April is Earth Month, and the perfect time to reflect on what Mother Nature means to us. While time spent in nature is a proven boon to our health and well-being, our relationship to the great outdoors is increasingly complicated by the emerging signs of climate change surrounding us. From the rise in flash flooding to more humid weather and droughts, a changing environment can be difficult to ignore.
According to one 2018 review paper, children are already exhibiting high levels of concern over climate change, which can put them at risk of adverse mental health consequences such as depression, sleep disorders, anxiety and PTSD. When children express concern over environmental disasters or climate change, it can be challenging to find the right words.
In an interview with PBS News, conservation psychologist Susan Clayton, professor of psychology at the College of Wooster, shared her advice on how to approach the subject appropriately. Here are her key takeaways for having a successful climate conversation with the kids in your life:
- Start the conversation
Find out what your child has heard before diving into conversation — but don’t put it off. The reality is that children are exposed to talk of climate change in headlines, on TV and even in the classroom. According to Clayton, “Children get worried when they feel like something’s being kept from them because that means the problem is so bad that people aren’t talking about it.”
In other words, accept that shielding your child from the realities of climate change is unrealistic; and first broach the subject by getting the child’s perspective, focusing on their feelings and questions.
- Tailor an age-appropriate discussion
Young children are surprisingly resilient, so it’s best not to lie to them when asked a climate-related question. The most important message an infant or elementary-aged child needs to hear is that things will be okay. Clayton recommends using simple metaphors and providing basic facts, such as the blanket metaphor: the atmosphere is like a blanket keeping the Earth warm, but the gases we put in the air have made the blanket too thick now. On the other hand, older children and teens are ready for more details and nuances.
- Avoid defeatism
Everyone needs to feel secure, regardless of their age. The best way to cope with the stress of climate change is to understand what we can do about it — from turning off lights and faucets when not in use to recycling or discovering all the exciting ways humans are tackling climate change head-on with technology, intentional advocacy and community organizing.
With a little confidence, patience, and preparation, a tough conversation can be turned into a valuable teaching moment. Discover more ways to spark meaningful learning experiences at PBS.org/parents.
Further reading:
How to Raise Environmentally Responsible Kids
