A natural resource is something useful that comes from nature, not from a factory. People did not make these things; the Earth gives them to us. Water, trees, soil, and minerals are gifts from nature that people use for food, homes, and energy.

Water is one of the most important natural resources of all. We drink it to stay alive, use it to grow our food, and wash with it every day. Almost every living thing on Earth needs water.

Trees are a natural resource we use in many ways. Their wood builds houses and makes paper, and while they grow they give us clean air to breathe. Forests are also a cozy home for many kinds of animals.

Soil is the dark, rich dirt that covers much of the ground. It may not look exciting, but plants need soil to grow, and we need plants for almost all our food. Good soil is like a farmer's best friend.

Minerals are hard materials that come from rocks deep in the ground. We dig up minerals to make metal for cars and cans, and to get fuels like coal that give us energy. Even the salt on your food is a kind of mineral.

We should use natural resources with care because they are so precious. Turning off the water, recycling paper, and not wasting things all help make sure there is enough of nature's gifts for everyone, now and in the future.