Friday, June 6, 2014

Exploring Environmental Science with Children and Teens (book)


Harrington, E.G. (2014). Exploring Environmental Science with Children and Teens. Chicago, IL: ALA Editions. 978-0-8389-1198-3.

Despite the abundance of resources on the subject, in the classroom science often takes a back seat to the study of math and English. That gives public and school libraries as well as museums the opportunity to jump in as venues for informal education, sharing the wonders of science with children and their caregivers. In this intriguing book Harrington focuses on environmental science, offering a selection of unique programming ideas that not only entertain but also arm children and teens with information about environmental issues. There’s no need to have a particular background in science to use this all-in-one resource, which includes
  • Background information on the national state of science education, and how environmental programming can foster science literacy
  • Ways to introduce environmental science themes into existing library programs via “Little Learners Labs” for toddlers, science storytimes for young children, and book clubs for tweens and teens
  • Lists of age-appropriate titles to share with any group
  • Strategies for implementation to ensure success
This book not only demonstrates the need for environmental programming but also gives those who work with children and teens the ideas and confidence they need to move forward.

(book description)