As spring kicks into high gear in most of the country, families are taking advantage of being outside and my family is no exception.
Aside from my partner being excited at the prospect of wearing shorts again (even in 7 o C degree weather!), our two-year old will be experiencing the outdoors for the first time as a fully functioning bipedal individual (she was still crawling this time last year). Everything is a wonder for her – the ants in our backyard patio, the spring flowers in bloom everywhere, and the pinecones lying about in the yard.
Building an appreciation for nature at a young age doesn’t have to be formally planned with say, a scheduled hike at a provincial park an hour’s drive away. While those types of trips are worthwhile, simple outings such as going to the local park or spending time in your backyard (e.g. gardening or hanging up home-made bird feeders) can also nurture your child’s love of nature. If we, as parents, foster empathy with the natural world in our children at an early age, then there’s a good chance that they won’t be buying a gas-guzzling SUV when they grow up.
Make a difference − share this environmental tip with your friends.
Tina says:
13 June 2008 at 3 h 57 minIt’s the simple things in life that are most memorable and learning through sight, taste and smell will create a lasting impression in your toddlers mind.