The wonderful world of trees

Trees are incredible! They are some of the oldest and most important living things on our planet, helping both people and wildlife in so many ways. We've been championing the importance of trees for our communities over the last 30 years, and during this year's Tree Week we are exploring why trees are so special and why we should work together to protect them and increase tree cover across our area.

Why are trees important?

1. They help us breathe
   Trees give us oxygen – the air we breathe. During the day, trees take in a gas called carbon dioxie (which we breathe out) and turn it into fresh, clean oxygen. Without trees, we wouldn't have enough air to live.
2. Homes for wildlife
   Trees are like hotels for animals. Birds build nests in their branches, squirrels hide acorns in their trunks, and insects live in their bark. Even after a tree falls, it becomes a home for creatures like hedgehogs and bugs.
3. Cool and comfortable
   Have you ever sat in the shade of a tree on a hot day? Trees help cool the air by giving shade and releasing water through their leaves, keeping our planet from getting too hot. This is one of the reasons it is important to plant plenty of trees in our towns and cities.
4. Healthy and happy
   Being around trees can make us feel calm and happy. Scientists have discovered that spending time near trees can reduce stress and make people healthier. That's why parks and woodlands are great places to visit or even the trees or forest school area in your school grounds.

What can you do to help trees?

• Plant a tree
  You don't need a forest to make a difference - planting even one tree in your garden or school can help. You can plant trees all year round, but it's beneficial to plant them in the winter while they are dormant.
• Care for trees
  Water young trees during dry weather, and be careful not to damage their bark. Now is a good time to put some well composted wood mulch around your trees, make sure not to bury the stem though.
• Be a tree champion
  Tell your friends and family how awesome trees are and why we need to look after them.

Resources for teachers

If you're a teacher, there are plenty of fun and educational materials to help your students learn about trees.

• Trees for Learning
  Explore the Trees for learning toolkit filled with activities, tips, and ideas for teaching children about trees.
• The Tree Council's Resources
  Visit the Tree Council website for games, challenges, and projects designed for schools.
• Download our quiz!
  Test your knowledge about trees with our downloadable quiz - perfect for classroom activities. Download it here.
  • Download the teacher's version with answers

Recommended books

Explore the magic of trees through these captivating books, tailored to inspire pupils of all ages.

Primary age recommended:

• The Lorax by Dr. Seuss – This classic tale highlights the importance of trees, showing the devastating effects of a world without them. It encourages us to care enough to make a positive change for the planet.
• The Oak Tree by Julia Donaldson – Follow the life of an oak tree, from a tiny seed to its final moments, as it witnesses the world change around it. A beautiful story about the importance of trees in our environment.
• The Promise by Nicola Davies – This powerful story of a young girl and a bag of stolen acorns shows how even small actions, like planting a tree, can bring hope and transform communities for generations to come.

Secondary school in-depth reading:

• The Man Who Planted Trees by Jean Giono – This short story illustrates how one person's daily dedication to planting trees can transform both their life and the world around them.
• The Wild Trees by Richard Preston – Discover the true story of a man who climbed one of the world's tallest trees and became captivated by trees, dedicating his life to their study.
• Wildwood: A Journey Through Trees by Roger Deakin – A global journey to understand humanity's deep connection with trees, exploring the natural and spiritual significance they hold.

Prompting thought:

• Belonging by Jeannie Baker – Through stunning illustrations, this wordless picture book shows how trees can transform a neighbourhood and brighten our world with the changing seasons.

Encourage your students to delve into these stories and discover the vital role trees play in our lives, sparking curiosity, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for nature!
Further reading incorporating trees:

• Tree by Britta Teckentrup
• The Magic and Mystery of Trees – RHS
• Meetings with Remarkable Trees
• The Night Life of Trees - Tara Books
• The Hidden Life of Trees – Peter Wohlleben
• The Tree: meaning and myth – Frances Carey
• Magic Faraway Tree collection - Enid Blyton
• 13 Storey Treehouse books
• How to be more Tree - Annie Davidson
• Leaf by Niggle – Prof JRR Tolkien

Trees are amazing, and we can all play a part in protecting them. Whether you're planting a sapling or learning about the trees in your school grounds, every small action helps. Let's create greener and vibrant communities across Cheshire and Merseyside, one tree at a time.