Earth Day is April 22nd, and it’s a great opportunity to include care for the planet in early childhood education. Teaching kids to care for the planet is the perfect way to get outside, learn about environmental science, and explore nature. Earth Day falls on a Saturday this year, so why not spend the weekend learning about the planet and what you can do to protect it? Focus on the positive aspects of caring for the planet and spending time in nature.
This Earth Day, include care for the planet in early childhood education! Here are three ways to teach kids about caring for the planet.
Read Books About the Environment
Many children’s authors have written books that teach kids about the environment and caring for the planet. If Earth Day is a rainy day this year, stay inside and read some books about nature and the environment. Here are some of our favorite titles:
- The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
- The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
- Earth Day Hooray! by Stuart J. Murphy
- How the Earth Works by Anna Claybourne
- The Earth Book by Todd Parr
Do a Nature Walk
If April 22nd is a nice day, take the opportunity to get outside! Take a nature walk with your child and point out different plants, animals, and insects. You can go to your local library to find resources about plants and wildlife to help you identify what you see along your walk. Talk about how these living things depend on each other and the environment. You can also bring some gloves and a trash bag to pick up any trash you see along the way.
Make Earth Day Crafts
Kids love crafts, and there are plenty of Earth Day-themed crafts and projects you can do. Gather items along your nature walk, or use what you have around the house to teach your kids about recycling. Here are some Earth Day activities and crafts you can do with recycled materials:
- Nature collage: Collect small rocks, fallen leaves, and other items along your nature walk to make a collage.
- Bird feeder from recycled materials: There are several ways to make bird feeders from recycled materials. You can use empty water bottles, egg cartons, jars, or other household items. This craft is also a great way to learn about how to attract different types of birds.
- Recycled can craft supply organizer: Instead of throwing away empty cans or jars, clean them thoroughly and then paint or decorate them. Then, you can use them to hold craft supplies like markers, paint brushes, glue sticks, and more. Be sure to put tape over any sharp edges if you are using cans.
