Thinking of Nature: A Mindfulness Book for Kids
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
This beautiful earth can amaze and astound you with its natural wonders. 'Thinking of Nature' by Amy Mucci is a thought-provoking book that encourages children to appreciate the natural world through engaging illustrations and rhyming text. The book includes discussion questions to inspire reflection on nature and offers additional nature-inspired activities on the Bright Wish Books website. Praised for its educational content, beautifully written text, and lovely illustrations, 'Thinking of Nature' has received 5-star reviews from Reader's Favorite and Reedsy.
Age
3-8
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you feel when you read about the quiet forest in the book?
Can you think of a time when you felt really connected to nature? What was that like?
If you could be any animal from the book, which one would you be and why?
How do you think the trees, rivers, and animals feel when the seasons change?
What are some ways we can help take care of nature around us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each scene in the book.
Relate the book's themes to your child's personal experiences with nature, enhancing a deeper connection.
Ask your child to draw a favorite scene from the book and then describe it, fostering creativity and comprehension.
Discuss the importance of mindfulness and how being aware of nature can make us feel calm and happy.
Suggest acting out favorite parts of the book using toys or imaginative play to deepen understanding and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Mindfulness and Awareness
Explanation: Through engaging activities and prompts, 'Thinking of Nature' guides children to pay close attention to their natural surroundings, fostering mindfulness.
Real-World Application: Children can practice being present and reduce stress by observing nature during family walks or while playing outside.
Example Lesson: Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: The book illustrates the importance of caring for the environment through stories and examples that resonate with young readers.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in recycling, conservation efforts, and learn the importance of protecting nature from a young age.
Example Lesson: Patience and Observation
Explanation: Activities in the book encourage children to observe the slow, yet steady changes in nature, teaching them patience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate slow processes like the growth of a plant, which can teach them patience in other areas of life.
Example Lesson: Gratitude for Natural Resources
Explanation: The story highlights the benefits and beauty that nature provides, instilling a sense of gratitude in young readers.
Real-World Application: This awareness can lead children to cherish and not take for granted resources such as water, air, and green spaces.
Example Lesson: Connectivity with Nature
Explanation: Amy Mucci emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things through easy-to-understand narratives.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to see their impact on the world around them, promoting a sense of belonging and responsibility to the larger ecosystem.