Meet the Microbes!: The Tiny Living Things That Mould Our Lives
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Help your little ones understand and appreciate the world of microbes with 'Meet the Microbes' and 'Hier komen de microben!'. Authored by biologist and educator Dr. Emily Grossman, these books use engaging text and vibrant illustrations to explain the vital role of microbes in life on Earth. While introducing children to the concept that microbes are everywhere - from our bodies to outer space - the books also distinguish between microbes that can cause illness and those that are essential for health and environmental wellbeing. Accompanied by playful illustrations by Maggie Li, these books are perfect for young curious minds to learn about the smallest organisms and their significant impact on our planet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are microbes and how do they affect our everyday lives?
Can you think of ways microbes might be helpful to people and the planet?
Why do you think it's important to learn about microbes even though we can't see them?
How do you feel about the tiny creatures living all around us after reading this book?
Which microbe from the book did you find the most interesting and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Express curiosity and excitement about the world of microbes to set a positive tone for the discussion.
Relate the content to daily life, perhaps by discussing how microbes contribute to the food we eat like yogurt or cheese.
Encourage your child to ask questions and express their thoughts about microbes, validating their ideas and feelings.
Use illustrations from the book to further explain complex ideas and keep the conversation visually engaging.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite microbe and describe its role based on what they learned.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Valuing diversity:
Explanation: Meet the Microbes! introduces children to various types of microbes and their unique roles in the environment, teaching kids to appreciate the diversity of life forms.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing differences among people and environments, promoting inclusivity and open-mindedness.
Example Lesson: Understanding ecosystems:
Explanation: The book explains how microbes are fundamental to ecosystems, influencing everything from food production to waste decomposition.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to appreciate and protect natural habitats, understanding their critical roles in sustaining life on Earth.
Example Lesson: Importance of hygiene:
Explanation: By explaining how some microbes can cause diseases, the book teaches about the importance of cleanliness and good hygiene habits.
Real-World Application: Children can adopt healthier habits like washing hands frequently, leading to reduced spread of illnesses.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity:
Explanation: Meet the Microbes! encourages a sense of wonder and curiosity about the microscopic world, fostering a love for science and exploration.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions, seek out answers, and engage in scientific learning activities, boosting their analytical skills.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of life:
Explanation: The book highlights how microbes interact with humans, animals, and plants, showing how all living organisms are interconnected.
Real-World Application: Children learn to understand the impact of their actions on the environment and are encouraged to make choices that support ecosystem health.