Great Green Idea: Green Parenting: Going Green in the Classroom

Going Green in the Classroom

Going green in the classroom is a wonderful way to consistently teach children green living principles. When children are exposed to and use green living values on a regular basis, they will be more likely to continue carrying the values with them into adulthood.

Lesson Plans

Green living lesson plans can be used in teaching children. Teaching children why it is important to save the earth as well as unique ways to apply learning will provide a solid foundation to continue skills application long term. Skills can be applied in the area of math, science, writing, spelling, art and social studies.

Hands on Projects

Kids love to gain knowledge of and apply hands on skills. They are very curious and love to be busy. Hands on projects are a wonderful way to have fun and learn skills simultaneously. Gardening skills can be used within the classroom as well as learning to use recycled products creatively. Small animals can also be used in the classroom for study if allowed.

Field Trips

There are a variety of eco-friendly field trips that can be provided as a learning experience. Visiting the zoo, nature trail, botany shop, walking to a nearby park or even visiting a science museum can provide training in eco-friendly concepts.

Creating Green Online

Children can participate in projects that can be photographed and information placed online. Many teachers have personal educational websites with information and photographs of projects created within their classrooms. Some public school websites may also allow information to be added as well.

Older students can learn technology skills in setting up a website for green living principles. They can also share green living tips learned during the year on the website. Various projects can be created and displayed.

Green Classroom Supplies

Students and teachers can work together in green classroom supply evaluation. Students can evaluate how green their supplies are within the classroom. An action plan can also be developed to move closer toward a more eco-friendly supply closet.

Green Organizations

Students and teachers can be encouraged to make a difference by joining green organizations. Youth organizations that promote greener living include 4-H, Scouts, Student Environment Action Coalition and Earth Force.

Public Awareness Projects

Students can become involved in increasing public awareness pertaining to green living principles. Flyers or posters can be created and placed locally to remind the community to think about green living principles.

News Releases

News releases can also be given to local newspapers concerning projects students are working on and how they have made a difference in the environment. This is another avenue that can be used to promote increased awareness as well as inform the community of youth working to make a difference.