Get Ready for Earth Day

Next Sunday, April 22 is Earth Day.  Earth Day was new when my kids were in school and it wasn’t a big deal.  I don’t remember any special lessons or events associated with it.  But today, even in pre-school there will be Earth Day activities.  All television programs for kids will have Earth Day themes.  Your local museums, libraries and zoos will have special activities.  Our local zoo, the Turtle Back Zoo will be having a “Party for the Planet” with Earth Day activities all day long.  So why not be a grandparent who’s “with it” and plan your Earth Day activities now.  Check out all the local events and plan to participate.

Here are some books with characters that we (grandparents - that is) all remember and they are “with it” and have a book for Earth Day.

Fancy Nancy: Every Day is Earth Day by Jane O’Connor

This “I Can Read” book is an excellent Earth Day theme book for beginning readers.  Kids who like the Fancy nancy books will enjoy learning about going green in Fancy nancy style and have a few laughs at the Fancy Nancy antics.

Its Earth Day (Little Critter Series) by Mercer Mayer

The Little Critter books were favorites for me and my kids.  My favorite was “Just Go to Bed” which chronicled the make believe play the critters enjoyed before going to bed and their dad finally having enough.  This book features things young children can learn like turning out the lights and recycling.

Curious George Plants a Tree by H. A Rey
I’ve never met a Curious George book I didn’t like and this one qualifies for sure.   George gets in trouble as usual and the man in the yellow hat comes to the rescue.  Oh, there is a message but its hidden in the fun.  Enjoy.

The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks by Joanna Cole

My kids had this book and I’m glad to see that it is still in print.  Ms. Frizzle – the name says it all – brings her class on science adventures which tickle the imagination and bring science to life for young children and older ones too.  Enjoy all the Magic School Bus books.  Joanna Cole is a genius.

The Berenstain Books Don't Pollute Anymore by Stan and Jan Berenstain
There seemed to be a Berenstain Bears book about every topic and my son wanted and had everyone of them.  If he was in a bookstore he'd go straight for the revolving rack with the berenstain bear books and invariably he'd find one he didn't have.  He didn't just want to have them all, he wanted to have all of them read at bedtime.  This topic is a good one for Earth Day and its been in print since 1993 so it must be pretty good.

All of these books are inexpensive and in paperback.  Pick one up to share with a grandchild today. 

Enjoy you Earth Day!!!!!  Please leave a comment and let us know what you have planned.

Marion