Reading is the perfect way to teach kids to care about the planet
It’s never too early to begin teaching your children the importance of being eco-conscious, especially with issues regarding climate change and global warming currently being at the forefront. The most simple and meaningful way to do that is to curl up together and read some books together.
There are numerous educational books that come with wonderful illustrations and lessons on topics such as recycling and protecting endangered animals, as well as daily tips on how to reduce waste, the power of community and more. After all, our children are the leaders of tomorrow and their eco-friendly choices will help create a positive impact on the world.
Here are eight of our favourite reads that will inspire your kids to make a difference...
1. Miss Maple’s Seeds
Wheeler StudioAuthor Eliza Wheeler’s beautiful story is about kind and gentle Miss Maple who gathers lost seeds and finds them a place to grow while nurturing them every step of the way. Children will love the whimsical pictures in this bestseller that’s been read during a storytime session with former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Available on Amazon
2. Greta’s Story: The Schoolgirl Who Went on Strike to Save the Planet
This true story of determined young eco-activist Greta Thunberg will inspire both children and adults alike. Author Valentina Camarini details why Thunberg started her solo protest Fridays for Future, and how she continues to demand action against climate change across the globe.
Available on Amazon
3. My First Heroes: Eco Warriors
This illustrated book by Nila Aye is a delight for curious preschoolers who will learn all about the environmental heroes in our world,such as David Attenborough, Isatou Ceesay, Greta Thunberg and John Muir. It’s filled with bright pictures, lots of facts and is very easy to follow along.
Available on Amazon
4. Plastic Sucks!
It sure does! This awesome guide by musician and environmentalist Dougie Poynter will help kids understand the harmful effects of single-use plastic, as well as offer tips on what they can do to cut down on waste and help protect the environment.
Available on Amazon
5. Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth
Author Mary McKenna Siddals gives kids a fantastic introduction to the importance of composting and the dos and don'ts when it comes to the bin. The illustrations are wonderful and kids will be set to start their own waste heap by the end.
Available on Amazon
6. Miss Fox’s Class Goes Green
Miss Fox inspires her class to take up earth-friendly habits, like riding a bike to school, grabbing a cloth bag for the market, turning the lights off when leaving a room and even taking shorter showers to save water. Soon enough, the entire school starts following her eco-friendly ways, and your kids will be inspired to do the same.
Available on Amazon
7. The Lonely Polar Bear
Here’s a moving book that will gently introduce your children to the threats animals are facing around the world due to climate change. Set in the Arctic, it follows the story of a young polar bear who wakes up alone after a big storm and the companions he makes afterwards.
Available on Amazon
8. The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with Chimps
Young animal-lovers will enjoy learning about one of the world’s most famous primatologists in this best-seller by Jeanette Winter. The story takes readers on a journey through Dr. Jane Goodall's childhood in London to her fascinating days in Tanzania observing chimps, and also explains why the primates face extinction today.
Available on Amazon