Celebrating Youth and Nature

September is a time of change and transition.  For many Canadian children and students, it’s time to head back to school.  Summer is almost over, leaves are changing, and we start to trade our shorts and sandals in for jeans and scarves.   Fall is also a time when we are all getting back into our regular routines, so why not use this chance to add a few new activities into the old mix?  This September, we’re highlighting a few fun and easy ways students, families, and teachers can explore the outdoors and help build a healthy future for our planet.  Here are a few ways you can get involved:
Schools for a Living Planet
WWF-Canada’s Schools for a Living Planet program empowers educators and students of all ages with the tools and resources they need to lead us into a sustainable future. Elementary teachers can take advantage of our free, curriculum-linked lesson plans to download and integrate into their classrooms. Check out our newest resource that teaches students about monarch butterflies and how they can help conserve this species.

Join the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup
This annual cleanup is one of the largest environmental events in Canada and a great way to help our planet.  With hundreds of cleanup events organized around the country, you can gather your family, classroom, environmental club or friends together to be part of the solution to keep our waterways healthy.  Join a cleanup in your area or organize your own and help keep litter off of shorelines.

Take a Hike
Despite all of the change that happens at this time of the year, it’s one of the best times of the year to GET OUTSIDE!  It’s not too hot, it’s not too cold.  It’s juuuuussstttt right.   Explore a new trail, hop on a bike, or go for a stroll around your neighbourhood and connect with nature.

Young adults leading the way
There are many opportunities for secondary and post-secondary students to get involved in initiatives that can make a difference. Check out opportunities to join existing environmental clubs at your high school or college/university campus or think about starting your own. It’s a fun way to inspire your peers while raising awareness.

Stay tuned this month as we share some of our staff’s favourite memories of being outside as a kid and we hope you’ll share your stories with us too: what are your stand-out memories of being outside as a kid?