There has never been a more vital time to teach the next generation about conservation and the impact we, as humans, have on the environment. Although environmental education is now taught in most schools, it’s the habits of parents and carers that influence their children’s actions the most.
So how can we make our kids aware of their role in the natural world? One of the most effective ways is to make conservation part of their everyday lives. If a child starts recycling from a young age, it becomes natural instinct to put their tins in the blue box instead of the black bag. Let your children know what happens when we don’t recycle: the waste goes to the landfills, which are filling up fast!
There are plenty of simple things that can be done from home, such as keeping a compost box for left-over food, or explaining where water comes from whilst waiting for the bath to fill up. Children naturally want to help, so when they see how things are done and are allowed to take part, they can develop a more environmentally friendly way of life.
Let your kids see what and whom they’re helping, take them to places that focus on conservation, such as aquariums. One of the most enjoyable ways for your child to learn about conservation is taking part in activities with other children, so take a look at some clubs like Knowsley Safari Kids’ Club or San Diego Zoo’s Koala Club if you’re lucky enough to live nearby! If you see what’s around in your area and the children can learn whilst having a fun day out, it’s definitely a “win-win”.
Another really easy way to explain the importance of conservation is to take the time to involve your children in simple tasks. Before you throw something away, ask your child if they can think of a new use for the item! When shopping for food, teach the difference between ‘processed’ and ‘organic’. Most children can understand that chemicals in our food can be harmful to our bodies, so try and transfer that knowledge when showing how those chemicals can hurt the environment.
Children love taking care of things so, instead of a new doll or a virtual pet, why not let them explore the outdoors and tend their own small garden? Not only will they get some fresh air, but they will learn about the impact of their decisions. Whether they forget to water the plants or harvest their vegetables too early, they will discover how to look after and maintain a part of the Earth.
Bringing conservation to life is so much easier if children can see how it works in their own world and how they can play a part. The more they understand, the more eager they will be to get involved and help out. Education is one of the most important things we can give our children; ultimately, it’s one of the tools they can use to make the world a better place.
What do you do to teach your children about their impact on the world?