Jacob has taught in the field of Outdoor Education for almost 30 years. He is currently the Executive Director of Camp Kawartha, a summer camp and outdoor education centre. He recently received recognition from the Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication as an Outstanding Educator and the Stony Lake Environmental Award for his work in promoting environmental education in the region. In 2010, Jacob received the Award for Leadership in Environmental Education by the Ontario Society of Environmental Educators, offered annually to one or more persons who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in Environmental Education for at least 5 years. In 2007, he was awarded the Richards Education Award for excellence in Natural History Education from Ontario Nature.

He teaches at Trent University in environmental education. He holds a teacher's certificate and a Master's in Education. He has published a number of articles on children, nature and the environment. Recently, Jacob co-authored the "Big Book of Nature Activities" which won a gold medal from the Green Book Festival, a double gold from Nautilus Book Awards, a silver medal from Moonbeam Children's Award and was a finalist for the Indie (Independent) Book Awards.

Jacob spearheaded the construction of one of Canada's Most Sustainable Buildings at Trent University called the "Camp Kawartha Environment Centre". This unique facility teaches children and future teachers about sustainable living practices, alternative energy and conservation. Jacob is also working with stakeholders throughout the region to create an environmental framework for children of all ages. Called the "Pathways to Stewardship", this approach to environmental education helps provide children with the experiences they need in order to become future stewards. Jacob also helped to establish the Peterborough/Kawartha area as a designated UNESCO Regional Centre of Expertise in environment and sustainability education.

The average child can identify over one thousand corporate logos, but only ten native plants or animals—a telling indictment of our modern disconnection from nature. Soaring levels of obesity, high rates of ADHD, feelings of stress and social awkwardness, and "Nature Deficit Disorder" are further unintended consequences of a childhood spent primarily indoors.

The Big Book of Nature Activities is a comprehensive guide for parents and educators to help youth of all ages explore, appreciate and connect with the natural world. This rich, fully illustrated compendium features:

Nature-based skills and activities such as species identification, photography, journaling, and the judicious use of digital technology Ideas, games, and activities grounded in what's happening in nature each season Core concepts that promote environmental literacy, such as climate change and the mechanisms and wonder of evolution, explained using a child-friendly, engaging approach Lists of key species and happenings to observe throughout the year across most of North America

Perfect for families, educators, and youth leaders , The Big Book of Nature Activities is packed with crafts, stories, information and inspiration to make outdoor learning fun.

Jacob Rodenburg is the Executive Director of the Camp Kawartha summer camp and outdoor education centre. As well as publishing numerous articles on children, nature and the environment, he has worked in the field of outdoor education for twenty-five years.

Drew Monkman is an award-winning environmental advocate, naturalist, and retired teacher. In addition to his weekly nature column, Drew is the author of two season-based nature guides, including Nature's Year.