Blog Archives
Nurse Florence®, What are Emotions?
The concept of emotions can be difficult for young children to understand. Sometimes emotions can be really big for children to grapple and there are also times when they may not understand what is even happening to them. This can include positive emotions as well as negative emotions. In Nurse Florence, What Are Emotions? Written by Michael Dow and illustrated by Anastasia Bradley, we follow along with Jean, Condi, and Sonia as they discuss emotions with Nurse Florence. The children have had a positive experience with their teacher and are keen to learn more.
While it might seem as though the language is too advanced for some children, it is actually very important for them to fully understand what is happening to them on a logical level. Dow is a trained nurse and has worked in health care so the wording he uses, while it may seem advanced, is actually rooted in science and fact.
Dow begins the book with some common terms and lists out how to pronounce them. This is useful for children learning to read, especially because some of the terminology may not be familiar to them. Using the kind character of Nurse Florence, young readers will gain a better understanding of how the brain works and how we experience emotions.
Nurse Florence, What are Emotions? By Michael Dow and illustrated by Anastasia Bradley, it is a valuable book that can help young readers better understand their own emotions and why things affect them in the way they do.
Pages: 86 | ISBN : 9781312174962
Nurse Florence®, Why Should We Avoid Illegal Drugs?
Step into the classroom of Nurse Florence, where she fearlessly tackles the daunting topic of illegal drug use in Michael Dow’s riveting book, Nurse Florence: Why Should We Avoid Illegal Drugs? Addressing this weighty issue with young students can be a formidable task, but Nurse Florence is the beacon of guidance that makes it all possible. With an unwavering hand, she leads her class through an enlightening journey, explaining the dire consequences of these harmful substances.
In a world filled with vivid, informative slides and a treasure trove of knowledge, Nurse Florence transforms a potentially unsettling subject into an empowering life lesson. She encourages her students to seek out safe, healthy alternatives for dealing with anxiety and life’s challenges, rather than resorting to the dark path of illegal drugs. Lindsay Roberts’ breathtaking artwork comes to life, offering a striking visual representation of these substances to be avoided at all costs. The book’s illustrations guide students through recognizing and identifying drugs, further safeguarding them from the long-term devastation they can bring.
While approaching the topic of drugs is never a simple endeavor, the author deserves commendation for daring to educate young minds about the perils of illegal drugs. It’s essential for parents and teachers to gauge their readiness for this information, but with Nurse Florence as their compassionate guide, classrooms and families can embark on a safe journey of enlightenment. The author touches upon safe alternative coping methods like hiking and coloring to help young readers navigate life’s challenges.
Nurse Florence emerges as the hero of the day, armed with informative illustrations, an engaging narrative, and an unwavering commitment to educational storytelling excellence. Nurse Florence: Why Should We Avoid Illegal Drugs? serves as an invaluable resource, ensuring that children and their families are well-informed about the dangers lurking behind illegal substances. Dive into this educational adventure, and let Nurse Florence illuminate the path toward a safer, drug-free future!
Pages: 85 | ISBN : 9781312175068
Nurse Florence®, Why and How Do We Breathe?
As children learn about breathing, they can better understand health concepts and the importance of taking care of their bodies. This, in turn, helps create a healthy environment where the need for physical activity is understood. Michael Dow provides an engaging approach to this information in Nurse Florence®, Why and How Do We Breathe? In the story, three girls, Jean, Condi, and Sonia, head to the cafeteria for lunch after their physical exercise class and final stretches. There, they meet Nurse Florence, greet her, and inquire about how breathing works. She explains concepts like the significance of oxygen for cell energy production and provides insights about the respiratory system while displaying relevant images and diagrams.
I was impressed by the level of information presented. Michael Dow goes beyond superficial discussions of breathing and delves into processes, describing how different parts of the body function. For instance, he explains the role of red blood cells and lungs. He also considers other factors, such as illustrating the impact of atmospheric pressure and providing examples. The images are clear and realistic, and Nurse Florence uses them to show the girls how the system functions in reality while explaining the purpose of each part. The characters maintain a friendly and collaborative attitude throughout the story, creating an ideal learning environment and setting a positive example for children.
I think that some terms may appear advanced for children. However, teaching the correct terminology enhances their comprehension and communication skills. Therefore, using precise language is both valuable and necessary in this context. Nurse Florence®, Why and How Do We Breathe? is an excellent resource for children to begin learning about their bodies and functions, offering an engaging introduction to biology. The information is well-explained, easy to understand, and ensures young readers enjoy learning.
Pages: 46 | ISBN : 1458341542
Nurse Florence®, What is Heat Exhaustion?
In Nurse Florence®, What is Heat Exhaustion?, by Michael Dow, Nurse Florence finds herself in the company of three curious schoolgirls, Jean, Condi, and Sonia, who are eager to learn about heat exhaustion. The book provides an enlightening exploration of this condition, shedding light on how climate change contributes to its prevalence. Nurse Florence effectively conveys the signs, symptoms, and potential causes of heat exhaustion to her young audience, using images and clear instructions to illustrate her points. She also imparts valuable knowledge about which groups are most vulnerable to this condition.
One of the standout aspects of this book is how comprehensively the author addresses the topic. It not only educates children about the dangers of heat exhaustion but also raises awareness about the tragic incidents involving babies and young children left unattended in vehicles. This book instills in young readers a sense of responsibility, encouraging them to watch out for themselves and others. What makes this book truly remarkable is its overarching purpose—to educate and inspire young minds while kindling their interest in the medical profession. It is heartening to see a book with such a noble objective, equipping children with essential knowledge and nurturing their curiosity about the world of healthcare. I firmly believe that books like Nurse Florence®, What is Heat Exhaustion? can be highly beneficial for children. Developing an early interest in the human body not only lays the foundation for future advanced studies but also imparts valuable life skills, teaching youngsters how to take care of themselves and those around them. Moreover, it empowers them to address pressing health issues effectively.
Nurse Florence®, What is Heat Exhaustion is an informative and invaluable addition to children’s literature. It tackles an important subject with clarity and compassion, ensuring that children gain a basic, if not a robust, understanding of how to prevent health issues and respond when they arise. Every child should have access to such insightful and educational materials.
Pages: 108 | ISBN : 978-1387465422
I Want to Increase Health Literacy
Nurse Florence, What is Polymicrogyria? follows a middle-school girl who wants to learn about a condition her cousin has and asks the school nurse for help. What was the inspiration for this story?
I asked my illustrator if she had a family member with a rare disease, and she said yes, which was the topic of this book. Every third book that my illustrators do with the company is about a rare disease. We believe the company is providing a public service and needs to help all of the families with their medical education. Families with rare diseases need reliable information too, and we are providing that service.
One thing that Nurse Florence discusses with students in this book is how to find reputable medical information online. How did you approach integrating this important topic into your story?
This disease is very rare, and it was hard to find good information about it. I used my educational training from my degrees to guide my search and then put that process or steps into a book that was understandable. Our kids need to learn how to sort through a lot of information, and we made an attempt to give a disciplined approach to it.
In your mind, what’s the best part about being an author?
The best part about being an author is the creative process of writing. Sometimes it is exhilarating when the words just flow through your fingers to the keyboard. For me, it is also a peaceful adventure writing a new book. This may sound strange, but sometimes when I write, I teach myself as I synthesize information into a new insight. Writing is fun!
What would fans be most surprised to learn about you?
The thing that seems to surprise people the most is when they learn that I have 5 college degrees. I like to say that getting that many was the universe’s punishment for me stressing out my parents for dropping out of college (not once, but twice) during my first degree. I got laser-focused on education, learned how to study, found joy in self-study, and found the educational system fun and rewarding once I learned how to succeed within the system. I think I am finished getting advanced degrees. I love being a children’s book author and being in the niche of researching intellectually stimulating topics and writing at an elementary level while still maintaining scientific accuracy. I hope my love of learning is passed on to many kids through my books, but most importantly to my kids who are “required” to read all of the Nurse Florence books. They do enjoy them, and I created the series for them to help ensure that they have at least a good health literacy level as an adult. Too many adults in the country and the world have a low health literacy level. Dow Creative Enterprises aims to increase everyone’s health literacy since parents are reporting learning new things with each Nurse Florence book as they read them with their children. Let’s leave the world a better place than what we found it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Nurse Florence®, What is Polymicrogyria?
Middle-schooler Jean’s daily routine is split between enjoying the company of friends and embarking on a unique and heartfelt mission: unraveling the mystery of her cousin’s medical condition, Polymicrogyria, under the guidance of the wise and engaging Nurse Florence. Through their shared fact-finding journey, they explore the intricacies of Polymicrogyria, unearthing tips for self-care and well-being that can enrich the lives of Jean, her cousin, and readers alike.
Nurse Florence, What is Polymicrogyria? by Michael Dow emerges as a remarkable introduction to a lesser-known medical condition. Not only did it unveil a term previously unfamiliar to me, but Nurse Florence’s insightful approach to finding accurate medical information online is skillfully presented. Particularly admirable is the character’s encouragement to approach knowledge with an open mind and to never be deterred by what we don’t yet know. Nurse Florence’s ethos of seeking answers from credible sources with courage and curiosity resonates deeply.
As my second engagement with Nurse Florence’s adventures, I find the series’ extraordinary introduction to illnesses and ailments to be an invaluable resource for readers across all age groups. While the book may benefit from a slight editorial revision, it stands as an otherwise exemplary read. The series’ gentle yet comprehensive explanations, devoid of any condescension, make it a must-read for anyone interested in medical science or in need of insights into a specific health condition. Complementing the rich content is the lively, photorealistic artwork by Kelsey Tone, infused with just the right touch of whimsy, making the Nurse Florence adventures a compelling educational tool.
Nurse Florence, What is Polymicrogyria is not merely a book; it is an accessible and enjoyable learning experience suitable for readers of all ages. Whether utilized in classrooms, group reading sessions, or individual exploration, this latest installment in a truly outstanding series makes an invaluable addition to any health and wellness collection. It encapsulates a commitment to education, a respect for the reader’s intelligence, and a sincere dedication to enhancing the understanding of health and life in the contemporary world.
Pages: 58 | ISBN : 1387524755
Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea?
Jean, Condi, and Sonia embody the curiosity that characterizes eager learners. With an insatiable desire to grasp the world around them, these three students diligently listen, probe with questions, and strive to understand complex subjects. In Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea? they explore a topic of specific interest to them: health, and they turn to the knowledgeable Nurse Florence for guidance.
When a friend confides that her mother is distressed by her rosacea, a common skin condition, the girls’ inquisitiveness leads them to Nurse Florence for insight. Through their journey, they uncover that rosacea, though common, is often misunderstood, and they learn that those who suffer from it should not feel shame.
Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea? is a fantastic book by author Michael Dow and illustrator Erin Miller. Together, they craft an informative and engaging book designed for upper-elementary and middle-grade readers. Their collaboration sheds light on rosacea and other skin conditions, demystifying them in a manner that not only fosters understanding but also compassion.
Dow’s thorough research on rosacea is evident as he simplifies the subject without diminishing its complexity. By including a glossary for more intricate terms and cleverly weaving facts into the characters’ dialogue, he creates an accessible educational experience. The intentional repetition utilized by the characters—Jean, Condi, and Sonia—reinforces learning, a technique that resonates with young readers.
But this book is not merely a dry compendium of facts. It’s a heartfelt guide, offering readers an extensive collection of information about rosacea’s triggers and preventive measures. As a former sufferer of rosacea myself, I found Dow’s dedication to educating young readers both commendable and personally meaningful.
Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea? is meaningful, informative, and written with thoughtful care. Whether you’re a child curious about health or an adult seeking to understand a prevalent condition, this book delivers a rich and engaging exploration of rosacea, making it a must-read for various age groups.
Kids Ask Great Questions
“Nurse Florence, What Are Some Summer Safety Tips?” is an informative guidebook for children, preparing them for a safe and enjoyable summer through life-saving lessons. How did you decide which summer safety tips to include in the narrative, given the vast array of possible subjects?
I did some research on the topic and started first with a respected organization, the CDC. Then, I searched for other compiled lists on the topic and those that included things the others didn’t I used as a reference which are all listed in the back of the book for people to go to the source documents.
Can you discuss the collaboration process with illustrator JoAnn Smith and how you both ensured the images would support and enhance your safety messages?
With all my illustrators, I give minimal direction so the illustrator can use their artistic freedom to create whatever they would like. For example, one of the illustration requests stated: Image on screen of child putting sunscreen cream on skin in bathing suit (about SPF number and after water). Another request stated: Sonia with her hand raised (going to talk about called 911).
As the book seems particularly useful for educators, do you have any additional resources or lesson plan ideas for teachers who want to use this book in their classrooms?
Like is mentioned in the review, the kids ask great questions. I think if a class reads this book together, they could follow the lead of the kids in the book and ask the teacher other questions that may not be covered in the book to keep the conversation going. In the Nurse Florence series, we try very hard to show kids as thoughtful, asking insightful questions and making brilliant comments. We want kids to feel empowered that they can contribute to the learning process and that it doesn’t have to be a one way direction of information.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The next book to be published is Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Nose. With every book, we try to include material that may be new to adults as well as kids so that when parents read any book, they will also come away with the feeling that they learned something and have a greater understanding of how their body works.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
LITERARY TITAN 