It might surprise you to learn that the RSPB has been educating and inspiring children and young people in Northern Ireland for almost 25 years!
Our small but dedicated team works hard to see nature represented on the curriculum and in teacher training, as well as engaging with children and young people to experience nature first-hand. We also provide education programmes and activities through outdoor learning sessions, visits to schools and at all sorts of events.
Growing up, some of my best days were spent outdoors den-building and conker-collecting at home in Fermanagh. Sadly, largely due to the rise of technology, today’s youth are missing out on creating these kinds of wonderful memories.
The findings of a recent three-year research project by the RSPB and the University of Essex revealed some shocking statistics – just a quarter of all 8 to 12-year-olds in Northern Ireland are ‘connected to nature’. This ‘connection’ was measured through a series of questions designed to determine the child’s enjoyment of nature, empathy for creatures, sense of responsibly and sense of oneness with the natural world.
When young people are connected with nature, it has positive impacts on their education, physical health, emotional wellbeing and personal and social skills, as well as helping them become responsible citizens.
With better weather and brighter days on the horizon, why not pledge to spend some quality time helping your children or grandchildren get in touch with nature?
Together you could build mini-beat mansions, dig a water feature for frogs or make tasty bird cake to feed the feathered visitors to your garden! We’ve got loads of tips and ideas for activities for the whole family at www.rspb.org.uk/youth or to find out more about the RSPB’s education work in Northern Ireland, contact joanne.cathcart@rspb.org.uk or call 028 9049 1547.