How To Talk About The Environment – Naturally

In the years you have been on this earth, things have changed dramatically in the natural world. Climate change, pollution, and damage to biodiversity are all topics that have become the norm to adults – but explaining them to children can feel like a bigger challenge. 

It’s important to first understand that education is crucial to help support future generations. Even though it might be low on your list of topics you are dying to discuss, it is one of the most valuable. When done with a little bit of patience you will hopefully find that these conversations can be inspiration for your environmental decision making and empower kids to make a difference from a young age.

We’ve gathered some top tips that should help open up the conversation – even if you’re just starting the conversation for the first time.

Play Into Their Curiosities 

Young minds are curious minds. They like to learn, so using this as a chance to educate them on the various animals around the world, or the ecosystems that help things grow will have their minds in a space of wonder over worry. Once you’ve had time to talk, take them outside. Let them explore, ask questions, and get their hands dirty.

It’s been shown that when kids develop an in-person connection to nature, they want to protect it.

Don’t Go To Deep Too Soon

Just because they show an interest in nature doesn’t mean you should jump to the most extreme topics. Often young people have overheard news or have seen firsthand the impact of local pollution – and this is totally normal – if kept age appropriate. 

Keep the language simple and focus on concrete local actions. This could be encouraging them with sentences such as, “We recycle to help keep the Earth clean”. For older kids, you can start introducing the bigger picture, while also discussing bigger initiatives working to solve problems. 

Put It Into Practice

Copying what guardians do can sometimes be a very useful thing! No, not when they repeat something you’d hoped to keep a secret, but by imitating your actions. If you begin to compost, bike instead of drive, or bring reusable bags to the store, they’ll see those actions as the normal practice into their later years. 

Small habits repeated consistently can have a big impact – especially when passed on to the next generation. Bonus points can be awarded to guardians who explain their sustainability choices regularly to reinforce the importance of these actions.