In today’s rapidly-changing world of hotter weather, wilder storms and melting polar ice caps, environmental education for kids has never been more critical.

As the globe faces the dangers of climate change, deforestation and pollution, we must prepare the next generation with the knowledge and attitude needed to protect our planet.

Teaching children about environmental responsibilities from a young age not only helps them understand how their actions have an effect on the environment, but also encourages them to be proactive in creating a sustainable future. But it doesn’t have to be a big and scary undertaking.

Children are fast learners thanks to their brains’ ability to absorb lots of new information, making their early years the perfect time to introduce the concept of our environment and why protecting it is important.

Here’s how you can teach your children about looking after the environment in a kid-friendly way, and instil good habits that will last a lifetime.

Start with building simple habits

Consistently repeating activities like recycling, not leaving the tap running, and switching lights off in unused rooms are great for building up those good habits, as well as teaching more energy saving tips to help reduce the carbon footprint. Even just a few good habits practised consistently can make a big difference.

While the concept of a carbon footprint might be a bit advanced for younger children, you can still introduce the idea that everything takes energy to make and run, and it’s important to save as much energy as possible. And as they get older, you can introduce the idea of ‘greenhouse gases’ being made when energy is used to create something, with the total amount of those gases produced being a carbon footprint.

Practise sustainability together

Recycling can be both fun and educational. From learning how to sort different materials for the recycling bin to reusing cardboard and paper for arts and crafts projects, recycling can be an activity you can do as a family.

Growing your own fruits and vegetables is also a great way to teach kids about where food comes from and appreciate how it’s made. Check out this article on sustainable practices for kids to try for a healthier planet for more things you and your children can do together.


Alongside home education, schools are also making an effort to incorporate sustainability into the curriculum, so that all children have access to a basic level of education about caring for the environment.

Encouraging participation in environmental events

The best way to learn is to do, and involving children in hands-on activities will help them learn about the environment faster. From taking them for a walk in the park to find different insects to bringing them to community clean-ups and tree-planting events, getting hands-on helps teach them why it’s important to look after our planet, and how to do so. It also helps give them a deeper connection with nature and pride in taking care of it.


You can also kids to support organisations who demonstrate a commitment to the environment through ventures like tree-planting initiatives. For example, Utility Warehouse (UW) plants a tree in the UW Woodland for every customer who takes all of their services.

Balancing technology with nature

While we’re more connected than ever in this digital age, a unique modern challenge in raising kids is making sure they’re not spending too much time in front of a screen.

Outside of school, limiting screen time and setting up opportunities to have fun outside will give them a bigger appreciation for the ‘offline’ world around them. But technology isn’t all bad, and can be used to enhance children’s understanding of the environment too – for example with educational apps, documentaries and online resources.

Empowering future leaders

Teaching kids about the environment isn’t just about teaching the facts – it’s also about equipping them with the necessary drive and confidence to become the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

Encouraging and motivating them to take initiative and create change for the better can be as simple as regularly having a chat with them about how they feel about the current situation, and what they think can be done to help the environment. As they grow, they’re more likely to continue thinking about conserving the environment, and inspiring others to do the same.

As parents, educators and members of the community, it’s our responsibility to nurture our children so they can build a sustainable future. By actively involving them in practising eco-friendly habits and participating in community events, together we can raise a generation of environmentally conscious individuals who are ready to protect our planet.