School’s in session: Creative ways to teach children about nature and wildlife

Children are fascinated by nature and wildlife. Whether it's observing native birds in the backyard, encountering marine life while snorkelling or swimming, or discovering the forest while hiking.

Children are fascinated by nature and wildlife

Most adults have fond memories of their first encounter with the wild as children. This sparks a lifelong curiosity and passion for the environment, sometimes leading to a career in the environment. Children who learn about the diverse range of animals, plants, and ecosystems found in our world develop an appreciation for the environment.

Here are some ideas parents and educators can use to teach children about nature.

Make nature-inspired art and crafts

Children can gain knowledge of wildlife by drawing, painting, or crafting. This unleashes creativity and makes learning more enjoyable. In addition, it helps children retain details about a species, such as bird feather colours or the spots on whale sharks. Things from nature, such as leaves, seeds, twigs, and rocks, can be incorporated. You can also recycle plastic or discarded items.

Learning can be fun and collaborative

Nature walks and visiting parks

Taking children on nature walks or field trips remains one of the most effective ways to introduce them to the natural world. Explore a local trail or forest together. Encourage questions and observations. Visit a nature reserve or botanical garden where young people can observe plants and animals in a natural environment and speak with experts.

Reading books

There are tonnes of books children can read to learn about nature. Check with local conservation NGOs for books or stop by a bookshop.

Watching videos and documentaries

There are many wildlife documentaries available for children (and adults!). They provide valuable insights into species' behaviour, adaptations, and interconnectedness through visual experiences. Media companies like BBC and National Geographic offer many of these on their websites and YouTube channels. There are also educational documents produced by local conservation NGOs. Social media also has videos about local wildlife.

Interactive games

Interactive nature-centric games can make learning fun and collaborative. As well as reinforcing ecological concepts, they promote teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Play card, board, or outdoor games themed around wildlife, or use storytelling and playacting to unravel complex issues.

Volunteering

Children can also learn about nature by participating in activities that benefit the environment. This sets a good example for children and helps them appreciate nature's challenges. Participating in beach clean-ups, for instance, can teach children about the ocean and its ecosystems. During turtle season, children can participate in beach patrols to learn about these ancient marine species. Planting trees can teach children about trees.

Make use of smart phones to record and learn about flora and fauna

Apps and virtual experiences

Technology can also be used to enhance nature experiences that are educational and interactive. Through virtual reality, augmented reality, and apps, children can explore ecosystems such as the ocean in their classrooms. They provide a unique perspective on wildlife and environmental conservation.

Photography and Videography

You can use smart devices to teach about plants and animals by recording, identifying, and learning about them. Social media or apps like iNaturalist can be used to share photos and videos.