How best to talk to kids about climate change
Growing up in a time of climate crisis isn’t easy. Images of deforestation, melting glaciers and wildfires seem everywhere.
The scale and severity of the situation is difficult for adults to comprehend. Children can find it overwhelming.
The temptation is to tell them not to worry, but this will add to their genuine concern that this issue is being ignored by the ‘grown-ups’. Focus instead on positive solutions.
Here are some tips ...
Listen
Listen to their worries and acknowledge them. Don’t dismiss them out-of-hand. Empathise and show you’re concerned too.
Empower
Empower without making them feel overly responsible. Tell them we all have a role to play in addressing this issue – but it’s not all on them.
Point out they’re not alone. Talk about all the people who are also worried and striving to effect change. Look at the work of green charities and activists.
Remind them that everyday actions add up
Taking everyday actions – like eating less meat or snuggling under a blanket instead of turning up the thermostat – can empower kids.
Remind them that it’s impossible to live a completely pollution-free life. We need lots of people going green imperfectly, rather than a few doing it perfectly.
Help manage digital activities Social media has a huge effect on children’s moods. Scary statistics and gloomy predictions are worrying for anyone.
It’s important to stay informed, so follow accounts that offer a solutions-based outlook like @zero.waste.collective, @ thegreenhub, @ouronehome and @lowimpactmovement sites.
Make sure children are looking at websites that talk about climate change in an age-appropriate way. Designed specifically for children, NASA’s Climate Kids website has a wide range of resources, including videos and games.
Highlight the positive
It’s not all doom and gloom. Share positive climate stories as a reminder that change is possible.
Make green family spending decisions
Discuss with your children which products your family buys. There are sustainable alternatives for everything, from food and fashion to cars and bank accounts. If the green alternative is more expensive, ask your children if they would be happy to go without something to pay for it.
Help them join or start a group with friends
Joining climate-focused community and action groups can really help with feelings of anxiety. Working towards tangible solutions with others gives kids a greater sense of comfort and control.