When Serea and Kai spend a weekend at their Grammy and Papa’s home, it’s always a time of discovery and fun!  Join them as they encounter the wonders of backyard nature, from the microcosm of life under rocks and compost piles, to the joy of learning why thunder sounds scary and rain clouds are black. With Serea and Kai as their guides, children and adults will be encouraged to join in exploring their own backyards in search of those fascinating moments of discovery fostering inquiry learning and the riches of playing in nature.

What others are saying

• “Sometimes the best thing for young children to do is slow down and take the time to go out in their backyard or local park and start turning over rocks to see what they can find.  This book encourages this behavior, and also highlights the importance of having an adult to share in these experiences.”

• “Dave Bauer reminds us that children are hungry for nature and relationship, and in this beautiful book he gives us both.”

• “Dave Bauer brings a close relationship with his grandchildren as well as nature exploration to this fun book that any child will relate to, especially those who have turned over a rock to examine the bugs underneath.”

• “What’s Under That Rock Papa? by Dave Bauer is ALL a children’s storybook should be! It is entertaining as well as educational, providing young children with a great story as well as important information about the world in which they live. The most compelling reason I would read this book to children is that it exudes a passion for learning! As an educator in a teacher preparation program, I will use this book in my college classroom to model the importance of student-centered inquiry learning. I hope this is only the first of ‘The Bauer Family’ children’s books!”

Dave Bauer’s first book, What’s Under That Rock, Papa?, is a wonderfully illustrated, interactive story for children to experience with an adult.  Dave’s understanding of backyard nature leads children and adults on a journey of discovery and insight. Dave has a unique perspective into the wonder of how children learn.   His grandchildren, Serea and Kai, share their spontaneous curiosity on each page of the story.  His storytelling and book readings energize children and adults to seek the joy and wonder to be found in natural play.

Dave loves the outdoors, hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. Several areas that Dave has dedicated his professional work include teaching environmental science, training others in creative thinking, change leadership and living sustainability. Here’s a peek into Dave’s work – Sustainable Earth Solutions