Children planting tree

Here are some simple ways to teach children to be sustainable:

  1. Read story books with environmental themes. A visit to the local library can assist with this.
  2. Discuss sustainability at home.
    • Talk about turning the taps and lights off after use.
    • How many food scraps remain after mealtime?
    • Start a worm or compost bin.
  3. Spend time in nature, go for bushwalks, visit the beach and talk about the animals.
    • Talk about the rubbish you find and the importance of keeping the environment clean.
  4. Start a veggie garden.
    • Build out of recycled timber or plant into the ground.
    • Discuss soil types, compost and types of vegetable grown in different seasons.

Ways in which children can learn to be responsible for the environment are:

  • Show an appreciation of nature.
  • Check out walks and trails in the region.
  • Understand the relationship between people, plants, animals, and the land.
  • Exploring insects and animals in their natural habitat.
  • Interact with vegetation and natural materials in the environment.

Home projects including upcycling and recycling are a great way to get talking and start being sustainable around the home.