Early childhood is a wonderful time to involve children in education about sustainability and commence developing lifelong practices. It is important that we educate children to realise the significance of caring for and protecting their environment. 

Our aim in the Early Learning Centre is to promote a positive and proactive attitude towards sustainability. We believe it is important to engage children in developmentally appropriate sustainable practices that meet their level of understanding and help them make connections in their everyday lives. 

“Teaching children about the natural world should be seen as one of the most important events in their lives.” Thomas Berry 

Sustainability begins with making a connection to nature. The children in Campbell House are provided with many opportunities to connect with nature through hands-on experiences. The children engage in planned and spontaneous learning experiences where they explore, observe, question, and investigate the natural world around them. They are often excited by their discoveries of living and non-living things. These discoveries provide provocations for further questions and research. 

Sustainable practices are embedded in our everyday routines within the ELC. At mealtimes, the children recycle their food scraps and packaging. Paper recycling is also promoted within the classroom. The children engage in gardening and composting experiences. When using water, the children learn about water conservation and water sources. Observations and discussions often centre around the weather and what causes changing weather conditions. 

There are so many opportunities for planned and spontaneous learning regarding sustainability both at home and in the ELC. Together we can make a difference to our world. Taking inspiration from the words of Dr Jane Goodall… 

“Together we can. Together we will.”