To forge a sustainable future, we need citizens who care for the Earth. We need citizens who understand that planet care is the ultimate form of self-care. But we also need generations who live according to their values and convictions and who can effect positive change in their lives and the lives of others. Because public schools and the popular media cannot be counted on to produce an Earth-friendly citizenry, the task falls to parents. Yet even aware parents often lack the understanding and resources to take on such a task. EcoKids addresses this gap by presenting a coherent plan that will help parents foster love for nature, teach children the importance of environmental protection, and promote environmental values and inspire action - actions that will last a lifetime. A hopeful and inspiring guide for parents, topics covered include ways to: avoid gloom and doom in favor of positive solutions foster love and empathy for nature develop environmental values put values into action help children discover the roots of problems and be part of lasting solutions walk the talk counter the consumer culture, starting in your own home and community generate hope and combat apathy. Each chapter includes an inspiring case study of a child who's making a difference, short pieces that highlight serious problems such as global warming, along with positive solutions that can be read aloud to children, and activities for children. A resource guide lists helpful books, articles, videos, and organizations.

• 28 exciting STEAM projects that combine creative play with eco-awareness. • Fun ideas range from building a wind turbine and a go-kart to creating light, growing vegetables and making green gifts. • STEAM jobs are expected to rise by thirteen percent in the next decade. Having a firm foundation in these areas is key for students to ensure potential for success. • When STEAM is applied to fun activities, learning takes on a whole new meaning.

Based on field trials with over 2,000 students and 215 educators, this one-of-a-kind resource presents all the background knowledge and skills needed to effectively use service learning in preK and primary classrooms. Rich in both theory and practice, the book combines community service with differentiated curriculum-based learning to meet the academic and social needs of the young children in meaningful ways. Sample lesson plans are based on tested classroom projects and correlated to national service learning, Head Start, and Common Core State standards. It includes dozens of ready-to-use templates for lesson planning, surveying, assessment, evaluation, permissions, and documentation. Aligns with K–12 Service Learning Standards for Quality Practice. Digital content offers customizable forms and a PowerPoint presentation for preservice and inservice.

Ignite creativity by weaving Web 2.0 tools into the classroom. In this expanded and fully updated edition, the authors of the best-selling Web 2.0: New Tools, New Schools introduce you to more collaborative tools and expertly lead you through classroom and professional applications that help expand student and teacher learning.

STRATEGY? TACTICS? CONFUSED? How many times have you sat in a meeting and heard someone use the word "strategic?" As in: "We're not being very strategic about X." or "We need a strategic plan for project Y." And, if your organization is like most, everyone in the meeting nods wisely, the meeting drones on, people endlessly debate how to approach the situation at hand, with – generally – no one the wiser as to what "strategic" really means. Next time, respond: "Being strategic means consistently making those core directional choices that will best move us toward our hoped-for future. Is this what we're doing?" Everybody talks about strategy, but there is a big gap between discussing strategy, defining strategy and actually being strategic -- so you can accomplish something. This book helps you approach business—and life—strategically, explaining what strategy is, why it's important, and how to do it. Being Strategic offers you a step-by-step model and skills for strategic thought and action that are broadly applicable and thoroughly practical: • First, get clear about the problem you're trying to solve • Then, figure out where you're starting from • Now, imagine your "castle on the hill," the future you want to create. • Identify the "trolls under the bridge"; the obstacles in your path • Next, outline the path to the castle: your core strategies and the tactics for implementing them. • Re-evaluate your strategy and your tactics as conditions change Framed around the story of 13th-century Welsh nobles building an actual castle, and weaving in dozens of real-life examples from her practice, which has helped restaurateur Danny Meyer and many others, noted consultant Erika Andersen offers a complete course in turning around a business, or a life.

Read Along or Enhanced eBook: Caring for Earth is everyone’s job! Readers will discover some of the different ways they can have a positive impact on the environment. From planting trees and eating locally grown foods, to “pre-cycling” and protecting animal habitats, children will learn to take personal responsibility for environmental stewardship. Readers will discover how they can be effective problem-solvers when it comes to protecting the planet.

Nearly all living things depend on Earth’s land and its resources to survive. But did you know that people do many things that hurt the land? The damage sometimes destroys forests, which are home to diverse ecosystems and are important in producing oxygen and water. And in many parts of the world, damaged land produces less food, less wood, and less of many things that people need. We must join together in the quest to find better ways to use and take care of Earth’s land. With engaging text and eye-catching images—plus a special Going Green section—this book tells you all about Earth’s land and what you can do to protect it.