Helping Children Become Environmentalists

As parents those of us who strive to be more environmentally friendly often do so in hopes that the world our children will know as adults will be a better place. We want clean rivers, fresh air, and a an abundant ecosystem that they can enjoy as adults. Unfortunately we are often so caught up in their future that we forget about the present. Helping our children learn to be more environmental now will allow them to move farther as adults in the goal towards a cleaner world.

For many children today the closest they come to nature is what they see walking from the front door to the drive way. More and more time is spent indoors, in front of a television or a video game. If we want our children to be passionate about the environment the first thing we have to do is let them fall in love with. That means turning off the electronic devices and going outside. The more time children spend outside in nature the more they develop a relationship with it. That early relationship can build the foundation of a lifetime of striving to protect nature. To quote the late Steve Irwin "I believe that education is all about being excited about something. Seeing passion and enthusiasm helps push an educational message. "

If you are actively working towards a better environment allow your children to join you. Let them come along as you take in recycling, let them help you clean up litter along side the road, or have them help as you plant trees at a local park. Whatever activities you participate in to be environmentally friendly should be shared with your children. When they see that you, and others, care about the environment and are actively working to better it your children will feel inspired to join. There are also many groups and activities that are geared just for children. Find a local volunteer group, or start your own, that allows children to work independently for the environment.