Teaching Green from All Angles

green | January 29th, 2010 - 10:23 AM

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Reading, writing, arithmetic and science are some of the basic topics your children learn about while they’re in school all day. But what about green issues?

Although schools incorporate environmental science into their curriculum, green issues are connected to everything we do, politics, government, social justice, etc. In order to increase awareness among primary school children, green charter schools are popping up nationwide.

According to the Green Charter Schools Network, there are 200 green charter schools in the U.S. If you’re trying to raise your child more eco-consciously, a green elementary or high school might be the perfect opportunity. Some green charter schools are in their preliminary phase, but there are organizations trying to help them grow. For instance, the Sierra Club and the National Wildlife Federation are partnering with some green schools and providing funding for field trips as well as eco-friendly lesson plans. So why would you want to send your child to one of these schools?

Green issues are not just about trees and what is inside them. These schools have a web like framework that incorporates environmental concerns into every level. The most important finding from these schools is that children understand the importance of eco-friendly living if the issues relate to them. For example, instead of harping on the ice caps and the polar bears, the schools are showing children how the quality of their drinking water can be affected. In basic terms, if the green issues hit home for the children, they are more willing to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Even if you don’t have the option of enrolling your child in a green charter school, you can do your part as a parent to help them understand the world around them. Taking field trips is a great start, because the more hands-on activities, the better. However, making time to sow a small garden will teach them appreciation and provide them with answers to basic questions such as, -”Where does our food come from?” and “Where does our trash go?” Children are curious and full of questions, so it’s important to guide them while they’re eagerly asking for knowledge.

thanks to AboutMyPlanet: Teaching Green from All Angles by Marina Hanes in Daily Green Tips, Green News

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