WHAT IS LITTLE BLUESTEMS?
Little Bluestems is a quarterly children's publication that invites young children and their caregivers to discover the beauty of our local natural world. Rooted in Bloomington, Indiana, each issue blends imaginative storytelling, original art, and creative activities to spark curiosity and wonder in the forests, rivers, wetlands, and prairies of our region. Little Bluestems helps families explore the magic of nature close to home and grow a lifelong love for the outdoors.
Unlike most children's nature magazines with a global focus, Little Bluestems celebrates the beauty of our local ecosystems. We help children discover the magic of the natural world right outside their doors.
Our Purpose
Time in nature is essential for children's growth, imagination, and well-being. Outdoor play and creative, nature-based activities nurture curiosity, support mental health, and build lifelong connections to the land. Yet while many children's publications focus on the wider world, few focus on the beauty and wonder of the natural places right outside their doors.
Little Bluestems is rooted in the forests, rivers, prairies, and wetlands in and around southern Indiana, helping children recognize the plants and animals they will encounter in daily life. By focusing on local habitats, we foster a sense of belonging and stewardship. We believe that children who grow up knowing their own landscapes carry a deeper bond with the land and a lifelong responsibility to care for it.
WHAT'S INSIDE EACH ISSUE?
EXPLORE
Discover the unique plants, animals and habitats of our local natural areas
ENGAGE
Try hands-on activities that invite you into your outdoor world
CREATE
Spark your creativity by making art with natural materials
PLAY
Enjoy games that teach about the wonders of local natural habitats
Little Bluestems is geared toward children ages 3-7 and their caregivers.
Each full color issue is a child-friendly six inches by six inches printed on sturdy cardstock paper.
Subscribe
Choose your subscription option below
What families say
“Every issue gets my kids off the couch and into the backyard—it's our favorite mail day!”
“Beautifully designed and so calming. The activities are simple, thoughtful, and fun.”
“I love the little field guides. My son brings them on every hike now.”