The Tree Explorer’s Handbook, a free downloadable activity book from Peninsula Open Space Trust, offers young readers a chance to explore the natural world around them.
Peninsula Open Space Trust Publishes The Tree Explorer’s Handbook, a Free, Downloadable Activity Book for Families
Young readers are invited to nurture their sense of wonder at the natural world with The Tree Explorer’s Handbook, for kids ages 7-12
PALO ALTO, Calif.—June 30, 2025—Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) invites all young (and young-at-heart) nature lovers to explore the great outdoors with The Tree Explorer’s Handbook, a free, downloadable, tree-themed activity book for kids ages 7-12.
Inspired by the National Park Service’s Junior Ranger booklets, The Tree Explorer’s Handbook offers children an opportunity to explore the natural world through pictures and storytelling, while learning about the incredible biodiversity in our backyards and how we can all care for it.
“Forests and forest management are complicated topics that are top-of-mind these days,” said Ben Huang, POST’s chief marketing officer. “We wanted to create an accessible, fun way for the youngest in our communities to understand and experience the joy of the outdoors and learn about forests. The more children connect with nature in their neighborhoods, the more empowered they are to care for the places where they live.”
The Tree Explorer’s Handbook is available for download here, or pick up a printed copy at a summer POST event near you! A Spanish-language version of the handbook will be available later this summer.
The handbook was conceived, written and illustrated by recent POST intern Anubha Gupta. “I wanted to create something fun and hands-on that would help local kids connect with the nature around them — especially the trees we see every day but may not think too much about,” said Gupta. “I was inspired by the NPS Junior Ranger booklets, which I loved growing up. I hope that this guide can introduce children to the basics of tree life as well as some bigger ideas, like stewardship and beneficial fire.”
About Peninsula Open Space Trust
POST protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. As a private nonprofit land trust, POST has been responsible for saving nearly 93,000 acres since its founding in 1977. POST works with private landowners and public agencies to create a network of protected lands so that present and future generations may benefit from the careful balance of rural and urban landscapes that makes our region extraordinary. Visit openspacetrust.org