Raising Little Nature Lovers

Last year, researchers studying new and classic children's books reported that that over the years, the number of images depicting the natural world has markedly declined. In other words, nature is literally disappearing from the pages. Some experts would argue that this simply reflects a modern problem: That many children today don't have a lot of direct or indirect contact with and access to the natural world. These five fun books can help remedy that, by encouraging (even city) kids to get outside and explore.

The Kids' Outdoor Adventure Book: 448 Great Things to Do in Nature Before You Grow Up, by Stacey Tornio and Ken Keffer
The next time your kid whines “I’m bored!” just hand him this book—there are more than enough activities to last every day for a year (from “catching fireflies” in summer to “making leaf prints” in fall). Flip through and you’ll also find fun factoids, plus creative ideas for outdoor games, arts & crafts projects, garden recipes, and destinations to explore.

A Walk in the Woods: Into the Field Guide, by Emily Laber-Warren and A Walk On the Beach: Into the Field Guide, by Laurie Goldman
This kid-friendly series of nature guides offers a basic introduction to animals, rocks, flowers, seashells, plant life and more. Readers can get hands-on with the included accessories: mesh bags and containers to collect pebbles, flowers, acorns, sea glass, or other tidbits, plus a magnifying glass for further scrutinizing. Each guide also includes a handful of fun tips and activities, like how to dig for mussels or how to make “helicopter” seeds fly.

The Nature Connection: An Outdoor Workbook for Kids, Families, and Classrooms, by Clare Walker Leslie
Get your kids engaged with the world around them with this interactive book, which prompts children to explore and observe bird calls, the shapes of clouds, the direction of the wind. (Journal pages are included for kids to record and describe their favorite sights and sounds.) Once they’re feeling in tune with nature, readers can dive into the suggested activities, like drawing a map of the backyard or spotting constellations.

I Love Dirt!: 52 Activities to Help You and Your Kids Discover the Wonders of Nature, by Jennifer Ward
The weekly adventures in this book give kids and parents a chance to learn about nature’s small wonders together—and get their hands dirty at the same time. Each of the 52 chapters here includes a simple activity (go on a treasure hunt for the color green), a little bit of scientific information (why are so many plants green?), and a fun challenge (see if you can find a four-leaf clover).

The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping with Kids: How to Plan Memorable Family Adventures and Connect Kids to Nature, by Helen Olsson
Ready to kick your outdoor adventures up a notch? Check out this accessible how-to guide for would-be family campers, packed with smart tips and shortcuts, packing checklists, safety guidelines, and easy campfire recipes. Parents will especially appreciate Olsson’s suggestions for keeping little ones motivated and entertained, from “ten ways to keep kids trucking down the trail” to “campsite boredom busters.”