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Encouraging Development While Connecting with our Planet
As adults, we want to raise children who are environmentally conscious. One way to do this is by teaching them about the importance of Earth Day and engaging them in fun activities that promote sustainability.
Here are some ideas for Earth Day activities that will not only teach your kids about protecting the planet but also encourage their development in various areas, such as speech, language, fine motor, gross motor, sensory processing, problem solving, and social-emotional skills!
Nature Walk
Take your kids for a nature walk and explore the beauty of our planet. Talk about different plant and animal species you come across, discuss how they contribute to our ecosystem, and what we can do to protect them. This will not only help your child develop an appreciation for nature but also increase their knowledge about the environment.
Recycling Crafts
Get creative and turn old household items into fun crafts with your kids. This activity will not only teach them about the importance of recycling but also hone their motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. You can make bird feeders from old bottles, binoculars/telescopes from toilet paper rolls, pencil holders from tin cans, or even a robot sculpture from cardboard boxes!
Plant a Garden
Planting a garden is not just a fun activity for kids, but it also teaches them about nurturing and responsibility. Let your child choose their favorite flowers or vegetables to plant and take care of. They will learn about the importance of sunlight, water, and nutrients in helping plants grow while feeling proud of their accomplishments.
Beach Clean-Up
If you live near a beach, organize a clean-up day with your kids and their friends. This will not only help keep our oceans clean but also teach them about the impact of human activity on marine life. Encourage them to use reusable bags and say no to single-use plastics while picking up trash.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Challenge
Make sustainability fun by challenging your kids to a reduce, reuse, recycle game. For example, see who can use the least amount of water while brushing their teeth or come up with creative ways to repurpose old items instead of throwing them away. This will not only be educational but also develop eco-friendly habits in your child.
Volunteer at a Local Park or Garden
Teach your kids the importance of giving back to their community by volunteering at a local park or garden. They can help with planting, weeding, and other gardening tasks while learning about the different plant species in their area. This will also be a great opportunity for them to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty through an important sensory and motor based activity.
Upcycled Art Projects
Collect old magazines, newspapers, and cardboard boxes and let your kids unleash their creativity by making upcycled art. This will not only keep them entertained but also show them the value of repurposing items instead of throwing them away. You can also discuss how reducing waste helps protect our environment and wildlife.
Virtual Nature Scavenger Hunt
If you’re unable to go outside, organize a virtual nature scavenger hunt for your kids. Create a list of items for them to find in their backyard or neighborhood and have them take pictures of each item as proof. This will not only be a fun activity but also encourage children to observe and appreciate the beauty of nature around them. You can use your recycled binoculars on your nature hunt too!
Plant a Tree Together
Lastly, you can have regular discussions with your child about the 3 R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Encourage them to use reusable containers and bags instead of single-use plastics, and teach them how to sort and recycle items properly. By instilling these habits in your child, you are helping them become responsible and mindful citizens who care for the environment.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Lastly, you can have regular discussions with your child about the 3 R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Encourage them to use reusable containers and bags instead of single-use plastics, and teach them how to sort and recycle items properly. By instilling these habits in your child, you are helping them become responsible and mindful citizens who care for the environment.
Remember, small actions can make a big impact. By engaging in these activities with your child, not only are you encouraging their development, but also instilling values that will benefit our planet and future generations.
Let’s celebrate Earth Day every day by making small changes in our daily lives. Let’s inspire the next generation to protect and preserve the world we live in. Happy Earth Day! Keep spreading love and positivity towards our planet. Together, we can make a difference!
SHOLEH SHAHINFAR
M.A. CCC-SLP, RYT
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
