Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/nurturing-environmental-awareness-in-children/5012751/
Children of today will inherit a planet that isn't very healthy. We can no longer view our planet's resources as inexhaustible. We must be educated and aware of our impact on its atmosphere, fresh water, soils, forests, and oceans.There is nothing we can do to change the past; we can only try to create a better and brighter future. It begins with a shift in perspective: it is high time to leave nets and bug jars behind on our nature walks and bring cameras and magnifying glasses along (and maybe a large plastic bag to pick up trash). We can respect that each thing has a place. Each natural thing has a purpose; each bug has a job. Each dried leaf will eventually degrade into nutrient-rich soil to feed the tree from which it fell. Nature wastes nothing. In my class, we say, "It belongs to the earth, not us."
Beginning this process in the early years, when attitudes toward the world around them are forming, is essential. Doing this will help to give young children a new perspective - a simple idea - from which they can begin to grow.
There are many lessons around us that can help con-nect children directly ...