101+ Enchanting Nature Books for Kids (Parent recommended)

Do you love finding the perfect nature books for kids? I love them too.

A little too much actually. I’m kidding, who doesn’t hoard beautiful books about gardens, creeks and rain!

There are so many incredible storytellers out there who have a knack for communicating their ideas in unique and impactful ways. I’m sure you can think of at least one author who has influenced your way of thinking; a book that left you pondering new ideas or jumping aboard a new train of thought.

The books children consume at a young age can really influence the attitudes and behaviours they carry with them into adulthood. This is why it is such a great idea to provide your kids with books that involve nature; stories about animals, plants, weather, changing seasons, moving tides… everything from the floor of the ocean to the stars in the sky. It’s a wonderful way to get them thinking about nature right from the very beginning of their lives.

I have compiled this list of nature kids’ books from recommendations from educators and parents within nature loving groups. Some I have at home too! Enjoy!

Note: Please check your local library to borrow these books. If you would like to add these books to your collection, click on any of the titles in this list. Just so you’re aware, if you do click on a link and buy, I do get a very small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support – it helps me continue to provide more resources and materials on Mother Natured

Books about Plants and the Garden 

Because of an Acorn

by Lola M. Schaefer and Adam Schaefer
Beginning with a planted acorn, this book explores the connection between plants and animals within their ecosystem. Beautiful illustrations depict the circles of life in nature in a way that kids can enjoy and understand.

 

 

Plant the Tiny Seed

by Christie Matheson
This engaging picture book is perfect for teaching kids about the life cycle of plants. Your child will see how a tiny seed blooms into a flower, taking up an important role as part of the garden ecosystem.

 

 

 

Flowers Are Calling

by Rita Gray
If you’re looking for a factual yet captivating book for your child, Flowers Are Calling is an excellent option. Through poetic rhyme and stunning artwork, your child will learn all about the fascinating cooperation between animals and plants, collecting valuable information as they read.

 

 

Miss Maple’s Seeds

by Eliza Wheeler
Kind-hearted nature lover Miss Maple teaches kids about the significance of seeds, and the potential each one holds. This story of warmth and care shows readers that, when nurtured, even the smallest seed can produce something incredible.

 

 

Plants Feed Me

by Lizzy Rockwell
This book teaches kids about the structure of plants, and the parts we eat. Rockwell includes lots of detail about the different types of plants, where they are grown, and what they are used for, in a way kids can easily digest.

 

 

 

A Seed Is Sleepy

by Dianna Hutts Aston, Sylvia Long
Another beautifully crafted and informative book about seeds and plants, delivered in poetic voice for ease of listening. The accurate and detailed illustrations and descriptions make for a very informative book that lends itself to the classroom or reading time at home.

 

 

From Seed to Plant

by Gail Gibbons
Clear and simple language coupled with vibrant illustrations presents a wonderful introduction to the life cycle of plants. With this book your kids are bound to enjoy learning about the structure of plants; they can even put their knowledge to use by following the seed-growing project included in the book.

 

 

The Little Gardener

by Emily Hughes
Through the story of a young boy and his garden, this book teaches kids about being persistent in the face of difficulty. Beautifully illustrated and highly reviewed.

 

 

 

Planting a Rainbow

by Lois Ehlert
If you want to introduce your kids to gardening, Lois Elhert’s book is a great place to start. She uses bold illustrations and color-filled pages to help children understand how to plant and nurture their gardens.

 

 

The Curious Garden

by Peter Brown
The Curious Garden presents an opportunity to talk with your kids about the environment and why we should nurture it. Brown tells the story of a little boy who takes care of a struggling garden; his small act of kindness spreads throughout the world as the garden blooms and expands, demonstrating the butterfly effect of positive actions.

 

 

I Ate Sunshine for Breakfast

by Michael Holland
As your kids grow and learn about the world, it is so important to foster an appreciation for nature and everything it provides us. Michael Holland’s highly rated compendium of plant facts shows that almost everything we eat, use, and play with comes from nature, from toothpaste to car tires – your kids will be fascinated by nature’s many unexpected provisions (and you will, too!)

 

 

Flower Garden

by Eve Bunting, Kathryn Hewitt
Flower Garden tells the touching story of a girl who, with the help of her father, plants a window garden for her mother as a gift. The warm narrative illustrates how joy can be found in nature, and love can be shown through giving.

 

 

Nature Books for Kids about Trees 

  Tree: A Peek-Through Picture Book

by Patricia Hegarty, Britta Teckentrup
A majestic tree and its inhabitants show the beauty of changing seasons, demonstrating how each season has its own unique characteristics.

 

 

 

The Branch

by Mireille Messier, Pierre Pratt
In this story, a young girl rescues a broken branch from her favorite tree. She uses her imagination and determination to turn the branch into something new, teaching kids that everything holds potential – even things that appear broken at first.

 

 

The Tree Lady

by H. Joseph Hopkins
Activist Kate Sessions made it her mission to fill San Diego with trees and greenery, determined to transform the city from desert to oasis. A picture book and a true story, The Tree Lady is an incredible recount of one person’s contribution to a greener planet. Your kids can be encouraged and inspired by Kate’s willingness to help the environment around her.

 

 

Crinkleroot’s Guide to Knowing the Trees

by Jim Arnosky
Introduce your kids to the fascinating world of trees and forests with this full-color collection of charts and facts, guided by the fun and friendly Crinkleroot.

 

 

Strange Trees: And the Stories Behind Them

by Bernadette Pourquie and Cecile Gambini
Children have vivid imaginations, and this book lends itself perfectly to their inquisitive minds. Colorful and wacky illustrations present a collection of some of the strangest trees from around the world, all completely real (as bizarre as they may seem!)

 

 

 

The Magic and Mystery of Trees

by Jen Green, Claire McElfatrick
This collection of information, activities, illustrations and photos is the perfect introduction to trees in all their beauty and complexity. The Magic and Mystery of Trees go beyond the basic facts to reveal the unbelievable inner-workings of trees, from communication to growth to survival. Suitable for all ages and a delight to explore.

 

 

Weather

All About Weather: A First Weather Book for Kids

by Huda Harajli
Teach your child about the changing seasons in a way that is easy to grasp and enjoyable to learn, with fun facts, engaging pictures, and simple yet memorable explanations. This particular weather book is designed for kids from the ages of 3 to 5.

 

 

Explore My World – Clouds

by Marfe Ferguson Delano
A question kids often ask is “why are there clouds in the sky?” With this book, you can appease their inquisitive minds and learn all about the origins, types, and functions of clouds. They will love the simple stories and captivating images, along with the fun outdoor activities.

 

 

Who Likes Rain?

by Wong Herbert Yee
If your kids enjoy playing in the rain, they will love reading about this rainy-day romp. An adventurous girl decides to brave the wet weather and discovers lots of things she never knew about the rain – who likes it, and who doesn’t? An exciting read which received 2008 Children’s Book of the Year.

 

 

Sometimes Rain

by Meg Fleming, Diana Sudyka
This vibrant watercolored adventure through the four seasons is sure to spark wonder and curiosity in your child, showing them how fun it is to play in nature – even if sometimes, it rains.

 

 

Numenia and the Hurricane

by Fiona Halliday
Inspired by a true story, Numenia and the Hurricane follows a whimbrel as she migrates from her home in the Arctic all the way to the Caribbean. She faces many challenges along the way and must battle through harsh conditions to reach the other shore. A beautifully illustrated and poetic read for nature-loving children.

 

 

What Does Rain Smell Like?

by Simon King and Clare Nasir
In What Does Rain Smell Like? the authors answer one hundred questions about weather, exploring the science behind how it works and how it affects us as people. While not strictly a children’s book, this would be a great resource to use in the classroom or to take outside with your kids and talk about together.

 

 

 

Nature Books for Kids about Rivers, Creeks and the Bay

 

A River

by Marc Martin
This simple yet beautiful picture book follows a river through different landscapes, from the city all the way to the sea. Your kids will love the poetic exploration through forests, farmlands, city sights and country views.

 

 

 

Beyond the Pond

by Joseph Kuefler
A young boy named Ernest decides to explore the pond behind his house, and what he finds is more marvelous than he could have imagined. A charming and thoughtfully crafted book for kids with big imaginations.

 

 

Fun in the Mud: A Wetlands Tale

by Sally Bolger
Jack and Mini explore their wetland home, finding mystical creatures and having fun in the mud. This book weaves fact with fiction to create a captivating world that young minds are sure to enjoy.

 

 

Over and Under the Pond

by Kate Messner, Christopher Silas Neal
This book is a colourful exploration into the ecosystem of a mountain pond, from the creatures above the water to the plants and animals below the surface.

 

 

 

Trout Are Made of Trees

by April Pulley Sayre, Kate Endle
Described as a ‘natural choice for Earth Day,’ this is a great book for gently raising the subject of conservation efforts. Two young children observe a river ecosystem and learn about the connections between plants and animals in the food web.

 

 

 

Water Is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle

by Miranda Paul, Jason Chin
This book tells the story of a group of kids who explore the different phases of the water cycle, set to poetry and stunning illustrations.

 

 

 

Soil Books for Kids

 

The Street Beneath My Feet

by Charlotte Guillain, Yuval Zommer
This double-sided book explores the world beneath our feet, digging down to reveal what lies underneath both the countryside and the city. Your kids can immerse themselves in the underground world by unfolding the pages and laying them out on the floor for an involved learning experience.

 

 

Dirty Gert

by Tedd Arnold
Have fun playing in the mud with Dirty Gert, a young girl who gets a big surprise when her mud begins to grow sprouts. This book is a joyful, playful story set to tongue-twisting rhythm and rhyme.

 

 

 

Tiny Creatures: The World of Microbes

by Nicola Davies, Emily Sutton
There are lots of books about plants and animals we can easily see, but this book focuses on microbes, the tiny organisms that play a vital role in the environment. Tiny Creatures explores the unseen natural world in a way that young readers can understand and enjoy.

 

 

Old Rock (is Not Boring)

by Deb Pilutti
A quirky, charming old rock tells lots of adventurous and wonderful stories about the things he has seen whilst sitting still for many years. The tales he tells are the very opposite of boring. A lovely picture book for readers young and old.

 

 

Dirt: The Scoop on Soil

by Natalie Myra Rosinsky, Sheree Boyd
This is more of an informational book than a story, great for teaching kids the basics of different types of soil without overloading too many facts at once. Aimed at primary school-aged kids.

 

 

 

 Wildlife Books for Kids

 

Sweetest Kulu

by Celina Kalluk, Alexandria Neonakis
This bedtime lullaby tells the story of a newborn child of the Inuit culture, who receives loving gifts and qualities from all the animals in the Arctic. A peaceful and mindful book that fosters a deep respect for culture.

 

 

Little Green Frog

by Ginger Swift
A little frog hops around the pond, meeting other animals along the way. This is a simple story with interactive lift-a-flaps for babies and younger children.

 

 

 

Little Owl’s Night

by Divya Srinivasan
Little Owl explores the night in all its beauty and curiosity, exploring by the light of the moon. Kids who are curious about what happens while they sleep will be both enlightened and comforted by this charming read.

 

 

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

by Eric Carle
A favorite story worldwide, this lovable, colorful caterpillar will delight your child as he eats his way through an enormous amount of food, before transforming into a majestic butterfly. The Very Hungry Caterpillar beautifully describes the metamorphosis process in a way that kids can enjoy and engage with.

 

 

Bee: A Peek-Through Picture Book

by Britta Teckentrup
Bees play an integral role in the environment, allowing colorful flowers to bloom and plants to reproduce and flourish. Your child can learn all about bees with this interactive picture book, revealing something new on every page.

 

 

Ruby’s Birds

by Mya Thompson, Claudia Davila
Loud and energetic Ruby takes a walk through nature with her friend Eva, where she learns to slow down and quietly observe the natural world around her. She sees many beautiful birds by listening and watching calmly.

 

 

 

Have You Heard the Nesting Bird?

by Rita Gray, Kenard Pak
Your kids can learn about all the different birds and their songs with this lively and visual picture book. The accurate illustrations and helpful Q&A in the back pages make this a great resource for any child wanting to know more about birds and their behaviours.

 

 

 

Owl Moon

by Jane Yolen, John Schoenherr
Owl Moon tells the story of a little girl and her father as they look for owls by the light of the moon. The gentle poetry coupled with soft watercolour illustrations makes for a peaceful bedtime read.

 

 

This Moose Belongs to Me

by Oliver Jeffers
Wilfred owns a very obedient moose named Marcel, but when someone else tries to claim Marcel as their own, Wilfred must face the idea that perhaps Marcel never belonged to him in the first place. A fun and intriguing story for animal-loving kids.

 

 

A Web

by Isabelle Simler
Using whatever comes across her path, a spider creates a beautiful web, weaving in all the natural wonders that surround her. This intricately detailed book will encourage your kids to look more closely at the insects in their garden.

 

 

Bonkers About Beetles

by Owen Davey
A captivating guide to the many different varieties of beetles, their habits, habitats, and fascinating characteristics. Perfect for kids who enjoy looking for bugs in the yard.

 

 

 

Howl like a Wolf!: Learn to Think, Move, and Act Like 15 Amazing Animals

by Kathleen Yale, Kaley McKean
At a young age, kids love to imitate the things they are interested in – especially animals! This book teaches kids not only to act like an animal, but also think like one. Facts combine with fun play activities to both educate and captivate children as they play pretend.

 

 

Eye to Eye: How Animals See the World

by Steve Jenkins
Eyes are one of the most important sources of information for the life and survival of animals. In this book, children can learn about all the different types and features of various animal eyes, with the help of bold illustrations.

 

 

 

The Clue is in the Poo: And Other Things Too

by Andy Seed, Claire Almon
If your kids enjoy exploring and finding new things in their environment, this book will allow them to embrace their inner detective. They can learn about how and where to find ‘clues’ in nature, then go and put their newfound skills to the test in their own backyard. The book includes quizzes, activities, and checklists to encourage kids in their own adventures.

 

 

The Great Kapok Tree

by Lynne Cherry
Deep in the Amazon rainforest, a man learns a lesson about the importance of trees and the role they play in sustaining all other living things. Beautiful illustrations depict the rainforest in its wonder and rarity.

 

 

Bird Count

by Susan Richmond, Stephanie Fizer Coleman
During the New England Christmas Bird Count, a young girl is eager to find as many birds as she can. Along with her team, she counts and identifies many different birds, observing their behaviors and movements. Introduce your children to birdwatching with this informative and captivating picture book.

 

 

A Stone Sat Still

by Brendan Wenzel
This touching story focuses on a rock which at first appears rather ordinary, but soon proves itself to be very useful. Many animals rely on the rock for a home, a food source, and a place of safety. A Stone Sat Still fosters patience, contemplation, and appreciation for the ordinary.

 

 

How to Be a Good Creature: A Memoir in Thirteen Animals

by Sy Montgomery, Rebecca Green
Through the eyes of author and adventurer Sy Montgomery, this book teaches children about thirteen rare and wonderful species around the world; their personalities, their characteristics, and the things we can learn by relating to them.

 

 

Encyclopedia Prehistorical Dinosaurs

by Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart
A tribute to dinosaurs and their incredible history in the form of a pop-up book. This is a wonderful resource for kids intrigued by the notion of dinosaurs, filled with facts, humour, and clever illustrations that literally jump off the page.

 

 

 

Nature Connection Books for Kids

 

A Walk in the Forest

by Maria Dek
The forest is an entire world of hidden potential in this charming invitation to explore nature. Encourage your children to appreciate the outdoors and its many wonders.

 

 

Tiny, Perfect Things

by M. H. Clark, Madeline Kloepper
A girl and her grandfather explore their neighborhood together, making tiny, perfect discoveries along the way. Lovely illustrations paired with rhythmic storytelling make for an enjoyable reading experience suited to all ages.

 

 

A Walk Through the Woods

by Louise Greig, Helen Musselwhite
With lilting poetry and intricate art, this contemplative book encourages children to stop and listen to the world around them, introducing many wonderful creatures that inhabit the woods.

 

 

 

Call Me Tree / Llámame árbol

by Maya Christina Gonzalez
A bilingual story of one child’s self-discovery as he grows into his individuality and builds relationships with the world around him, just as a seed grows into a tall tree and puts down roots into the earth. By comparing the child’s journey to that of a tree, this book weaves an empowering narrative about belonging, connection, and self. Suited to older children, however young children will enjoy the illustrations and gentle descriptions.

 

 

Finding Wild

by Megan Wagner Lloyd, Abigail Halpin
On an adventure away from their urban home, two kids set out to explore the natural world. They soon find that the wild exists all around them if they only know where to look. A great read for curious kids searching for their next adventure.

 

 

 

Hiking Day

by Anne Rockwell, Lizzy Rockwell
Celebrate nature with your kids by reading about this family’s adventure into the mountains. As they climb to the mountain summit, they discover incredible flora and fauna, and a newfound appreciation for the natural world.

 

 

 

Run Wild

by David Covell
This book speaks into a digitally-driven world about the importance of getting back to nature, through the story of a girl and a boy as they venture outside. Encourage your kids to ditch their screens and explore nature with this enchanting reminder of how exciting our natural world can be.

 

 

 

Outside In

by Deborah Underwood, Cindy Derby
A touching story of how nature always finds a way back to us, even as we have become more drawn to the indoors. Children will love the colourful illustrations, and they may find comfort in the narrative during this difficult time of having limited access to the outside world.

 

 

 

Wild Berries

by Julie Flett
Clarence and his grandmother spend the day picking wild blueberries in the woods, enjoying nature and meeting animals along the way. Wild Berries is a bilingual book which references the Cree language, inciting a deep respect for the woodland and Cree traditions.

 

 

You Belong Here

by M.H. Clark, Isabelle Arsenault
This is a poetic story about belonging, ideal for babies, children, and adoptive families. A journey around the world shows where different plants and animals dwell. A gentle reminder for children that wherever they are is right where they belong.

 

 

 

Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth

by Oliver Jeffers
In this picture book written for the author’s baby son, Jeffers talks about what is important to him, and his hopes and wishes for the world his son will grow up in. A touching story for parents and their children to read together.

 

 

 

My Side of the Mountain

by Jean Craighead George
Aimed at ages 9 to 12, this story speaks to any child who has ever dreamt of running away on their own adventure. Sam Gribley runs away from home all the way to a nearby mountain, where he makes friends with the wildlife and learns to live off the land, embracing freedom, independence, and adventure.

 

 

 

Poetree

by Caroline Pignat, Francois Thisdale
Poetree is a poetic exploration of the yearly lifecycle of a tree. The memorable text and illustrations teach children about trees whilst also fostering an appreciation for poetry and the written word.

 

 

 

The Wild Robot and The Wild Robot Escapes

by Peter Brown
Roz the robot wakes up on an unfamiliar island with no memory of getting there and no knowledge of the world around her. Learning from the wild animals on the island, Roz soon calls the island home. A middle-grade book for sparking deeper conversations with your kids.

 

 

 

On a Magical Do-Nothing Day

by Beatrice Alemanga
This imaginative picture book tells the story of a child who must find ways to occupy themselves without their gaming device. Outside in the rain, they find unexpected ways to enjoy nature and have fun despite the weather.

 

 

 

Nature Books for Kids about Seasons

 

The Snowy Day

by Ezra Jack Keats
A little boy adventures into the snow, discovering all of the magical possibilities the winter day holds. This picture book is loved by millions and comes highly recommended for young children.

 

 

 

Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter

by Kenard Pak
This is another book in the same series, equally as enchanting and educational for young readers.

 

 

We Gather Together: Celebrating the Harvest Season

by Wendy Pfeffer, Linda Bleck
The science behind autumn and seasons comes to life in this lyrical picture book. Teach your child about weather, culture, and social history with Wendy Pfeffer’s charming story for young kids.

 

 

 

Winter Sleep

by Sean Taylor and Alex Morss, Cinyee Chiu
A cozy bedtime story about a child’s adventure with his grandma through the winter woods. They observe how winter affects the natural world, sending flora and fauna into a deep sleep until spring.

 

 

 

And Then It’s Spring

by Julie Fogliano, Erin E. Stead
After winter browns the grass, a young boy and his dog set out to plant a garden and bring life back into the yard. As they dig and plant, signs of spring slowly start to creep in, causing the garden to flourish. A gentle story for kids with green thumbs.

 

 

 

Summer Days and Nights

by Herbert Wong Yee
A girl finds ways to enjoy the outdoors during the heat of summer, adventuring by day and observing by night. This book is a fun way to get your kids thinking about how they might spend their summer in nature.

 

 

 

Sing a Song of Seasons: A Nature Poem for Each Day of the Year

by Fiona Waters, Frann Preston-Gannon
Peacefully start or end the day with your family by immersing yourselves in descriptions of our natural world, with this collection of nature poems from some of the world’s most talented writers.

 

 

 

Sky and Space Nature Books for Kids

 

Moon: A Peek-Through Picture Book

by Britta Teckentrup
Your kids can learn about the moon and its phases with this interactive picture book, discovering how the moon changes into different shapes and sizes with each new evening. Great as a bedtime story to get your kids thinking about the sky and space.

 

 

 

Zoo in the Sky: A Book of Animal Constellations

by Jacqueline Mitton, Christina Balit
A collection of full-colour illustrations which show how stars can connect to form constellations. This book is an illuminating read for young children which prompts them to explore the night sky in its vastness.

 

 

When the Stars Come Out

by Nicola Edwards, Lucy Cartwright
While night time is often painted as something to be feared, this book highlights the beauty and wonder that exists in nature once the sun goes down. Introduce your child to the extraordinary things that take place during the night in different habitats around the world.

 

 

How Many Stars in The Sky?

by Lenny Hort, James E. Ransome
A boy struggling to sleep begins counting stars as a way of relaxing, but instead becomes determined to count every single star in the sky. He enlists the help of his father, and together, they spend the night counting and discovering. Best suited to primary school-aged kids.

 

 

Cloud Country

by Noah Klock, Bonny Becker
A heartfelt story about a small cloud and her dream of making a ‘real cloud shape.’ The story is accompanied by breathtaking illustrations that will capture your child’s imagination.

 

 

The Blue Hour

by Isabelle Simler
This book explores the hour of transition between night and day, the ‘blue hour,’ where flora and fauna come to life in joined celebration. A gentle read about the immense beauty of nature.

 

 

 

Sustainability Books for Kids

Sustainability is an incredibly important subject, one that children should definitely be educated on. However, some themes, like global warming, deforestation, and pollution, can be distressing for children if we don’t handle them with care.

Our kids can become overwhelmed or burdened by the idea of nature suffering and the capacity of humans to cause that suffering. Remember to introduce topics gently, always reassuring your child that they are safe and protected.

Sustainability-themed nature books for kids are a great way to introduce concepts – I would recommend always reading the books yourself beforehand just to make sure they aren’t too distressing, depending on your kid’s age and maturity level.

 

To Market, to Market

by Nikki McClure
Through the story of a mother and son buying their groceries at a farmer’s market, this book introduces the idea that everything we buy from the market has an origin. Your kids can learn about the different food groups, where they come from, and how they end up at the market to sell. Suited to preschoolers and older.

 

 

Before We Eat: from Farm to Table

by Pat Brisson
Similar in concept, this book explores the process that food goes through before we can eat it, from planting, to looking after animals, to preparing and transporting. Before We Eat teaches kids to think about and appreciate where their food has been before it reached their plate.

 

 

Stories for a Fragile Planet

by Kenneth Steven, Jane Ray
A collection of ten stories from different cultures around the world, retold by poet Kenneth Steven. Each story highlights the beauty of nature and the importance of looking after it, accompanied by intricate illustrations.

 

 

 

Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth

by Mary McKenna Siddals, Ashley Wolff
This is a resource aimed at teaching children how to compost their food waste in a fun and inviting way. Learn how to dispose of scraps and help the planet with your family in a few simple steps.

 

 

 

Earth Day Every Day

by Lisa Bullard, Xiao Xin
Most suited to ages 5 and up, this book about Trina and her class promote different ways children can look after the planet. It includes kid-friendly information about reduce, reuse, recycle, with colourful illustrations to make the learning fun.

 

 

If Polar Bears Disappeared

by Lily Williams
Polar bears are endangered due to rapid climate change; this book explores what would happen if polar bears went extinct, discussing the issue of climate change in a way that younger children can understand. The information is best suited to grade four kids and up, but it can be shared with younger children if they are supported in understanding the concepts.

 

 

The Lorax

by Dr Seuss
This book of playful rhyme, loved by kids and adults alike, speaks out against mindless progress and harm to the environment. The Lorax inspires readers to see and protect the world’s natural beauty.

 

 

 

 

Earth Hour: A Lights-Out Event for Our Planet

by Nanette Heffernan, Bao Luu
Help your kids to understand the impacts of electricity use with this beautifully illustrated journey to different landmarks around the world. Earth Hour explains the ways kids and adults use electricity, and why energy is important to conserve, in a simple way that kids can easily access.

 

 

Activity Nature Books for Kids

 

The Muddy Chef

by Penny Whitehouse and Emma Bear

This is a mud kitchen cookbook filled with creative recipes your kids will love to make, and that you’ll pretend are delicious.  Bike up a muddy storm with mud and seed cupcakes, nature’s nachos and green spaghetti. Your kids will love getting creative with mud and natural “ingredients” from your garden!

 

 

101 Things for Kids To Do Outside

by Dawn Isaac
Never run out of ideas again with this extensive list of outdoor activities. Each is described in a way that young kids can understand, with helpful graphics to go alongside them.

 

 

Hello Nature Activity Cards: 30 Activities Cards

by Nina Chakrabarti
This book of 30 activities encourages kids to explore the natural world. You can take the cards with you on outdoor adventures, on holiday, or simply use them in your backyard.

 

 

 

A Little Bit of Dirt: 55+ Science and Art Activities to Reconnect Children With Nature

by Asia Citro
Motivate your kids to spend time outside with this list of hands-on activities that encourage imaginative and adventurous interaction with the environment.

 

 

 

 

Sticks and Stones: A Kid’s Guide to Building and Exploring in the Great Outdoors

by Melissa Lennig
This guide to outdoor play focuses on building and creating, with instructions for building huts, weaving mats, crafting a fishing pole, and many more exciting projects. A great opportunity to get your kids to spend more time outside.

 

 

Kids’ Outdoor Adventure Book: 448 Great Things to Do in Nature

by Stacy Tornio
Another extensive list of fun outdoor activities your kids can explore in their own backyard. This book includes activities for the whole year round for kids of all ages, as well as facts, recipes, tips and tricks, and challenges.

 

 

Nature’s Art Box

by Laura C. Martin, David Cain
Allow your kids to get crafty with this guide to natural art and craft activities. Nature’s Art Box encourages kids to embrace their imagination; any natural material can be turned into a work of art, and there’s no limit to what your kids can create with this helpful guide.

 

 

Field Guide Nature Books for Kids

The Take-along field guide series (multiple authors)

With this series of easy-to-use field guides for children, your kids can learn to identify many different species, from frogs and turtles to mammals and insects. Each book includes scrapbook pages for taking notes or drawing. The information is written to be accessible for children, accompanied by accurate illustrations by various artists. Titles in the series include:

o Birds, Nests & Eggs by Mel Boring
o Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies by Mel Boring
o Frogs, Toads and Turtles by Diana Burns
o Planets, Moons and Stars by Laura Evert
o Rabbits, Squirrels and Chipmunks by Mel Boring
o Rocks, Fossils and Arrowheads by Laura Evert
o Seashells, Crabs and Sea Stars by Christiane Kump Tibbitts
o Tracks, Scats and Signs by Leslie Dendy
o Trees, Leaves and Bark by Diane Burns
o Wildflowers, Blooms and Blossoms by Diana Burns
o Fun with Nature (Take Along Guides compilation)

 

Backyard Bird Watching for Kids

by George H. Harrison and Kit Harrison
Bird watching can happen in your own backyard if you know how to attract them. This guide teaches children how to attract, feed, and provide homes for birds; if your kids love connecting with wildlife, this is a great way to get a closer look at the bird species in your area.

 

 

Bug Lab for Kids:

Family-Friendly Activities for Exploring the Amazing World of Beetles, Butterflies, Spiders, and Other Arthropods

by John Guyton
Allow your kids to embrace their inner entomologist with this extensive guide to the world of bugs. Bug Lab for Kids includes over 40 child-friendly activities, plus lots of tips and tricks for finding, identifying, caring for, and preserving insects.

 

 

Child’s Introduction to the Night Sky

by Michael Driscoll, Meredith Hamilton 

This book is a kid-friendly introduction to stars and astronomy for children aged 8 and up. Your kids can learn about the history of the solar system and space exploration, stars, planets, constellations, and more. Each page is illustrated with plenty of definitions and facts to help children understand what they are reading.

 

 

Find the Constellations

by H. A. Rey
Find the Constellations teaches children how to look at star charts, find constellations, and understand concepts like planets and the solar system. Written by the author of Curious George, the guide is suited to children of all ages.

 

 

 

Nature Skill Books for Kids

 

Forest Craft: A Child’s Guide to Whittling in the Woodland

by Richard Irvine
This guide to forest craft focuses on whittling projects for children and families. Learn how to make 20 different wooden creations using basic tools, with clear instructions, photographs, and information about safety.

 

 

The Young Adventurer’s Guide To (Almost) Everything

by Ben Hewitt, Luke Boushee
Get creative outdoors with this list of 45 hands-on activities. Each has illustrated, step-by-step instructions, suited to kids 8 years old and up. If your kids love camping and exploring, this book will speak to their adventurous spirit.

 

 

 

Hiking Journal for Kids

by River Breeze Press
Once your child reaches an age where they become enthusiastic about hiking and carving their own path, they may enjoy using a journal to keep track of where they’ve been. This journal includes space to list each hike, its location, level of difficulty, weather, descriptions, and highlights. A great opportunity to introduce your child to journaling in a way they can be enthusiastic about.

 

 

Follow that Map!

by Scot Ritchie
Maps can be daunting for young children, but they are incredibly useful in helping kids understand their surroundings and the concept of travel and geography. This interactive picture book explains map-related concepts in a way that children can easily grasp, with a handy activity that instructs children on how to make a map of their bedroom.

 

The Organic Artist for Kids

by Nick Neddo
This guide allows children to embrace their inner artists, encouraging the use of natural materials to learn new skills and create projects. It emphasizes the importance of experimentation, creativity, and appreciation for the natural world and its resources. Your kids can learn a range of skills with this guide, such as making their own paint, crafting stencils, and many more.

 

 

Poetry Nature Books for Kids

 

A Nature Poem for Every Day Of the Year

by Jane McMorland Hunter
Encourage your kids to see the beauty in nature with this collection of poems by talented writers, one for each and every day of the year.

 

 

 

National Geographic Kids Book of Nature Poetry

by J. Patrick Lewis
This poetry collection combines both classic and contemporary writers of animal-themed poems, paired with stunning photographs of nature that bring the words to life. While younger kids may have difficulty reading some poems, reading them aloud as a family can be a great way to connect with nature together.

 

 

Origami and Poetry: Inspired by Nature

by Nosy Crow, Clover Robin
If your kids have a low attention span for reading, the origami component to this collection of poems may help to capture their focus. Each poem has instructions for a corresponding origami figure, so your kids can keep busy with their hands whilst reading beautiful nature-inspired poetry.

 

 

The Lost Words: A Spell Book

by Robert Macfarlane, Jackie Morris
This book of illustrated poetry aims to foster an appreciation for nature’s beauty in young children. Acrostic poems written like mystical spells are suited to children of all ages, perfect for young nature lovers with big imaginations.

 

 

 

A Child’s Garden of Verses

by Robert Louis Stevenson, Tasha Tudor
Robert Stevenson explores the simple delights of a childhood spent outdoors in a series of sixty-six charming poems. Each page is covered with vibrant paintings of nature’s beauty, captivating children and adults alike.

 

 

Other Beautiful Nature Books for Kids

 

Swirl by Swirl

by Joyce Sidman, Beth Krommes
Swirls occur naturally in nature, from the shell of a snail to the tendrils of a vine. This poetic celebration of the simple yet valuable swirl is both entertaining and informative for young nature lovers.

 

 

The Mushroom Fan Club

by Elise Gravel
Explore the many quirks of the forest floor and get an up-close look at one of nature’s most alien creations – mushrooms. Your kids will be drawn to the friendly illustrations and lyrical writing, gaining valuable knowledge about different types of fungi as they read.

 

 

This is by no means a complete list of nature books for kids, but hopefully, these blurbs give you some inspiration for nature-themed reading. I truly believe that introducing your kids to nature at a young age, especially in the things they read and watch, can make such a difference in their outlook on life.

Again, I want to emphasize that I haven’t read all of these myself, but they all come with high ratings and recommendations. Be sure to let me know if you think there’s anything I’ve missed – I would love to hear any ideas you might have. In the meantime, happy reading!

Love nature books? You might love this Hungry Caterpillar Craft!