Celebrating Earth Day With Kids

Learn about a great way to use music to teach children about the environment and conservation.

This is the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, a holiday meant to inspire awareness of our natural environment.

As a special treat, I was one of the parents that accompanied my daughter and her 1st grade class to a concert given by the Banana Slug String Band.

The Band isn't just a group of musicians, they are environmental educators who teach using music to engage their young audience. 

In concert, the Band gets the kids up and moving, dancing the crab dance, or explaining the water cycle using hand gestures to depict various phases of the water cycle.  Banana Slug String Band really puts on a great show and the kids loved it.  Here's a short clip to give you a sample of their music: 

BananaSlugStringBandClip

The band has been doing their brand of environmental education for over 20 years. 

If you have a child or grandchild within whom you would like to foster an appreciation for our wonderful planet, have a look at the Band's web site.  You'll learn more about them and their concert tours.  You can also purchase CD's of their music, T-Shirts and other merchandise to help support the group and their efforts. 

Learning about the environment with my daughter on Earth Day.  The best Earth Day ever.

Comments

[Sharon]

You are a terrific Dad. I'm glad you both enjoyed the day!

[Monica]

Wow, great blog, Mark! I'm going to spend more time on it, exploring your beekeeping tips,compost ideas, etc.

Thanks for your good words about the Banana Slugs (the string band variety, that is). The band members are absolutely, as you say, passionate about teaching youngsters (and all-age-sters) to love and care for the Earth and its critters.

We're so glad your daughter brought you along. :)

Warmly,
Monica, Admin for the Slugs

[H. Mark Delman]

Hi Monica:

I really appreciate the work the Banana Slug String Band is doing with kids. Its great to be able to help support them.