“Your Big Backyard” is a children’s magazine produced by the National Wildlife Federation. Geared toward readers ages 3-7, it’s a companion magazine to “Ranger Rick,” which is written for ages 7+. You can subscribe to “Your Big Backyard” for a year, at $17.95 for twelve issues. This is a savings of $2.00.
And what do you get for your money?
Each issue has a theme which is carried through from page to page. For instance, the June 2005 issue revolved around “Piggyback Riders.” Using this issue as a model, I’ll now show you what you can expect from future volumes of this magazine.
The most compelling thing is the fabulous wildlife photography. Right inside the front cover, we see a close-up of a gorgeous Siberian tiger, standing in a river and lapping up water. Our first feature is a story about manatees, told in simple yet informative language, with more incredible pictures, these taken underwater.
Then there is an easy maze to help the manatee get to a patch of crunchy sea grasses for lunch, and a story told in rebus form, called “The Adventures of Bonnie and Chester,” a regular feature.
Next comes a simple “Hidden Picture,” and then a cute poem about ants.
Crafts are also included in this magazine. There is a great pull-out book called “Staying Cool,” which shows how many different animals, humans included, beat the heat. Simply cut along the lines and attach where shown, and you have your own little book.
You’ve heard of centerfolds, I’m sure – you’ve never seen one like this. In the middle of the magazine is a poster of Kingbirds you can remove and hang on your child’s wall.
There’s even a page that suggests science experiments for you and your child to do together. Honestly, this magazine really has it all for learning about nature and the world around you. You can learn more about it at The National Wildlife Federation website.