Sustainability starts at home

Just turn on the TV or connect to the internet and there it is: the sustainability. Although many of us do not even know the real meaning of this word, there is no denying its presence in our daily lives. And what really matters is knowing its purpose: to protect the life of the planet we live on for the good of all and future generations.

I believe many also feel that our small attitudes influence very little or nothing in this endeavor, especially when faced with research into the magnitude of the problem. But we must be aware that we are co-responsible and that we can do something to reverse this picture. And our small daily actions are capable of bringing about a big change.

The Environmental Education? already part of the school curriculum in many institutions? It should not be restricted to the educational environment, nor should it be understood as the sole and exclusive task of the teacher. On the contrary, it needs to start at home, with instruction and especially the example of parents and family.

The child's cognitive development stems from the concrete plane to the abstract plane. Translated, does this mean that little ones learn through playful activities? like games and jokes? oriented to having fun and being meaningful at the same time, the so-called "learning by playing" so that they can think about things that are not "tangible", such as future consequences, feelings, symbols and moral laws.

Thus, responsible attitudes towards the environment need to start at home in a playful and pleasant way, and small actions make all the difference in this process.

Allow the child to participate in moments such as separating organic from recyclable waste and preparing meals? within its limits, worth stressing? explaining to her about the importance of rational use of natural resources like water? These are fun activity options that literally combine business with pleasure.

Use stalks, barks and leaves with the child during meal preparation and explain the amount of vitamins in these elements? often dismissed by the majority of the population for sheer lack of knowledge? further enhances learning on the subject.

In food manipulation, the child develops his logical reasoning and his visual, tactile, olfactory and taste perceptions by coming into contact with different tastes, shapes, smells, quantities, colors and textures. In addition, when helping with housework, she understands notions of responsibility, autonomy, self-confidence, and solidarity.

Sustainable development and conscious consumption should be part of young people's lives from an early age. After all, a healthy planet is the most valuable asset they can inherit.

Sustainability Starts At Home, CECED (April 2024)