How to explain climate change to kids

How to explain climate change to kids
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Global warming and its effect on Climate change is a topic often discussed at length in adult circles. Sometimes the discussion is so discouraging; however, as to be somewhat scary for children. When adults try to explain the broad scientific causes and implications of global warming and climate change to children, it can be difficult to put it into terms the child can easily understand. But because children will have to deal with this legacy it is important that we teach them how their environment works and how climate change effects it. Here are some suggestions for ways to approach the subject with your kids.

The Environmental Protection Agency has created a site just for kids to teach them about climate change. The Climate Change Kids Site has a number of resources that are useful for children and for those who wish to teach children about the climate. The best place to start on the Climate Change for Kids Site is the explanation of climate change. The information is provided in small chunks and has graphics on each page. Terms that may be unknown to a child, such as atmosphere or greenhouse gasses, are linked to definitions as well as pronunciation guides. Providing definitions along with the explanation makes it easier for the child to grasp some of these complex concepts. Some of the concepts discussed within the explanation are explored further throughout the site. Concepts such as greenhouse gasses, weather, and the climate system all have their own sections. In addition to explanations and definitions there are also interactive games for children to explore that help reinforce the new ideas.

Once a child understands what climate change is as well as the causes that are attributed to humans, he or she may wonder why it is important. This is also addressed on the website. Additionally, suggestions for how individuals can positively impact climate change are provided. The Climate Change for Kids Site is a great resources for adults who want to impart environmental awareness to their children or students. Teaching children how their actions impact the environment will lead to a healthier future for everybody.