HEATHER THOMAS: Many things we learn as children follow us throughout our lives, often manifesting in the form of both good and bad habits. But, we don’t always realize the depth at which we are impacted by our education and environment at such a young age. Robert Fulghum wrote a poem over fifteen years ago, All I Ever Really Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, which illustrates the key lessons we have (or should have) carried with us to adulthood. There are a few key references in his poem that can be related to environmental education. Some of the most important items to note are: Be aware of wonder, Put things back where you found them, and Clean up your own mess. 

It’s the responsibility of both parents and educators to teach these finer points and to share the wonders of nature and the importance of environmental consciousness with our youth.  Any amount of exposure to the natural world is valuable, whether it’s taking a walk in the park to collect leaves and rocks, or planting and caring for a garden of fresh vegetables. (You can download your free kit of resources to help connect with nature through organizations like The Arbor Day Foundation’s Nature Explore Family Club.) 

In recent scientific studies, research has provided evidence of dramatic positive effects of nature education on child behaviour. The benefits of teaching children to appreciate nature, and using the great outdoors to create a classroom environment, result in improvements in everything from math and science skills to art and music abilities. Something as simple as playing outside during recess at school has even been linked to better classroom behaviour, memory and concentration. The Children & Nature Network (C&NN)  was created to encourage and support the people and organizations working nationally and internationally to reconnect children with nature. 

Additionally, there have been studies done in Canada showing the benefits of greener, more natural settings on school grounds resulting in children that were “more physically active, aware of nutrition, civil to each other and more creative”. You'll find more information and research at the Evergreen National Charity. 

Educating children about the importance of nature and environmental appreciation is a priceless investment in the future of our planet. Find the passion for nature within you to share with others. These choices made now will impact the planet in the future, so teach awareness and responsibility. 

What can you do to change a child’s life by introducing them to the beauty and wonder of nature?