Estimated Time Required :
For first graders, this activity is scheduled for the end of the day for between 60 and 90 minutes depending on weather conditions and children's stamina.
Directions :
This activity allows children to understand what it takes to enjoy a clean environment and be responsible citizens. It is one of several Earth Day activities. Children look forward to this annual event and some say it is their favorite day of the year!
- Help children brainstorm areas of the school property that are in need of cleaning.
- Older children in the school take suggestions and make a map of the school grounds.
- Areas of clean-up are assigned to each grade level keeping in mind the capabilities of the children. Grades pre-K to grade 6 participate using appropriate tools. Older children receive rakes and recyling bags while younger children do their cleanup using their work gloves.
- Grade 1 children consult the map to find out their designated cleaning area. When they get to their area, they use their work gloves to pick up trash. They also help to put back pieces of rubber mulch that have been displaced in the playground area such as under the slide, monkeybars, fire poles, and jungle gym. Older children weed areas in need, help clean the parking lot of sand accumulated from winter storms, etc.
The above activity has a strong home-school connection as it encourages families to find areas in their own neighborhoods which are in need of clean-up, thereby extending the school-based activity into the community.
Preparation :
- Send note home to parents informing them of an outdoor schoolyard and parking lot cleanup.
- Children should wear work/play clothes, hats and bring work gloves to school. (Also, sunblock and bug spray, if needed)
Creator :
This activity was submitted by first grade teacher Marie Sciretta.
Credits :
This Earth Day activity was part of a collaboration with other teachers in my school.
