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Featured Photo: Blue Ridge Community College education student Amber Miller works with children at Hendersonville’s five-star Little Red School. (Photo by: Rich Keen)
Guest Article By: Erin Rogers, Early Childhood Instructor
Blue Ridge Community College’s early childhood education instructor Erin Rogers is sharing her expertise beyond the classroom through features in the local GetSet Transylvania e-newsletter. Recently, she published an article exploring the “Benefits of Reading Books About Nature with Young Children.” In another recent piece, she highlighted the importance of consistent routines in helping children feel secure and supported. Rogers’ contributions to the newsletter reflect her passion for early childhood education and her work through Blue Ridge.
Reading books about nature helps young children connect the world around them to new ideas and learning. Nature-themed stories spark curiosity, encourage observation, and lay the foundation for scientific thinking. They also nurture a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment, while strengthening literacy skills through storytelling and conversation.
For example, sharing a story about apples in the fall allows children to notice the changing seasons, explore where food comes from, and build vocabulary related to colors, textures, and tastes. When books reflect everyday experiences—like apple picking or the transition from summer to fall—children make meaningful connections that support both learning and a lifelong love of reading.
Tips for Choosing Nature Books
Pick books with strong visuals. Bright photos or illustrations help children connect words to what they see outdoors.
Choose simple, engaging language. Look for stories that invite questions, spark conversation, and match your child’s developmental level.
Mix fact and fun. A blend of fiction and nonfiction keeps reading both informative and enjoyable.
Getting started: Books about apples
How Do Apples Grow by Jill McDonald
Hello! My Name is Apple
The Apple Pie Tree by Zoe Hall
Apples for Everyone by Jill Esbaum
Making Reading Exciting by Expanding Books into Fun Activities
- Read about apples, then take a trip to an apple orchard, make homemade apple sauce, or taste different kinds of apples.
- Be active as you learn about apples! Pretend to pick apples from a tree, set up a make-believe apple store, or go on an apple hunt game.
- Do songs and fingerplays together to enforce cognitive development and understanding of concepts such as colors and counting.
- Here are some great examples: 1) Way Up High in the Apple Tree, 2) Five Red Apples
By linking books to everyday experiences, children not only develop a love for reading but also a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them. Don’t forget—reading is one of the most valuable things you can do with your child. It helps strengthen attention span and focus, fosters creativity, and supports cognitive development. Reading also encourages children to think beyond their immediate world, opening their minds to new ideas and possibilities. Just as importantly, sharing books together builds strong bonds and nurtures social and emotional well-being, making storytime a meaningful experience for both you and your child.
Learn more about Blue Ridge’s education programs at www.blueridge.edu/education. GetSet Transylvania is a collaborative of local non-profits, government departments and offices, faith-based organizations, child care providers, concerned community members, and businesses. Their shared mission is to promote lifelong learning, health, and resilience in all young children in Transylvania County.