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Tweens and the Environment - Help!

5 replies

cyborgfork · 22/10/2024 14:26

Hey everyone, I’m looking for some advice and perspective from other parents. My tween has recently become super interested in environmental issues, which I think is amazing! They’re learning about climate change, recycling, and sustainability, and I love that they’re passionate about helping the planet. But as a mom, I’m starting to get a little concerned.

The more they dive into it, the more anxious they seem to get. It’s a lot for them to process at such a young age, and sometimes they seem overwhelmed by the idea that the world is in such trouble. They’ve started saying things like, “What’s the point of doing anything if the planet is dying?” I really want to encourage their awareness and activism, but I also want to make sure it’s done in a healthy, hopeful way.

How do I balance supporting their environmental concerns while making sure they’re not taking on too much stress or feeling hopeless? Any tips for fostering a positive, proactive attitude without overwhelming them? Thanks in advance! 💚

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xmasdealhunter · 22/10/2024 19:11

How old are they and what kind of sources are they reading from? My ds was the same at around age 11/12, and we found it helped directing him to sources like first news (weekly newspaper subscription aimed at kids up to 14, I think they do it digitally now too!), because they presented the facts (about climate change for example), but balanced it with optimism and 'here's how people are helping/what you can do to help', so it didn't all feel hopeless.
Award-winning weekly newspaper for children | First News | Try for FREE

Award-winning weekly newspaper for children | First News | Try for FREE

First News is the UK's most trusted newspaper for children. Read at home or in school. Resources for teachers. Try for free. 2.6 million weekly readers.

https://www.firstnews.co.uk/

cyborgfork · 24/10/2024 16:35

My DD has just turned 12 and gets a lot of her information from games like Roblox and the internet, as well as from magazines I keep at home—she loves the pictures in frankie. I've been trying to reduce her screen time but also want to meet her where she's at in terms of her interests in online games (which we monitor). Thank you so much for the suggestion, we’ll definitely check it out!

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Monvelo · 24/10/2024 16:38

If you're in a city there might be a climate cafe she could attend to chat - They were originally set up for just this reason, to chat and support through climate anxiety.

MontySaucy · 24/10/2024 16:43

Would the starfish story help? I find it's a good way to think about how you make a difference even if you're only one person.

BlueChampagne · 12/11/2024 13:05

How about Greta Thunberg's "No-one is too small to make a difference"?

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