals move without legs? In this short and slithery episode, Mrs. Cindy uncovers the science behind how snakes use muscles, scales, and clever movement to glide across…
Sep 29, 2025 · 16:40
Have you ever seen a pumpkin so big it needed a forklift? In this episode, we'll discover why some fruits grow to amazing sizes while others stay small on purpose. Join me for…
Sep 8, 2025 · 13:27
Some animals have a superpower called regeneration—the ability to grow back lost body parts! Meet incredible creatures like starfish, lizards, and axolotls while learning how…
Aug 25, 2025 · 12:09
Meet a photographer who used his camera to help people see nature in a whole new way. Learn how black-and-white pictures captured the beauty of wild places and inspired others to…
Aug 13, 2025 · 12:24
Why do hummingbirds sparkle like flying jewels? In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, Mrs. Cindy explains how their brilliant feathers work and teaches some…
Jul 21, 2025 · 12:08
What do animals do when ocean water disappears with the tide? Discover the secrets of tide pools and how creatures survive in this exciting beach-themed nature study for kids. In…
Jul 7, 2025 · 12:13
What makes an octopus's blood blue instead of red? In this ocean-themed nature study for kids, discover how hemocyanin helps octopuses survive in cold, low-oxygen waters and why…
Jun 23, 2025 · 13:48
Discover the parts of a sunflower seed, how germination begins, and what helps a tiny seed grow into a towering plant in this fun nature study episode for kids. In the companion…
Jun 12, 2025 · 11:43
Which veggie wins the title of fastest-growing? Join Mrs. Cindy as we find out the answer and explore why some vegetables seem to grow almost overnight! In the companion True…
May 27, 2025 · 14:50
Join Mrs. Cindy to discover why peaches have a soft, fuzzy skin and how it helps them thrive in the summer heat. Learn about trichomes, their protective superpowers, and how each…
May 12, 2025 · 16:24
Learn about the impressive Pileated Woodpecker, compare it to the possibly extinct Imperial Woodpecker, and discover how these birds are built for powerful pecking. In the…
Apr 28, 2025 · 16:16
Learn how leaves use fuzz, chemicals, and even camouflage to stay safe from animals that might want to eat them. This episode is packed with surprising science and outdoor…
Apr 7, 2025 · 13:27
Why are bird eggs blue, brown, or speckled? In this episode, Mrs. Cindy shares surprising reasons behind bird egg colors and how they help protect baby birds. Get ready for fun…
Mar 24, 2025 · 12:45
What's really at the end of a rainbow? Join Mrs. Cindy in this colorful episode as we explore the science and stories behind rainbows—and discover the truth about that legendary…
Mar 10, 2025 · 13:04
You may have heard the phrase "crocodile tears" , but what does it mean? In this episode, discover whether crocodiles shed real tears, and if so, why. 🐊 In the companion…
Feb 25, 2025 · 13:05
Have you heard the whistling wind? How about the howling, roaring, or humming wind? Learn how the wind creates these sounds through air movement during this episode. Plus, wow…
Feb 10, 2025 · 13:55
Discover how beloved author and illustrator Barbara Cooney infused her stories with the beauty of nature. In this episode, we explore her life, her inspirations, and the special…
Jan 27, 2025 · 14:50
Did you know diamonds can be pink, blue, or even black? In this sparkling episode, kids will learn what gives diamonds their colors and the meaning behind fancy diamonds! Explore…
Jan 13, 2025 · 13:16
Brace yourself for an earth-shaking journey as we explore the most powerful earthquake ever recorded. Discover fascinating facts about seismologists and the Richter scale, too!…
Dec 30, 2024 · 14:39
Discover the fascinating reasons behind the enormous size of bald eagle nests and learn how bald eagles build them. Also, enjoy exciting new features like The Science Snicker and…
Dec 10, 2024 · 14:27
Discover the fascinating history and traditions of the Yule log, from its roots as a burning log for winter warmth to the sweet French bûche de Noël cake. Learn how this holiday…
Nov 25, 2024 · 13:03
Learn about the Theridiidae spiders, often called cobweb spiders, and the tangled webs they create. These messy but fascinating webs might surprise you when you hear how they…
Nov 11, 2024 · 12:45
This cranberry nature study is perfect for your autumn science lessons about the harvest season, Thanksgiving, or Christmas! In the companion video class about cranberries ,…
Oct 28, 2024 · 12:34
Corn isn't just tasty; it comes in a rainbow of colors! Discover why corn kernels can be yellow, white, purple, red, and even blue in this seasonal science episode! In the…
Oct 7, 2024 · 11:53
Kangaroos are incredible creatures, and their unique mode of movement is not just fun to watch but also an efficient way for them to get around the vast Australian landscape.…
Sep 23, 2024 · 12:57
Have you ever spotted a striking orange and black butterfly fluttering through your garden? That was likely a monarch butterfly! Milkweed, the monarch butterfly's favorite plant,…
Sep 9, 2024 · 11:18
In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, Mrs. Cindy takes kids on a journey inside the human body to explore the fascinating role of cells. Children will be amazed…
Aug 26, 2024 · 11:36
Explore the concept of biomimicry, where nature's designs inspire human innovation. This episode delves into STEM as we discuss science, technology, and engineering. Learn how…
Aug 13, 2024 · 14:20
Explore an incredible mutualistic symbiotic friendship in nature as you discover the fascinating bond between clownfish and sea anemones! In the companion Symbiosis Video Class…
Jul 29, 2024 · 13:03
Learn about the weather phenomenon of droughts as you discover the microscopic tardigrade's ability to survive with a lack of water of a very long time. In the companion Drought…
Jul 10, 2024 · 13:00
Ichthyology nature study is a fishy one. You see, ichthyology is the study of all types of freshwater and marine fish. In this episode, learn where this odd science word comes…
Jun 24, 2024 · 14:29
How do you feel about sharks? Have you ever seen one? I have! You'll hear about that experience and learn about the smallest shark in the ocean in this episode. In the No Sweat…
Jun 10, 2024 · 13:28
Let's learn about everyone's favorite domesticated fowl, the chicken! This episode explores the reason behind a chicken's unique practice of ingesting rocks. In the companion…
May 28, 2024 · 12:02
Are spiders helpful or harmful to a garden? Many people think they're dangerous and even scary, but are they? Join Mrs. Cindy to think about these questions and more in this…
May 13, 2024 · 14:11
Perennial bulbs seem to appear out of nowhere each year then disappear almost as quickly as they arrived. Learn about this strange life cycle of some flowering plants with Mrs.…
Apr 29, 2024 · 13:51
Wait. Isn't personification a language arts topic? What does it have to do with science or nature study? Great question! Mrs. Cindy will explain herself in this creative episode…
Apr 8, 2024 · 15:43
Learn about insect life cycles as you hear about the growing stages of the tomato hornworm caterpillars that Mrs. Cindy finds in her vegetable patch every year. In the companion…
Mar 25, 2024 · 13:57
Hear a personal story from Mrs. Cindy's childhood and learn about tornado signs and safety. In the companion Tornado Video Class found in the No Sweat Nature Study LIVE…
Mar 11, 2024 · 14:54
Learn about the Javan rhinoceros and why it's an endangered animal! In the companion Endangered Animals Video Class found in the No Sweat Nature Study LIVE membership, learn the…
Feb 26, 2024 · 11:33
Learn about vocalizations and other noises that create a cacophony in the Amazon Rainforest! In the companion The Rainforest Video Class found in the No Sweat Nature Study LIVE…
Feb 13, 2024 · 12:43
Did you know the process of photosynthesis is responsible for the sugary sweet sap that can be turned into maple syrup? That's what Mrs. Cindy is talking about in this episode!…
Jan 29, 2024 · 13:34
Learn about simple machines with Mrs. Cindy. You're right, that doesn't seem like a nature study topic, but it can be! Get your FREE Nature Walk Challenge →…
Jan 8, 2024 · 11:45
Do you love penguins? Many people do! I think it might have something to do with their adorable appearance and cute, little waddle. Don't be fooled, though, these cuddly-looking…
Dec 29, 2023 · 13:31
Why are the wolves in Yellowstone National Park so special? Listen to find out! In the companion Wolves of Yellowstone Video Class found in the No Sweat Nature Study membership ,…
Dec 11, 2023 · 11:24
Which tree would make the most giant Christmas tree of all? Learn the answer to this question, with Mrs. Cindy! In the companion Redwood Trees Video Class found in the No Sweat…
Nov 27, 2023 · 9:30
Did you know which animals are related to moose? Learn the answer to this question, as well as plenty of other facts about moose with Mrs. Cindy! In the companion Moose Video…
Nov 13, 2023 · 10:52
Connect nature study and language arts with a study of idioms with Mrs. Cindy! CHRISTMAS! BUY GIFT CERTIFICATES for friends and family to join No Sweat Nature Study LIVE →…
Oct 31, 2023 · 12:26
Learn about beavers and their fascinating beaver dam habitats with Mrs. Cindy! Get your FREE Nature Walk Challenge → https://ourjourneywestward.com/beaver-nature-study Supplies…
Oct 16, 2023 · 10:53
Learn about myriapods and the important role these leggy creatures play in nature! Get your FREE Nature Walk Challenge → https://ourjourneywestward.com/myriapod-nature-study…
Sep 25, 2023 · 10:05
Learn about gliding mammals and their marvelous membranes called patagia with Mrs. Cindy! Get your FREE Nature Walk Challenge →…
Sep 11, 2023 · 13:44
Learn about black bears of the Great Smoky Mountains and see if you can list the eight species of bears found around the world! Get your FREE Nature Walk Challenge →…
Aug 28, 2023 · 16:29
Learn about George Washington Carver, a botanist whose love for plants led to many important scientific inventions that we still use today! Register for the FREE Spider Video…
Aug 7, 2023 · 15:42
JOIN THE FREE SPIDER CLASS on August 29 at 2 pm ET! Register at https://ourjourneywestward.com/free-spiders-nature-study-class/ . What are macroinvertebrates? Come find out with…
Jul 24, 2023 · 13:52
Night-blooming flowers open their petals at nighttime, usually just after sunset. They are also called nocturnal flowers. Some examples of night bloomers include jasmine,…
Jul 10, 2023 · 12:55
Seashore plants are any plants that grow in or around the areas where the land meets the sea or other bodies of saltwater. These plants are adapted to living in harsh, salty, and…
Jun 26, 2023 · 14:53
Seashore animals live in or near the ocean and are adapted to living in the intertidal zone, which is the area between the high tide and low tide marks. These animals can be…
Jun 12, 2023 · 13:00
Brambles are a type of plant that produce berries, such as blackberries and raspberries. The berries are often eaten by humans and animals alike. Brambles have thorns on their…
Jun 5, 2023 · 49:04
I recently had a wonderful homeschooling discussion with Katie Doughty from the Raising Kind Humans Podcast. This rich episode is full of wisdom and ideas on the topics of nature…
May 29, 2023 · 14:17
A garden pest is any insect, animal, or other organism that can cause damage to plants and gardens. They can be harmful to both ornamental plants and crops, and can negatively…
May 8, 2023 · 13:52
Did you know there are over 20,000 different species of bees in the world? Believe it or not, bees are insects that belong to the same family as ants and wasps. They play an…
Apr 24, 2023 · 15:32
In today's episode, we're exploring stinky things in nature! We often use our eyes to see things and our hands to touch things. We might even use our ears to listen. But have you…
Apr 10, 2023 · 12:19
Learning about strawberries is a fabulous way to explore botany – a special branch of biology all about plants. When we learn about plants in nature study, we discover that the…
Mar 27, 2023 · 13:26
It's spring and that means you'll be seeing a lot more thunderstorms! Thunder is an amazing sound and lightning can be a beautiful sight, but it can be scary when a strong storm…
Mar 20, 2023 · 22:59
Cindy West from No Sweat Nature Study LIVE and Richard Fink from The Vocal Gym by Throga have an interesting discussion about the science of vocals through the lens of nature…
Mar 13, 2023 · 11:52
Salamanders are beautiful, elusive amphibians, which means they can be hard to find on nature walks. When you do find one, it can slip away quickly giving you only a glimpse of…
Feb 27, 2023 · 12:42
Vernal Pools nature study isn't just about one type of plant or animal. Instead, vernal pools are complete habitats, home to many fascinating creatures including amphibians and…
Feb 13, 2023 · 12:30
Rock nature study might seem boring, but it can be fascinating if you know a little something about rocks. In this episode, you'll learn about sandstone, a sedimentary rock that…
Feb 6, 2023 · 31:21
I recently chatted with Sarah Mackenzie of Read Aloud Revival about using picture books alongside nature study to enhance learning. It was such a fun, casual conversation that I…
Jan 30, 2023 · 12:57
Are there wild cats roaming around where you live? We have seen bobcats on our farm and some neighbors once saw a mountain lion. These sneaky creatures don't necessarily like to…
Jan 9, 2023 · 17:52
Winter is the perfect time to observe planets in the night sky. You can easily see Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn at different times in the early evening without the help of a…
Dec 27, 2022 · 12:33
What's the difference between a wild dog and a domesticated dog? Both are in the family Canidae and there are plenty of similarities, but there are some important differences,…
Dec 12, 2022 · 12:38
Who doesn't love the smell of spices wafting through the December air as cookies bake in the oven or pomanders decorate your home? In this special Christmas nature study episode,…
Nov 28, 2022 · 14:42
Snowflakes are intricate, delicate, and strikingly beautiful. In this winter nature study episode, learn about the states of matter and temperature as you discover a little about…
Nov 7, 2022 · 14:54
Do you love root vegetables? Whether your answer is yes or no, they are really interesting! You'll learn about different types of root veggies and how to categorize them in this…
Oct 24, 2022 · 13:15
People either love mice or loathe them. No matter how you feel about them, mice are fascinating to learn about. That's exactly what we'll do in this homeschool nature study!…
Oct 10, 2022 · 15:18
Our world is full of several amazingly outrageous plants. We'll learn about a couple of them in this slightly spooky homeschool nature study! This episode focuses on the black…
Sep 26, 2022 · 12:58
The harvest moon is one of the big, beautiful full moons of the autumn season. Children will love learning how it got its name and why it looks the way it does in this homeschool…
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