The actions we take today will impact every generation that comes after us, which is why we need to create a more sustainable world now. Environmental awareness education is so important for children and will be part of their school curriculum at every stage.
At Little Zak’s Academy, we actively have an ongoing ‘whole of centre approach’ to celebrating environmental sustainability. Through a varied program of activities and environmentally centred experiences, we aim to ensure children become aware and responsible for the future of our world.
So how do parents help create earth-friendly children? As a leading childcare service provider in NSW, we have created a guide of home activities to get you started.
A key element in children being eco-conscious is teaching them to love the outdoors. Take your child to places like parks, take them out for bike rides and get them to play in the garden. Allowing them to experience the joys of the outdoors teaches them the benefits of these spaces and creates positive associations with their environment.
Creating a garden with your child is another great way to experience what the outdoors can give to us. Teach them to grow their own trees or food to help them associate the importance of looking after our environment.
Make reusing and recycling habits in your home. Teach them how to dispose of different types of waste and cut down on buying unnecessary new products. A reward system is a great way to help young kids associate this with a fun game.
Reusable packaging that can be used in packed lunches is a basic first step to support their learning about reducing waste.
Make learning more about being an eco-friendly member of the world a family affair. It is best to lead by example and children are more likely to adopt habits if they are copying adult actions. Complete the activities mentioned in this article with your child to see their full effect.
There are numerous books and movies out there that can help children learn about how to look after their environment. Certain apps can take them through the lifecycle of plants, and movies like Wall-E and the Lorax are child-friendly ways to get them thinking about environmental damage.
These activities are a great way to nurture an informed and conscientious child who cares about their surroundings. Together we can help create a more sustainable future for the world. Talk to your childcare educators for more ideas about child-friendly education activities.
