Often when we think of nature study, we think of butterflies and little insects and maybe birds and squirrels.

But what about the larger animals and the potential dangers that they might bring with them?

Today we want to explore that question.

How can we make sure our children are aware of dangers in nature, but not

fearful, so fearful they won't go out in nature? As usual, let's ask Karen Smith for some ideas.

Welcome to the Simply Charlotte Mason podcast.

I'm Sonia Schaefer.

We are in the midst of a nature study Q&A series, and we've been getting great ideas from my friend and co-worker Karen Smith.

Karen, thanks for joining us again.

This time the question is about larger animals and maybe other dangers that are in nature. So let me read you the question that we got,

and then you can give us some advice. The question is, how do I deal with real wildlife dangers?

We live on land that has a variety of predators, including cougars.

I want to teach my kids safety without making them anxious.

I'm really struggling with how to protect them without losing the feeling of freedom and encouraging them to explore their

own backyard woods.

It's a good question.

What are some ideas that you can share with us?

Part of nature study, there's rules.

Always you should respect things when you're in nature. Keep a respectful

distance of most things. If you're approaching an animal too closely, the animal's going to show

signs of nervousness. You're too close. So watch from a distance.

That's always a good thing.

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