Fostering environmentally responsible behaviours in young children is an essential part of preparing them to be active, engaged citizens of the world. 

Educators have a powerful role to play in instilling a sense of responsibility towards the planet in children from a young age. 

The National Quality Framework (NQF), the National Quality Standard (NQS), and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) all provide strong messaging about the importance of embedding sustainability practices in early childhood settings.

This guide offers practical advice and examples to help educators teach young children about the environment and sustainability, all aligned with the NQF, NQS and EYLF.

1. Incorporating Sustainability into Everyday Routines

National Quality Standard (NQS) Link: Quality Area 3 – Physical Environment

A well-organized, sustainable environment supports children’s learning. By embedding sustainability practices into your physical environment, you set the stage for children to engage with nature and the world around them.

Practical Tips:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Make recycling part of your daily routine. Set up designated bins for paper, plastic, and organic waste. Teach children how to sort their waste and the importance of recycling.
• Energy Conservation: Teach children to switch off lights and electronics when not in use. You could even create a simple “energy-saving” game to make this habit fun.
• Sustainable Resources: Use natural materials such as wooden blocks, fabric, or other loose parts found in nature for play rather than plastic toys. Incorporating plants into your indoor or outdoor spaces can also teach children about living ecosystems.

2. Learning Through Play: Nature-Based Activities

EYLF Link: Learning Outcome 2 – Children are connected with and contribute to their world

Learning outdoors allows children to form a deeper connection with nature and the environment. Providing opportunities to play in natural settings fosters an appreciation for the natural world.

Practical Tips:

• Gardening: Involve children in planting and caring for a garden. Whether it’s a vegetable garden or flowerbeds, this activity offers practical lessons on how to care for the Earth. Children can learn about the food cycle, the importance of water, and how plants grow.
• Nature Walks: Take children on nature walks in nearby parks or your local environment. Encourage them to notice the small details, like the different types of trees, birds, and insects. Discuss why these elements are important for the health of the planet.
• Upcycled Art: Turn recyclable materials into art. By using items that would otherwise be thrown away (e.g., cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, fabric scraps), children can create art and crafts while learning about the value of reusing resources.

3. Modeling Environmentally Responsible Behaviours

NQS Link: Quality Area 5 – Relationships with children

Children learn best when they observe the behaviours of trusted adults. By modeling environmentally responsible actions, educators set a positive example for children to follow.

Practical Tips:

• Personal Example: Show children your own commitment to sustainability. For example, bringing a reusable water bottle or lunchbox to work, or bringing in recycled materials from your home. These small actions can have a big impact on children’s understanding of environmental responsibility.
• Discussing Environmental Topics: Use storybooks, songs, and discussions about nature and the environment as part of your teaching. Educators can highlight topics such as caring for animals, saving water, or reducing waste through picture books and discussions tailored to the children’s developmental stage.

4. Community and Global Awareness

EYLF Link: Learning Outcome 3 – Children have a strong sense of wellbeing

Fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment encourages children to think beyond their immediate surroundings and consider the global impact of their actions. Connecting children to broader issues can enhance their sense of community and belonging.

Practical Tips:

• Local Environmental Projects: Early learning services can often participate in community-based environmental projects like neighbourhood clean-ups, tree planting, or local wildlife conservation efforts. By involving children in these activities, you provide them with hands-on experience in protecting their community and the planet.
• Global Awareness: Introduce children to global environmental issues through age-appropriate resources such as stories about endangered animals, deforestation, or pollution. While these topics must be approached sensitively, they help develop empathy and a sense of global stewardship.

5. Embedding Sustainability into the Curriculum

NQS Link: Quality Area 1 – Educational Program and Practice

A high-quality educational program incorporates environmental education as part of children’s overall development. The EYLF emphasises the importance of sustainable practices and environmental responsibility in fostering children’s learning.

Practical Tips:

• Sustainability Themes in Learning: Integrate sustainability into various learning areas. Educators can use intentional teaching experiences to explore topics like water cycles, renewable energy, and the role of animals in the ecosystem. Use stories, songs, and activities that highlight environmental issues.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: Encourage children to ask questions about the environment and explore answers together. For instance, ask “What happens to the rubbish we throw away?” or “Why do plants need sunlight to grow?” This helps develop critical thinking and a deeper understanding of environmental issues.

6. Creating a Sustainable Learning Environment

NQS Link: Quality Area 3 – Physical Environment

The environment in which children learn plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability. A well-designed, eco-friendly space encourages children to engage with nature and practice sustainability in a tangible way.

Practical Tips:

• Natural Materials: Incorporate sustainable materials into your classroom, such as bamboo, cork, or fabric. Avoid plastic-based items where possible, and use secondhand or upcycled items to minimize waste.
• Outdoor Learning Spaces: Design outdoor learning areas where children can interact directly with nature. An outdoor classroom or a nature play area can encourage exploration and foster environmental curiosity.

Teaching young children about environmental responsibility is a powerful way to ensure they grow up with an understanding of how their actions affect the planet. As ACECQA reminds us, when it comes to sustainability, it’s more than just a worm farm. 

Through everyday practices, outdoor learning, and engaging activities, educators can inspire children to appreciate the natural world and adopt sustainable habits early in life.