Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
Official website: https://www.earthday.org/
The day is a perfect opportunity to teach young students about environmental responsibility and caring for the planet.
Upcycled Art Project
Encourage students to think creatively about reducing waste by making art from recycled materials.
- Activity: Ask students to bring in clean recyclable items (like cardboard, plastic bottles, or egg cartons) and provide art supplies to turn these materials into sculptures, collages, or decorations. Focus on the theme of “reduce, reuse, recycle.”
- Extension: Display the upcycled art around the classroom or school as part of an Earth Day exhibit to inspire others to reduce waste.
Plant a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
Teach students the importance of biodiversity by planting flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
- Activity: Work together to plant a small garden or flower pots with pollinator-friendly plants like lavender, wildflowers, or marigolds. Explain how these plants help support bees and butterflies, which are crucial for pollination.
- Extension: Link this activity to a science lesson about the life cycle of plants and the role of pollinators in food production.
More on Teachers’ Corner
Why not try a Scavenger Hunt around natural objects.
Developing independence with a local scavenger hunt
Or make a Butterfly Feeder
Making a Butterfly Feeder: Four design ideas
