Touch a butterfly Wildlife gardening with kids

Robins and raccoons, chipmunks and caterpillars, dragonflies and deer: a wildlife habitat that attracts all forms of insects, reptiles, rodents, amphibians, birds, and mammals is made up of more than just milkweed and morning glories. Water and wind, and shelter from them, too, are important components in what prolific children's author Sayre terms wildlife gardening ; that is, creating a safe haven for everything from the smallest snail to the largest hawk. The joys of observing and tracking the critters who cross our paths in backyard lawns or on city streets are especially suited to children, whose powers of awareness and concentration can be honed through their innate curiosity about the world around them. Sayre instructs readers on how to attract all forms of wildlife to one's backyard, from suburban lots to country acreage. Along with specific recommendations for plants that will entice bees and butterflies, and practical tips on preparation and maintenance of theme gardens that provide water and shelter, Sayre offers creative activities to help children enjoy and appreciate the bounty that awaits them in the natural world.--Haggas, Carol Copyright 2010 Booklist

Sayre (Rah, Rah, Radishes!) has written a guide to how families can build fertile habitats in their own backyards by providing the food, water, and shelter on which wildlife depends. For those who think this consists of filling a few bird feeders and buying a butterfly bush, the author has a bigger vision in mind. She encourages readers to get outside and closely observe the wildlife and ecology in their own yards. Then she provides guidance on how to provide hospitable environments for native flora and fauna. There is enough basic horticultural advice on soil testing, planting, and composting to get the youngest gardeners going. As would be expected, she also provides much information on the importance of conservation and native species. Most helpful are the suggestions for getting the younger members of the family outside and awakening their interest. Although she does not provide much specific advice on plants, she has ultimately created a field guide of field guides that points readers to online resources, books, organizations, and tools that will deepen their appreciation of the world outside their back doors. Color photographs throughout. (Apr. 23) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.