Experts agree that it's essential for children to spend time exploring and enjoying the outdoors; when they come back in, librarians and teachers can supplement their adventures with nature storytimes. In this comprehensive book full of storytime plans, veteran children's librarian Heather McNeil recommends storytime books that encourage respect for nature and an understanding of the fragility of ecosystems. Each chapter includes crafts, games, songs, and rhymes that focus on learning about and appreciating nature. Some crafts use items from the outdoors; others represent nature's beauty or mystery.

Storytime plans include all the components of a successful storytime: books, songs, movement, and creative participation. Librarians and early elementary teachers will enjoy using this book to support literacy and social emotional goals while helping children develop an appreciation of the natural world.

Librarians and teachers will welcome these ideas for developing a nature storytime that features books, rhymes, movement, and activities and encourages young children to learn about and appreciate animals, plants, weather, and ecosystems.

About the Author
Heather McNeil is Manager of Youth Services at Deschutes Public Libraries, Bend, Oregon, USA.

Reviews
Nature is truly Heather McNeil's passion, and this book proves it! I found myself reading the academic articles she references and placing hold after hold on books I want to try in my storytimes. And she adapts so many cute songs wonderfully to her themes. This book has everything you need to encourage children and their caregivers to love nature! * Melanie Borski-Howard, Youth Services Specialist, Boulder Public Library, USA; Coauthor of Storytime and Beyond: Having Fun with Early Literacy *
Heather McNeil's creative approach to learning about nature enhances student engagement. The songs, stories, activities, and crafts curated throughout this curriculum engage all types of learners. Read Me a Tree, Rhyme Me a Bee is a teacher's dream! * Lynne Ekstrom, Retired 1st- and 2nd-grade teacher, Bend-LaPine School District, USA *
This book is an absolute gem for me, a kindergarten teacher. It's bursting with fun and engaging ways to connect young children with the magic of nature. I love the easy-to-follow format and interactive activities with stories, poems, songs, crafts, and games. It's the perfect recipe for a joyful and enriching learning experience that nurtures a deep respect and appreciation for the environment. * Deanna Chambers, Highland Magnet School at Kenwood, USA *
Reading Heather McNeil's latest book evoked a deep sense of nostalgia, reminding me of my own formative experiences playing and learning in the outdoors. It reinforced just how important it is to integrate nature into children's daily lives today. McNeil provides clear, approachable, and informative guidance on how to incorporate all varieties of nature into learning - and most importantly, how to make it fun with songs, books, and eco-friendly crafts. * Sally Compton, Executive Director, Think Wild, USA *



Book Information
ISBN 9798216184249
Author Heather McNeil
Format Paperback
Page Count 208
Imprint Libraries Unlimited Inc
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing Plc