By Christa Protano
In June, we are spotlighting the world’s great oceans all monthlong. That’s because this 30-day period is officially National Oceans Month. First proclaimed by President Barack Obama in 2009, the goal is to raise awareness of our planet’s four oceans, along with preservation efforts, marine life, their impact on climate change, and more. So in addition to visiting the beach this summer—or even an aquarium—we recommend adding some ocean books to your child’s seasonal book stack. From sticker and pop-up books to STEM kits and entertaining encyclopedias, these six titles are designed for young readers and aspiring oceanographers alike.
The Magnificent Book of Ocean Creatures
When the ocean is calling, lean into your child’s interest with this gigantic book about sea life. The Magnificent Book of Ocean Creatures features stunning, oversized illustrations and captivating facts for 36 ocean animals and their natural habitat. Key characteristics of each creature are presented in fact boxes for easy reference. From the reclusive giant squid and the awe-inspiring blue whale to the colorful insulamon freshwater crab and the mysterious oarfish, your child’s new favorite ocean creature awaits.
In this fantastic STEM resource, readers will discover how oceans were formed and learn about fierce ocean predators, colorful coral reefs, and more. After reading the 64-page book, kids can use the included 11 sturdy press-out pieces to build their own science fair-ready 3-D model of the different levels of the ocean—no glue or scissors needed. Simply follow the easy steps to slot together the sturdy cardstock pieces.
Kids can discover even more intriguing ocean facts alongside engaging photos in this encyclopedia perfect for marine biologists in training. From the albatross to zooxanthellae, explore amazing ocean creatures in this A to Z guide that also comes with a poster to hang in your child’s room.
Younger readers will love this interactive book, perfect for ages four to eight. From schools of tropical fish to large blue whales, Panoramic Pop-Ups: Ocean is an aquatic adventure featuring 10 dynamic pop-ups and lots of bite-sized facts about the diverse world under the sea.
Discovery Real Life Sticker Book: Ocean
Did you know that there are a multitude of benefits that a child experiences just by playing with stickers? From perfecting the pincer grasp to building a vocabulary and literacy skills, sticker books are a wonderful option to add to storytime. And in keeping with this month’s theme, Discovery Real Life Sticker Book: Ocean is chock-full of more than 400 reusable stickers featuring a variety of ocean creatures. The glossy, photographic scenes include ocean habitats such as the open ocean, rocky shore, icy waters, and much more.
Discovery Learning Adventures: Ocean
We love this kit that comes complete with 3-D models, a DIY diorama and two colorful booklets teeming with ocean facts. First through third graders will enjoy building their own ocean creatures, decorating with stickers, and playing with the five sea creature toys. Parents will appreciate that everything can be packed up into a sturdy whale-shaped boxed once playtime is over. There’s also a poster included to test their knowledge with 20 oversized fact cards.