Happy World Earth Day!
Every year on April 22nd, millions of people around the world come together to celebrate World Earth Day—a special moment to reflect on how we care for our planet. This is becoming more important as every year passes, as the issues we face become more prevalent and the knock-on effects more widely understood. As primary teachers, this day offers a golden opportunity to spark curiosity, conversation, and a sense of responsibility in our learners. But where did it all begin, and how can you bring it to life in your classroom?
The Roots of Earth Day
Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970 in the United States, a time when the environment wasn't widely seen as a major issue. A U.S. senator named Gaylord Nelson wanted to bring environmental concerns into the public eye. With the help of student organisers, the first Earth Day saw 20 million Americans take to the streets to demand cleaner air, water, and protection for nature.
Fast forward to today, and Earth Day is marked in over 190 countries—a true global movement for environmental awareness and action.
How Can Primary Schools Get Involved?
Here are some simple, easy and engaging ways to get involved:
1. Plant Something!
Many schools have gardens which they nurture- but even a small herb garden or a few seeds in recycled containers can show children how plants grow and why they’re important for the Earth.
2. Litter Pick Challenge
Many schools have eco-warriors/clubs- but you can always give your class gloves and bags/litter pickers, and clean up the playground or a local area. Turn it into a team challenge and reflect on how we can reduce waste.
3. Read Earth-Friendly Books
Many schools have/do cross-curricular work focused on the environment. There are brilliant picture books, short chapter books and more detailed books for UKS2, that explore caring for the planet. Titles like The Lorax by Dr. Seuss or Somebody Swallowed Stanley by Sarah Roberts plus a wide array of eco/environmentally friendly books are available for primary aged pupils to help them learn more/develop an understanding of the natural world and how to care for it.
4. Eco Art Projects
Make crafts from recycled materials—egg cartons, cardboard boxes, plastic bottles—and celebrate creativity with a sustainability message. At our school, we created a whole school display where the children walked under the sea when going down the corridor- this had sea creatures made from plastic containers, CDs and other recyclable materials above their heads and really generated a lot of discussion and enthusiasm for supporting recycling amongst the children.
5. Think Global, Act Local
Learn about how different countries celebrate Earth Day, then brainstorm how your school or class can help the planet. Write pledges or make posters to share your ideas.
🌎 Why It Matters (Even for the Smallest Hands)
It’s easy to underestimate the impact of young children when it comes to big issues like climate change or pollution. But Earth Day teaches that everyone has a part to play—no matter how young. They will be the adults of the future. Building an early connection to nature and sustainability helps foster responsible citizens who understand the value of their choices.
Encouraging children to care about the Earth can lead to powerful ripples—at home, in the community, and into the future. Plus, it ties beautifully into the science curriculum: living things, habitats, materials, seasonal change… Earth Day brings it all to life!
Final Thought
Earth Day isn’t just a one-day event—it’s a reminder that every day is Earth Day. As primary teachers, we have the privilege of helping the next generation fall in love with the natural world and feel empowered to protect it. So whether you’re planting seeds, picking up litter, reading eco-stories or something bigger- know that you’re making a difference.
Let’s grow a greener future, one small step at a time.