5 Tips for Raising Environmentally Empathetic Kids
Photo by Allan Mas
Fostering our kids' connection with nature isn’t just good for them but good for the Earth too! And as parents, we have the unique opportunity to shape the values and behaviors of our children, including their attitude toward the environment!
I believe that by nurturing our kid's connection with nature and teaching them the importance of sustainable practices, we can raise little ones who care about the planet and strive to protect it!
So here are 5 practical tips for raising environmentally friendly kids to get you started!
1. Get Outside!
It might sound obvious, but to get your kids to care about the Earth, you first have to get them out into the elements! Make it a priority to explore local parks, go on nature walks, and spend time at the beach so that your kids can develop a strong bond with nature. Observe, talk about, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world, from the intricate details of flowers to the hugeness of towering trees.
2. Making Recycling a Family Affair
In our household, recycling is a family affair! Try to involve your kids in the entire recycling process, from sorting different materials to taking recyclables to the bins. By making it a shared responsibility, your kids can make recycling a habit while learning the positive impact it has on the environment.
3. Grow Together with a Garden
Another idea is to create a small garden at home and involve your children in the process. Let them help with planting seeds, watering plants, and checking in on the garden. Teach them about the importance of growing food locally, reducing food waste, and the benefits of organic gardening. This hands-on experience not only teaches them about the environment but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment in growing their own food!
4. Find Fun Environmental Education
Expose your children to environmental education through books, documentaries, and interactive websites. Be sure to choose age-appropriate resources that explain complex concepts in a way they can understand. There are many children’s books about sustainability that can keep your kiddos entertained! By providing them with knowledge, you empower them to make informed choices and become advocates for the planet.
5. Practice Energy & Water Conservation
Turning off lights & the sink facet when not in use can actually feel like a fun challenge for kids! Explain to your kiddos how turning off lights, unplugging electronics when not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances can reduce their carbon footprint. Show them how to be mindful of water usage by taking shorter showers, turning off faucets while brushing their teeth, and using water-saving methods when gardening. By practicing these habits, your children won’t even think twice in developing a lifelong commitment to sustainable living.
Our kids are the future, so let’s make sure they know how to care for the future of their planet too! As mums on a journey to raise environmentally empathetic kids, we must strive to instill a deep connection with nature and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Remember, your actions and guidance play a vital role in shaping their values and behaviors towards the planet. Together, let's raise a generation of children who are compassionate stewards of the Earth.