How connected are our kids to nature?

Trips to the zoo, collecting autumn leaves, reading Ranger Rick – sound like memories from your childhood? If you’re like me, then yes, they do.

But here’s a question: do they sound like a part of your kids’ lives today?

It’s an interesting question we parents should all ask ourselves.

On that note, Disney tells us it’s convening a number of top experts on the issue this week in Orlando as part of its Disney Kids and Nature Celebration (the event also includes a day-long youth summit and the screening of its upcoming movie “Chimpanzee”), and we got some insight on the discussion. Former Ranger Rick subscribers, listen up:

According to Richard Louv, a Disney partner and author of the bestselling books Last Child in the Woods and The Nature Principle, every child needs nature. Not exactly a groundbreaking revelation – but certainly one that poses challenges when you look at your weekly calendar (where’d the white space go?).

Here’s some advice we can take away from his philosophy and the bigger discussion in Orlando:

1. Get nostalgic. Take a moment to talk to a grandparent – or even a peer – about his or her favorite nature memories from childhood – was it skipping stones? A favorite picture book about elephants? Drawing horses? Climbing trees? These simple memories might be enough to remind you just how easy it can be to make nature part of your own parenting style.

2. Think manageable. Connecting kids with nature doesn’t require a family trip to Yellowstone (phew). What it really takes is getting your kids curious about animals, wildlife and the outdoors – the world beyond their house and school. What do baby turtles eat? Why do leaves change colors? How do fish breath underwater? What kind of insect is that in your backyard? Hikes, museums, books and videos can all help spark that fascination.

3. Teach early lessons. Intuitively, we know kids need to learn about and appreciate nature. But what are the real benefits? For one, it’s a sensory explosion for their young minds. Reading about how birds build nests, watching a baby elephant play, touching a sheep’s coat, smelling a rose or digging a carrot out of the soil -- all of this stimulates curiosity in young minds.

More important, however, is that it instills a love of nature. And if our kids love nature – won’t they be more likely to protect it?

Food for thought! Now I’m off to take the kids to the zoo…

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Struffel: Stuffel's Walk Stuffel's New Bed

About the Book
Do children appreciate the joys of everyday life?

Whether it’s playing in the garden, in the warm Spring sun or enjoying a new bed, Struffel the little bear can help children be thankful for the little things in life.

Struffel is the star of Susan M. Maithya’s new children’s book, STRUFFEL, which includes two stories: “Struffel’s Walk” and “Struffel’s New Bed”. Travel to the garden to enjoy the Spring weather with Struffel and his friends or experience Struffel getting his first “big kid” bed as he grows big and strong.

STRUFFEL: “Struffel’s Walk” and “Struffel’s New Bed” serves as a communication tool for parents and grandparents and as an entertaining story for children, supported by detailed illustrations and relatable stories. Following the main character, Struffel, children will learn life lessons about everyday things. Parents and grandparents will have the chance to talk to their children about important life matters.

“Struffel is vital and useful for children, as it is enriched with different aspects a child will likely encounter in their daily life,” Maithya says. “The finely detailed illustrations are expressive and enhance children’s experiences of Struffel’s adventures.”

Struffel’s storyline is simple for children to understand and commit to memory for application in everyday life.

About the Author
Susan M. Maithya is an author, graphic designer and publisher, specializing in children's books. Susan has had several years of education and work experience in graphic design and publishing. Currently, she is pursuing further initiatives in writing, communication and foreign languages. Susan is in Vancouver, British Columbia with her son.

My Take on the Book
This was a fun and entertaining book that you and your kids will enjoy reading together. The story is engaging and your kids will love the fact that there are two stories in one book! The illustrations are great and my daughters loved the character of Struffel! This is definitely a book that is great for earlier readers, but parents will enjoy it as well!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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