Lessons Learned

As a nature center educator, this book was a fantastic guide for me in sharing the joys of gardening with kids. Parents and teachers will find this collection of activities, crafts, and recipes indispensable when it comes to getting kids ages 5

Establishing a healthy relationship with food is incredibly important for a child's development and there's no better way to do so than getting kids into the kitchen. Encouraging them to help select ingredients, plan meals, and learn basic cooking techniques will help them make good decisions about food and take pride in what they eat (instead of munching mindlessly). There are many good introductory cookbooks written for young children (such as those by Mollie Katzen), but right now I'm loving one for grown-ups and kids, alike: The River Cottage Family Cookbook. It brings everyone together to make delicious (not dumbed-down) food. The recipes are terrific, as are the "how to eat" features, and the book's great photos provide lots of inspiration. -S.B.

This collection of essays by naturalists Nabhan and Trimble outline the importance of a child's experiences with nature. The authors reflect on their childhood memories and make insightful observations of their own children. The result is a poetic offering of what nature means to youth development, whether it be an open beach, a nature show on TV, or a cardboard box in the inner city. Outdoor experiences define critical pieces of childhood. A wonderful read. -Jennifer

Specifically designed for young children, this book offers simple yet profound ways to involve kids in the nature around them. The two things I love most about this sweet little book is that it provides perfect ideas for all seasons and weather, and it extends its teachings to all settings. So whether you live in the country, the city, or the suburbs, it will give you great ideas for getting kids back in nature where learning begins. -Jennifer

Teachers and students struggle with ways to feel empowered, included, nurtured, driven, reflective, and creative in the classroom, and generally in life. What a plainly beautiful model-grounded in the values of sensual experience, work, and the joy of creating with one's hands and many hands-that building and learning from a garden can accomplish all of those lessons, both academic and beyond, in abundance. Alice's story of the many generations of students, teachers, and volunteers who built and continue to work this thriving garden is the story of quiet revolution, community action, and hope. -Jen Toner