Arta Rūdolfa, Ketlīna Tumase, University of Latvia, Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology
The first chapter of the GREENCODE project’s Activity Book, titled “Planet Earth – Everything is connected,” emphasises the interconnection of nature, offering learners a look at both “Ecosystem cycles” and “Food chains.” But is it worth introducing young children to these essentially complex concepts, and if so, why?
We believe that educating young children about natural cycles is important for several reasons. Firstly, learning about natural cycles, even if only learned lightly, gives children an understanding of the natural world, the laws of nature, and the fact that everything in nature is repetitive – the food chain, the water cycle, even the seasons change repetitively.
Secondly, realising that at preschool age, we are looking at little “explorers” who are eager to learn about the world by getting to know and investigating nature around them, it is possible to stimulate students’ interest in exploring more deeply how living organisms grow, live, change, and interact with the environment. This supports the development of scientific thinking (inquiry-based learning) by encouraging children to observe, ask questions, and reflect on natural processes.
Thirdly, the realisation that everything in nature is connected promotes environmental awareness and responsibility. By getting to know nature and realising that every organism in nature has its role, we can encourage the desire to protect and care for nature and the planet Earth.
This, in turn, lays the foundation for the fourth reason – it creates a basis for sustainable thinking, as by learning about cycles in nature, students can start to understand that our (human) actions have consequences (for example, the impact of pollution on water cycles).
Learning about various topics related to natural sciences, including teaching children about natural cycles, lays the foundation for both research in the learning process and responsibility for the environment, as well as a deeper emotional connection with the surrounding world.