In a world where the future of our planet rests in the hands of our children, teaching kids about the environment has never been more crucial.
Environmental education plays a pivotal role in shaping young minds to understand and appreciate the natural world around them.
By engaging in activities that highlight the beauty and fragility of our environment, your child will learn not only about the challenges we face but also about the impactful ways they can contribute to a healthier planet.
In this article I have put together seven unique and engaging activities designed to bring environmental lessons to life.
1. Watch a Ted-Ed Video Together
The Ted-Ed website offers animated educational videos on various topics, including environmental issues.
Some popular videos for kids include “How Much Plastic Is in the Ocean?” and “Why Are Bees Important?”
The videos are presented in a visually captivating and friendly way to get children thinking about care of the environment and environmental stewardship.
If you are making a strong commitment to educating your child about the natural environment and the effects of climate change, why not watch one environmental awareness video each day together?
2. Make a video about Earth Day
Earth Day (22nd April) is a day to come together and think about how we can protect mother earth.
Creating a video together is a great way to learn about environmental conservation and what we and future generations can do to look after our natural resources.
It’s like a mini research project, presented in a fun way for kids of any age. I did a similar activity with my kids when they were younger and for me it’s a fantastic way to encourage a sense of responsibility for the environment in your child.
Get your child to narrate the video and put it on your social media channels ahead of Earth Day to inspire others.
3. Adopt an endangered animal through the WWF
I think it’s vital to send a message to our young people that we have a shared responsibility to make a positive impact on our earth. Adopting an animal is a great opportunity for children to help protect an endangered species. Your child will receive educational materials about their chosen animal and it’s a wonderful way for young children to learn about what we can actually do for animals.
Even if you don’t adopt an animal, the WWF website also has a “Kids” section with information about endangered species, climate change, and other environmental issues. They also offer interactive games and quizzes to test kids’ knowledge.
4. Host a Plastic-Free Party
Most kids’ parties are full of plastic, from the plates and plastic bottles of drinks to the banners to the party bag gifts. But there’s a better way and kids can learn about this from an early age!
Hosting a plastic-free party is easy with the guide that National Geographic Kids has created. It’s a complete guide.
Their website also has a brilliant “Kids v Plastic” section containing multiple activities and crafts your child can make.
There are how-to videos including how to make DIY plastic-free ice pops, perfect for your party!
5. Make Compost
Do you have a back yard? You don’t even need a green thumb to start a compost bucket or box.
Composting is a no-brainer because it can reduce carbon emissions, give you incredible rich and powerful fertilizer for growing fruit, veg or flowers, and it is an easy way to take positive action to reduce landfill and protect the earth.
What may seem like a little thing can be so empowering for your child. They will be learning through taking action to reduce their carbon footprint.
Little things add up!
6. Do a Green Energy Experiment
Even young kids can learn about why we need to reduce fossil fuels. There are so many reasons, obviously the main reason being that we need to find a sustainable way to produce power that won’t be calamitous for our earth. We also need clean air to breathe!
The Energy Kids website has a wonderful selection of lesson plans for all ages including high school.
Many of the experiments on its “science fair experiments” page can be done at home too! The ideas include both indoor and outdoor activities.
For older kids you could also try this greenhouse gases experiment!
7. Make Sustainable Products to Use and Gift
This is a sustainable living activity that the whole family can get involved with. The best part is that you will know exactly what goes into these products, so nothing nasty and no environmental impact!
How about making your own bath bombs? This is a great activity because your kids can experiment with fragrances and colors in creative ways. All the ingredients can be found in the grocery store.
Here’s a fantastic video from Zunaira to help you get started.
Teaching Kids About The Environment: Summary
Teaching kids about the environment empowers them to make a difference.
By incorporating these fun and meaningful projects into their learning, your child will develop a deeper connection with the natural world.
Ultimately, these experiences will lay the foundation for a more sustainable future, and they will be having fun at the same time.
Stephanie Simmons is an Anglo-American mum of two who is passionate about all things outdoors. She loves camping, outdoor crafting, and all outdoor activities.
Steph believes in getting the kids outdoors no matter the weather!
She created Wild Bloom Families to share her passion for the outdoors with other families.
Getting in nature can transform your physical health, mental health and happiness!
