I think the best thing to do with kids on Earth Day is to spend your day playing outside. Maybe structure sometime to venture out on a hike or dig in the garden- but spending time together under the blue sky and on the green grass- is the best.

Now, that’s what I think everyone needs to do everyday. So what makes it special on Earth Day? Do it with intention.

Rather then spending your Green Hour outside, unconsciously having fun; put your heart into it… get connected with the Earth.

Maybe you need a physical connection: roll in the mud, dig in the dirt, climb a tree, catch a frog, dive into a fresh water pond, learn the song of a bird, hug a tree, or maybe even eat a worm.

Get connected.

Anyone can pick up garbage, or plant a tree; outstanding people feel up-lifted and nurtured by doing this.

A couple weeks ago I lead a  workshop for early childhood educators on Linking to Nature. I really think one of the most important things for caregivers to do is explore their own beliefs and limitations about playing outside.

So, of course, we went outside on a scavenger hunt and got connected to nature.

Each group got a list of items to find outside. It was a windy, cold day and even this self-proclaimed “nature nut” had a tough time hanging out in that weather!

Despite this, these teachers did it and upon returning to the classroom, I asked them to create something with their items.

Here’s what two groups made:

Here in my backyard, this is what we’re planning to do for Earth Day- we’re gonna head out to the pine forest and create Earth Sculptures- some might even call them “alters” to the Earth.

Above all, my intention will be to share with the children the magnificence of our World and honor the piece of the Earth that we live with.

I’ll be sure to take pictures and share them here later this week!

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Thanks once again for joining the Nature and Children Blog Carnival link-up. I’ve enjoyed each moment reading all the spectacular posts submitted the past few weeks.

In honor of Earth Day I am keeping the links open until 11:59 pm 4/22/10. Share what you did for the day (or stay unplugged)!

I am a part of such an outstanding group of nature lovers and each of you make my connection to the Earth a little better every day.

Thank you- from the bottom to the top of my heart.

Come back next week too! (Ain’t this kinda fun- like a mid-summer campfire cookout?)

Themes:

April 28th Mayday and Kids

May 5 writer’s choice

Please remember to link back to this post and other then that- unplug and get outside!

~ Shannon (The Backyard Mama)

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