Pre-Schooler

Take leisurely walks - around the block, in the garden or a local park, allowing them to follow their interests. Bring a “treasure bag” and encourage them to pick up cones, sticks, rocks that pique their interest, while instilling a sense of respect for the earth. Have a special box at home for your child to store these treasures.

Plant fast growing seeds together (beans, radishes, marigolds etc.) and watch them grow.

Find a place in your area where you have a clear view of the sun rising. Arrive just before sunrise and build anticipation for the first glimpse of the sun, then cheer when the sun is fully visible. Eat a picnic breakfast to celebrate.

Observe the moon in its different phases. This may inspire conversation and evoke a sense of wonder.

Invite children to befriend a tree. Help them to notice changes in the tree at each season and encourage them to take photographs or create drawings of the tree as the seasons change. Save them and bring them out as the seasons pass.

Camp in the woods or take a moonlit walk by a lake. This can inspire awe and spark curiosity. Talk to them about night creatures such at bats, owls, raccoons, etc and let them know how important they are to the ecosystem.

Take a walk in the rain and jump in the puddles.

Create a Things I Love About the Earth Bulletin Board. Change the theme seasonally to reflect the weather or whatever else inspires you! Invite children to put their drawings, thoughts, poetry on the bulletin board.