Usborne Children's Encyclopedia
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What’s inside...
The Usborne Children's Encyclopedia is a richly illustrated, 320-page reference filled with concise, engaging explanations of science, technology, history, geography, the environment, art, and more. Written by Felicity Brooks in collaboration with subject specialists, the encyclopedia is designed for curious readers aged 7-12, presenting big ideas through short articles, stunning infographics, photographs, and diagrams. Hyper-linked page references, a detailed index, and QR-codes that link to carefully curated websites invite children to explore topics further, making this an ideal springboard for independent research projects and family discussions.
Age
6-9
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which topic surprised you the most and why?
How might climate change affect an ecosystem you care about?
Which invention do you think changed the world the most?
Tip: Role play these questions
Link encyclopedia facts to real-life outings, such as museum visits.
Encourage your child to teach you a new fact each day.
Create a trivia game using page references.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity drives learning
Explanation: Open questions, cross-references, and QR-links model inquiry-based research.
Real-World Application: Kids feel confident exploring library resources and reliable websites.
Example Lesson: All knowledge is interconnected
Explanation: Diagrams show links between ecosystems, technology, and history.
Real-World Application: Children make connections between school subjects and everyday life.
Example Lesson: We share responsibility for the planet
Explanation: Environment section highlights conservation successes and challenges.
Real-World Application: Family recycling or energy-saving initiatives become meaningful.
Example Lesson: Innovation shapes society
Explanation: Invention timelines reveal how new ideas transform daily life.
Real-World Application: Kids experiment with simple engineering projects.