Backyard Environmental Learning Activities for Kids and Families
Become an activist
Even little kids can comprehend the impacts of human activity on the environment when you spot rats and coyotes in the city during daytime or show them pictures of dolphins swimming in Venice’s canals. While everyone is at home, take the time to transform information into action.
Students can study endangered habitats and species around the world through artist John Dyer’s Last Chance to Paint project. Then they can submit their own artwork inspired by endangered species for display in the online World Gallery. They can also post the artwork to social media — and tag elected officials when they do it.
Kids of all ages can use the new Earth Challenge app to become a citizen scientist, linking local environmental data collection with digital political action. Picking up litter as part of the Great Global Cleanup pairs nicely with this app. Earth Day Network also suggests the following age-based environmental endeavors:
- Ages 4 and older: Reduce bird collisions with DIY CD sun catchers
- Ages 7 and older: Make a bee condo
- Ages 10 and older: Plan an invasive-species cleanup
- Ages 12 and older: Plant a wildflower garden
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in 2021 and has been updated for 2022.
