Our Friend Earth: Full Circle Books
Full Circle Books Series
What’s inside...
Our Friend Earth explores the relationship between humanity and the environment, emphasizing the importance of preserving and cherishing our planet. The narrative follows the journey of a group of friends who embark on an adventure to understand the complexities of Earth's ecosystems and the impact of human actions on the natural world. This charming, circle-shaped board book cultivates a sense of wonder and gratitude in preschoolers for Earth, teaching them about the planet and their place in the solar system. It introduces children to the solar system and helps them recognize Earth as their forever friend, who remains a constant companion despite the flux of life. The book includes a diagram explaining the day and night cycle as Earth rotates in the light of the sun, enhancing children's awareness and gratitude for Earth.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-3
Length
20 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways we can help take care of Earth every day?
Why do you think Earth is called our friend?
How do you feel when you see places like forests, oceans, and mountains?
What can happen if we don't take care of our planet?
Can you think of a time when you helped Earth by recycling or saving water?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own experiences and actions toward helping Earth to set a positive example.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the natural world, whether through words, drawings, or actions.
Discuss the interconnectedness of nature and humanity, highlighting the impact of individual actions on the global environment.
Praise and reinforce your child’s ideas and initiatives to protect the environment, no matter how small they seem.
Use examples from the book to point out real-life scenarios and discuss practical ways to implement them in daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Environmental stewardship
Explanation: The book celebrates Earth, detailing its natural wonders and highlighting the importance of caring for our planet.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in recycling programs, conserving water, and learning about local wildlife and plants.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of ecosystems
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and engaging text, the book shows how various elements of the environment work together to support life.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to appreciate the balance of nature and encourage them to explore how their actions impact their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Respect and appreciation for nature
Explanation: ‘Our Friend Earth’ portrays Earth as a friend who needs respect and care, instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to treat natural spaces with respect, such as not littering and harming living plants and animals during their outdoor activities.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning about the natural world
Explanation: The book uses engaging questions and facts to spark curiosity about the Earth and its processes.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions, engage in outdoor activities, and utilize books and educational materials to learn more about the environment.
Example Lesson: Impact of collective actions
Explanation: ‘Our Friend Earth’ emphasizes how small, positive actions by many individuals can lead to significant positive effects on the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to participate in community clean-up days or other group activities aimed at improving their local environment.