World Ocean Day: 8th June

World Ocean Day: Creating a Lifelong Appreciation for the Ocean in the Early Years

World Ocean Day, celebrated annually on June 8th, serves as a global reminder of the critical role our oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of oceans and encouraging actions to protect them. Educating children, especially during their early years, about the significance of World Ocean Day is vital in nurturing a generation that values and protects our marine environments. As the care takers of the future, incorporating such important ideas and topics in early education has never been more important. 

 

Importance of World Ocean Day

Oceans cover over 70% of the Earth's surface and are home to diverse ecosystems that support countless species, including humans. They regulate climate, provide food, and generate most of the oxygen we breathe. However, pollution, overfishing, and climate change pose significant threats to these crucial ecosystems. World Ocean Day highlights these issues and inspires individuals and communities to take action.

 

Teaching Children About Ocean Conservation

Introducing young children to the wonders of the ocean can spark a lifelong appreciation and sense of responsibility towards marine conservation. The Early Years Learning Framework highlights the importance of supporting children to become active contributors to society. During early years, children discover their ability to make a positive impact, emphasising the importance of educators teaching them about the interconnectedness of people and nature and our responsibility to care for the environment.  

When we share with children the significance of the ocean and explore topics such as conservation with them, children become empowered through knowledge to be the catalyst for change in their future and learn a host of valuable life skills along the way such as:

1. Fostering Environmental Awareness

   Introducing children to the wonders of the ocean encourages them to appreciate nature's beauty and diversity. This awareness helps them understand that their actions can significantly impact the environment, cultivating a sense of responsibility and care for our planet.
2. Building Empathy for Marine Life

   By learning about the creatures that inhabit our oceans, children develop empathy and compassion for all living beings. This understanding fosters a connection with marine life, encouraging them to protect these creatures and their habitats.
3. Encouraging Sustainable Habits

   Teaching children about the consequences of pollution and overfishing helps them recognise the importance of sustainable practices. This knowledge empowers them to make environmentally friendly choices, such as reducing plastic use and supporting sustainable seafood.
4. Promoting Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

   Engaging children in discussions about ocean conservation challenges helps develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They learn to analyse situations, consider different perspectives, and develop innovative solutions to environmental issues.
5. Inspiring Future Generations

   Children who grow up with a strong understanding of ocean conservation are more likely to become advocates for the environment. They can inspire their peers and future generations, creating a ripple effect that leads to collective action and positive change.
    

Classroom Activities for World Ocean Day

Here are some ideas for educators to explore World Ocean Day and ocean conservation with their students:

1. Role-Playing and Small World
   • Encourage children to participate in role-playing and small world activities where they act as ocean explorers. Create a pollution experience and let children explore the effects of marine life, rescuing the animals and cleaning up all the plastic and rubbish in the water.

1. Science Experiments
   • Conduct simple science experiments that demonstrate the effects of pollution on water. For instance, use oil, feathers, and water to show how oil spills affect marine birds. These experiments can help kids visualise the impact of human actions on the ocean.

1. Ocean-Themed Music and Movement
   • Introduce the song Voice of the Sea by John Williamson  and create a mind-map with children exploring their thoughts and feelings about the song and the ideas in it. Use children’s thoughts as starting points for units of inquiry. 

1. Interactive Ocean Displays
   • Bring the ocean into your classroom for the day! Did you know there are live ocean and aquarium feed available for anyone to watch online? (Explore - Live Cams)
   • Pop these ocean live cams up on your screen and have a blast with children waiting to see what you spot swimming past, or simply relax and watch the seaweed sway and the fish explore. 

1. Guest Speakers and Presentations
   • Invite marine biologists or conservationists to speak to the children about their work and share stories about the ocean. Listening to real-life experiences can inspire children and provide them with a deeper understanding of ocean conservation.

By incorporating these activities into classroom learning, educators can spark curiosity and enthusiasm about the ocean, encouraging children to become thoughtful and proactive environmental warriors. Through these efforts, young learners can develop the knowledge and skills needed to contribute positively to the protection of our planet's precious marine ecosystems.