Climate action

 

Rubery and West Heath Nursery Schools Climate Action Plan 2025 - 2027

 
 

Engaging young children in climate action is crucial for fostering awareness and responsibility towards the environment. Here are some ideas and activities to incorporate climate action into early years education:

1. Nature Walks

Take children on nature walks to explore local parks, gardens, or natural areas. Encourage them to observe plants, animals, and the changing seasons. Discuss the importance of nature and how we can protect it.

2. Gardening Activities

Create a small garden or use pots to grow plants. Teach children about the life cycle of plants, the importance of biodiversity, and how to care for the environment by nurturing living things.

3. Recycling Crafts

Introduce recycling by using materials that would otherwise be thrown away. Create crafts, collages, or sculptures from recycled items. This activity helps children understand the importance of reusing materials.

4. Climate-Friendly Stories

Read books that focus on themes of nature, conservation, and climate action. Discuss the stories and encourage children to share their thoughts on how they can help the planet.

5. Energy Awareness

Teach children about saving energy. Simple activities like turning off lights when leaving a room or using less water can be fun and educational. Use visual aids to show how energy affects our planet.

6. Eco-Friendly Play

Incorporate eco-friendly toys and materials into play areas. Use natural materials like wooden blocks, fabric, and recycled items to encourage imaginative play while promoting sustainability.

7. Climate Action Pledges

Encourage children to make simple pledges for the environment, such as using less plastic or caring for plants. Create a visual display where children can add their pledges, fostering a sense of community commitment.

By integrating climate action into early years education, we can inspire the next generation to be mindful of their environmental impact. Small actions taken by young children can lead to significant changes in their attitudes towards the planet.

 

DfE  -  Sustainability and climate change: a strategy for the education and children’s services systems

Early Years and Childcare Climate Action Advice Pack

WWF Schools sustainability Guide