Slow Down & Be Here Now
Stories to Make You Stop, Look and Be Amazed

Slow Down and Be Here Now

"Slow Down and Be Here Now: More Nature Stories to Make You Stop, Look and Be Amazed by the Tiniest Things" by Laura Brand is a beautifully illustrated book that encourages readers to appreciate the small wonders of nature. The book is designed for young readers aged 3 and up and includes 20 nature stories that are told step-by-step, allowing readers to see nature up close and find joy in the present moment.

The book features charming text combined with real scientific insights, inviting readers to observe events such as a hummingbird drinking nectar, a pea shoot emerging, or a family of hermit crabs moving house. These stories are visually enhanced with colourful illustrations and a sumptuous gold foil cover, making it an attractive addition to any child's library.

In addition to the stories, the book includes mindfulness activities and further reading suggestions, encouraging children and their caregivers to engage more deeply with the natural world. The book has been well-received, being shortlisted for the Week Junior Book Awards 2023 and praised for its ability to inspire a love of nature.

Author: Laura Brand

Laura emphasizes the importance of slowing down and letting nature guide creativity, advocating for the benefits of fresh air and imaginative play in nature.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Magic Cat Publishing
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 64 pages
  • Dimensions: 24 x 0.7 x 30 cm
  • Reading age: 6+ years old
  • Publication date: 29 Sept. 2022
  • ISBN: 978-1913520656

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Can I use Slow Down And Be Here Now by Laura Brand to teach y2 science How Plants Grow?

Author: Laura Brand

"Slow Down and Be Here Now" by Laura Brand is a nature storybook that encourages readers to appreciate the small wonders of the world, such as frog tongues and dandelion puffs. While it primarily focuses on mindfulness and being present in nature, it can be used to teach Year 2 science concepts related to how plants grow.

How It Can Be Used In Teaching

  1. Observation Skills: The book promotes slowing down and observing nature, which aligns well with scientific inquiry. Students can be encouraged to observe plants in their environment, noting details about their growth and features.
  2. Understanding Plant Life Cycles: Through the themes of nature, educators can introduce discussions about the life cycles of plants, including germination, growth, reproduction, and death.
  3. Connection to the Environment: The book's emphasis on appreciating nature can lead to lessons about ecosystems and the role of plants within them, including how they contribute to their surroundings.
  4. Interactive Activities: Activities inspired by the book could include planting seeds and observing their growth over time, allowing students to apply what they learn from the text practically.

Connecting to the Curriculum

  1. Ensure the activities and discussions align with the specific learning objectives and content standards for the Year 2 science curriculum on plant growth.
  2. Integrate the book's themes of observation and mindfulness into the broader science unit in a meaningful way.

Adapting the Content

  1. Identify key concepts from the book that directly relate to plant growth, such as the life cycle, parts of a plant, and the role of sunlight and water.
  2. Adapt the language and examples from the book to be age-appropriate for Year 2 students.

Extending the Learning

  1. Provide opportunities for students to apply their learning from the book through hands-on activities like planting seeds and observing their growth over time.
  2. Encourage students to make connections between the book's themes and their own experiences observing nature.

Assessing Student Learning

  1. Develop formative and summative assessments that evaluate students' understanding of plant growth concepts and their ability to observe and appreciate the natural world.
  2. Consider using a variety of assessment methods, such as drawings, written reflections, and presentations, to accommodate different learning styles.

Fostering Mindfulness

  1. Emphasize the importance of being present and observant when studying plants and nature.
  2. Model and encourage mindful practices, such as slow looking and deep breathing, throughout the unit.

In summary, while "Slow Down and Be Here Now" is not a traditional science textbook, its themes of mindfulness and nature can effectively complement Year 2 science lessons on plant growth.

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