Introduction:
Climate change is an urgent issue that affects everyone on the planet, and it’s essential to educate future generations about its causes and impacts. If you’re looking to engage kids and teens in climate learning, there are numerous free resources available to help make the process fun and informative. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of these amazing resources to enhance climate education for kids of all ages.
1. NASA Climate Kids (https://climatekids.nasa.gov/)
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) offers a comprehensive website dedicated to teaching children about climate change, complete with interactive games, engaging articles, and even an animated series. Topics include weather patterns, renewable energy sources, and how kids can take action against climate change.
2. Climate Literacy & Energy Awareness Network (CLEAN) (https://cleanet.org/)
CLEAN is a collection of over 700 various learning tools specifically designed to engage students in climate-related subjects. Their resources include high-quality interactive simulations, informative videos, and lesson plans – all targeted at different grade levels.
3. Global Weirding with Dr. Katharine Hayhoe (https://www.globalweirdingseries.com/)
Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, a renowned climate scientist, hosts this YouTube series covering various aspects of climate change in an engaging way. The videos use storytelling techniques mixed with scientific facts to help viewers understand complex topics related to climate science.
4. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Education Resources (https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/climate)
NOAA’s extensive collection of educational resources can help children better understand the science behind weather patterns and their relation to our earth’s overall health. NOAA offers materials such as data visualizations, toolkits for educators, multimedia presentations, and games aimed at simplifying the complex world of climate science.
5. Climate Kids – The Earth Institute, Columbia University (https://climatekids-education.explainingclimatechange.com/)
This resource provides diverse educational materials in alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Find inquiry-based activities that focus on resilience, climate change’s impacts, and potential solutions—ideal for both educators and parents seeking to engage children in climate education.
6. Project Learning Tree (https://www.plt.org/)
Project Learning Tree is an environmental education organization offering climate-related learning opportunities for various age groups. Their lessons and classroom activities focus on core subjects like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as they relate to the environment and climate change.
7. Tiki the Penguin’s Guide to Energy and Climate Change (http://tiki.oneworld.org/energy/tour.html)
This inviting website featuring Tiki the Penguin aims to teach children about energy use and its impacts on our planet. The resources include engaging illustrations, activities, and quizzes that foster an interest in climate education in young learners.
Wrapping Up:
Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today. To ensure that future generations are well-equipped to deal with its challenges and work towards meaningful solutions, it is crucial to educate them from an early age. Utilize these free resources to engage kids in climate learning that is both enjoyable and informative.
