The Importance of Hands-On Learning for Kids

Children are naturally curious. They don’t just want to hear about the world — they want to touch it, explore it, and make sense of it with their own hands. This is why hands-on learning is one of the most powerful tools in education.

Learning by Doing

Research has shown that kids retain far more knowledge when they are actively involved in the process. Coloring an insect, planting a seed, or building something with their own hands creates a direct...

The newest book in my children’s series is almost here!

Now I Know What a Praying Mantis Is! introduces kids to one of nature’s most fascinating hunters.

Inside you’ll find:

• A ...

When I started the series “Now I Know What a ___ Is!”, a lot of people asked me: “Why bugs?”

The answer is simple: bugs are everywhere kids explore — backyards, parks, sidewalks, even windowsills. They’re the first wild creatures children meet. And most of the time, kids are more curious than cautious.

That’s why my books do three things at once:

• Make insects fun with bold illustrations and coloring pages.
• Teach kids the role each insect plays in nature.
• Show clearly which bugs are safe to...

I’m Donald V. Dunham, though many know me as “the Hermit Author.” My life is simple, grounded, and dedicated to two things: writing books and building gardens. Every book I create doesn’t just put stories or activities in your hands—it directly helps fund real-world projects like community gardens and a future Mushroom House.

My latest project is a children’s book series called “Now I Know What a ___ Is!”. These are not just coloring books. Each one teaches kids about a real insect—what it...