My Big World of Wonder: Activities for Learning About Nature and Using Natural Resources Wisely

Do trees get drinks? Does the sun give us energy? Where do animals go when it rains?

My Big World of Wonder allows teachers to heighten young children's awareness of nature and develop an understanding of our natural resources at the same time. This easy-to-use activity book explores how we use-and gives ways to preserve-all natural resources: air, water, minerals, soil, land, and all life forms. Designed for use both inside and outside of the classroom, this helpful resource contains over 80 stimulating activities organized by season-each focusing on the three core principles of conservation: preservation, restoration, and management.

Activities ideas include the following:

Matching animals with their tracks

Planting, arranging, and selling a variety of flowers

Examining how seeds grow

Exploring how spiders catch their food

Studying animals that hatch from eggs

Looking at the effects of littering

An ideal resource for teachers from preschool to early primary, My Big World of Wonder also includes helpful appendices containing children's literature, teacher resources, organizations and resources, thematic lesson plans, and journal instructions.

Sherri Griffin, Ph.D., is a professor of early childhood education at Central Methodist College and a teacher/director at Millersburg Preschool and Alumni School, both in central Missouri. She also presents workshops on conservation with young children at local, state and national conferences. She lives in Fulton, MO.