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In my weekly newsletters, I’ll explore how nature can help you and your family feel happier, calmer, and inspired to protect the planet as we face multiple environmental crises. This last piece is more important than ever (have you read the news headlines lately?)

With this new generation of Ecohappiness Project, I’ll be covering more about the challenges we face to connect to nature, how ecohappiness relates to critical environmental issues like climate change and plastic pollution, the latest ecohappiness research, and how you can make a difference.

Some articles will be connected to a holiday, new research, or breaking news. I’ll also recommend books and other media, showcase awe-inspiring spots, highlight movers and shakers doing incredible work in this field, and suggest ways for you to explore nature and volunteer in your community.

For paid subscribers, you will be able to engage with this community in chats/threads to share ideas, stories, and resources as we address all types of ecohappiness topics like how to overcome barriers to spending time outdoors, our favorite ecohappiness hobbies, and how to develop a more consistent nature habit even as technology dominates our lives.

I am excited to announce that my book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, was named a winner in the 25th annual Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards in the Family and Relationships category.

Foreword Reviews, a book review journal focusing on independently published books, holds its INDIES Book of the Year Awards. The INDIES recognize the best books published annually from independent and university presses, as well as self-published authors.

Over 2,700 entries were submitted in 55 categories, with Foreword’s editors choosing approximately 10 finalists per genre. Those finalist books were then mailed to individual librarians and booksellers tasked with picking the Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Honorable Mention winners.

Learn more about the Foreword INDIES awards program.

Grab your copy, give some as gifts, and donate to a Little Free Library near you. And be sure to leave a review. Thank you!

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I am happy to announce that my book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, is a National Indie Excellence® Awards (NIEA) Finalist.

An established leader in publishing award contests, The National Indie Excellence® celebrate the analog book form as a vital sector of our industry. Recognizing excellence in all aspects of the final presentation, NIEA champions self-publishers and independent publishers who produce the highest quality books. Established in 2005, NIEA’s entrants are meticulously judged by experts from various disciplines of the industry including publishers, editors, authors, and book designers.

Winning and Finalist titles are determined on the basis of superior written content coupled with the various elements that comprise all the information in a published product. Jurors analyze titles across a spectrum of standards and metrics reaching a final consensus after their review.

Finding Ecohappiness was a Finalist in the Parenting and Family category.

Learn more about NIEA.

                 

 

Grab your copy, give some as gifts, and donate to a Little Free Library near you. And be sure to leave a review. Thank you!

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I am ecstatic to announce that my book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, was honored with a GOLD award from the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Benjamin Franklin Award program.

In May, I traveled across the country to San Diego for the much-anticipated awards ceremony. I knew I was a finalist and could win silver or gold that evening. But when I heard the title of my book announced as the gold winner in the parenting category, it was the most incredible feeling ever!

Here are some review comments from the award judges:

“A focused and important book. So many parents don’t consider the life-long benefits of establishing a relationship with nature and all the options it provides. The suggestions are simple and doable and break down the myth that a relationship with nature means trips to national parks and arduous camping outings.”

“This book was a joy to read. As I read through the chapters, I found myself remembering instances from my life in which spending time in nature made all the difference. I felt a renewed sense of commitment to give my daughter as many experiences in nature as possible after reading this book.”

“The book is very well-written, and I did not find any grammatical errors. The structure is consistent throughout, with activity checklists and resource lists in each chapter. The various nature pictures included in the text give the reader a feeling of peace and reinforce the author’s message. The tone is scientific, which is appropriate for the subject matter.”

“The book cover is intriguing and piques the interest of the reader. The attention to detail of the colors radiates and the text and format make for excellent readability, and a conversation starter all in its own.”

“The images used are engaging to the reader and provide insight on what the book is going to be about and makes you want to look at the bubbles and join the fun on the cover. There is consistency from the front to back cover with text that is spaced and throughout the book, the interior appearance is appeasing to the eye.”

Learn more about IBPA’s annual Benjamin Franklin Award program.

                 

 

Grab your copy, give some as gifts, and donate to a Little Free Library near you. And be sure to leave a review. Thank you!

ORDER NOW

        

     

                  

Earth Day is an annual worldwide event that reminds the need to protect and preserve the environment. It serves as a rallying cry for sustainability, encouraging individuals, communities, and organizations to take proactive steps. This significant event unites people in a shared mission to create a healthier and greener planet for future generations.

On the other hand, the environmental implications of hosting events like birthday parties can be significant, from excessive waste generation to high energy consumption and carbon emissions. Embracing eco-friendly practices can positively impact the environment and inspire others to do the same.

Reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing carbon footprint can help protect the environment. You can create memorable events to celebrate special occasions and demonstrate your commitment to a greener and more sustainable world.

For instance, planning and throwing a great 4th of July party incorporating eco-friendly practices can leave a lasting impression on attendees. Promoting sustainability in events demonstrates your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Adopting eco-friendly practices can help reduce environmental damage. Sustainability helps build your reputation and gives events a unique experience that people will remember. It can also lead to cost savings and operational efficiencies, making events more financially viable in the long run.

Here are some ways to go green at your next event:

Use Digital Communications

Using digital platforms can significantly reduce paper waste and minimize carbon footprint. It also eliminates the need for printed materials, making it the most convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option.  Here are some eco-friendly practices you can adopt:

• Choose electronic invitations instead of paper ones. You can send invitations and updates via email, social media, or event management platforms.
• Encourage guests to RSVP online and provide event details through digital channels. Minimize the use of printed materials and embrace technology for communication.
• Embrace digital signage and interactive screens instead of printing excessive paper materials.
• Offer eco-friendly promotional items such as reusable bags, bamboo pens, or recycled paper notebooks.

Promote Sustainability At The Venue

Hosting events online eliminates the need for attendees to travel, reducing carbon emissions and minimizing ecological footprint. A virtual event also saves resources like paper and energy. It allows participants to engage anywhere worldwide while reducing long-distance travel. On the other hand, if your event requires physical attendance, here are some ways you can promote sustainability:

• Choose event spaces that align with sustainable practices. Look for venues with green certifications, renewable energy sources, or eco-friendly building materials.
• Encourage attendees to bring their reusable water bottles and provide water stations instead of single-use plastic bottles. Use compostable or biodegradable food containers and cutlery.
• Promote carpooling, public transportation, or biking to the event. Provide bicycle parking and incentivize eco-friendly transportation options.
• Explore the use of solar panels or wind turbines to power the event. Minimize the use of generators and opt for energy-efficient lighting and sound systems.
• Use reusable or rented event décor, such as plants, fabric backdrops, or eco-friendly banners.
• Minimize the use of single-use decorations and opt for sustainable materials.
• Set up clearly labeled recycling and composting stations throughout the event space.

Adopt Eco-Friendly Food Practices

Prioritizing local, organic, and seasonal ingredients can help support local farmers, reduce transportation emissions, and ensure fresher and healthier meals. By making sustainable choices, you can offer delicious and nutritious meals and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious event experience. Sustainable seafood options, for example, protect marine ecosystems and promote responsible fishing practices. Additionally, adopting plant-based and vegetarian menu options conserves water and land resources.

Minimizing food waste through careful planning and proper portion control is also essential. Here are some suggestions to consider:

• Work with caterers who prioritize locally sourced and organic ingredients. Support local farmers and reduce carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation.
• Design menus based on seasonal produce, as it requires fewer resources for growth and transportation. Include vegetarian and vegan options to cater to different dietary preferences.
• Opt for compostable or biodegradable plates, cups, and utensils made from bamboo or plant-based plastics. Avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.
• You may donate the leftover food to local food banks or organizations. Consider donating decorations or other event items to community centers or charities.

Promoting sustainability at your events isn’t only beneficial for the environment but also adds a unique and responsible touch. By adopting eco-friendly practices, you can reduce waste, conserve resources, and inspire others to make sustainable choices. Remember, every small step counts towards creating a greener future. Celebrate joyous events while being mindful of your impact on the planet. It’s not impossible to host memorable ones that leave a positive imprint on your guests and the environment.

Spending time in water has a tremendously soothing effect, helping us to feel more relaxed and refreshed. Some believe this is because it is reminiscent of when we were in our mother’s womb surrounded by amniotic fluid. It may also be related to how the water makes us feel weightless and free. Studies show that floating can actually change our brain waves and reduce cortisol levels, therefore making us feel more relaxed.

Water sports offer a fantastic way for families to bond, relax, and engage in physical activities while enjoying the water outdoors. Whether it’s swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even water aerobics, there are numerous water-based activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Here are some examples to get started.

Swimming

Swimming is a versatile and low-impact activity. It is not only a great way to cool off during hot summer days, but also an excellent form of exercise that engages the entire body. Families can spend quality time together at the pool or even venture out to natural bodies of water such as lakes or the ocean. Swimming boosts endorphins that increase feelings of well-being. Plus, the rhythmic strokes and sound of water make swimming very soothing. Research shows that swimming produces the same relaxation response as yoga, increasing calming chemicals and allowing us to enter a meditative state.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Kayaking and canoeing provide a way for families to explore serene waterways while enjoying the tranquility of nature. These activities require teamwork, as family members coordinate their paddling to navigate through the currents. From calm lakes to winding rivers, kayaking and canoeing allow families to discover hidden gems of nature, observe wildlife, and create lasting memories. Additionally, these activities promote core strength, balance, and cardiovascular fitness.

Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding has gained popularity in recent years. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and physical exercise. This activity involves standing or kneeling on a longboard while using a paddle to glide across the water. The calm nature of this activity allows family members to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings while engaging their muscles to maintain balance. Paddleboarding not only targets the core muscles but also improves overall body strength and stability.

Water Aerobics

Water aerobics is a fun activity that involves performing various exercises and movements in waist-deep water, taking advantage of the water’s resistance to provide a challenging, yet low-impact workout. Water aerobics classes cater to people of all fitness levels, making them ideal for families with varying abilities. Participants can engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and even dance routines, all while enjoying the buoyancy and supportive properties of water.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is an exhilarating activity that entails exploring the wonders of nature. From colorful coral reefs to mesmerizing marine life, each snorkeling adventure unveils a treasure trove of natural beauty. Imagine swimming alongside tropical fish, spotting graceful sea turtles, and marveling at the kaleidoscope of coral formations. It’s an experience that will ignite the curiosity and wonder of every family member, while also getting plenty of exercise from paddling around.

Surfing

Hitting the waves is a fun and challenging activity. It offers a full-body workout that engages your muscles, improves balance and coordination, and increases cardiovascular fitness. Paddling through the water and maneuvering the surfboard build strength, while the constant motion challenges your core muscles. It also provides a much-needed escape from the stresses of everyday life. The sound of crashing waves, the feel of the saltwater on your skin, and the vastness of the ocean create a serene and tranquil environment. Surfing allows families to unplug from technology, connect with nature, and enjoy quality time together without distractions.

Water Volleyball

Played at a pool, beach, or lake, water volleyball offers a refreshing twist to the traditional game of volleyball. One of the major advantages of this water sport is its low-impact nature. The buoyancy of the water reduces strain on joints and muscles, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Additionally, the resistance provided by the water increases the intensity of the workout. Whether you’re spiking, diving, or simply enjoying the buoyancy of the water, this fun-filled water sport will help families bond, laugh, and stay fit.

By embracing these water-based activities, families can create lasting memories, strengthen their relationships, and reap the numerous physical and mental health benefits that come with engaging in outdoor pursuits. If you are wondering how to find water sports near me, do a search in your local area. If you live near the ocean, there will certainly be many choices. If not, head to the nearest lake or river. And, of course, pools are also a great place for water exercise, so check with local community centers for programs.

 

I am excited to announce that my book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, was just honored with The Arlene Book Award: Books That Make a Difference from American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA).

ASJA member Howard Eisenberg established the Arlene Eisenberg Memorial Fund to honor his late wife, the author of What to Expect When You’re Expecting and other bestselling books that made a difference in the lives of mothers worldwide. The winning book or freelance article must have “made a difference” by inspiring positive action within a locale or community, society, or the world. In the past, the award has been given for articles or books that inspired readers to do such things as lobby for legislation or form an advocacy group. Past winners have also stirred officials to launch an investigation, correct an injustice, or remove a hazard.

The judges reflected, “With technology so prevalent in our lives, sometimes too prevalent, connecting with nature feels more important than ever, and especially for kids. This book offers great practical tips that anyone with kids can immediately put into practice.”

Grab your copy, give some as gifts, and donate to a Little Free Library near you. And be sure to leave a review. Thank you!

ORDER NOW

        

     

                  

I am thrilled to report that my book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, was just honored with a GOLD Nautilus Book Award in the Parenting & Family – Focused Topic: Eco-Parenting category.

I am joining the ranks of incredible and inspiring authors like Deepak Chopra, Thich Nhat Hanh, Marianne Williamson, and many others who have won a Nautilus Book Award. This award recognizes and celebrates Better Books for a Better World. The goal of this program is to energize the interconnections between books, authors, publishers, readers, bookstores, and communities–and to be responsive to the world through the creative power of words.

Learn more about Nautilus Book Awards.

Grab your copy, give some as gifts, and donate to a Little Free Library near you. And be sure to leave a review. Thank you!

ORDER NOW

        

     

                  

 

I am excited to report that I received an award from Sierra Club’s Florida Chapter for my writing work, including my book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer.

Sierra Club’s Indigo Award is for a writer/journalist who contributed greatly through research and knowledge to uncover specific issues impacting the environment, environmental justice, or environmental policy in Florida. Read more about the award.

Grab your copy, give some as gifts, and donate to a Little Free Library near you. And be sure to leave a review. Thank you!

ORDER NOW

        

     

                  

 

While living in or visiting a city can often leave us feeling far away from nature, there are many fun, relaxing ways to connect to nature in an urban area. It might take some effort to find these types of activities in cities, but they are definitely there. From visiting a park to exploring a science museum to volunteering with a local organization to plant trees in the community, there are plenty of activities that can help you relax and find peace.

Keep reading to discover ways to connect to nature in any city for improved mental health. If you are just visiting a city for vacation, ease your mind by taking steps to keep your belongings safe while you go exploring with the many luggage storage solutions by mindmybag.com.

Look Up at the Sky

Looking at the sky is one of the simplest ways to connect with nature, because wherever you are, the sky will always be there. In the midst of an urban environment filled with billboards, moving cars, and crowds of people, you can lift your head for a moment to see the blue sky above you. No matter how tall the buildings are, they will never reach beyond the sky. Find a sit spot and enjoy the night sky to feel peace and tranquility.

Take an Early Morning Walk

Morning is the easiest time to get positive energy. You just need to go outside, walk around your neighborhood, and enjoy fresh air. No matter how busy the city is, it is calmer early in the morning. A this time of day can leave you feeling rejuvenated and closer to nature. See what animals you can spot, such as birds, bugs, butterflies, cats, and more. You can take photos of what you observe, since nature photography is a great way to help you practice mindfulness while snapping pictures with your camera.

Explore a Natural Science Museum

When you feel bored and lost inside an urban jungle, going to a not-so-usual place can be a mood lifter. Visiting a natural science museum will forge your connection with nature and help expand your knowledge about the surroundings.

Visit a Botanical Garden

A trip to a botanical garden is a fantastic way to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. Some even provide opportunities for recreational activities like birdwatching or fishing for those who are feeling adventurous. Not only is it a beautiful way to spend your day, but it also offers numerous mental health benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety and improving your mood.

Spend Time in a Nearby Park

No matter how much we love the hustle and bustle of city life, it is always nice to have a little greenery around. Luckily, most cities have parks where you can escape the concrete jungle and enjoy some nature. Whether you are into picnics, riding a bike, or taking a stroll by the lake, there is something for everyone in every city.

Go for a Swim

Swimming and being around water in a natural setting, such as a river, lake, or ocean, is a fantastic way to relax and connect with nature. If you can’t find a natural body of water in the city, opt for a swimming pool or venture beyond the city for a few hours to experience the water. The sound of waves or trickling water is especially soothing.

Check out a Farmers Market

Going to a farmers’ market is not just about getting fresh, locally sourced produce, it is also an opportunity to experience the natural beauty that can often be overlooked in the hustle and bustle of city life. At a farmers’ market, you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. You will be surrounded by colorful fruits and vegetables that are in season, smell the delicious aroma of freshly harvested food, and hear birds singing in the background. It is a chance to support your local community and farmers who are committed to growing healthy and sustainable food.

Plant Something

Planting something is an amazing way to connect with nature in any city! You don’t need a big backyard to do it, just a little creativity and some patience. You can start by filling a small pot with herbs or flowers and watch them grow, plant a vegetable garden in your backyard, or even grow some plants indoors. Gardening is a fun and rewarding hobby, and it is also good for the environment. Studies have shown that urban gardening can help reduce air pollution and improve mental health. Plus, it is a wonderful way to express your creativity and enjoy some delicious homegrown fruits and vegetables.

Volunteer with a Local Environmental Organization

Getting involved with a local environmental organization is an opportune way to make a difference in your city. There are plenty of groups out there that focus on sustainability, environmental protection, and conservation, so you are bound to find one that aligns with your values. You can help with activities such as planting trees, cleaning up beaches, or restoring habitats. Another way to get involved is by doing advocacy work, attending meetings or protests, or making donations to support their efforts. Joining an environmental organization can connect you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for protecting the planet and the local community.

Catch a Sunrise and Sunset

One of the most enchanting spectacles that nature has to offer is a sunrise and sunset. It is a breathtaking moment that can be experienced in any city, leaving you with a feeling of tranquility and calmness. Catch a glimpse of the colorful sky to lift up your spirits and set a positive tone for the rest of the day or help you unwind and relax after a long day.

 

Earth Day, which takes place every year on April 22, is a way to support environmental protection and enjoy the many incredible benefits that nature provides. Founded in 1970 when millions of Americans took to the streets and parks to demonstrate their support for our planet, this special holiday was created to inspire awareness and appreciation for environmental protection. Today, participants all around the world come together in their campaigns for plastic waste elimination, sustainable fashion, climate change, and other green initiatives to help make a difference and protect our environment.

Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our precious planet and remember that it is the only one we have—and it needs our help. By taking part in Earth Day activities like planting trees and cleaning up parks, we can ensure that our planet remains healthy and habitable for future generations. Your family can celebrate Earth Day in numerous ways—by attending events in person and online, organizing your own events, participating in environmental volunteer projects, or simply spending time outside as a family. Here are some fun ideas to celebrate on April 22 (and every day!) to make an impact and connect to nature.

Spend Time Learning

Teaching children about environmental issues can help pique their interest in and curiosity about nature, and may even lead them to want to take action. Read books; recite and write nature poetry; watch environmental shows and documentaries; take trips to nature centers, gardens, and scenic destinations; and participate in science education programs.

Local libraries are a great place to spend the day exploring environmental topics. There are story hours, dog reading programs, and other special events focused on nature topics. Many libraries now let you borrow science kits and outdoor exploration backpacks. Finally, look for a Storywalk® in your community, which consists of a children’s book placed on boards that are spread out so readers can walk (or run) from one page of the book to the next. It is an interactive way to read a book while also enjoying the outdoors.

Earth Day is the perfect time to read about ecohappiness! Grab a copy of my award-winning book, Finding Ecohappiness, and the children’s book I coauthored, Sky’s Search for Ecohappiness. There is even an adorable coloring book about Sky that would make the best gift for a young child.

Host an Earth-Friendly Feast

Every celebration needs a delicious meal, right? Take this opportunity to spend time together in the kitchen cooking a nutritious meal that supports our planet—whether that means vegetarian, vegan, or organic to your family. If you have your own garden, center the meal around the produce you nurtured. By savoring nature’s bounty, you can stop and appreciate how much we rely on the Earth to provide the many nutrients we need to stay healthy. Keep the festivities green by avoiding single-use plastics and other unnecessary waste, and enjoy time outside together. Opt for natural decorations like plants, flowers, produce, leaves, etc. instead of buying plastic ones that will just get tossed away.

Join an Earth Day Event

Look out for environmental-related events organized by local nature centers, science museums, libraries, schools, environmental groups, or local governments. You may be able to find an Earth Day Fair or concert in your community to attend. There are usually global events online as well to connect to people in different countries. Check earthday.org for event listings.

Organize a Virtual Earth Day Party

Earth Day is a great excuse to connect with friends and family no matter where they live. You can send an online invitation, get a group together through an online platform, and celebrate the planet together. Some activities that you can do include making an eco-craft, reading environmental poetry or books, writing letters to elected officials to support the environment, and playing nature-themed games like charades or jeopardy. You could even have everyone give a tour of their backyards or do a backyard scavenger hunt. 

Volunteer

In addition to encouraging children to spend more time outside enjoying nature, they can play a role in improving and protecting it through hands-on volunteer projects. Keep natural areas pristine and garbage-free by participating in a trash cleanup at a beach, lake, playground, or other location. Look for opportunities to volunteer at a local community garden to help with planting seeds, weeding, and picking fruits and vegetables. Often the fresh produce grown at a community garden is donated to local food banks. If your family loves animals, volunteer at a nature center, zoo, horse ranch, or animal shelter. Finally, make a big difference to beautify our world and reduce the impact of climate change by planting trees, flowers, and other vegetation in your community. This is such a positive, hands-on activity for children because they will get to see for themselves the impact they can have. Many towns host planting events and have goals to plant a certain number of trees annually. Check out Tree City USA for information in your area.

Support Environmental Organizations

When we give to others, we feel better and experience what is known as a helper’s high. Spend some time this Earth Day choosing one or more environmental organizations (local, national, or international) to either join or send a donation to. Some favorites include Sierra Club, World Wildlife Fund, Ocean Conservancy, and Earthjustice. Consider supporting an animal shelter, botanical garden, or nature center in your area.

Take the Ecohappiness Challenge

Tap into the power of nature to feel calmer and happier by challenging your family to find one way every day to connect to nature. These activities range from going for a mindful bike ride to listening to nature sounds to gazing at the stars. You can download your own FREE Ecohappiness Challenge Calendar filled with activities that can be done from inside your home, on your balcony, or in your backyard. Start your challenge on Earth Day and see how many days in a row you can connect to nature.

This guest post was written by Charlie Fletcher, a freelance writer from the lovely “city of trees”- Boise, Idaho. Her love of writing pairs with her passion for social activism and search for the truth. You can find more of her writing on her Contently.

Childhood today can look a lot different than in previous generations. Rather than playing outside with friends until the streetlights came on, as so many of today’s parents and grandparents did growing up, kids today are inside. They are spending the majority of their free time on technology, with very little connection to nature.

Such a pervasive and persistent disconnection from the natural world can have a profound and long-lasting impact on a child’s physical, mental, and emotional health. In addition, children who have little engagement with or understanding of the natural world miss out on invaluable opportunities for cognitive development and intellectual stimulation.

Robust environmental education, however, can not only help children develop an appreciation for the natural world, but it can also prepare them, personally and professionally, for the future. This is a particularly critical concern as the threat of climate change continues to increase.

This article examines the importance of environmental education for children and provides strategies for helping your children learn about nature in impactful ways.

Environmental Education and Mental Health

There is little disputing the fact that today’s children are facing a mental health crisis of breathtaking, and tragic, proportions. From the upheavals of the pandemic to the pressures of online learning to widespread civil unrest, children are drowning in a flood of uncertainty, anxiety, and bad news.

Spending time in nature, though, can be the perfect antidote to the stress and sadness of today’s troubled and chaotic world. For instance, getting outside and into nature can be a great way to alleviate the stress of online schooling while learning about science at the same time.

Birdwatching and leaf-peeping, for example, can be great ways to learn about biology and botany in a truly non-threatening environment. Indeed, the proven anti-anxiety attributes of nature can make learning processes far more productive and enjoyable than in the high-stress environment of the classroom.

Similarly, because knowledge truly is power, learning about the environment can be a terrific way to help children combat eco-anxiety, as they become empowered to live more sustainably.

Environmental Education and STEM Training

The stark reality that children today must face is the increasing danger of climate change. However, by educating kids about the environment from an early age, you are also preparing them to grapple with this threat in adulthood. Children with a deep understanding of ecology and the environment are more likely to grow into more environmentally-conscious adults, and might even choose to become scientists, technologists, and engineers who take the next great strides in the fight against climate change.

Indeed, though it may seem counter-intuitive, learning about nature, such as through citizen science projects, can be integrated seamlessly into science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. For instance, children who learn to integrate STEM processes and practices with environmental education are uniquely positioned to become innovators in green engineering. Their training may help them blaze new trails in resilient design, constructing buildings, planning communities, and creating materials that reduce or eliminate carbon emissions.

Evidence-Based Learning and Critical Thinking

Being in nature is not just a balm to the mind and spirit. Learning about the environment is also a powerful way to cultivate cognitive skills, particularly those relating to critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Nature is, after all, governed by the laws of cause and effect. There is perhaps no better way to discover the fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, and biology than by seeing them manifest in the ecosystem.

Such evidence-based environmental learning can also be a superb way to help children develop an appreciation of the impact humans have, both positive and negative, on the ecosystem. For instance, you may introduce your child to the myriad nature DIY videos available online relating to environmental projects. These projects encompass everything from planting an organic garden to cleaning up a beach, and they use active learning principles to teach kids about nature and the environment. In the process, children learn to problem-solve, think creatively, observe and ask questions about the world around them, and use the scientific method to find the answers.

Using Immersive Experiences for Environmental Education

Fortunately, you do not have to have an advanced degree in environmental science to ignite your child’s curiosity and cultivate their understanding. The first and most important thing you can do is to spend as much time as you can in nature.

You might start small by exploring your own backyard or by taking a walk around the neighborhood to see how many species of flowers, trees, birds, and insects you can identify. When you are ready to take things to the next level, then why not plan a family road trip to one of our great national parks?

Indeed, you might plan to visit a different national park each year, enabling your child to compare them and try to explain the differences they have noted. What better way to learn about the effects of climate than by contrasting the landscape of the Desert Southwest with that of snowy New England or the rainy Pacific Northwest?

The Takeaway

Starting your child’s environmental education can have a deep and abiding impact both on their cognitive development and their mental and emotional well-being. An understanding of and appreciation for nature helps children grow into healthier, happier, and more environmentally conscious adults. Such awareness is also critical in preparing children for the most fulfilling and important jobs of the future, particularly those dedicated to combating the threat of climate change.