Why do we need the Sun?

Think of a sunny morning. You step outside, and sunshine lands on your cheeks. Close your eyes and feel that soft, golden warmth.

Every day the Sun rises over the rooftops and trees. It shines on parks, on gardens and on your window too. So let's wonder together. Why do we need the Sun?

The Sun is a huge glowing ball, hotter than any fire. Its heat makes it shine so brightly. From our Earth, we see it as a bright round light in the sky.

The Sun sends out energy, which means the power that makes things warm up, move and grow. This energy travels across dark space to us. It reaches Earth as sunlight and warmth.

The Sun's energy warms the land, the seas and the air. That warmth keeps our whole Earth from freezing solid. So rivers can flow, and animals and people stay cozy.

A green leaf on a tree catches sunlight, like a little hand catching a ball. Leaves hold themselves up toward the light all day long. What do you think the plant does with that light?

The plant uses the Sun's energy to make its own food. It makes this food right inside its green leaves. With that food, it grows tall stems, new leaves and juicy fruit. Without sunlight, plants cannot grow.

Then animals and people eat the plants. A rabbit nibbles clover, and you crunch a carrot or an apple. That food carries the Sun's energy into your body, so you can run, jump and play.

The Sun sends us energy that keeps Earth warm and helps plants grow food. That same energy reaches you in every crunchy apple you eat.

High above the rooftops, the Sun keeps shining on rivers, fields and you. Out in the garden, a green leaf lifts up toward its golden light.