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Parent Book Recommendations February 2007
By Sandy Meagher
Sometimes parents are bombarded with curriculum when a child comes home from school. If your science lovers are constantly asking questions to which you don't know the answers, a great easy-to-read book is 101 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Science by Dia L. Michels and Nathan Levy (Platypus Media, 2005, ISBN: 0-967-80205-9). It's perfect for grown-ups and anyone interested in gaining a better understanding of science.
To read Sandy Meagher's related article Science Steps Up click here
For early childhood I recommend What Is Science? by Rebecca Kai Dotlich (Henry Holt, 2006, ISBN: 0-805-07394-2). This is a poetic introduction for children to our universe.
The beautiful illustrations in My World of Discovery, edited by Angela Wilkes (Kingfisher, 2005, ISBN: 0-753-45931-0), are accompanied by text and a simple hands-on activity. This is a must for indoor activity days and to support inquisitive minds.
Everyone seems to yearn for time in the backyard, at the ocean or in other outdoor environments at this time of year. Look forward to visiting these places by reading Backyard Science by Shar Levine and Leslie Johnstone (Sterling, 2005, ISBN: 1-402-71519-8). Included are activities for parents and children and many are easy enough for children to accomplish by themselves.
You won't want to miss the "Guide to Plants and Animals" series by Marianne Wallace (Fulcrum Books). Titles include America's Deserts, America's Mountains, America's Wetlands and America's Prairies and Grasslands. Go to www.fulcrum-books.com for all the details. Another wonderful series is "Web of Life" by Madeleine Dunphy (Web of Life Children's Books). These books provide fascinating introductions to the African savanna, tropical rain forest, arctic winter, coral reef and more. Go to www.weboflifebooks.com for more information.
I remember well our table on which all kinds of plants, seeds and experiments were attempted. Not all of these projects resulted in the hoped-for outcome, but all were enjoyed as science learning experiences. How happy we were to move the table outside in better weather and continue exploring our wonderful universe.
To read Sandy Meagher's related article Science Steps Up click here
Sandy Meagher is the Library Department Chairperson and School Librarian in the Wayne Highlands School District, Honesdale, PA.
February, 2007, Vol.37, No.5
