Should children become experts on their local habitat?
What advantages does his create?
Of course children should become experts on their local habitat as this expertise will allow them to safely navigate, enjoy, and protect that habitat.
How do we forward this activity?
It's best to clearly synthesize local habitat study with the expected standards and programs for each grade level. This makes learning real and meaningful.
Too often people are distanced from their local habitat. They don't fully understand what that habitat includes and how best to enjoy and navigate their surroundings. This lack of understanding leads to a lack of value and care which in turn leads to much less enjoyable and inviting habitats. It's possible to enrich learning opportunities for young children while also increasing their awareness, commitment, and pride in their local surroundings.
Beautiful, healthy, and inviting surroundings uplift people and the lives they live--this is a call that is ripe for our efforts near and far, effort that will better our communities and lives.
