Cultivating Observation Skills – Looking to Rock Formations for Inspiration

We've had the opportunity to travel and see incredible rock formations around the United States like the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, and Garden of the Gods. Each time I visit, I look and wonder what stories these rock formations could tell me.

Cultivating wonder is like allowing your kids to chase the rabbit down the hole as far as they'd like to go. Rock formations offer a great opportunity to introduce a fascinating subject that will offer a lot of great opportunities to dig deeper.

*This is a sponsored post; I received a free copy of Do You See What I See? for review purposes, but was not required to write a positive review. 
See my full disclosure statement here.*

Slow Down With Science

It is easy with a couple of high schoolers and a middle schooler in my home to feel the need to check boxes, complete assignments, and build that transcript. However, life isn't only transcripts and record keeping.

If I want to truly cultivate good scientists, they need time to hone their observation skills. We still use science texts, but occasionally we like to stop and behold the wonders around us. It is almost as if slowing down actually gets us to our desired destination faster!

Practice Observation with Rock Formations

I'm always thankful when I find other wonder seekers like Chuck Renstrom and his book Do You See What I See?

Do You See What I See? High Altitude Evidence of the Worldwide Flood explores the unique rock formations Chuck Renstrom discovered as he photographed his hikes in Colorado.

Using digital photo effects, Renstrom highlights his discoveries of fossilized animals throughout the area. His beautiful book provides a model of how to see beyond what's on the surface level. If you're moving too fast, you'll just miss it.

I love to give my kids opportunities to look through the lens of a camera or take time to draw what they see in nature journals.

Hands On Experience with Rock Formations

When you live in suburbia, getting hands-on experience in nature hikes or state parks can be difficult. Don't let distance stop you! Get your hands on some of these great rock resources or nature studies. You're never too old to find wonder in even the smallest rock formations.

While you're learning and discovering at home, look for nearby rock formations you can go visit. It never hurts to start an adventure fund to help you get out of your neighborhood! This past year we made it to Mackinac Island in Michigan and experienced the beauty of arch rock.

Wonder can be found all around you. You just have to slow down and observe the beauty.

Unlock the Wonder

You might be surprised what you find when you stop to observe rock formations. Chuck Renstrom discovered this as he hiked through his beautiful home state of Colorado and began to investigate the curiosities he photographed.

As you and your family look to rock formations to cultivate wonder, use these observations to fuel future studies. The rocks are waiting to tell you their story. You just have to slow down and listen!

Do You See What I See?

Get a copy of Chuck Renstrom's book on Amazon, or order an autographed copy on his website.