Who doesn't love summer? Of course, students look forward to the academic break, but there are many educational opportunities this warm season provides outside the classroom. These fun step-by-step projects are sure to engage young readers while the accompanying facts will keep them learning year-round.

There isn’t anything more appropriate for springtime than these charming projects! By gathering some of the materials from nature, reading about them, and then assembling the projects, students will have a great time as they learn through an invigorating mixture of fresh air, exercise, earth science, and art!

The leaves change color, the air grows cool and crisp, and animals prepare for winter. Autumn is a magical season, but the quick crafts found in this book will make it even more so. Each fall-themed project uses seasonal materials commonly found in nature and ties in informative text, combining textual and tactile learning into one unforgettable educational experience.

Mini pine forests, ice mobiles, penguin bowling, and more will make crafty kids forget all about the freezing temperatures outside. But these winter projects will do much more than simply entertain. Informative texts highlighting different aspects of the season link art and earth science in a way that effectively utilizes both cognitive and tactile learning.

Take advantage of nature’s bounty and craft in time with the seasons! Whether potting up dandelion honey, cooking and crafting with rose petals or preserving autumn leaves and acorns, there are so many wonderful gifts, ornaments and treats that can be made from either a short walk in the woods or a rummage in your cupboard. With an emphasis on foraging and upcycling, Becci explores the ways we can create beautiful projects using materials readily available in the garden and home. Upcycled projects include gorgeous home textiles woven from bed linen, mini lampshade fairy lights for a summer’s evening and even a fabulous picnic table from an old suitcase. Capture the breeze of autumn with wind chimes made from old necklaces and cutlery and learn how to felt old sweaters, turning them into cosy wreaths, brooches and purses for winter. There is also a section on working with willow, with projects encompassing everything from woven bird-feeders (with home-made fat balls!) to festive ornaments.

Anyone who wants to learn basic living skills--and enjoy a healthier, greener, and more self-sufficient lifestyle--need look no further than this eminently useful guide that features hundreds of projects and old-fashioned fun. Full-color and b&w photographs throughout.