Many children are very curious about the natural world. They may watch a worm inch along the sidewalk, pick multicolored flowers to give as gifts, or splash enthusiastically in puddles. This innate interest in the world around them can be used to introduce S.T.E.M. concepts, such as biology and ecology at a very young age. On April 22, the U.S. observes Earth Day. This celebration of our planet is a wonderful time to teach preschoolers about science, the environment, and the planet they live on. Here are a few ways to celebrate Earth during the month of April…and year ‘round!
1. Explain how ecosystems work.
Kids will have a greater respect for nature if they understand how everything works together. Visit a nearby park to explain how an ecosystem functions. Point out that bees pollinate spring flowers, birds eat seeds and worms, and trees and brushes have new growth each season. Trees also create shade and homes for many different animals. Even very young children can understand the relationships between plants and animals in a specific habitat.
2. Plant herbs in a container.
For little ones, watching plants grow provides a close-up look at photosynthesis. Having your child plant herbs in a container is a great introduction to biology and the natural world. Start with a few hardy perennials that can withstand inconsistent sunlight, neglect, or overwatering. Mint, oregano, lemon balm, rosemary, thyme, and chives are all excellent choices. Mint and lemon balm, in particular, grow quickly and are incredibly easy to keep alive. Depending on the weather, keep these plants in a container on the windowsill or in a small planter that can be moved inside or outside. Let your child plant, water, and measure the herbs as they grow.
Then, the most important part: cook with them! Have them snip chives for mashed potatoes, pick mint or lemon balm leaves for tea, and put rosemary and oregano sprigs inside a chicken for roasting. Kids love to eat food that they’ve helped to grow!
3. Volunteer at a community garden.
If you’re ready to level up on your growing, consider planting some raised beds or joining a community garden. A community garden can be a great place to meet other families, learn about gardening, and contribute to your neighborhood or town. Many community gardens have weekly volunteer hours when you and your child can spread mulch, pull weeds, water plots, or clear away leaves. Even little hands can help with gardening tasks, and young children can feel more connected to their community by volunteering. Of course, the best part of a community garden is eating the fruits of your labor! Celebrate every tomato, pepper, and zucchini by preparing meals that feature your hard-earned food.
4. Introduce eco-friendly practices to your family.
Whether you adopt composting, curb your use of plastic, or trade out paper towels for dish cloths, explain the reasons for these changes to your children. They may notice you using silicone sandwich bags or hanging clothes to dry in the sun, and these choices can present a teachable moment for kids. There’s no need to use complicated words or too much information. Simply say, “We’re turning off the lights when we leave the house to help the earth!” As kids grow, you can explain how energy and water are finite resources. When they’re still young, make a habit of narrating your eco-friendly choices to help connect individual agency to global health and preservation.
Helping Children Learn In All Four Seasons
The Gardner School knows there are some things kids can only learn outside. That’s why we include plenty of safe outdoor playtime for our students. When kids are connected to the natural world, they can observe the ebb and flow of the seasonal, learning more about the planet they live on. Contact us today to learn more, or check out our virtual tours on our website for The Gardner School nearest you. You’ll quickly see why parents choose The Gardner School to help build resilient, compassionate, and engaged young learners.