Spotlight on Young Children and Nature

The long-ranging debate over "child-initiated vs. adult-directed" learning reduces a complex question to two extremes, in which either the children or the adults hold the power in a classroom. Here, finally, is a book that recognizes there is a middle ground where childrren and adults share responsibility for learning, and that the most effective teachers make thoughtful, intentional uyse of both child-guided and adult-guided experience. Experts are commending the book as moving the field forward: This is one of the best early childhood books that I have ever read, and I have read a lot of them. It takes on a difficult topic about which little direct research exists and does an outstanding job of framing the discussion in ways that not only will push the practice of current teachers but will also provide a new theoretical framework for pushing a new generation of research in the field. —Sue Bredekamp, Council for Professional Recognition, Washington, DC

Use nature to promote growth across all domainsNature exploration is fundamental to young children’s curiosity, discovery, and sense of wonder—it supports their growth in all developmental domains. In this collection of engaging articles from NAEYC’s journal Young Children, teachers of children from infancy through age 8 will learn about using nature education to address early learning standards, to involve families and the community, and to encourage children’s appreciation of the natural world. The book offers a comprehensive resource list and a professional development guide with questions and activities to help readers reflect on current practices and incorporate new ones.