We often talk with children about animals and our native Australian animals, however it is common to discuss endangered animals with children?
Having conversations about endangered animals and the reasons why provides opportunity to discuss the environment and the impact of humans.
Did you know that almost 1 in 3 of our unique mammals are at risk of extinction? This is why conservation is so important and we can make a huge difference by supporting positive attitudes within ourselves and our children towards the environment.
So how can we do this?
Firstly, know what animals are endangered… as a starting point, here is a list of some of our endangered Australian animals;
Derwent River Sea Star
Southern Bent-Wing Bat
Orange Bellied Parrot
Tasmanian Devil
Northern hairy Nose Wombat
Pygmy Possum
Southern Corroboree frog
Resources:
This is a great resource (PDF Booklet) you can use to have conversations about endangered species with children and what you / they can do to help protect these animals:
http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/b2129628-7852-4c30-b605-2aae352190d1/files/tsd06green-kids.pdf
A great educational video for educators to increase their awareness
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Osr_xJWEVOM
Clip to share with children
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjqvIpso3xQ
What else could we do?
– arrange “Plant a tree day”
– have books available for children to look at / discuss
– when you engage in recycling talk about how this conributes to animal convervation
– share information with families through your Newsletter / Social Media
–organise an Incursion with animals such as reptile man/ zoo keeper
Being aware of these issues is important and it is a large part of being sustainable and conscious of our environment and it’s flora and fauna. Have conversations with educators, children and families and make conscious efforts to make a difference, even if it is a small one!
Please feel free to share your ideas, thoughts and experiences.
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