|
| |
Learning With Beatrix
Potter
|
|
Have fun with
the following activities inspired by the work of Beatrix Potter. |
Naturalist and children’s author and
illustrator Beatrix Potter was born in 1866 and lived in England all her
life. She had a very sheltered childhood and was raised mainly by her nurse
and several governesses who taught her to read, write, and draw. Although
her parents kept her and her brother Bertram apart from other children, she
had a large collection of pets that she enjoyed observing and sketching.
Some of these pets made later appearances in her children’s stories!
During summer vacations to the Lake District, she fell in love with
exploring and drawing the countryside and the animals and plants found
there. She also learned from the local vicar the value of protecting this
beautiful land. Conservationism would remain an important cause to her
throughout her life.
Beatrix tried without luck to convince several publishers to publish her
first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Finally, Frederick Warne published it
in 1902. An instant hit, it was followed by many more charming and popular
books.
Beatrix used the money from her success to buy herself a small farm in the
Lake District. Although she had to care for her ageing parents in London,
she stayed at her new farm whenever she could. When she got married at the
age of 47 to William Heelis, she moved to the Lake District for good. Until
her death in 1943, she devoted most of her attention to raising sheep,
farming, and buying land to conserve it.
|
Growing Mushrooms
Beatrix Potter studies mushrooms and your
child can too. By getting a basic mushroom growing kit you can learn a lot
about this wonderful fungus. |
Observing Ants
Ants are fascinating creatures. Encourage your child to take the time to sit
and observe these fabulous beings. |
Braided Rug
Try this activity with your children inspired by the book The Tailor
of Gloucester. Teach about conserving while having fun. |
Playing Store
Children can learn a lot by playing store. Read
The Tale of Ginger and Pickles and then set up your own store at
home. |
|
|
|
