By Justin Cheah
In an era of increasing environmental concerns, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the planet in our children is crucial for the well-being of future generations. By instilling eco-consciousness from a young age, we can empower children to become the stewards of our planet.
Here are some effective strategies to get children interested in caring for the environment, nurturing their appreciation for God’s creation, and fostering sustainable habits that will last a lifetime.
1. Lead by example
Children are highly influenced by their parents and caregivers. By adopting eco-friendly practices in our daily lives, we set a positive example.
Consistently recycling, conserving energy and water, and making sustainable choices such as using reusable bags or water bottles, sends a powerful message that caring for the environment is important.
When children witness these behaviours, they are more likely to emulate them.
2. Encourage exploration and immerse them in nature
Nature has an innate ability to captivate young minds. Encourage children to spend time outdoors, exploring the wonders of the natural world! Plan family outings to parks, nature reserves, the zoo, or botanical gardens, where they can experience the beauty and diversity of the environment firsthand.
Encourage curiosity, and engage them in conversations about the importance of preserving these natural spaces.
3. Hands-on learning & community involvement
Engaging children in hands-on activities provides them with a deeper understanding of environmental issues. Planting a garden, caring for some potted plants inside (or outside) your home, or shared community spaces, teaches children about the importance of nurturing plants and the role they play in our ecosystem.
Involving them in composting or recycling projects further reinforces the significance of reducing waste and recycling materials.
Creation C.A.R.E., an initiative by the Christian Preschool Alliance, is a community project that endeavours to inspire, encourage and empower children to care for creation and the environment. Children were taught the importance of their actions and how they impact the world we live in.
This year, partnering with the Mandai Wildlife Group, Creation C.A.R.E. saw children from 32 preschools (including some of our Little Seeds Preschools and St. James’ Church Kindergartens) participate in the project. The goal was to raise awareness about the need for conservation for animals such as the Orang Utan, whose habitats are threatened due to human activity.
4. Use storytelling and books
Storytelling is a powerful tool to captivate young imaginations. Introduce children to books that highlight environmental themes, such as endangered animals, climate change, or conservation efforts. Engage in interactive storytelling sessions and discuss the moral lessons or ecological messages conveyed in these stories.
By making connections between characters and real-world issues, children develop empathy and a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
5. Creative expression
Encourage children to express their love for the environment through creative outlets. Arts and crafts projects using recycled materials, painting nature scenes, or creating eco-inspired poetry or songs can tap into their imagination and provide a medium for self-expression. Celebrate their creations and display their artwork, reinforcing their connection with nature and their role in protecting it.
As part of Creation C.A.R.E. 2023, children from Little Seeds Preschool (St Andrew’s), Little Seeds Preschool (TSA-AMK), Little Seeds Preschool (Calvary Baptist), Little Seeds Preschool (Capstone), and St. James’ Church Kindergarten worked on mega art displays from March to May, and had the chance to display their impressive artwork in a Public Art Showcase from 25 – 28 May 2023, at One Punggol.
On launch day, Speaker Tan Chuan Jin – who is also the Deputy Chairman of Mandai Wildlife Group – and Minister Yeo Wan Ling joined in the fun.
It starts with you and me.
We can cultivate a generation that understands the importance of environmental stewardship and is motivated to protect and preserve our planet for future generations.
Every person (young or not so young) plays a part in this! Together, let’s inspire our children to become eco-conscious champions who will make a difference in creating a sustainable and thriving world, and caring for all of God’s creation.
To find out more about our preschools and curriculum, visit https://www.anglicanps.edu.sg.
