Gardening: (BookLife Non-Fiction Readers)
BookLife readers Series
What’s inside...
An enlightening journey through the basics of gardening, exploring various types of plants, garden maintenance, and the joy of watching something grow. Perfect for young readers with a budding interest in the natural world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think plants need to grow strong and healthy?
If you could plant your own garden, what would you grow and why?
How do you think taking care of plants might be similar to taking care of pets or people?
What are some ways we can help gardens and plants in our community?
Can you imagine a world without plants? What would that be like?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate the topics to your child’s everyday experiences, like eating fruits and vegetables or playing in the park.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them to predict what might happen if plants did not get the necessities they need.
After reading, consider planning a small gardening project with your child to bring the book's themes to life.
Use the illustrations in the book to spark discussions about different types of plants and their environments.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through the process of caring for plants, children learn the importance of routine and responsibility. The book shows how regular watering, sunlight, and care are crucial for plant growth.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on small duties at home, such as caring for a pet or maintaining their own space, thereby developing a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: Gardening is a slow process and the book emphasizes that plants grow at their own pace despite our efforts. It teaches children that some things cannot be rushed and require patience.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to personal goals or skills they're trying to develop, understanding that progress takes time whether it's learning a new sport or a musical instrument.
Example Lesson: Observation skills
Explanation: The book encourages children to observe the changes in plants over time, noting differences and growth, which enhances their attention to detail.
Real-World Application: This can help children in academics and other areas of life where keen observation and attention to detail are beneficial, such as following instructions in class or noticing patterns in math.
Example Lesson: Scientific understanding
Explanation: Children learn about the lifecycle of plants, the role of sunlight, water, and nutrients, which fosters a basic understanding of biological and environmental sciences.
Real-World Application: This knowledge can ignite an interest in science subjects at school and promote environmentally conscious behavior.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: By interacting with the natural world through gardening, children develop a respect and appreciation for the environment and its resources.
Real-World Application: This respect can translate into behaviors such as recycling, conserving water, and other sustainable practices that contribute to environmental conservation.