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Mangroves, reefs, the Everglades
You’re in the sub-tropics! No woodland creatures, fall apple-picking or cozy snow days here. And yes, there are alligators and crocodiles, but so much more too: sea turtles, manatees and so many birds (the roseate spoonbill is a particularly fun one). Your little one can become an expert on migration, plants in bloom and the subtle signs that our seasons are changing.
15 picks · ages 0–5
On the shelf
I really was moved by this book! A Voice for the Everglades tells the story of Marjory Stoneman Douglas, the woman behind the creation of Everglades National Park, in such an accessible way. The gorgeous illustrations introduce the quiet beauty of the Everglades and should honestly be read by all adults living around South Florida! My 4 year old was also a fan ;).
This is from a cute series called Baby Rangers, and offers a solid introduction to the birds you might see in the Everglades. We appreciate that you learn a few facts about the animals, in addition to the nice illustrations. Good for 1+.
Adorn your little one's nursery with this mobile featuring scallops, sea turtles, sea horses, whales, dolphins, and stingrays, all crafted by hand with felt wool by Nepali artists. Based in Jupiter, Florida.
We thought this was very fun, a Playmobil "Boat Trip to the Manatees" set. Great for playtime or bathtime (the manatees float!). Not for the very littles though, as there are small pieces. Ages 4+.
Cougar figurine from schleich. Incredibly detailed fur pattern. Did you know cougars, panthers, mountain lions, and pumas all refer to the same species? We call them different names depending on where they are location. In the Pacific Northwest, they're usually called cougars or mountain lions. Often found in the forests and mountains, occasionally along the urban edge - eek!
Adorable - and quite large at 12" tall - Florida panther plush made of recycled materials. Florida panthers are some of the most endangered animals in North America, and there are only an estimated ~200 in the state. If you're curious about where these have been spotted, the FL Fish and Wildlife Commission has a map of sightings with verified photos - pretty cool to explore.
This picture book, Hurricane, is set on a North Carolina barrier island, but should be required reading for all families that live in hurricane-prone areas! Jason Chin tells the story, beautifully illustrated of course, of how a small community prepares for a hurricane, including how the hurricane begins and grows, where forecasts come from and how they are reached, and how communities can respond if impacted. Informative and surprisingly hopeful. Best for 5+.
We appreciate children's books that teach us something about a local species, but that are still primarily stories, not just factbooks! Jenny's First Catch fits this category well, following a young and eager roseate spoonbill who is learning to fish on her own. You'll learn quite a bit about different wading birds and how and how they catch their food. Also, a bonus list of where you can go in South & Southwest Florida to see roseate spoonbills. Good for ages 4+.
We love Sarah's Silks' wonderful open-ended silks. This ocean earth playsilk can be anything, but we love it especially as a setting for your little one's beachwalk finds, figurines, and stuffies.
No, this isn't a duplicate! It's a saltwater crocodile figurine (also with a movable jaw). Can you tell the difference? Crocodiles have V-shaped snouths, while gators have more rounded snouts. American Crocodiles are also federally protected as an endangered species, while alligators are more abundant throughout the southeast and out west to Texas.
Sweet story of a manatee named Sam. "Sam the Sea Cow" introduces many aspects of the life of a manatee - environment, diet, threats, childhood - but maintains a nice narrative, and definitely does not talk down to its young readers. Based on the story of a real South Florida manatee. Good for 4+.
Our Toddler Treks Place Kit! We're so happy to share this with you and your toddlers (1.5-3 years). Explore the plants and animals living in the sub-tropical habitats, like corals, manatees, parrotfish, turtles, and so many more! Plus, a Species Guide for parents that introduce the creatures within the kit, and where you can drive around the major cities in South Florida to go see them IRL!
While some birds featured in this extensive guide may not live in the sub-tropics, we still love this travel-sized field guide for budding birders in south Florida. The Kids' Guide to Birds of Florida features beautiful photos and lots of useful information and identifiers. Recommended for ages 5+.
We were introduced to Uncle Goose blocks through their language blocks, and love that they also have these swamp blocks. The 6 block-scene introduces an alligator, frogs, dragonflies, measurements, and counting. Made in the US from sustainable wood. Recommended for ages 2+.
We are big fans of Wild Miami, a guide to the flora and fauna around Miami. We are truly in the sub-tropics down here, and this guide oriented and educated us about the creatures that live here (including a guide to differentiate the natives from the invasives) and how to access all of this wildlife through the many parks across the metro area.
Nothing for that age on this shelf yet.
