Experiencing Nature With Young Children

Dr. Alice Sterling Honig is Professor Emerita of Child Development at Syracuse University, where for 36 years she directed the annual National Quality Infant/Toddler Caregiving Workshop. She has taught courses in parenting, prosocial development, observation and assessment, as well as cross-cultural and language development and research methods in studying children. She has received Syracuse University’s highest honor: “The Chancellor’s Citation for Exceptional Academic Achievement.” Dr. Honig was chosen by NAEYC to serve for six years as their Research in Review Editor for Young Children. Dr. Honig has published 600 articles and chapters, more than two dozen books, and several cassettes and videos for parents and caregivers, including a video on nurturing early language.

"This book is a delight, providing thoughtful insights and numerous practical ideas for nurturing young children’s involvement with nature. It beautifully integrates concepts about nature into all aspects of children’s lives."—Eva L. Essa, Foundation Professor Emerita, University of Nevada, Reno"The current educational focus on benchmarks has created learning environments that often sideline exploration and imaginative play. Honig not only reminds us of our responsibility to connect children with nature but also gives us a fabulous guidebook of easy ideas for outdoor experiences that will benefit all children."—Jennifer Caravello, Language Arts Teacher, Fayette County Public Schools, Lexington, Kentucky"Honig provides practical ideas that are appealing, accessible, and multisensory. While supporting the teaching of a love of nature to promote compassionate, ecologically minded citizens, she also shows us how experiences with nature can be the most valuable and rich learning opportunities in young children’s lives."—Elise Hansen, Preschool Director, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

• Introduction1. Awaken Children’s Senses to Delight in Nature2. Nurture Children’s Emotional Development3. Plan Outdoor-Related Experiences to Enhance Cognitive Development4. Encourage Children’s Creativity With Natural Settings and Materials5. Help Children Discover the Interconnectedness of Life6. Use Nature Experiences to Help Children With Challenging Behaviors7. Ignite Children’s Interest in Nature With Media8. Engage Families and Communities in Enjoying and Preserving NatureConclusionReferencesResourcesAbout the AuthorAcknowledgments