Why is Environmental Education Important?

"Tomorrow's leaders need to be equipped for tomorrow's challenges." 

Today's generation of children spend majority of their time indoors. According to Hofferth & Sadberg, children spend 27% of their time each week watching television and only 1% of their time indoors. It is extremely important for parents and educators to encourage environmental education to their children. We need to reconnect our children with nature. If they do not understand or value nature our future environment may be in danger. Less exposure to the outdoors has also caused a number of health problems for our children such as obesity, hyperactivity, and diminished use of senses. "Our schools need more encouragement, resources, and time to devote attention to environmental education."

I have first hand experience with environmental education. My toddler class is required to go outside everyday depending on the weather. When my class goes outside some kids run around, some play with the sand toys, some cling to the teachers, some climb on the fence, and some notice their natural surroundings. Some children are naturalistic learners and learn best from their environment. I always try to encourage the kids to explore their surroundings. I sing the song, "The leaves are falling down" so they noticed the leaves which teaches them about the seasons. I point out birds and planes in the sky. I encourage them to play with the dirt and grass. There is one little girl in particular who is intrigued by all of the items of nature outside. She is constantly collecting leaves, rocks, sticks, and grass. She is one of our kids who is cognitively and vocally more advanced. 

Some ways to encourage environmental education:

• Go outside
• Read books about the outdoors and nature
• Do environmentally friendly craft activities such as drinking coasters with coastal pictures (Pinterest)
• Be green! (Turn off the classroom lights, conserve water)

Works Cited