Quaggy Children’s ECO Committee are starting a new year with a commitment to improving our environment. Last year we received a distinction and obtained the ECO School Green Flag Accreditation. There’s lots that we can do within our Nurseries and Children’s Centres to help take care of our environment but everyone at home can help too. There are some simple things that can help children grow up with a sense of responsibility in this area and mothers, fathers and carers can play an important role in this.

Encouraging children under 5 to be more aware of the environment is an important step in fostering a lifelong commitment to sustainability. Here are some strategies that you can use to help children in this age group learn about the importance of protecting the environment:

1. Lead by example: Children are always watching and learning from their caregivers and parents, so it’s important to model environmentally-friendly behaviours yourself. For example, you can turn off lights when you leave a room, recycle whenever possible, and use reusable bags when you go shopping.
2. Use age-appropriate language: Children under 5 are still learning language and may not fully understand complex environmental concepts. Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain the importance of protecting the environment and the specific actions that they can take to help.
3. Make it fun: Children are more likely to engage in activities that they find enjoyable, so try to make learning about the environment fun. You can play games that teach environmental concepts, go on nature walks, or do craft projects using recycled materials.
4. Use media and technology: There are many educational resources available online that can help children learn about the environment in a fun and interactive way. You can show children videos or use apps that teach about environmental issues and how to protect the planet.
5. Involve the community: Children are more likely to take action when they feel like they are part of a community working towards a common goal. Involve your child in local conservation efforts, such as local clean-ups or planting trees in a local park.

By using these strategies, you can help children under 5 develop a sense of care for the environment and learn the importance of protecting the planet for future generations.