Taking Care of Our Earth
Warm-Hearted Walrus is one of nine Characters of Character and shares that taking care of our earth is KIND. Miss Joni and Respectful Rabbit share Tips to teach our children and youth the importance and simplicity that one can do to help take care of the world we all live in. Click here.
Teaching children about the importance of Earth Day and our earth works best when it’s hands on, meaningful, and connected to their everyday lives. Kids don’t just learn by being told, they learn by doing and seeing impact.
Start by keeping it simple and relatable, much like our video shared above. First, explain that Earth is our home, and just like we take care of our rooms or toys, we need to take care of the planet. Use examples they understand: clean water, fresh air, trees, and animals all need protection so we can stay healthy and happy, like Healthy Hippo.
Make it interactive. Activities like picking up litter, planting flowers or trees, or sorting recycling help children see the difference they can make. Even small actions like turning off lights, not wasting water, or reusing items helps to build a sense of responsibility, like Responsible Rabbit.
Children often connect deeply with characters and remember lessons longer this way.
Make it part of daily habits, not just a one time event. Build routines like:
Using reusable water bottles
Bringing lunch in reusable containers
Having a “clean-up time” at home or school
This reinforces that caring for the Earth is an ongoing responsibility.
You can also connect it to kindness which is something children already understand. Explain that taking care of the planet is a way of being kind to people, animals, and future generations.
Finally, let them feel empowered. Avoid making the problem seem too big or scary. Instead, emphasize that even small actions like picking up one piece of trash makes a difference. While at the park, pick up trash. Make a scavenger hunt game! Or, have a contest, who can pick up the most garbage? Kids love games and hands on activities, plus they will see the difference they make by taking care of the playground, park or even your own back yard.
Do’er Duck visited Miss Joni
Miss Joni’s favorite flower is the Sunflower! Taking her classroom experience she published a fun activity book on Sunflowers! Plant, identify, measure and watch your flowers bloom with this engaging activity book!
