Caring for the environment is every human being’s responsibility. However, not all of us are up for it. It’s no wonder our planet is not in the best shape.
Imagine if all businessmen were conscious of their product’s impact on the environment. Or if all politicians took Mother Nature into consideration in every decision they made. Or if all citizens do their part in protecting the planet. The world would’ve been a better place, right?
That said, here are a few ways you can nurture a child’s love for nature at an early age. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or guardian, these simple tips can help you in raising an environmentally conscious individual.
Take them outside
Photo by James Wheeler on Unsplash
Children are naturally curious, and the best way to rouse their curiosity about something is by exposing them to it. Taking them outside and letting them spend time outdoors will give them the opportunity to wonder and ponder about nature and eventually ask the right questions. This will help build a connection between them and the environment.
You can go on walks or hang out at the park, letting them examine whatever they find, like trees, rocks, leaves, or even insects. You may also explore the nearby lakes, ponds, or hiking trails where they can discover a lot of things about nature. And don’t forget, you can always start with your own backyard!
Read books and watch documentaries about nature
Nowadays, there are a lot of materials you can use to educate children about the environment. Children’s books like “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss are a good starting point for tackling different environmental issues, such as climate change, endangered animals, or global warming. You can also browse various streaming sites, and you’ll find lots of videos, documentaries, and movies on these subjects.
By giving children access to environment-related content, you will help deepen their understanding of the planet and how it works. Consequently, this will strengthen their connection to the environment and cultivate positive feelings and attitudes toward it.
Get them involved in managing waste at home
Getting children involved in your efforts to save the environment will help cultivate their love for it. Knowing that they can do something and be part of the solution at an early age will empower them and motivate them to do more as they grow older.
One of the simplest (and most important) activities they can participate in is waste management and proper disposal. You can start by teaching them how to classify and segregate your trash at home. Make learning more fun by using environment-related online games like Sort The Trash and Twin The Bin, which are specifically designed to familiarize kids with different types of garbage and recyclables.
Sort the Trash
Twin the Bin
Garden with them
One great way to teach children the importance of a healthy environment is gardening with them. Growing fruits and veggies in your backyard will help them understand where food comes from and how they are produced. Equipped with this knowledge, they can make informed decisions about the food they eat as they become adults.
Through gardening, children will also discover how nature works and how we should live in harmony with it. Encouraging them to grow their own food will help develop a feeling of respect towards the environment and a sense of responsibility to protect it.
Let them care for an animal
Photo by Holly Landkammer on Unsplash
Another simple way to teach children to care for the environment is to introduce them to wildlife. You can install bird feeders or build bug hotels in your garden to welcome birds and insects into your home. Knowing and interacting with different animals will evoke any child’s nurturing instincts.
Moreover, having pets allows children to form a special bond with animals and to care for them. This is crucial in raising an individual who feels empathy for creatures other than his kind. Just make sure to draw a clear line between domesticated animals and wild ones.
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