Children are naturally curious about the world around them. They notice the colour of the sky, the feel of grass under their feet, the bugs crawling on the pavement, and the sound of birds singing in the morning. Earth Day is a beautiful opportunity to tap into that curiosity and start meaningful conversations about caring for our planet.
The good news? You don’t need to be an environmental expert to talk to children about Earth Day. You just need a little time, a few simple ideas, and a willingness to wonder right alongside them.
Why start these conversations early?
Talking to young children about the Earth helps build a sense of empathy, not just for people, but for animals, plants, oceans, and everything in between. It also shows them that their actions matter, even when they’re small. When we invite children into the conversation early on, they grow up feeling connected to the planet and empowered to protect it.
And honestly? Some of the most thoughtful insights come from little minds.
10 Earth Day conversation starters for children
You don’t need a big plan, just a question or two to get them thinking. Here are some easy, open-ended ways to start the chat:
- “What’s your favourite thing about nature?”
- “If you could help any animal, which one would you choose?”
- “Where do you think our trash goes after we throw it away?”
- “Why do you think it’s important to keep the Earth clean?”
- “What would you do if you were in charge of taking care of the planet?”
- “What do trees do for us?”
- “If the Earth could talk, what do you think it would say?”
- “How can we help bugs, birds, or animals in our back garden?”
- “Have you ever picked up litter? How did it feel?”
- “What could we do as a group to help the Earth?”
These conversations don’t need to be long or serious. Let the children take the lead, even if their answers are wild or silly, that’s part of the learning process.
Activities that spark connection (and more conversation)
Pairing talk with hands-on experiences is a great way to keep things fun and meaningful. Here are a few simple, low-prep Earth Day activities to try together:
Nature scavenger hunt
Head outside with a short list: one flower, one bug, one bird, one tree, one piece of litter. Use it as a chance to talk about what each living thing needs to survive and how we can help.
Recycled art project
Grab clean recyclables and create something new: a robot, a flower, a bug, even a “rubbish monster.” Talk about how we can give things a second life instead of throwing them away.
Plant something
It could be a flower, a vegetable, or even a seed in a cup. Let them water it and track how it grows over time. This small act can open big conversations about ecosystems, care, and patience.
Build a bug hotel
Stack twigs, pinecones, leaves, and bits of bark in an old container to create a cosy space for tiny critters. Talk about how every creature has a role to play in the environment.
Keep the conversation going
The goal isn’t a perfect Earth Day, it’s to keep the conversation going throughout the year. Here are a few ways to build on their natural interest:
- Read picture books about nature and animals
- Watch child-friendly Earth Day videos together and ask questions afterward
- Let them take the lead on a simple eco-friendly project (like turning off lights or recycling)
- Model the behaviour you want to see, children notice more than we think
Even small actions can grow into lifelong habits when we help children feel involved and valued.
What did your children say?
We’d love to hear how Earth Day conversations go in your classroom or setting. Did your children surprise you with an idea? Say something that made you laugh? Ask a big question you weren’t expecting? Share with us @kcsearlyyears
