Nat Theo Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible

Have you ever wondered where weeds come from if nobody plants them? And are they really all bad? In this lesson, we'll dig into the surprising story of weeds—why they grow, what they do, and how we can care for God's wild and wonderful world. You'll also learn how to keep “weeds” out of your heart and grow good things in your life!Here's our trail map:What Is a Weed?How Do Weeds Grow if We Don't Plant Them?What Is An Invasive Plant?How Can We Keep Our Days Free of Weeds?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Enjoy a FREE week of the Flourish Family Bible Curriculum: https://treehouseschoolhouse.com/pages/free-week-of-flourishOrder Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Weeds & Plants Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-weeds-grow/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then God said, ‘Let the earth produce plants—some to make grain for seeds and others to make fruits with seeds in them. Every seed will produce more of its own kind of plant.' And it happened. The earth produced plants with grain for seeds and trees that made fruits with seeds in them. Each seed grew its own kind of plant. God saw that all this was good. Evening passed, and morning came. This was the third day.” Genesis 1:11-13 (NCV)“Then God said to the man, ‘You listened to what your wife said, and you ate fruit from the tree from which I commanded you not to eat.‘So I will put a curse on the ground, and you will have to work very hard for your food.In pain you will eat its food all the days of your life.The ground will produce thorns and weeds for you, and you will eat the plants of the field.'” Genesis 3:18 (NCV)“‘We are allowed to do all things,' but not all things are good for us to do. ‘We are allowed to do all things,' but not all things help others grow stronger.” 1 Corinthians 10:23 (NCV)“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless…” Psalm 101:3a (ESV)“So be very careful how you live. Do not live like those who are not wise, but live wisely. Use every chance you have for doing good…” Ephesians 5:15-16a (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Weed: A plant that is growing where it is not wanted.Seed Dispersal: How seeds move away from the parent plant to grow in a new place. Seed dispersal can happen through wind and animals or people transporting seeds.Ecosystem: An area where plants, animals and insects, and even tiny things like bacteria all live and work together.Native...

Elephants don't only make loud trumpeting sounds, they also rumble and squeak! Discover how elephants are excellent vocalists, reaching around five octaves more than a human voice can. Here's our trail map:How Is a Baby Elephant Born?Why Do Elephants Have Trunks?Why Do Elephants Squeak?How Can We Hear God's Spirit?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Elephant Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/why-do-elephants-squeak/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...the minds of these people have become stubborn. They do not hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes…” Matthew 13:15 (NCV)“So Saul headed toward Damascus. As he came near the city, a bright light from heaven suddenly flashed around him. Saul fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”Saul said, “Who are you, Lord?”The voice answered, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Acts 9:3-5 (NCV)“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NCV)“But the Helper (Holy Spirit) will teach you everything and will cause you to remember all that I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.” John 14:26 (NCV)“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Romans 8:26 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Allomothers: Other individuals beside the mother, who provide mothering care for a baby. They help care for and protect the baby. Hydrostat Muscles: Fluid-filled muscles packed tightly together used for powerful movement without bones.Sound Frequency: How fast something is vibrating to make a sound.Infrasonic: A sound is at such a low frequency, with such low vibrations, humans cannot hear it.Ultrasonic: A sound is at such a high frequency, with very fast vibrations, that humans cannot hear it.Octave: The measurement of pitches in music. It measures if a note is higher or lower in pitch.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:Explore Creation and the Bible in the Nat Theo Clubhttps://erynlynum.com/club

Are snakes creepy or cool? Whatever you feel about snakes, you can be in awe of the amazing snake designs we're exploring today!Here's our trail map:Why Do Snakes Not Have Feet?Why Do Snakes Shed Their Skin?What Is the Most Venomous Snake?What Can Snake Venom Teach Us About God's Mercy?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Apologia's Highschool Forensics Course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-3-course-set/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Snake Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/the-most-venomous-snake-in-the-world/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?'” Genesis 3:1 (NIV)“Then the LORD God said to the serpent, ‘Because you have done this, you are cursed more than all animals, domestic and wild. You will crawl on your belly, groveling in the dust as long as you live.'” Genesis 3:14 (NLT)“A baby will be able to play near a cobra's hole, and a child will be able to put his hand into the nest of a poisonous snake.” Isaiah 11:8 (NCV)“The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!'...” Revelation 21:5 (NCV)“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,' and if you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved. We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God. And we declare with our mouths that we believe, and so we are saved.” Romans 10:9-10 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Mercy: Not getting something we deserve for wrongdoing, like punishment.Brille: A transparent (see-through) eye covering to protect a snake's eyes. Also called a spectacle.Keratin: Protein that makes snake skin and brilles as well as other things in nature including hair, nails, claws, scales, feathers, horns, hooves, and even the outermost layer of our skin.Ecdysis: A process of shedding old skin (reptiles) or old cuticle shells (insects).Poison: A substance that can harm or kill someone or a creature if it is taken in through your mouth, nose, or skin.Toxin: A poisonous substance created by a living organism such as a creature,...

Have you ever found a tadpole in the water or a toad crawling in the grass? How exactly does a tadpole grow into a toad?Here's our trail map:What Is the Difference Between a Toad and Frog?How Are Tadpoles Born?How Do Tadpoles Grow Into Toads?How Can We Grow Into God's Plans for Us?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Save 25% on Apologia's Exploring Creation with Forensics Course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/forensics-self-paced-course-setExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubToad Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/tadpole-life-cycle-for-kids/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)“With God's power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine.” Ephesians 3:20 (NCV)“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” 2 Peter 3:18 (NCV)“‘For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'” Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cutaneous Respiration: “Skin breathing.” This is when oxygen is absorbed (taken in) through the skin instead of through lungs or gills.Toad: An amphibian with thick, bumpy skin that spends the majority of time on land and crawls.Frog: An amphibian with thin, sleek skin that spends much of its time in the water and uses a jumping motion to get around.Tadpole: A baby frog or toad with a tail and gills for breathing underwater.Metamorphosis: When a creature goes through a big transformation or change from its baby form to its adult form.Apoptosis: A process sometimes called “programmed cell death.” A creature breaks down cells in order to grow. In a toad's case, the tail is not only broken down but the materials in it are recycled to use for growing other body parts like legs and lungs.Toadlet: Young toads. They are no longer tadpoles. They look a lot like an adult toad, but are...

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be on TV—surrounded not by lights and makeup, but by marmots and moose? Join us for a wild behind-the-scenes adventure with Peter Schriemer, host of Hike & Seek, as he shares what it's really like to film wildlife in unpredictable settings. From raising orphaned squirrels to dodging moose, Peter takes us into the unpredictable, awe-inspiring world of wildlife television. Discover what it takes to bring those stories to the screen.Episode Links:Watch Hike & Seek on Answers in Genesis TV: https://www.answers.tv/hike-seekOrder Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615

Birds might perch on a branch or hunker down in a nest to rest… but what about a bird that sleeps while flying?Here's our trail map:How Does a Sleeping Bird Not Fall Out of a Tree?What Is the Great Frigatebird?How Does a Great Frigatebird Sleep While Flying?How Can We Filter What We Let Into Our Minds?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Apologia's Zoology 3 Land Animals Course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-3-course-set/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Frigatebird Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/bird-sleep-facts-for-kids/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.” Proverbs 4:23 (NCV)“​​Brothers and sisters, think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Tendon: Flexible collagen tissue in a body that connects muscles to bones. They are kind of like elastic chords. They make it so that when our muscles move, the connected bones move also. Wingspan: A measurement used for birds. How long a bird is from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other wing when their wings are spread out, like in flight.Gular Sac: A thick, featherless skin pouch on some birds extending from their lower jaw to their neck in which they catch and store food.Unihemispheric Sleep: When a creature allows part of its brain to rest while the other part of its brain is still active and alert.Filter: Something that allows some things through, but not all things.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:Explore Creation and the Bible in the Nat Theo Clubhttps://erynlynum.com/club

Take a nature walk through Psalm 23! Enjoy green pastures and restful waters as you learn about sheep, bummer lambs, shepherds, and still waters.Here's our trail map:Why Do Sheep Need Shepherds?What Is a Bummer Lamb?What Are the Still Waters in Psalm 23?How Can We Trust God and Follow His Lead?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Apologia's Zoology 3 Land Animals Course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-3-course-set/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Psalm 23 Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/psalm-23-for-kidsAsk your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” Psalm 23:1-2 (ESV)“If a man has a hundred sheep but one of the sheep gets lost, he will leave the other ninety-nine on the hill and go to look for the lost sheep.” Matthew 18:12 (NCV)“...I will never leave you; I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5 (NCV)“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Grazers: Animals that feed on low-growing vegetation like grasses and herbs.Ruminant Animals: Animals with separate compartments in their stomachs and a unique way of digesting food, including chewing their food two times.Vulnerable: To be without protection. Something that is vulnerable can be easily hurt.Bummer Lamb: A baby sheep that has been rejected by its mother. The mother does not nurse the baby, meaning the baby cannot get the milk it needs from its mother. The mother also does not protect the lamb. A bummer lamb is cared for by its shepherd.Stagnant Water: Water that is not moving or circulating.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:Explore Creation and the Bible in the Nat Theo Clubhttps://erynlynum.com/club

Hummingbirds are a blur of motion as they zip from one flower to another. But do they ever stop to rest? Discover which creatures would lose or win against a race with a hummingbird, and the unique way God designed hummingbirds to do their important gardening work.Here's our trail map:Why Do Different Birds Flap Their Wings Differently?What Creatures Would a Hummingbird Beat in a Race?How Do Hummingbirds Fly So Quickly?Do Hummingbirds Ever Rest?How Can We Live and Work Better by Resting?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysNat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Hummingbird Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-fast-can-a-hummingbird-fly/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then God said, ‘Let the earth produce plants—some to make grain for seeds and others to make fruits with seeds in them. Every seed will produce more of its own kind of plant.' And it happened. The earth produced plants with grain for seeds and trees that made fruits with seeds in them. Each seed grew its own kind of plant. God saw that all this was good.” Genesis 1:11-12 (NCV)“...In Christ Jesus, God made us to do good works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing.” Ephesians 2:10 (NCV)“In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people.” Colossians 3:23 (NCV) “...The LORD is the God who lives forever, who created all the world. He does not become tired or need to rest…” Isaiah 40:28 (NCV)“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.” Genesis 2:2 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Pollinator: A creature that helps spread pollen, which helps plants grow.Lookout Perch: A landing spot, often a branch, where a hummingbird repeatedly lands to rest or scan an area for food resources.Torpor: When a hummingbird goes into a deep state of rest. It can lower its body temperature by around 50 degrees F or 28 degrees C and is unresponsive as it saves energy.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:Explore Creation and the Bible in the Nat Theo Clubhttps://erynlynum.com/club

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel in space? You could ask an astronaut, or…lichen! Discover God's amazing designs in this surprising space traveler!Here's our trail map:What Is Lichen?How Is Lichen a Weather Reporter?How Did Lichen Survive Space Travel?How Did God Design Lichen to Live Well Through Rest?How Can We Rest During Hard Times?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysJoin us at the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference! SAVE $30 USING CODE nattheo25*! https://rockymountainhomeschoolconference.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubEryn's Lichen Video: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cvxkm-LJBjq/Free Lichen Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/lichen-facts-for-kids-2/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Some Resources Used In Research:https://www.nps.gov/articles/lichens-and-air-quality.htmhttps://www.newscientist.com/article/dn8297-hardy-lichen-shown-to-survive-in-spacehttps://explorersweb.com/lichen-survives-space/Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength…” Isaiah 30:15 (ESV) “And God's peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Symbiotic Relationship: When two species have a close relationship, often helping each other, or one helping the other. Symbiotic relationships can benefit both species or only one.Algae: A living organism that has similarities to plants. Although they are different from plants because they do not have roots, stems, or leaves. They belong to a group of living things called protists. They are plant-like things living in water that can create their own energy from the sun.Fungus: A living thing in its own category. Fungus include mushrooms, molds, yeast, and lichen.Bioindicators: Living...

Meet the master parkour animal of the mountains: the bighorn sheep! Discover how bighorns run up steep mountains, balance on cliffs only a couple of inches wide, and find their way to safe resting places.Here's our trail map:What Is a Bighorn Sheep?Why Do Bighorn Sheep Ram Each Other?Why and How Do Bighorn Sheep Balance on Cliffs?How Did God Design Bighorns to Live Well Through Rest?How Can We Follow God's Lead When the Way Gets Tough?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysJoin us at the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference! SAVE $30 USING CODE nattheo25*! https://rockymountainhomeschoolconference.com/Discover God's wild and wonderful world with the Kids Answers magazine by Answers in Genesis: GetAnswers.org/kids Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Bighorn Sheep Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/bighorn-sheep-facts-for-kids/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“The LORD is my shepherd; I have everything I need.He lets me rest in green pastures. He leads me to calm water.” Psalm 23:1-2 (NCV)“‘​​Go up to a fertile land. But I will not go with you, because I might destroy you on the way, since you are such a stubborn people.' When the people heard this bad news, they became very sad…” Exodus 33:3-4 (NCV)“The LORD replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.'” Exodus 33:14 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Ewe Bighorn: Female bighorn sheep with short horns that grow to a simple curved point above their heads. Ram Bighorn: Male bighorn sheep with large, thick horns curling around their face.Horn: A permanent part of the bighorn's body. It has two main parts: a core made of bone, which we cannot see. Then, over that bone, there is a large sheath, or covering, made of a material called keratin. That is the part of the horn we see.Keratin: A type of protein that covers bighorn sheep's horns and makes other things in nature including hair, nails, claws, scales, feathers, horns, hooves, and even the outermost layer of our skin.Versatile: Something...

This is no fairy tale… this is a fairy shrimp! Discover an amazing creature that makes its home in seasonal vernal ponds and whose eggs can wait for years, or even centuries, to hatch!Here's our trail map:What Is a Vernal Pond?What Is a Fairy Shrimp?Where Do Fairy Shrimp Come From?How Did God Design Fairy Shrimp to Thrive Through Rest?How Can We Wait and Rest Well?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysDiscover God's wild and wonderful world with the Kids Answers magazine by Answers in Genesis: GetAnswers.org/kids Eryn's Fairy Shrimp Video: https://www.instagram.com/erynlynumauthor/reel/CuZtkzvgsqB/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Vernal Pond Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/fairy-shrimp-facts-for-kids/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Some of the resources used for research:https://www.vernalpool.org/fairy-shrimphttps://coloradostories.online/colorado-connie-blog/f/in-search-of-colorado-fairy-shrimpScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then God said, ‘Let the water be filled with living things…'” Genesis 1:20 (NCV)“Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)“They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength…” Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Vernal Pond: Temporary seasonal pond that forms when rainwater fills an area during wet seasons.Habitat: An area where something living makes its home. It's an area that provides what that living thing needs to survive including food, water, shelter, and a mate.Invertebrates: Creatures that do not have a backbone or bony skeleton.Fairy Shrimp: Small, see-through crustaceans that live in freshwater vernal ponds.Dormant: When something is not active or growing. But it could become active and keep growing in the future.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:NOR Series Final April 21 - May

Dive into an adventure with this listener-created lesson on pufferfish! Discover this amazing balloon-of-the-sea fish and how it inflates, along with how we can inflate our hearts with God's love.Here's our trail map:Are All Pufferfish Spikey?Why Do Porcupine Fish Have Spikes?How Do Puffers Puff Up?What Do Pufferfish Eat?Are all Pufferfish Poisonous?How Can We Inflate Our Hearts Full of God's Love?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Pufferfish Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/pufferfish-facts-for-kids/Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysJoin us at the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference! SAVE $30 USING CODE nattheo25*! https://rockymountainhomeschoolconference.com/Discover God's wild and wonderful world with the Kids Answers magazine by Answers in Genesis: GetAnswers.org/kids Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Resources used for research:American Museum of Natural History: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.amnh.org/content/download/109168/1987445/file/stepread-for-grade-4.pdfSeattle Aquarium: https://www.seattleaquarium.org/animal/pufferfish-and-porcupinefish/Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves.” Philippians 2:3 (NCV)“Christ's love is greater than anyone can ever know, but I pray that you will be able to know that love. Then you can be filled with the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:19 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Pufferfish: A family of fish called Tetraodontidae known for puffing up. Some have short, prickly bumps that appear when they puff up.Porcupinefish: A family of fish called Diodontidae. Like pufferfish, they also puff up. They have long spikes that are visible even when they are not puffed up, and that point out when they do puff up. Tetrodotoxin (TTX): A neurotoxin present in some pufferfish,...

What are your favorite sounds in nature? And what is the “music of the spheres?” Music Director Sean Bohnet of the Bohnet Music Academy joins us as we discover the incredible musical world around us, and what creation's music teaches us about God.Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Begin or continue your musical journey with Bohnet Music's in-person or online classes: https://www.bohnetma.com/Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Do you have a rock collection? Have you ever wondered how rocks are made? Discover the amazing ways God created nature to make rocks, and hear Eryn's rockhounding adventure stories.Here's our trail map:How Is a Rock Made?What Are Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic Rocks?What Is Rockhounding and How Can You Become a Rockhounder?What Does the Bible Say About Rocks?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Rock Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/fun-facts-about-rocks-for-kids/Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysDiscover God's wild and wonderful world with the Kids Answers magazine by Answers in Genesis: GetAnswers.org/kids Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“There is no one holy like the LORD. There is no God but you; there is no Rock like our God.” 1 Samuel 2:2 (NCV)“The LORD is my rock, my protection, my Savior. My God is my rock. I can run to him for safety. He is my shield and my saving strength, my defender.” Psalm 18:2 (NCV)“We will use these stones to build a memorial. In the future your children will ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?' Then you can tell them, ‘They remind us that the Jordan River stopped flowing when the Ark of the LORD's Covenant went across.' These stones will stand as a memorial among the people of Israel forever.” Joshua 4:6-7 (NLT)“In the future your children will ask you, ‘What do these rocks mean?' Tell them, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan River on dry land. The Lord your God caused the water to stop flowing until you finished crossing it, just as the Lord did to the Red Sea. He stopped the water until we crossed it. The Lord did this so all people would know he has great power and so you would always respect the Lord your God.'” Joshua 4:21-24 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Rock: A solid object made from nature. Many are made from minerals.Mineral: A natural substance made from nature, such as from the earth's crust, but not made from living things. A mineral's atoms (tiny building blocks) are arranged in...

Have you ever seen an insect scurry across the top of water? How does a water strider, fishing spider, basilisk lizard, and grebe move across water without sinking beneath it? And how did Jesus walk on water in Matthew 14?Here's our trail map:What Is A Water Strider?What Is Water Surface Tension?How Do Water Striders Walk On Water?Do Other Creatures Walk On Water?How Did Jesus Walk On Water?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Water Strider Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-water-striders-walk-on-water/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615A great article on water striders: https://www.nps.gov/articles/pecies-spotlight-water-strider.htm#:~:text=Also%20known%20as%20pond%20skaters,more%20hydrophobic%20than%20duck%20feathers.A great article on basilisk lizards and Jesus walking on water: https://thewell.intervarsity.org/reflections/jesus-and-basilisk-lizardScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, ‘It's a ghost!'But Jesus spoke to them at once. ‘Don't be afraid,' he said. ‘Take courage. I am here!'” Matthew 14:24-27 (NLT)“Peter said, ‘Lord, if it is really you, then command me to come to you on the water.'Jesus said, ‘Come.'And Peter left the boat and walked on the water to Jesus. But when Peter saw the wind and the waves, he became afraid and began to sink. He shouted, ‘Lord, save me!'Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught Peter. Jesus said, ‘Your faith is small. Why did you doubt?'” Matthew 14:28-31 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Hydrogen Bonding: Water's ability to stick to itself. Water molecules are made from two hydrogen atoms with a slightly positive charge and one oxygen atom with a slightly negative charge. These positive and negative charges make a water molecule act like a magnet, sticking to other...

How do a fish's gills work? Can frogs breathe under water? And does a spider breathe using lungs like we do? Discover why breathing is important and the unique ways God engineered creatures to get the oxygen they need.Here's our trail map:Why Is Breathing Important?How Do Fish Breathe Underwater?How Do Frogs Breathe Through Their Skin?How Do Spiders Breathe Using Book Lungs?What Is the Breath of Life?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Fish Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-fish-breathe-underwater/Join the Apologia Homeschool Science Fair: https://www.apologia.com/sciencefairExplore Apologia's award-winning science courses: https://www.apologia.com/homeschool-science-curriculum/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then the Lord God took dust from the ground and formed a man from it. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nose, and the man became a living person.” Genesis 2:7 (NCV)“The Spirit of God created me, and the breath of the Almighty gave me life.” Job 33:4 (NCV)“Let everything that breathes praise the Lord...” Psalm 150:6 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Oxygen: A chemical element. It is very simple and cannot be broken down into more basic pieces. It is essential for life and gives us the energy we need to do everything we do.Dissolved Oxygen: Oxygen that comes from the air and mixes into the water. This can happen at the water's surface, where air mixes with water, and through plants in the water absorbing oxygen. This is the oxygen available to underwater creatures.Gills: An organ in fish used to soak up oxygen from the water. Gills are full of blood vessels. When a fish scoops in water through its mouth, the water runs over the gills, and the blood vessels in the gills soak up oxygen from the water and carry it to the rest of the fish's body.Countercurrent Exchange System: A system God engineered into fish by which the blood in a fish's gills flows in the opposite direction from the water flowing over the gills, allowing the fish's blood to take in enough oxygen from the water.Cutaneous Respiration: “Skin...

What is a Tasmanian tiger, and does it still exist? What did a herd of elephants do when their human friend passed away? Dr. Gordon Wilson invites us into the stories of those who protect God's creation and helps us understand how we can do likewise.Here's our trail map for today:How Did One Man Help Save Elephants in Africa?What Does the Bible Say About Taking Care of Creation?What Does Psalm 104 Say About God's Wild and Domestic Creatures?What Is the Tasmanian Tiger And Is It Extinct?How Can We Help Take Care Of God's Creation?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Watch the Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosAccess more resources in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Creation Care Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-taking-care-of-creation/Watch the new Riot and the Dance series on Angel Studios: https://www.angel.com/shows/riot-and-the-dance-seriesWatch The Riot and the Dance: Earth: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Dr-Gordon-Wilson/dp/B07LCTDW8S https://canonplus.com/tabs/discover/video-series/39009Watch The Riot and the Dance: Water: https://canonplus.com/tabs/search/videos/4154Books by Dr. Gordon Wilson:A Different Shade of Green: A Biblical Approach to Environmentalism and the Dominion Mandate: https://www.amazon.com/Different-Shade-Green-Biblical-Environmentalism/dp/1947644572Darwin's Sandcastle: Evolution's Failure in the Light of Scripture and the Scientific Evidence: https://www.amazon.com/Darwins-Sandcastle-Evolutions-Scripture-Scientific/dp/B0CJKV4V17The Riot and the Dance: Foundational Biology: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Foundational-Biology/dp/1591281237Read Dr. Gordon's articles on Answers in Genesis: https://answersingenesis.org/bios/gordon-wilson/articles/?gcbc_start=0&gcbc_count=72&sitehist=1738603541941Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Psalm 24:1 (NIV)“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good…” Genesis 1:31 (NIV)“God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living...

What would you do if you were charged by a rhino? What is it like to hold a wombat? Today we hear from biologist and filmmaker Dr. Gordon Wilson of the Riot and the Dance nature films and series. Join us for an adventure!Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Watch the new Riot and the Dance series on Angel Studios: https://www.angel.com/shows/riot-and-the-dance-seriesWatch The Riot and the Dance: Earth: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Dr-Gordon-Wilson/dp/B07LCTDW8S Watch The Riot and the Dance: Water: https://canonplus.com/tabs/search/videos/4154Books by Dr. Gordon Wilson:A Different Shade of Green: A Biblical Approach to Environmentalism and the Dominion Mandate: https://www.amazon.com/Different-Shade-Green-Biblical-Environmentalism/dp/1947644572Darwin's Sandcastle: Evolution's Failure in the Light of Scripture and the Scientific Evidence: https://www.amazon.com/Darwins-Sandcastle-Evolutions-Scripture-Scientific/dp/B0CJKV4V17The Riot and the Dance: Foundational Biology: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Foundational-Biology/dp/1591281237Read Dr. Gordon's articles on Answers in Genesis: https://answersingenesis.org/bios/gordon-wilson/articles/?gcbc_start=0&gcbc_count=72&sitehist=1738603541941Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Mentioned in this episode:Order The Nature of RestOrder Eryn's new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891

The smallest seed is the size of a speck of dust, but what plant does it come from? Discover the unique ways orchids grow from a microscopic seed to a beautiful flowering plant…with a bit of help from another species.Here's our trail map:What Is the Smallest Seed?What Is an Orchid?How Does an Orchid Grow Up?Does an Orchid Have Leaves?How Can We Grow Up Into Christ?Episode Links:Order Eryn's new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Orchid Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-orchids-grow/Eryn's wild orchid video on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erynlynumauthor/reel/CupX1cop-eS/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then Jesus told another story: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man planted in his field. That seed is the smallest of all seeds, but when it grows, it is one of the largest garden plants. It becomes big enough for the wild birds to come and build nests in its branches.'” Matthew 13:31-32 (NCV)“...I tell you the truth, if your faith is as big as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it will move. All things will be possible for you.” Matthew 17:20 (NCV)​​“Through his power all things were made—things in heaven and on earth, things seen and unseen, all powers, authorities, lords, and rulers. All things were made through Christ and for Christ.” Colossians 1:16 (NCV)“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” 2 Peter 3:18 (NCV)“Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:7 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Microscopic: Something so small we cannot see it with only our eyes. We need a microscope to magnify it so we can see it.Orchid: A flowering plant, or a plant that makes flowers. It comes in 28 to 30,000 different varieties, growing in many, many different places around the world including tropical areas, sem-desert, mountainous regions, ocean shores, and the tundra.Mycorrhiza: A group of fungus that grows and works with plant roots.Symbiotic Relationship: When two species have a close relationship, often helping each other, or one helping the other. Symbiotic relationships can benefit both species or only one.Relational: Relational means there is a relationship, connection, or bond between two people, creatures, or things.Photosynthesis: A process controlled

There were once around 60 million American bison in North America. How did that number fall to only a few hundred? And who helped save the bison? Discover North America's largest mammal and its remarkable comeback story.Here's our trail map:What is a Bison and Why Do They Have Four Stomachs?What Is the Difference Between a Bison and Buffalo?Why Did Bison Almost Go Extinct?How Did Bison Make a Comeback?Would God Forgive Those Who Hunted Bison?Episode Links:Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Bison Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/the-amazing-comeback-of-the-american-bison/Join the Apologia Homeschool Science Fair: https://www.apologia.com/sciencefairExplore Apologia's award-winning science courses: https://www.apologia.com/homeschool-science-curriculum/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NIV)“I persecuted the people who followed the Way of Jesus, and some of them were even killed. I arrested men and women and put them in jail.” Acts 22:4 (NCV)“The God of our ancestors chose you long ago to know his plan, to see the Righteous One, and to hear words from him. You will be his witness to all people, telling them about what you have seen and heard. Now, why wait any longer? Get up, be baptized, and wash your sins away, trusting in him to save you.” Acts 22:14-16 (NCV)“We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God. And we declare with our mouths that we believe, and so we are saved. … as the Scripture says, ‘Anyone who calls on the Lord will be saved.'” Romans 10:10,13 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Bovidae: Cloven-hoofed (split hoof) ruminating mammals.Cloven-hoofed: A divided hoof with two main points that look like toes, divided in the middle.Ruminant Animals: Animals with separate compartments in their stomachs and a unique way of digesting food, including chewing their food two times.Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Keystone Species: A plant or creature that is very important for keeping other plants or creatures in its ecosystem alive. Extinct: A creature is no longer living on earth. There are no more of its species.Ecologically Extinct: A creature that still exists but no longer plays...

Books and movies portray shape shifting characters, but those are fictional. Meet some true shape shifters: the octopuses. Discover how they rapidly change color and form not through fictional magic but by natural, God-engineered designs.Here's our trail map:How Do Octopuses Change Colors?How Do Octopuses Change Shapes?What Is a Hairy Octopus?How Can We Be Careful of Mimicry in Life?Episode Links:Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Octopus Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-octopuses-change-color/How to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastTry CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Sources used for research:Octopus and Squid: The Soft Intelligence by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Philippe DioleSecrets of the Octopus by Sy MontgomeryCephalopod Camouflage: Cells and Organs of the Skin by Ryan Gilmore, B.S., Robyn Crook, PhD, and Jacob L Krans, Phd.https://octonation.com/tiny-hairy-octopus/Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” Matthew 7:15 (NLT)“But when the Spirit of truth comes, he will lead you into all truth…” John 16:13 (NCV)“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ.” Ephesians 5:1-2 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Skin Cells: Microscopic cells that build up together to create skin tissue.Chromatophore: Special skin cells with 18-20 muscles around them that pull and relax to reveal or hide colors inside the cells. The outermost layer of an octopus's skin is made of chromatophores.Iridophore: Special skin cells with crystal-like structures (nanocrystals) that can reflect light and appear shimmering green, blue, pink, silver, or gold. These make the second layer of octopus skin.Leucophores: Special skin cells that scatter light and appear white, creating a blank canvas for other colored skin cells to appear brighter. These make the third layer of octopus skin.Invertabrate: Animals without backbones.Papillae: Skin bumps on an octopus that they can raise to rapidly change the texture of their skin.Hydrostats: Tightly packed,...

Why do octopuses shoot ink out? And how many brains do they have? I'll give you a hint…it's more than one! These creatures might be called “aliens” by some because of their strange looks and behaviors, but they are not from another world. They are God's wonderful creations!Here's our trail map:What Exactly Is an Octopus?How Is an Octopus Born?How Many Brains Does an Octopus Have?How Does an Octopus Shoot Out Ink?Why Does the Bible Say We Are Like Aliens?Episode Links:Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Octopus Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-many-brains-does-an-octopus-have/How to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastTry CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Sources used for research:Octopus and Squid: The Soft Intelligence by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Philippe DioleSecrets of the Octopus by Sy MontgomeryCephalopod Camouflage: Cells and Organs of the Skin by Ryan Gilmore, B.S., Robyn Crook, PhD, and Jacob L Krans, Phd.Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“So God created the large sea animals and every living thing that moves in the sea. The sea is filled with these living things, with each one producing more of its own kind.” Genesis 1:21 (NCV)“O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.Here is the ocean, vast and wide, teeming with life of every kind, both large and small.” Psalm 104:24-25 (NLT)“Dear friends, you are like foreigners and strangers in this world. I beg you to avoid the evil things your bodies want to do that fight against your soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 (NCV)“People who do not believe are living all around you and might say that you are doing wrong. Live such good lives that they will see the good things you do and will give glory to God on the day when Christ comes again.” 1 Peter 2:12 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Mollusk: A phylum (category) of animals that are soft bodied and have an important organ called a mantle and a special foot used to get around, grasp things, or dig. Most but not all mollusks have...

What might it be like to be a lizard in the temple when Jesus taught? Or a sheep in the pasture when angels appeared to the shepherds to announce Jesus' birth? Or a squirrel in a tree watching Jesus call Lazarus from the dead? Author and pastor Marty Machowski shares the Bible's true stories through the creative lens of nature in the Redemption Tales series. Learn about the inspiration for his newest book, The Light and the Life, sharing true stories of Jesus's life on earth through the creatures that might have been there.Episode Links:The Light and the Life: https://newgrowthpress.com/upcoming-books/the-light-and-the-lifeOther books in the Redemption Tales series: https://newgrowthpress.com/search-results-page?q=redemption%20talesLearn more about Marty Machowski: https://martymachowski.com/Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615

Have you ever heard of a bird delivering mail? Learn about the amazing homing pigeons that helped save human lives during wars, and how these pigeons find their way across hundreds of miles.Here's our trail map:Why Were Pigeons Used to Deliver Messages?What Is Magnetoreception?How Do Pigeons Find the Right Address?Do Humans Have a Homing Instinct?Episode Links:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubHow to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastFree Pigeon Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-pigeons-navigateAsk your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askTry CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...He has planted eternity in the human heart…” Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT) “We know that our body—the tent we live in here on earth—will be destroyed. But when that happens, God will have a house for us. It will not be a house made by human hands; instead, it will be a home in heaven that will last forever.” 2 Corinthians 5:1 (NCV)“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had disappeared, and there was no sea anymore… The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!'” Revelation 21:1, 5 (NCV)“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Columbidae: The family of birds consisting of pigeons and doves.Domesticated: An animal that is trained and kept for human use.Magnetoreception: The ability of some creatures to use Earth's invisible magnetic field to navigate.Magnetic Field: An invisible force around the earth created by the magnetic pull inside Earth's outer core.Theory: An explanation for why things might happen or act a certain way. A theory is much more than a guess. It is based on observation, or what we see, and experimentation.Magnetite: One of the most magnetic naturally occurring minerals on earth.CRY4: A protein found in the eyes of some creatures that might allow them to sense or even see Earth's magnetic field.Homing Instinct: An action of always returning home. Like special instructions God placed into the homing pigeon so it will always fly home.Homing Loft: A structure kind of like a nest where young homing pigeons are placed and always fly home...

Have you ever touched a slug? Maybe it left its sticky slime on your finger. Why exactly are slugs slimy, and how does their slime help them survive? Meet one of the world's slowest creatures, the Banana slug, on today's episode.Here's our trail map:Where Did the Banana Slug Get Its Name?Are Slugs Bugs?Why Are Slugs Slimy?How Does God Turn Our Disadvantages Into Advantages?Episode Links:Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubHow to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastFree Slug Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/banana-slug-factsSee a banana slug Eryn found in Washington: https://www.instagram.com/p/DA08SSDvPmm/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But he (God) said to me, ‘My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you.' So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses. Then Christ's power can live in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NCV)“We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts. He gave us his love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.” Romans 5:3-5 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Scientific Name: A name used around the world to help people know what a creature is. They are written in the Latin language and help scientists around the world know when they are talking about or writing about the same species of creature.Common Name: Like a nickname, and sometimes based on what the creature looks like. Common names are often easier to remember than scientific names, but they can be different from country to country.Mollusk: Soft-bodied animals that have an important organ called a mantle and a special foot used to get around, grasp things, or dig. Most but not all mollusks have shells.Gastropod: A category of mollusks including snails and slugs. Gastropod = “stomach foot.”Terrestrial Mollusk: Terrestrial can refer to land. A terrestrial mollusk is a mollusk that lives on land.Mucus: A slimy substance made by a body to protect certain parts of the body.Disadvantage: When there are unfavorable circumstances that make it hard to succeed or do...

What better way to wrap up our Wonderfully Made series than to hear from our listeners? Tune in for this very special bonus episode and always remember: You are wonderfully made!“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”Mentioned in this episode:Join the Nat Theo Club for bonus videos, Lesson Guides, and Field Notes Nature Devotions: https://erynlynum.com/club

What makes us smart? And how do our brains work? Is it possible for us to change our own brains? Discover all the amazing things happening inside your brain as you listen to this episode!Here's our trail map:What Are the Parts of the Brain?How Does Our Brain Control Our Body?What Makes Us Smart?How Can We Use Our Brains How God Wants Us To?Episode Links:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Human Brain Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/gods-design-of-the-brain-for-kids/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)“Do not be shaped by this world; instead be changed within by a new way of thinking. Then you will be able to decide what God wants for you; you will know what is good and pleasing to him and what is perfect.” Romans 12:2 (NCV)“​​Brothers and sisters, think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Organ: A special part inside a body with an important job to do. Cerebrum: The biggest part of the brain, made of four lobes, where we do most of our thinking.Cerebellum: “Little Cerebrum.” Controls muscle movement.Brainstem: Connects our brain to the rest of our body, through the spinal cord, so our brain can send and receive messages to work with our body.Nervous System: A system in our bodies made of our brain, nerves, and spinal cord that sends and receives messages throughout the body so we can do everything we do.Neurons: Special cells in or used by the brain to help send and receive messages.Synapses: Tiny spaces between neuron cells where the cells communicate with each other and pass along information.Neurotransmitter: Chemical messengers used to pass information from one neuron cell to another.Neuroplasticity: The...

Have you ever listened to or felt your heart beat? It's an amazing sound, but what exactly is happening as our hearts beat all day, every day? Dr. Matthew Sleeth joins us to share about God's amazing designs in the human heart.Here's our trail map:What Is the Cardiovascular System?What Is the Heart Made Of?What Important Job Does the Heart Do? How Does Blood From Our Hearts Help Our Cells?How Can We Love God With All of Our Heart?Episode Links:Blessed Earth - Biblically-based stewardship of creation: https://blessedearth.org/Reforesting Faith: What Trees Teach Us About the Nature of God and His Love for Us: https://www.amazon.com/Reforesting-Faith-Trees-Teach-Nature/dp/073529177224/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life: https://www.amazon.com/24-Prescription-Healthier-Happier-Life/dp/1414372280Almost Amish: One Woman's Quest for a Slower, Simpler, More Sustainable Life: https://www.amazon.com/Almost-Amish-Womans-Simpler-Sustainable/dp/1414326998/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New: https://www.amazon.com/Ology-Ancient-Truths-Ever-New/dp/194257228XHuman heart coloring page: https://erynlynum.com/human-heart-facts-for-kids/Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV)“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)“Create in me a pure heart, God, and make my spirit right again.” Psalm 51:10 (NIV)“Trust the LORD with all your heart, and don't depend on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 (NCV)“Jesus answered, ‘Love...

Dr. Matthew Sleeth was a doctor who believed only in science… until science failed him. When science could no longer answer his deep questions, he went searching for answers elsewhere, and he found them only after stealing a Bible.Episode Links:Blessed Earth - Biblically-based stewardship of creation: https://blessedearth.org/Reforesting Faith: What Trees Teach Us About the Nature of God and His Love for Us: https://www.amazon.com/Reforesting-Faith-Trees-Teach-Nature/dp/073529177224/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life: https://www.amazon.com/24-Prescription-Healthier-Happier-Life/dp/1414372280Dive in deeper with the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615

Have you ever coded anything? Discover the code inside your body that is more detailed than any human-made technology! Learn how this code carefully copies itself to wonderfully build your body by God's design.Here's our trail map:What Is a Nucleus? What Is DNA?How Does DNA Create Our Bodies?What Is Inheritance?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Human DNA Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/dna-lesson-for-kidsExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.” Romans 3:23 (NLT)“12 Sin came into the world because of what one man did, and with sin came death. This is why everyone must die—because everyone sinned…15 But God's free gift is not like Adam's sin. Many people died because of the sin of that one man. But the grace from God was much greater; many people received God's gift of life by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ....17 One man sinned, and so death ruled all people because of that one man. But now those people who accept God's full grace and the great gift of being made right with him will surely have true life and rule through the one man, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:12, 15, 17 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Nucleus: The largest and most important organelle in our cells. The nucleus holds a special package called DNA.DNA: A biomolecule that holds a code full of information that builds more cells and proteins, which build everything in our bodies.Organelle: “Little organ.” Organelles are little things inside our tiny cells that have very important jobs to do. They are like our cells' own organs.Molecule: A creation made from very specific tiny pieces called atoms hooked together.Information: Information tells us something. It can remove uncertainty, or remove what we don't know by helping us understand something. It is learning and knowing.RNA: A molecule that copies information from DNA and brings it to the ribosome...

What exactly are we made of? We might think of our bodies as skin, bones, and blood, but what makes our skin, bones, and blood? Today we are zooming way in and discovering the busy cities inside our tiny cells.Here's our trail map:What Is a Cell?What Are the 3 Main Parts of a Cell?How Is a Cell Like a City With Buildings and Workers?How Does Jesus Hold Everything Together?Episode LinksGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubAsk your nature questions: https://erynlynum.com/askFree Human Cell Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/whats-in-a-human-cellSave 25% on a Dwell Bible app subscription: dwellbible.com/nattheoExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV)“Then the Lord God took dust from the ground and formed a man from it. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nose, and the man became a living person.” Genesis 2:7 (NCV)“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cell Theory: The discovery made by Theodor Schwann and Mathias Schleiden in 1839 that all living things are made of cells and that cells are the building blocks of life. Cell Membrane: The outer layer of a cell, like a city wall, that keeps things in or out (and allows some things to pass through).Cytoplasm: Cyto means cell and plasm refers to liquid. Cytoplasm means cell liquid. Liquid inside a cell.Organ: A special part inside a body with an important job to do. Organelle: “Little organ.” Organelles are little things inside our tiny cells that have very important jobs to do. They are like our cells' own organs.Mitochondria: The organelle (“little organ”) inside our

Why doesn't the fastest land animal in North America jump over a simple fence? Discover the very unique pronghorn of the American West and the people who are giving it a helping hand.Here's our trail map:What Is a Pronghorn?How Are Pronghorn and Antelope Different?Why Don't Pronghorn Jump?How Can We Accept Help and Help Others in Life?Episode Links:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Pronghorn Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/why-dont-pronghorn-jumpAsk your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askTry CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Save 25% on a Dwell Bible app subscription: dwellbible.com/nattheoOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Walk with the wise and become wise…” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Ungulate: A group of mammals with hooves.Herbivore: An animal that eats primarily plants, like grasses, fruits, leaves, flowers, roots, and nectar.Opportunistic Herbivore: An animal that eats a wide variety of plants, taking advantage of what is available at the time.Migrate: To take a big journey from one area or habitat to another according to the seasons.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Apologia curriculum, Dwell Bible app, and CTCMath. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.Mentioned in this episode:Send in your nature questionSend in your nature question at: https://erynlynum.com/ask

After searching for a nicely shaped Christmas tree, our family decided to bring one home that represents the Colorado wilderness! Enjoy our favorite Christmas storybook, Why Christmas Tree's Aren't Perfect, and hear my kids' favorite Christmas memories.See our Ponderosa pine Christmas tree: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDXP83NRggm/Order your copy of Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Christmas-Trees-Arent-Perfect/dp/1501825836Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect was read and recorded with permission from Guideposts books.

If a polar bear isn't white, what color is it? Discover the amazing ways birds and mammals stay warm, alive, and thrive in frigid Arctic temperatures.Here's our trail map:What Birds Did God Design to Live In the Arctic?What Mammals Did God Design to Live In the Arctic?What Color Is a Polar Bear's Fur?How Does God's Light Help Us Live and Thrive?Episode Links:Jill Smith's Book, Nature Unveiled: https://jillsmith.my.canva.site/life-long-learnerGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Arctic Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/polar-bear-colorExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Earth Science Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-earth-science-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Psalm 104:24 (NIV)“Then God said, ‘Let there be light,' and there was light.” Genesis 1:3 (NCV)“Then God said, ‘Let there be lights in the sky to separate day from night. These lights will be used for signs, seasons, days, and years. They will be in the sky to give light to the earth.' And it happened. So God made the two large lights. He made the brighter light to rule the day and made the smaller light to rule the night. He also made the stars.” Genesis 1:14-16 (NCV)“The true Light that gives light to all was coming into the world!” John 1:9 (NCV)“In him there was life, and that life was the light of all people.” John 1:4 (NCV)“In the past you were full of darkness, but now you are full of light in the Lord. So live like children who belong to the light. Light brings every kind of goodness, right living, and truth.” Ephesians 5:8-9 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Countercurrent Circulation: A design allowing a bird to keep its body warm, even while its legs are in icy cold water, by trading heat between the blood in their feet and the rest of their bodies.Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Guard Hairs: Longer coarse, or rough, hair that acts kind of like a raincoat, protecting an animal from rain or wet snow.Transparent: See-through.Undercoat: Short, dense, and soft fur growing beneath the outer guard hairs.Sebum Oil: Natural oil made by the body's sebaceous glands. Animals that make this oil use it to coat their fur like a waterproof layer.Back Fat: Thick layer of fat beneath the skin. Some animals can store this layer of fat to use as energy throughout the winter.Blubber: Thick layer of fat beneath the skin on marine mammals including seals,...

Meet the oldest living caterpillar on earth who braves the Arctic and can survive in -90 degrees Fahrenheit! On part one of our 2-part Arctic feature, discover the unique Arctic ecosystems and the plants and creatures God designed to thrive there.Here's our trail map:Where Is the Arctic and What Is It Like?Can Plants Grow in the Arctic?What Caterpillar Braves the Arctic?Do Any Amphibians Live In the Arctic?How Does God Prepare Us for Harsh Conditions?Episode Links:Jill Smith's Book, Nature Unveiled: https://jillsmith.my.canva.site/life-long-learnerGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Arctic Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/arctic-woolly-bear-mothTry CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Earth Science Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-earth-science-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“God is our protection and our strength.He always helps in times of trouble.So we will not be afraid even if the earth shakes,or the mountains fall into the sea,even if the oceans roar and foam,or the mountains shake at the raging sea.”Psalm 46:1-3 (NCV)“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life…” 2 Peter 1:3 (NLT)“May he (God) equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.” Hebrews 13:21 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Ecosystem: An area where the plants, creatures, and other things in nature like water, rocks, dirt, and sun all help each other.Permafrost: A thick layer of soil beneath the surface that remains frozen throughout the year.Heliotropism: When a plant grows toward (follows) the sunlight.Photosynthesis: A process controlled by sunlight that puts things in a plant together to turn them into energy. How a plant makes its own food.Diapause: When an insect goes dormant (stops growing or developing) to survive the cold. Similar to hibernation.Generalist: A species that can survive in a wide range of conditions and make use of many resources for food and energy.Glycerol: A chemical compound some creatures produce to keep their cells from freezing.Amphibian: Group of cold-blooded animals that include frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. Most live on land and in the water and go through metamorphosis.Harsh: Unpleasantly rough or severe.Mentioned in this episode:Send in your nature questionSend in your nature question at: https://erynlynum.com/ask

How can a tiny wood duck baby survive a 60-foot fall? Discover God's amazing design in wood ducks and what they teach us about trusting God's voice.Here's our trail map:How Does a Duck Keep Its Feet Warm?What Is a Wood Duck?Where Does a Wood Duck Nest?How Does a Baby Wood Duck Survive a 60-Foot Fall?How Can We Trust and Follow God's Voice?Episode Links:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Wood Duck Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/wood-duck-babiesSend in your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askWood Duck Map: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Wood_Duck/maps-rangeExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Try CTCMath's K-12 math program for free at https://ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NIV)“He (God) has planted eternity in the human heart.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT)“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard…” John 16:33 (NLT)“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings…” Hebrews 10:22 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Crest: A group of raised feathers on a bird's head commonly used to identify certain species.Countercurrent Circulation: A design allowing a duck to keep its body warm, even while its legs are in icy cold water, by trading heat between the blood in their feet and the rest of their bodies.Tree Cavity: A tree cavity is a hole in a tree's trunk that leads to a hollow area or sunken area inside the tree trunk. Formed by injury to the tree, branch loss, natural decay, or some birds.Down Feathers: A layer of soft, fluffy feathers under the outer feathers that keep a bird warm. In many species including wood ducks, chicks are born with these down feathers.Assurance: To have assurance is to be confident of something or to be certain about something.Instinct: Instinct guides and helps us to do something that we have not learned how to do yet, often to stay safe. It's like a deep knowledge that God tucked inside of us or an animal.Mentioned in this episode:Send in your nature questionSend in your nature question at: https://erynlynum.com/ask

Monarch butterflies make an incredible migration journey. But do all monarchs take this long voyage? Monarch expert Kayla White joins us as we explore God's design in these long-distance insects.Here's our trail map:Why Do Monarch Butterflies Migrate?How Do Monarch Butterflies Know When to Migrate?How Do Monarch Butterflies Find Their Way?Does Every Generation of Monarch Migrate?What Are 3 Ways We Can Follow God's Plan On Life's Journey?Episode Links:Nat Theo Shop: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubWatch a monarch emerging from its chrysalis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7Qh8PGdy64Kayla White's Books: https://lucytheladybug.com/ladybug-books-and-more/Melody: A Monarch Miracle: https://lucytheladybug.com/product/melody-a-monarch-miracle/Kayla White's Blog (Monarch post) https://lucytheladybug.com/video-have-you-ever-seen-a-monarch-emerge/Monarch Migration Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/monarch-butterflies-migrate/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.” Psalm 145:4 (NLT)“Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.” Proverbs 15:22 (NLT)“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 (NLT)“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” James 1:5 (NLT)“The Lord says, ‘I will make you wise and show you where to go. I will guide you and watch over you.'” Psalm 32:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Generation: All the people born at about the same time. Like layers of people born throughout history.Diapause: When an insect goes dormant (stops growing or developing) to survive the cold. Similar to hibernation.Circadian Clock: The system God designed in a body similar to an internal clock. It helps our bodies wake, rest, and function throughout day and night.Imaginal Discs: A group of cells in a caterpillar that become the new parts of the butterfly.Mentioned in this episode:Nat Theo Shop: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/

How did the Black-footed ferret go from being endangered, to extinct, to endangered, to extinct, and now making a comeback? Come along on this fascinating story and discover how one woman's curiosity helped save an entire species.Here's our trail map:What Is A Black-footed Ferret?How Did The Black-footed Ferret Almost Disappear?How Did Curiosity Save the Black-footed Ferret?Why Is Our God-given Curiosity Important?Episode Links:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Endangered Animals Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/black-footed-ferretExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...Stop and consider the wondrous works of God.” Job 37:14 (ESV)“Brothers and sisters, think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Native Animal: An animal that is living where it belongs. It was not brought in by humans. It is living where God created it to live.Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Nocturnal Animals: Animals that are mostly active at night.Tapetum Lucidum: Reflective layer in some eyes that reflects light.Extinct: A creature is no longer living on earth. There are no more of its species.Endangered: When a species is likely to go extinct (meaning we will have no more of them in the future) if they are not protected.Awe: To be filled with amazement and wonder.

What good is a leaf after it falls off a tree? Meet the forest recyclers who help turn old things into new life.Here's our trail map:What Is A Duff?How Is A Forest Recycled?What Lives In A Pile Of Leaves?Why Are Decomposers Important?How Does God Restore And Make Things New?Episode Links:Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Forest Recycling Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/why-fallen-leaves-are-importantFind great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Botany Exploring Creation with Botany Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-botany-2nd-edition-with-regular-notebooking-journalRoly-poly Episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/62dc056f-543f-49e1-8d71-c7056d13742a/Bacteria Episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1d403844-0e2d-494a-a113-5ed7e86c947b/Mushrooms and fungus episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b5b86cc0-358b-4136-bc79-643bd15aff9b/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had disappeared, and there was no sea anymore… The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!'” Revelation 21:1, 5 (NCV)“God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (NIV)“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” Isaiah 43:19 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Duff: A layer on the forest floor made up of dead leaves, sticks, grass, and other natural things.Recycle: To make something old new. To turn something that would normally be thrown away into something useful.Humus: Healthy soil that is packed full of good minerals and nutrients from decomposers.Rhizosphere: The area beneath the soil or dirt surface that surrounds plant roots. Decomposing: Something natural is breaking down by a chemical process. It is becoming rotten or decaying.Enzymes: A type of protein, a very important building block in life, that speeds up chemical processes.Reconcile: To restore or bring back into harmony.

Why does a tree have leaves, and if they are so important, why do leaves fall off a tree? Discover why a tree lets its leaves go and why those leaves turn many different colors before they fall off.Here's our trail map:What Is A Forest Biome?What Are Coniferous And Deciduous Trees?What Is The Job Of A Tree Leaf?Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves?Why Do Leaves Change Colors?How Can We Let Others Around Us See God's Beauty Inside Us?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Apologia Leaf Color Experiment: https://www.apologia.com/blog/fall-in-love-with-the-science-of-autumn-hidden-colors-activity/Access full Episode Lesson Guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Tree Leaf Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/tree-leaves-change-colors/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“So they arrested him and led him to the high priest's home. And Peter followed at a distance. The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, ‘This man was one of Jesus' followers!'But Peter denied it. ‘Woman,' he said, ‘I don't even know him!'After a while someone else looked at him and said, ‘You must be one of them!'‘No, man, I'm not!' Peter retorted.About an hour later someone else insisted, ‘This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.'But Peter said, ‘Man, I don't know what you are talking about.' And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord's words flashed through Peter's mind: ‘Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.' And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.” Luke 22:54-62 (NLT)“We cannot keep quiet. We must speak about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20 (NCV)“I am not ashamed of the Good News, because it is the power God uses to save everyone who believes…” Romans 1:16 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Biome: A large area in the world with a specific climate including weather patterns and temperature where certain plants and creatures live.Coniferous Tree: A tree that makes cones, has needles for leaves, and most keep their leaves (needles) all year long.Deciduous Tree: Deciduous means “falling Off.” A deciduous tree has leaves that fall off. Most deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall, but some lose them in spring.Marcescence: When a tree holds on to its dead, faded, withering leaves. This happens in the case of some oak trees

Do whales clean their ears? And what might a scientist learn from a whale's earwax? Whale expert Nikki Farmer joins us as we discover God's amazing designs in whales.Here's our trail map:What Is A Cetacean?How Does A Whale's Blowhole Work?How Do Whales Communicate With Each Other?What Can We Learn From A Whale's Earwax?What Are The Two Main Types Of Whales?How Can We Filter What We Take Into Our Hearts And Minds?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubNikki Farmer's Website: http://becausegodcalleditgood.com/Christian Liberty Press Nature Reader 5: Ocean Book: https://www.christianbook.com/christian-liberty-press-nature-reader-book/9781629821719/pd/821724?event=ESRCGExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But test everything. Keep what is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (NCV) “Don't live the way this world lives. Let your way of thinking be completely changed. Then you will be able to test what God wants for you. And you will agree that what he wants is right. His plan is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 (NiRV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cetacean: A group of marine mammals including whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Blowhhole: A hole (or two in some species) at the top of a whale's head allowing it to breathe. It exhales air out of the blowhole.Echolocation: A way God designed some animals to locate things by sound and echoes. Odontocetes: Whales with teeth (toothed whales).Mysticetes: Whales with baleen (baleen whales).Baleen: Plates of bristle-like structures that allow baleen whales to filter their food and take in only what they need.

How can a creature live forever...especially one without a brain? Marine biologist Sherri Seligson joins us to explore the incredible lives of jellyfish.Here's our trail map:What Kind Of Creature Is A Jellyfish?How Do Jellies Sting?How Does A Jelly Grow Up?What Is An Immortal Jelly?How Can We Live Forever?Episode Links:Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubPre-order Sherri's new book for kids, Wonders of the Ocean Realm: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781496486462&tag=tyndalehous06-20Learn more about Sherri Seligson's work: https://www.sherriseligson.com/aboutSherri's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherriseligson/Sherri's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SherriSeligsonAuthorExplore Apologia's curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had disappeared, and there was no sea anymore… The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!'” Revelation 21:1, 5 (NCV)“...I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will have life even if they die. And everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” John 11:25-26 (NCV)“You believe there is one God. Good! But the demons believe that, too, and they tremble with fear.” James 2:19 (NCV)“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,' and if you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved. We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God. And we declare with our mouths that we believe, and so we are saved.” Romans 10:9-10 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cnidarian: Animals in the phylum cnidaria including jellies (jellyfish), sea anemones, and corals.Bioluminescence: “Living light” created or carried by some creatures. Often caused by a chemical reaction that God designed into bioluminescent creatures.Plankton: Living organisms (animals or plants) that float or are carried by water currents and cannot swim against the current. Most plankton are tiny. Jellyfish are considered plankton because they cannot swim against the ocean currents.Nematocysts: Stinging cells on a cnidarian animal.Medusa: The adult form of a jellyfish with its “bell top.”Polyp: The juvenile (young) form of a jellyfish adhered to a hard surface, before it “blooms” and becomes an adult medusa.Planula: Tiny baby (larval) form of a jellyfish floating around before it attaches to a hard surface and becomes a polyp.Portuguese Man of War: Another cnidarian animal often mistaken for a jellyfish, but different.Ecosystem: An area where the plants, creatures, and other things in nature like water, rocks, dirt, and sun all help each...

What do a tiny garden slug and a 50-foot giant squid have in common? They are both mollusks! Discover a fascinating group of creatures and their unique problem-solving strategies.Here's our trail map:What Is A Mollusk?How Are Seashells Made?What Is A Bivalve?How Is A Pearl Made?Why Are Pearls Valuable?How Can God Turn Our Problems Into Something Valuable?Episode Links:Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubExplore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I begged the Lord three times to take this problem away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you.” So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses. Then Christ's power can live in me. For this reason I am happy when I have weaknesses, insults, hard times, sufferings, and all kinds of troubles for Christ. Because when I am weak, then I am truly strong. 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 (NCV)“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1:2-4 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Organ: An important part inside the body that has a special job to do.Mollusks: Soft-bodied animals that have an important organ called a mantle and a special foot used to get around, grasp things, or dig. Most but not all mollusks have shells.Mantle: A special organ in a mollusk that creates a shell.Bivalve: A type of mollusk creature with two shells held together by a hinge that can open and close.Incurrent Siphon: A part of the mollusk's body, like a hose, used to bring in water and bits of food.Excurrent Siphon: A part of the mollusk's body, like a hose, used to get rid of waste.Irritant: Something that causes discomfort or pain and is difficult to get rid of.Nacre: The material an oyster covers an irritant with. Sometimes it is called Mother-of-pearl.

Can sharks ever stop swimming? And what is a shark tooth made from? Marine biologist and shark expert Michael Lane joins us to shed light on common misunderstanding about sharks.Here's our trail map:How Are Sharks Different From Most Fish?Can Sharks Ever Stop Swimming?How Do Sharks Use Electricity?What Is A Shark's 6th Sense?How Has God Created Us To Find What We Need?Episode Links:Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubEvidence 4 Faith Website: https://evidence4faith.org/Evidence 4 Faith Mailing List: https://evidence4faith.us17.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=f2656bda96ebe4b445450103c&id=e3c6289303Evidence 4 Faith Podcast: https://feeds.captivate.fm/e4f/Evidence 4 Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@evidence4faithofficialExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“A person lives not on bread alone, but by everything God says.” Matthew 4:4 (NCV)“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. The only way to the Father is through me.'” John 14:6 (NCV)“But when the Spirit of truth comes, he will lead you into all truth. He will not speak his own words, but he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is to come.” John 16:13 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Ichthys: FishChondrichthyes: Cartilaginous fish. Fish with cartilage instead of bones.Cartilage: Strong tissue that is flexible. Protects and supports bones and joints. Human noses and ears are made from cartilage.Dermal Denticle: Shark teeth which are not made of bone.Enamel: Hard protective layer around bone or cartilage. Human teeth are covered in enamel. It is the hardest substance in a human body.Buccal Ventilation: A method some sharks use to breathe. They use muscles in their cheeks to draw water in and push it past gills, which take in oxygen from the water. Sharks that use this can breathe while not moving.Ram Ventilation: A method some sharks use to breathe while swimming with their mouths open, so water rushes over their gills.Electroreception: The ability in animals to sense electrical currents and fields.Ichthyologist: A scientist who studies fish.Ampullae of Lorenzini: Jelly-filled sacs (pores) that allow a shark to sense the electrical field and find food using electrical currents.Cephalization: When sensory organs are concentrated on the font of the body or face.Lateral Line: A line down the center of fish on both sides containing sensory organs. Fish use

Explore the most mysterious place on earth! To kick off our ocean series, we're meeting a massive squid and a curious creature with a light made from bacteria.Here's our trail map:How Much Water Is On Earth?What Is The Continental Shelf?What Are The Four Ocean Zones And What Live In Them?Are Giant Squids Real?How do Anglerfish Light Up?What's The Deepest Part Of The Ocean?Episode Links:Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFind great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then God said, ‘Let the water be filled with living things, and let birds fly in the air above the earth.' So God created the large sea animals and every living thing that moves in the sea. The sea is filled with these living things, with each one producing more of its own kind. He also made every bird that flies, and each bird produced more of its own kind. God saw that this was good.” Genesis 1:20-21 (NCV)“You will have mercy on us again; you will conquer our sins. You will throw away all our sins into the deepest part of the sea.” Micah 7:19 (NCV)“So if the Son (that is Jesus) sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Continental Shelf: Shallow part of the ocean at an average of 200-feet deep, surrounding land continents. This is where most ocean creatures live.Marine Habitat: An area in the ocean that support specific ocean creatures and plants such as a kelp forest, coral reef, or seagrass meadow.Twilight: The time right after sun sets when there is low lighting.Photobacterium: Microscopic living creatures that create their own light.Bioluminescence: “Living light” created or carried by some creatures. Often caused by a chemical reaction that God designed into bioluminescent creatures.Swim Bladder: A special organ God designed some fish with. A gas-filled organ, like a balloon, that helps fish stay buoyant and float at certain depths.

How do wolves, mountain lions, porcupines, and other animals see in the dark? Discover God's amazing design of night vision.Here's our trail map:What Are Nocturnal and Crepuscular Animals?What Animals Have Night Vision?How Does Night Vision Work?How Does God Help Us See Clearly In The Dark?Episode Links:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Night Vision Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo43Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“…God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” 1 John 1:5 (NLT)“The Light (Jesus) shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overpowered it.” John 1:5 (NCV)“Your word is like a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Nocturnal: Creatures that are mostly active at night.Crepuscular: Creatures that are mostly active at dawn and dusk.Tapetum Lucidum: Reflective layer in some eyes that reflects light.Photoreceptors: Special cells in an eye that take in light and send messages to the brain.Rods: Special photoreceptor cells that help see brightness. Rods help with night vision.Diurnal: Creatures that are mostly active during the day.

What is a cicada and why do they make so much noise? Biologist and cicada expert Jill Smith joins us to share about these amazing opera singers in nature!Here's our trail map:What Is A Cicada?How Do Cicadas Grow Up?Why Were There So Many Cicadas This Year?Why Are Cicadas So Loud?How Can We Wait Well On God's Timing?Episode Links:Nat Theo Shop: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Order Nature Unveiled by Jill Smith: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Unveiled-Reflections-Experiencing-Creation/dp/1947297805Jill Smith's Website: https://jillsmith.my.canva.site/life-long-learnerExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Cicada Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo42Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: To the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as one day. The Lord is not slow in doing what he promised—the way some people understand slowness. But God is being patient with you. He does not want anyone to be lost, but he wants all people to change their hearts and lives.” 2 Peter 3:8-9 (NCV)“Before the mountains were born and before you created the earth and the world, you are God. You have always been, and you will always be.” Psalm 90:2 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Biologist: A scientist who studies living things.Hemiptera: Order of insects that are true bugs with a sucking mouth part like a straw.Incomplete Metamorphosis: A creature that goes through a big change (metamorphosis). Begins as an egg, then several stages of nymphs, then adult.Molting: When a creature sheds an outer shell (exoskeleton) as it grows older and grows new exoskeleton.Periodic Cicada: A group of cicadas in eastern North America that emerges, or comes out of the ground, after many years. They spend most of their lives (13 or 17 years) underground.Annual Cicada: Cicadas that live underground around two years then emerge. Different broods (groups) emerge each year.Predator Satiation: When many creatures of a species are born at the same time, so not all of them are eaten by predators. Some survive and continue having babies to follow God's design of making more of its kind.Tymbal: A structure in the male cicadas that contracts (squeezes) then releases to make noise.

Discover the amazing secret language of prairie dogs. Prairie dogs have one of the most detailed ways of communicating among animals. Learn what they might be saying on today's episode.Here's our trail map:What Is A Prairie?Are Prairie Dogs…Dogs?What Is A Keystone Species?What Is A Prairie Dog Town?How Do Prairie Dogs Use A Secret Language?How Does God's Spirit Use a Secret Language To Speak To Us?Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Prairie Dog Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo41Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Now we did not receive the spirit of the world, but we received the Spirit that is from God so that we can know all that God has given us.” 2 Corinthians 2:12 (NCV)“But the Helper will teach you everything and will cause you to remember all that I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.” John 14:26 (NCV)“Speak to each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:19 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Language: A way of communicating or sharing information. Prairie: A large area that is flat or has rolling hills, with a lot of grasses and wildflowers.Ecosystem: An area where the plants, creatures, and other things in nature like water, rocks, dirt, and sun all help each other.Keystone Species: A plant or creature that is very important for keeping other plants or creatures in its ecosystem alive. Prairie Dog Town: An area on the prairie where a lot of prairie dogs live.Prairie Dog Colony: A group of prairie dogs that live together in a prairie dog town.Burrowing Animals: Animals that dig burrows or use burrows underground.Mentioned in this episode:Order Nat Theo T-shirtsOrder Nat Theo T-Shirts: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/

Bats are misunderstood, which is one reason they are disappearing. Discover why bats are very important for our gardens, crops, and food, and how we can protect these amazing creatures God made.Here's our trail map:What Are Micro Bats and Macro Bats?How Are Bat Babies Born?What Can Bats Teach Us About Friendship?How Are Bats Great Gardeners?Why Are Bats Disappearing?How Can We Help Protect The Bats God Made?Episode Links:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Bat Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo40Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Two people are better than one, because they get more done by working together.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NCV)“Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others.” Philippians 2:4 (NCV)“It is good and pleasant when God's people live together in peace!” Psalm 133:1 (NCV)“Then God said, ‘Let the earth produce plants—some to make grain for seeds and others to make fruits with seeds in them. Every seed will produce more of its own kind of plant.' And it happened. The earth produced plants with grain for seeds and trees that made fruits with seeds in them. Each seed grew its own kind of plant. God saw that all this was good.” Genesis 1:11-12 (NCV) “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Micro and Macro: Micro means small. Macro means large.Bat Roost: Where a bat hangs out. In the roost, a bat might sleep, hibernate, groom themselves or keep themselves clean, and have babies.Bat Colony: A group of bats that roosts together.Maternity Roost: Where a temporary colony of female bats have their babies together.Pollination: A system God set up in nature to grow new plants. A creature (like a bee or other insect, bird, or bat) drinks a flower's sweet nectar and gets pollen on its body. It visits another flower and that pollen rubs off, allowing a new seed to grow for a new plant.Endangered: When a species is likely to go extinct (meaning we will have no more of them in the future) if they are not protected.Vulnerable: Vulnerable means a species is not quite endangered, but they will be if we don't protect them.

Have you ever heard anyone say someone or something is “blind as a bat?” Are bats really blind? Discover these unique and fascinating flying mammals! Here's our trail map:Is a Bat A Bird?Why Do Bats Hang Upside Down?Are Bats Blind?What Is Echolocation?How Can We Send Out Signals To Hear From God?Episode Links:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Bat Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo39A photo of a bat hanging in our lilac bush: https://www.instagram.com/p/C9vHb36yJfq/Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV)“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)“The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers.” 1 Peter 3:12 (NLT)“And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.” 1 John 5:14-15 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Diverse: Having a lot of differences and varietyMammal: Group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Nocturnal: Active at night. Normally sleep during the daylight hours and are awake at night, hunting when it is dark.Chiroptera: “Hand-wing.” The order of mammals that is bats, with over 1,300 species of bats.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

How do spiders make silk, spin webs, and…fly?! Discover amazing arachnid engineers in nature. Here's our trail map:Are Spiders Insects or Bugs?Why Do Spiders Make Silk and Webs?Can Spiders Fly?How Do Spiders Make Silk and Webs?How Can God Use Our Small Gifts to Do Big Amazing Things?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Spider Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo38Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://www.patreon.com/NatTheoClubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)“You can't go out against this Philistine and fight him. You're only a boy. Goliath has been a warrior since he was a young man.” 1 Samuel 17:33 (NCV)“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and he chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose what the world thinks is unimportant and what the world looks down on and thinks is nothing in order to destroy what the world thinks is important.” 1 Corinthians 1:27-28 (NCV)“...You come to me using a sword and two spears. But I come to you in the name of the Lord All-Powerful, the God of the armies of Israel! You have spoken against him. Today the Lord will hand you over to me…” 1 Samuel 17:45-46 (NCV)“Do not let anyone treat you as if you are unimportant because you are young. Instead, be an example to the believers with your words, your actions, your love, your faith, and your pure life.” 1 Timothy 4:12 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Arachnid: Group of creatures including spiders, scorpions, ticks, and mites. Have 8 legs and 2 main body parts.True Bugs: Insects that have a sucking mouth part, like a straw.Entomology: The study of insects.Arachnology: The study of arachnids.Anchor Line: A line of silk a spider creates to help it get around, and often to get down from tall heights.Ballooning: When spiders use the earth's electric field to fly through the sky.Electricity: A form of energy. Electricity is naturally found all around us on earth.Protein: Molecules made up of amino acids. Proteins are important building blocks in our cells, which are like the building blocks of our bodies.Organ: A special part inside a body with an important job to do.Spinnerets: Special organs spiders use to make silk.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com