How to Teach Children About Soil Conservation
Fertile soil is one the world's most important natural resources, and as the population grows and healthy soil becomes scarce, conservation becomes increasingly crucial. Healthy soil is required to support every living being on this earth, which is why it is so important to educate the younger generation about soil conservation.
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Instructions
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Take children on a short field trip to a place where they can dig small cross sections of earth to see the layers of soil, moisture and plant matter. This is a great way to explain to them that soil supports plant growth, helps plants supply food and oxygen for all of us and absorbs dangerous carbon dioxide and nitrogen.
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Ask children to help you make a dirt "pudding" that will demonstrate the differences in soils. The recipe, along with helpful pictures, can be found on the West Texas A&M University website (see Resources).
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Describe the dangers of soil erosion. Tell children that plant growth keeps the soil anchored and prevents the soil from being blown away or washed away by rain. Show the children "Why Erosion Happens" photographs found on the Managing Wholes website listed below.
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Assist children in planting a small garden. Use the garden to teach children how all plants depend on soil and how soil is affected by water and wind.
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Take children on a field trip to a local farm that practices conservation, and ask the farmer to explain his conservation techniques to the children. Ask your local United States Department of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Office to suggest a farmer that would be willing to help.
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Print out a copy of "I Dig Dirt," a coloring book presented by the USDA Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, to help illustrate the importance of healthy soil. The printable book can be found at the USDA's website.
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