Climate change has become a huge global issue impacting all humans on the planet. Climate and weather affect every part of our lives, from food to clothing and lifestyle, our livelihood and our health. Climate change is causing a rise in global temperatures, which is resulting in various problems worldwide such as heat waves, deforestation, extreme weather and rising sea levels.
It’s important for people to take responsibility for their contribution to these issues. In the classroom, here at Astor International School, and at home, it is important to talk to the children about climate change and global warming. These conversations can very much help to motivate them to make a difference.
At Astor, here are some of the ways in which we try to develop the knowledge and understanding of our students in this area. Some of them might be helpful to you at home too:
1. The basics
To teach children about climate change, it's essential to start with the basics. Explain to them what climate change is and how it affects the planet. It’s best to use simple language and metaphors that they can relate to. For example, you can compare the Earth to a greenhouse where the sun's heat is trapped inside, leading to an increase in temperature. This increase in temperature can cause glaciers to melt, sea levels to rise, and extreme weather events to occur. You can also explain that climate change is caused by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and transportation.
2. Encouraging eco-friendly habits
Teaching students about eco-friendly habits can help children learn how to make a difference. Encourage them to turn off lights when leaving a room, to conserve water, and to recycle. These simple habits can go a long way in reducing their carbon footprint and protecting the planet. You can also teach them about sustainable living, such as using reusable bags, buying locally grown produce, and reducing food waste.
3. Using outdoor activities
Engaging children in outdoor activities can help them develop a love and appreciation for nature. You can take them on nature walks, camping trips, or hikes, and teach them about the importance of preserving natural habitats, about the different ecosystems and the animals that inhabit them. We believe that these activities can help Astor students understand the impact of climate change on nature and motivate them to take action to protect it.
4. Visualising
Students are visual learners. They enjoy visualising things instead of simply hearing about them, and they respond well to visual aids. Pictures, diagrams, and videos can help them to understand the impact of climate change. For example, you can show them pictures of glaciers melting or the effects of extreme weather events like hurricanes or floods. You can also use online resources like NASA's Climate Kids or EPA's Climate Change Kids' site, which provides interactive games and educational resources to help students learn about climate change.
At Astor, teaching students about climate change is an important responsibility that we all share. By providing them with the necessary information and tools, we can empower them to become future environmentalists and advocates for a sustainable future. Starting with the basics, using visual aids, encouraging eco-friendly habits, engaging them in outdoor activities, and encouraging critical thinking are effective ways to teach students about climate change. With our guidance, students at Astor can develop a love and appreciation for nature and take action to protect it.