Children encouraged to adopt green lives

Children need plenty of stimulating experiences and getting out into the countryside is one way of opening up the world to children.

According to a social survey published by an ethnology and anthropology research association in 2014, 78% of kids under six years old use digital devices. The researchers indicated that increased reliance on mobile digital devices rather than physical activities and human interaction could be potentially harmful for young children.

"Young children that focus too much on digital devices can sometimes suffer from poorer communication skills and self-awareness about the life", Dinh Thai Son - human development expert - said.

It is suggested that one of the best way parents can keep their children away from mobile devices is by encouraging environmentally friendly living at home and outside.  And the facts show that children excited by outdoor activities such as visiting farms.

Thanks to outdoor activities, the kids are provided with knowledge about the trees and the nature plays in daily life. They also learn how to distinguish the different kinds of trees or vegetables and use them to make food or herbal medicines.

In the family of Ha Quynh Anh – a 9 years old girl, her parent not only give her the chance to coming outside, but also teaching her the way to living green and protect environment at home.

"Children are now brought up in apartment buildings without natural spaces. They don’t have the base knowledge necessary about nature. I think, farms, particularly organic farms, provide positive conditions for young children to get closer look to agriculture, nature and increase their love for Mother Earth. Someday, they will recognise that land is where to live and build houses, or bury garbage, but also create and feed as the source of our sustenance", Nguyen Thanh Phuong, Tue Vien organic farm, said.

"I think the most important thing is to create a green life for young children through parental teaching. Parents can raise their children to love to nature and animals by planting trees or feeding pets at home. You should try to understand what your children want. Parents play a particularly important role in encouraging children to live a green life", Dinh Thai Son - human development expert - added.

Besides spending time outdoors, the best way for parents to ensure that children embrace a greener life is to teach children about recycling now so that they grow up with awareness about waste and an appreciation for preserving resources. Thanks to these efforts, future generations may see a healthy, green planet.