Learning About The Environment - Resources To Help Your Kids Reduce Their Carbon Footprint

Children are far more aware of the environment these days than you might think. It is a theme that is mentioned frequently at school and this is good for the future of the planet. If you are keen to help your kids get more information, involve them in the recycling process or explain the idea of carbon footprints to them, then there is plenty of help. There are many excellent books available now aimed at children of various ages that can help them to figure out what they can do to save the environment.

Here’s a look at some of the best books currently available in the market starting from infants through to teenagers.

“Why Should I Recycle?” by Jen Green helps kids ranging from 4-8 years to understand the value of recycling through simple lessons given by Mr. Jones. Mr. Jones is a teacher who takes kids in the story on class trips, teaches them to recycle trash and generally sets a good example. Filled with lovely illustrations and an entertaining story this cute book teaches very young kids the importance of protecting their planet. With crisp text that’s easy to read, this book sets the tone for the four part series that follows which teaches kids to save energy, save water etc. Notes at the back of the book recommend ways for parents or teachers to make the most of the book.

For children aged 9-12 years there’s “The Three R’s: Reuse, Reduce, Recycle” by Nuria Roca. This cute little book teaches kids to reduce pollution by reusing old hand-me downs and other products that they would ordinarily throw away. It teaches them to also reduce the number of things they throw away along with more information on how to recycle cans, bottles etc.

“A Child’s Introduction to the Environment: The Air, Earth, and Sea Around Us- Plus Experiments, Projects, and Activities YOU Can Do to Help Our Planet” by Michael Driscoll offers a more comprehensive view for kids in the same age group. Printed on recycled material it explores the world around us with beautiful watercolor illustrations. There are lots of ideas for experiments that kids can do along with project ideas and interesting facts. Peel-off stickers with environmental messages like ‘recycle’ and ‘unplug’ can be found in a special packet inside the book and are a terrific hit with kids which makes for a great daily reminder on how they can do their part for the environment .

Teenagers will benefit from “Generation Green: The Ultimate Teen Guide to Living an Eco-Friendly Life” by Linda Sivertsen. This is a great little book that teaches teens to make a difference in the world by making small changes in their lifestyle. Not only does it give teenagers a good overview of the most serious issues threatening our planet but it also offers them lots of practical tips on traveling, shopping and eating green. There are interesting interviews with responsible teenagers who are involved in environmental causes along with explanations on how young adults can really turn things around with their efforts. It’s an inspirational book that empowers teenagers to create a better future in ways both big and small.

These are just a few of the books out there that teach kids to be responsible regarding the environment. There are many online resources to help kids go green and a general search should give you some great information. Good luck!