Teaching Your Child About the Environment

Teaching your child about the environment and caring for the earth helps shape their perspectives, values and how to interact with the environment. It also nurtures a sense of wonder, imagination and creativity. It exposes them to beauty and helps them remain active. A few simple ways you can start teaching your child about the environment while having fun:

• Gazing – Grab a blanket, lie on your back and look up. Ask your child what he/she sees in the clouds. Ask him/her why they think the sky is blue. If you want a night adventure, ask what stars your child likes. Look on the internet what planets will be out that night and see if you can find them. You may even see a shooting star while you are gazing!
• Wildlife Habitat - Create a wildlife habitat in your backyard for your children, grandchildren or neighbor’s children. Invite them over to observe changes in the wildlife refuge especially with the different seasons.
• Explore – Check out the bugs, butterflies and birds in your own backyard or neighborhood. Grab a magnifying glass and notebook and let your child record her/his findings in their very own bug adventure book!

What are some ways you educate your child about the environment?