Backbones and all that stuff

To start the week, we talked about the importance of knowing the “backbone of your community.” Which got me thinking about the physical in-the-body backbone.

You Can’t See Your Bones With Binoculars by Harriet Ziefert, illustrated by Amanda Haley

Here’s a book that gives your kids a picture of that amazing collection of bones that make it possible for us to sit, stand, do somersaults, and all sorts of other things we take for granted. The illustrations combine bone x-rays with a fun look at what’s happening on the outside of your body. Each page heading is a portion of the old folk song “Dry Bones”. Sing along as your read! Below the banner, the author explains exactly what those bones help you do. And invites your child to feel each set of bones in their own body, from head to toe. A really fun way to learn! Pegged for K-3rd grade.

What about all that other stuff going on in our bodies? This question is front and center for adolescents who are wondering exactly what’s going on in that changing body of theirs.

It’s Perfectly Normal by Robie H. Harris, illustrated by Michael Emberly

This highly-praised oldie-but-goodie has been educating middle-schoolers about puberty for decades. The explanations are very frank, which can make some parents uncomfortable. But for those who want help answering your children’s questions, this should do it. I used this book with my own kids when they were at the adolescent stage and they were very absorbed, wanting to understand exactly what was causing their changing feelings – physical and emotional. Pegged for ages 10 and up.

Share your favorite books about the body!