As parents, caregivers, guardians and educators, we’ve got some big mountains to climb when it comes to our children’s education. Talking and teaching sustainability can be one of the harder lessons we need to teach our young ones, and it can sometimes feel a bit daunting, especially given the complexity of some of these issues and topics. But what if it was easier than you think?
The journey toward sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated or hard; it can be as simple and enjoyable as playtime. We’ve gathered some insights and tips on how to make learning about sustainability a fun and enriching part of playtime. Let’s get started!
The concept of learning through play isn’t new, but when it comes to environmental education, it’s gold. Play is the language of children. It’s how they understand the world around them, solve problems, and develop social, cognitive and physical skills.
Toys that mimic real-world eco-activities, like planting trees or recycling, can provide hands-on experiences in a context that children understand and enjoy. It’s about transforming the act of playing into an opportunity for subtle learning and awareness.
The hardest challenge when it comes to teaching children about climate change and sustainability is making these ideas easy to understand. When play includes eco-friendly elements, it helps children understand complex concepts in a simpler, more relatable way.
This form of learning is not only enjoyable but also highly effective, as it engages children’s senses, sparks their imagination and encourages curiosity. Once children are primed from playtime, it’s easier to show them how what they’ve learned through play can be applied to their real-life routines.
This doesn’t have to be complicated, either. It can be as simple as using the correct recycling bins, turning the lights out when they leave a room or turning the tap off as they brush their teeth.
To help make integrating sustainability topics into your child’s playtime even easier, we’ve compiled some of our top tips and tricks for enriching their play and learning:
So, now that you’ve got the knowledge and tools in your parenting arsenal to start introducing your child to sustainability, what toys should you choose? To help make your child’s sustainability journey (and your job as parents!) easier, we’ve designed a line of toys focussed on the topic of sustainability: The Green Planet Explorers!
The Green Planet Explorers are a group of friendly animals on a mission to preserve their habitats and save the planet from climate change. From organic gardening and upcycling to solar power and aquatic conservation, this group of animals is ready to show your child how easy and rewarding sustainability can be.
Did we mention that all toys in our GPE range are made from a minimum 80% renewable materials?
Incorporating eco-friendly toys like the Green Planet Explorers into playtime doesn’t have to feel like an add-on or a forced lesson. These toys are designed to be as engaging and entertaining as they are educational. They naturally invite curiosity and questions, leading to organic learning moments that resonate with children long after playtime is over
Through the simple yet profound act of play, we can instil values of stewardship, empathy, and responsibility in our young ones. The tips and insights shared here are merely starting points. As parents, educators, and caregivers, the real magic happens in the everyday moments we choose to make sustainability a part of our children’s world.
Remember, the goal isn’t to have all the answers, but to spark curiosity and a love for our planet that will grow with them. Let’s embrace the journey of teaching sustainability, making it as joyful and playful as the children we aim to inspire.
Navigating through piles of parenting books, forums and advice from well-meaning friends doesn't always equip us for those moments when our baby cries, and we're left guessing: Hunger? Fatigue? Maybe they're just craving our attention or feeling a discomfort we haven't detected yet?
Read moreWhether they’re bright and beautiful or subtle and muted, colours have a profound impact on our emotions, learning processes and creativity. Colours send unique signals to our brains and can even induce feelings of hunger, tranquillity or anxiety.
Read moreAt Hape, we believe toys are far more than objects of play. They are the building blocks of a child’s growth: tools that spark imagination, foster resilience, and nurture essential skills for life. Every toy we create is crafted with intention—every detail thoughtfully chosen to empower children to explore their world, embrace challenges, and discover their full potential.
Read moreAs parents, we all hope to raise kind, compassionate children who know how to care for others. One of the easiest—and most fun—ways to nurture those qualities is through play. With the right toys and activities, you can help them build those empathy and cooperation skills that will stay them for life.
Read morePuzzles are a staple in children’s toys and besides being incredibly fun, they’re essential for promoting problem-solving skills. You might wonder how important that really is, but problem-solving is one of the most crucial aspects of a child’s development. Learning how to define the problem and approach it step-by-step, no matter where they are, can significantly impact the quality of a child’s relationships and life.
Read morePlaytime is rarely the same; children become lost in their own imaginative worlds, creating tales and building adventures. Even though it might seem like “just play” to us, it's also the key to an intricate world of learning and growth for children.
Read moreAs parents, caregivers, and educators, we all want to see the spark of curiosity and joy in a child's eyes as they learn something new. The right educational toys can make this possible, transforming everyday play into exciting learning experiences.
Read moreAutumn is a magical season that invites children to explore the world around them, fostering creativity and imagination. By combining the natural elements of autumn with toys that inspire role-play, like trains and railways, you can create an engaging and educational experience for your child.
Read moreOpen-ended play is incredible. Simply put, it’s play without boundaries. It encourages experimentation and perseverance and keeps children busy for hours, buying you some well-deserved me-time. Read on to find out the details on what it is, what its benefits are and some of our top toys that encourage creativity and curiosity through open-ended play...
Read moreThe new school year means new friends, teachers, clothes, and classrooms. It’s normal for children (and parents) to feel anxious about starting or returning to school. We’ve compiled a handy list with simple ways to ease the transition from vacation-mode to school-mode. It should be noted that not all of these tips can be applied to every child as each school and nursery is unique when it comes to specifics like homework or school supplies.
Read moreThe summer holidays are finally here! While children look forward to this long break from school, parents often dread the refrain "I'm bored" just a few weeks in. With a little creativity and planning, you can keep your children happily entertained all summer long. Here are some fun ideas to try:
Read moreAs parents, we love the time spent with our children. But let’s be honest: we all need a breather sometimes. That's where independent play comes in handy. Especially during those long school breaks when routines go out the window. Not only does it give us a break, but it’s also a great learning experience for our children.
Read moreWalking is a crucial part of your child's development, marking the transition from infancy to toddlerhood. It not only promotes physical strength and coordination but also enhances cognitive skills as your baby explores their environment and learns about spatial relationships. The journey to walking builds a foundation for future physical activities and is an essential step in your child's overall growth.
Read moreTidying up with toddlers can sometimes feel like negotiating bedtime when they're not sleepy. Toys strewn across the floor, books scattered about, and a sea of crayons can make any parent feel overwhelmed. But with a few simple strategies, tidy-up time can become a breeze and even a bit of fun.
Read moreHave you been looking for a way to make walks more interesting? Then look no further as this is the ultimate guide for sensory activities within outdoor spaces. Sensory-based play provides more than fun; it also helps support the development of cognitive and fine and gross motor skills by stimulating children's brains.
Read moreWelcome to our latest Behind the Design feature, where we discover the secrets of our Off Road Balance Bike. Designed to spark the imaginations of young adventurers, this bike combines thoughtful craftsmanship with the spirit of exploration.
Read moreThe joy of outdoor play is a universal part of growing up. Thinking back to your own childhood outdoors, do you remember how free you felt playing games of tag and rounds of hide-and-seek? What about swinging from trees or feeling the grass between your toes? Odds are these activities have become core memories from your time as a tiny explorer.
Read moreWhen you were little, did you enjoy playing pretend? Maybe you imagined yourself as a superhero, a princess, or a pirate. Maybe you built forts, castles, or spaceships. Whatever you did, you were having fun and being creative.
Read moreEveryone loves colours, they’re bright, fun and can even be a key personality trait. But did you know that some scientific studies have also determined certain colours can improve sleep habits, increase memory power, and enhance academic performance?
Read moreIn this feature, we're diving into the world of how toys are designed for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers through the eyes of 2 product developers. As experts in their fields, they’ll be sharing their experiences and insights on how they craft toys that are not just fun, but also educational and safe.
Read moreWhen it comes to picking a puzzle for your child, it can be overwhelming. “Choose this to promote fine motor skills and dexterity” or “a 3-year-old should play with a 24-piece puzzle”, luckily here at Hape we’ve compiled the list for you to reference when it comes to picking out a puzzle we know your child will love.
Read moreHave you ever watched a child lost in the world of their own drawings? It's a sight where pure imagination takes flight. The journey through free drawing is a fascinating blend of learning experiences where there are no rules or limits. It encompasses the exploration of emotions, the enhancement of cognitive and creative problem-solving skills, and the development of language.
Read moreWith the promise of days off from school and work – and plenty of playtime – the festive season is a magical time of joy and celebration for most children, but it can also be a source of unexpected stress, sadness or anxiety.
Read moreNavigating through piles of parenting books, forums and advice from well-meaning friends doesn't always equip us for those moments when our baby cries, and we're left guessing: Hunger? Fatigue? Maybe they're just craving our attention or feeling a discomfort we haven't detected yet?
Read moreWhether they’re bright and beautiful or subtle and muted, colours have a profound impact on our emotions, learning processes and creativity. Colours send unique signals to our brains and can even induce feelings of hunger, tranquillity or anxiety.
Read more