Oh, what fun a child can have by jumping in mud puddles, collecting bugs and listening to birds! And yet, many children today have become so occupied with TV, computers and video games that unstructured outdoor play is sadly becoming a thing of the past. I LOVE DIRT! is a call to parents, educators and caregivers to help children recover one of the great joys of childhood. Through 52 activities, readers will find a wealth of creative ways to actively engage children, ages four to nine, in nature. Each activity presents an open-ended project meant to promote exploration, stimulate imagination and heighten a sense of wonder: Bug Lullabies challenge kids to use their sense of hearing to pick out insect noises; in Cloud races children are engaged in a fun contest to see whose cloud reaches the designated finish line first: "Help Me Understand" sidebars provide answers to potential questions such as "What's a cloud?" - as well as fun science facts, making this a wonderful resource for any adult fostering a child's growth

Reviews

"Here is the potential for much fun, many meaningful experiences--and a trove of shared stories."--Richard Louv, from the foreword


"There may be no better way to ensure the well-being of the natural world tomorrow than to introduce children to its many small wonders today. Through a series of accessible activities designed to engage young minds and all five senses, this book reminds us of--even celebrates--the magic to be found right outside our own back doors."--Todd Christopher, cofounder of National Wildlife Federation's Green Hour

""I Love Dirt!" is a perfect book for parents, teachers, or anyone who cares about children and nature. A nature-lover herself, Jennifer Ward has done an excellent job creating a collection of fun, interactive ways for children everywhere to connect with nature and combat the growing negative impact of sedentary, indoor lifestyles on our youth."--David Mizejewski, naturalist, National Wildlife Federation, and host of Animal Planet's "Backyard Habitat"

"A perfect companion to your nature center and hiking trail excursions!"--"Nashville Parent "

"A wonderful resource for parents. This book could be the ticket to many wonderful memories for both parent and child."--"Portland Book Review"