Description
Book SynopsisThe Book of Nature Connection is packed with fun activities for using our senses to connect to nature in a deep and nourishing way. From "extenda-ears" and acorn whistles to camouflage games and scent scavenger hunts, enjoy over 70 diverse and incredible sensory nature activities for all ages.
Trade Review"Jacob Rodenburg's wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm for nature make this a great resource for anyone wishing to stimulate children's connections with the natural world. The activities and games in the book are easy to replicate and it will be a boon to educators."
— Paul Elliott, professor, Trent School of Education, co-chair, Environmental and Sustainability Education in Teacher Education
"What an incredibly handy and useful book! "
— David Sobel, environmental education leader, author, Beyond Ecophobia: Reclaiming the Heart in Nature Education
"This is a wonderful resource for those who love to wander and learn from nature and for those who are novices at exploring the natural world! Jacob has revisioned some tried and true immersion experiences with a new twist. Flip to any page, read, and go outside for a new and refreshing way to experience wonder."
— Jennifer Seydel, executive director, Green Schools National Network
"Jacob Rodenburg has crafted a must-read guide full of important information on how to reconnect with nature through practicing mindfulness and sensory activities. This is a great choice for anyone looking to unplug from our hectic, technology-dominated lives and be immersed in nature to reap the benefits!"
— Aly Hyder Ali, urban nature organizer, Nature Canada
"This beautiful compendium of nature activities is an essential bedside and backpack read for all educators—not just us nature nuts. Whether seeking future inspiration, or something to engage the group arriving in 15 minutes(!), this book provides an opportunity to grab and go or a deep dive. The best antidote to sensory anesthesia is to spend a day exploring your "neighbourwood" with Jacob. The second best is to explore his low-prop, high-impact activities, well-bundled to engage all the senses, including your sense of wonder!"
— Karen O'Krafka, president, Council of Outdoor Educators of Ontario
Table of ContentsIntroduction
Our Senses
Steve Van Matre
Mindfulness and Nature
Natural Sounds
Sound Catchers
Learning from Bats
Listening to Other Animals and Trees
Stalking Games
Nature Music
Seeing Nature
Our Visual System
Seasonal Colors
Camouflaged Animals/Countershading
Camouflaged Eggs
Nature Sculpting
Shapes in Nature
Seasonal Sight Activities
The World of Smell
Our Olfactory System
Aromatherapy
Phermonia
Seasonal Smell Activities
The World of Touch
Our Somatosensory System
Blindfold Activities
Connecting to Earth
Connecting to Trees
Other Touch Activities
Tasting the World
The Edible Wild
Tastes of the Season
Gratitude for Nature
Sensory Walks
Forest Walks
City Park Walks
Backyard/Confined Spaces Activities
Other Senses
Sense of Direction
Synesthesia
Index of Activities
Index
About the Author
About the Publisher