Courtesy of BBC Newsround
Courtesy of BBC Newsround
In a world of booming technologies and busy lifestyles, it’s easy to forget about the natural beauty in life, that is, the life around us that makes up our beautiful planet, Earth. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd every year. Here at SSCC, we want to show some appreciation for our planet and encourage some at home activities to celebrate Earth Day.
The first Earth day was in 1970. This year marks the 51st anniversary of Earth Day. For years, people from all different communities have gotten together on this day to help take care of the Earth. These activities included picking up litter, planting trees, and learning about the nature around them. (The Old Farmer’s Almanac). These are things we can do in our own neighborhoods or local parks. You could even take a walk outside just to observe and really enjoy nature. It’s important for children to also take part in this. Being outside surrounded by plants, animals, sunlight, and fresh air is good for everyone and it can help us feel connected with the world around us. In fact, it’s proven to be so beneficial that there is even a new kind of therapy called ecotherapy, revolving around mental health and nature. According to Healthline, in an article titled, Ecotherapy and the Healing Power of Nature, ecotherapy can help improve mental health. Research states that ecotherapy can help with creating a higher resilience to stress, help with nervous system recovery, benefit those living with PTSD, and benefit one’s overall mental well-being. (Healthline).
If you can’t plant a tree or go out into your community, you can do some little things at home that can make a difference. Be sure to share these moments with your children. A few activities include:
- Watching a nature documentary
- Planting flowers, vegetables, herbs, etc. in your yard
- Watering the plants in your garden
- Teaching your children about the importance of recycling
- Teach children the importance of not wasting water or food
- Taking a walk outside and being observant of what is around you
We want to wish you a Happy Earth Day at SSCC! Please take some time to stop and smell the roses.
References
“Earth Day 2020: What’s It All about? – CBBC Newsround.” BBC News, BBC, 22 Apr. 2020, www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/52357230.
Editors, The. “10 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day at Home.” Old Farmer’s Almanac, Earth Day 2021, 24 Mar. 2021, www.almanac.com/content/earth-day-date-activities-history.
Raypole, Crystal. “Ecotherapy and the Healing Power of Nature.” Ecotherapy: Types, Benefits, and DIY Tips, Healthline, 31 Aug. 2020, www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/ecotherapy.
