A Little Dose of Nature
What’s inside...
With over 25 activities, A Little Dose of Nature is a gentle guide to being outside that helps children aged 5-8 make the most of all the good that nature can do for our mental health. Being surrounded by greenery, wildlife, and fresh air is scientifically proven to be one of the most effective—and neglected—ways to de-stress and boost wellbeing. This book introduces young readers to nature’s five 'key ingredients,' which can provide cognitive and emotional benefits. From observing the branching patterns of roots and leaves that mimic our own anatomies, to the power of sunlight, rainfall, and birdsong, readers young and old will discover how to notice and appreciate what nature does for them, their minds, and their bodies. Each of these key ingredients is explored through a range of simple, relaxing activities that children, parents, and carers can do in their favorite green spaces. Written by psychologist Dr. Alison Greenwood and with gorgeous illustrations from Anneli Bray, A Little Dose of Nature introduces an easily accessible tonic for difficulty and distress, and encourages us all to get our dose of nature for a happy, healthy life.
Discussion points
What did you think about the different animals we read about in the book? Which one was your favorite and why?
How do you feel when you spend time in nature compared to inside the house?
What are some ways we can help take care of our planet like the characters in the book?
Can you think of a time when you felt really connected to nature? What were you doing?
How do you think the plants and animals in the book felt about their home in nature?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about nature freely. Validate their feelings and provide additional information when needed.
Use the illustrations in the book to point out different natural elements and ask your child what they notice or recognize from their own experiences outdoors.
Connect the story to your child’s real-life experiences by planning a nature walk or a visit to a local park. Discuss the similarities and differences with the natural settings in the book.
After reading the book, engage in a creative activity like drawing or crafting to depict their favorite scene or character. This can further deepen their connection to the story’s themes.
Encourage your child to think about what actions they can take to help nature, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The book follows the main character, a young child, as they explore various natural settings, vividly describing the flora and fauna they encounter, teaching children to notice and appreciate the natural world around them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, or even simple walks in a park, fostering a lifelong appreciation and respect for nature.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards Environment
Explanation: Throughout the story, the importance of taking care of nature is highlighted through activities like cleaning up litter and planting trees, which underscores the message of environmental stewardship.
Real-World Application: Children learn to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into their daily routines, such as recycling, conserving water, and reducing waste, helping them develop into responsible adults.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book encourages curiosity through the protagonist’s quest for knowledge about the natural world, asking questions and discovering answers about the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson translates into a child's everyday life by nurturing a curious mindset towards learning, promoting educational exploration in school subjects and everyday phenomena.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: In the story, the child faces challenges such as navigating through the woods or helping an injured animal, which teaches problem-solving skills in practical scenarios.
Real-World Application: Children can adopt these problem-solving techniques during play or in overcoming challenges in school, enhancing their cognitive development and resilience.
Example Lesson: Empathy for Living Things
Explanation: The interaction with various animals in the story fosters empathy by placing the child in scenarios where they help and care for other creatures.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to develop compassion and understanding towards animals and people, making them more empathetic and socially aware individuals.