Exploring Environmental Science with Children and Teens

by Eileen G. Harrington

Overview

Despite the abundance of resources on the subject, in the classroom science often takes a back seat to the study of math and English. That gives public and school libraries as well as museums the opportunity to jump in as venues for informal education, sharing the wonders of science with children and their caregivers. In this intriguing book Harrington focuses on environmental science, offering a selection of unique programming ideas that not only entertain but also arm children and teens with information about environmental issues. There's no need to have a particular background in science to use this all-in-one resource, which includes

• Background information on the national state of science education, and how environmental programming can foster science literacy
• Ways to introduce environmental science themes into existing library programs via "Little Learners Labs" for toddlers, science storytimes for young children, and book clubs for tweens and teens
• Lists of age-appropriate titles to share with any group
• Strategies for implementation to ensure success

This book not only demonstrates the need for environmental programming but also gives those who work with children and teens the ideas and confidence they need to move forward.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780838911983
Publisher:	American Library Association
Publication date:	04/08/2014
Pages:	264
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.56(d)

Table of Contents

List of Figures vii

Acknowledgments ix

1 Nurturing Future Environmental Leaders in Libraries and Museums 1

2 Reading Roots: Science Storytime (Kindergarten through Third Grade) 9

3 Reading for a Greener Future: Book Clubs (Tweens and Teens) 67

4 Science Sprouts: Preschool and Kindergarten Programs 117

5 Delving Deeper: Self-Guided Activities (All Ages) 141

6 Doing Real Science: Citizen Science (Teens and Families with Young Children) 171

7 Coming Together for Science Fun: Family Science Programs 197

8 Environmental Action Clubs (Tweens and Teens) 221

Appendix: Eco-House Category Sheets 231

Index 247