If you ask a city boy where the milk comes from, he will tell you that it came from the refrigerator. This disconnection with nature is causing problems in our children beyond the innocence of this phrase, funny at first, but which reveals the sad reality that we are losing connection with the reality of the natural world.
We all know the multiple benefits of a natural environment for the development of our children, but it is not always possible to go for a walk in the countryside. At least not as much as we would like the lifestyle we currently have in cities, as well as the excess of activities to which we subject ourselves and our children, we make contact with nature difficult. So now we will give you some ideas to bring nature home.
Build an orchard or urban garden
We all have a terrace, balcony or window, which looks sad and empty, it can be a lot of fun to set up a small garden or vegetable garden and start making seedlings with the glasses of yogurt that we were going to throw away. We can also use the wooden boxes that are used to transport fruits and vegetables and build a beautiful planter with them. Or pallets and even tires, if we have a large terrace or patio available.
This is a simple activity that can entertain the little ones as well as help them discover the wonderful process by which plants grow. Various seeds can be planted and they will discover that if they are constant in their care and respectful of the needs of each species they planted, their little plants will grow strong and healthy. Pay attention to the species you grow or you could end up needing a bigger pot than you expected.
Decorate with plants
Sometimes we don't have a hole in those windows or balconies to place pots, so we have to move nature inside the house.hear.
For this there is a great diversity of indoor plants such as African violet or aromatic plants such as rosemary, mint, basil etc. or more exotic plants such as a cactus or a Venus fly trap. It is enriching to get hold of different species and learn as a family the needs of each one. Taking turns caring for plants is a beautiful way to include nature in your family routine.
Adopt a pet or take your children to a shelter.
To teach our children that milk comes from the cow, we do not have to adopt one, but it will be easier for children to relate the concept if they see a cat nursing her kittens.
The benefits of having a pet range from improved immune system to better emotional and cognitive development, enhancing empathy and generosity. Children learn to deal with and communicate with other living beings different from themselves, which leads them to endless learning that would not be possible without being in contact with animals of a different species.
We do not always have the possibility, due to the circumstances, of adopting a pet. Then We can also choose to collaborate as volunteers with a shelter, taking the animals for a walk or contributing to their care, in the company of our children. It is a good way, not only for them to come into contact with nature, but also for them to discover that there are many ways to help, to be in solidarity and to have responsibility with other living beings.
It is true that you can also go to a specialized store or breeder to buy a puppy of the species and breed that you prefer, but When you go to adopt or collaborate with a shelter, you teach them an added value, which is respect for living beings above their economic value. Since, at certain ages it is important for them to know that a friend cannot be bought.