With the increased emphasis on incorporating STEM activities in children’s curriculum at ever earlier ages, often neglected are opportunities to explore subjects outside the sciences, or simply to give children the time and space to use their imagination.25 Projects for Global Explorerswill spark their interest in history, geography, events, and landmarks around the world, and nourish their creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. Designed for kids aged 5-10, and flexible enough to use in either storytimes or classroom settings, the projects here

• use representative picture books as tools for learning about different places and people;
• take kids’ imaginations on journeys to a variety of U.S. landmarks, such as Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska, Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and Lei Day Festival in Hawaii;
• introduce more than a dozen fascinating places, traditions, and cultures from across the world, including the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, the Day of the Dead in Mexico, the Ziggurat of Ancient Mesopotamia in Iraq, and the San People, formerly known as the Bushmen of South Africa; and
• include hands-on activities for teaching children what makes each topic special, materials lists, programming tips, and additional resources.

The projects inside this book will reinforce learning, encourage experimentation, and bolster children’s appreciation for the world.