Go outside! Over 130 activities for outdoor adventures

Gr. 3-7. Few activity books for children present ideas that look and sound as appealing as the ones described in these pages. Each of the four seasonal chapters explains more than a dozen suggested activities for fun outside, most requiring little in the way of materials or preparation. Some of the projects explore science, others bring in nature lore or outdoor cooking skills, while many more are simply fun. Among the latter are such promising ideas as playing sponge tag, extinguishing candle flames with squirt guns, and painting on snow with Kool-Aid-filled spray bottles. A typical double-page spread presents one or two activities, including supplies, clear directions, and perhaps some related ideas. Throughout this treasure trove black-and-white photos focus on procedures indicated in the directions and, more notably, on children happily engaged in the activities discussed. Some activities--for example, making a portable tin can stove--may require adult oversight. Carolyn Phelan.

Gr 4-6-Creative outdoor activities for urban and country dwellers are grouped by season. Each spread describes one project, listing all of the supplies and/or equipment needed and offering safety considerations and step-by-step instructions. Some spreads include "Explore More!" sections with additional ideas. Activities range from cooking to games to crafts and sports; adult assistance is recommended for a few of them. Numerous, large black-and-white photographs show youngsters participating in the fun and visuals of the projects. Adults and children looking for some different outdoor activities will find this book helpful.-Janice C. Hayes, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.