Description
The Dawn Years by Frank Opie and Maureen Schuil is an environmental education resource for pre-primary and junior primary teachers, forming part of the Song of Earth series (Book 2). Aimed at children aged 4–9, the book presents a holistic approach to early learning, emphasising the importance of developing awareness, curiosity, and a connection to the natural world. It includes 47 graded activities that integrate sensory exploration, creative expression, and community-based learning, with exercises involving storytelling, movement, art, and environmental discovery in both natural and urban settings. The content encourages young learners to engage through seeing, touching, listening, and observing, laying a foundation for lifelong environmental awareness. Cross-referenced with Rousing the Sleeper, the book positions early childhood education as central to a balanced approach to environmental understanding. It is particularly suited to educators seeking structured, practical methods to introduce environmental themes in an engaging and age-appropriate way.
