I suggest that the science classes do greening projects. Each grade level (or two) can pick one area: water conservation, energy conservation, recycling, waste reduction, toxics reduction and clean air (focus on transportation), etc. A more innovative Jewish way to do this would be for Jewish studies classes to take the lead rather than science classes, and the students could learn about Jewish values that relate to environmental and health issues in parallel with greening activities.
I think we need to integrate Jewish teachings with environmental teachings, so that kids really understand this is part of our basic Jewish values. And I also think that we need really solid science education on the environment in all Jewish schools.
Schools can also set an example by using green energy, recycling, etc. I think learning by example is the best way to learn. The children can participate by, say, researching to find the best sources of green energy.
We are taught, “According to the effort is the reward.” Children right away pick up on the idea that when something takes effort and commitment, that means that it’s real. Take the Mitzvah of Tzedaka, charity. I’ve taught Jewish children from all kinds of backgrounds, and they get the idea of Tzedaka — I think that is because they understand the value of money, and that it’s going to hurt a little when they have to take some of their money and give it away. To really connect kids with the environment, it I think it should involve something where they have to sacrifice — whether it’s their time, their money, their efforts.
5 Responses
Highly wishful, unrealistic answer: How about getting kids to walk to school? Let the carpool drop the kids off a block from the school.
I suggest that the science classes do greening projects. Each grade level (or two) can pick one area: water conservation, energy conservation, recycling, waste reduction, toxics reduction and clean air (focus on transportation), etc. A more innovative Jewish way to do this would be for Jewish studies classes to take the lead rather than science classes, and the students could learn about Jewish values that relate to environmental and health issues in parallel with greening activities.
I think we need to integrate Jewish teachings with environmental teachings, so that kids really understand this is part of our basic Jewish values. And I also think that we need really solid science education on the environment in all Jewish schools.
Schools can also set an example by using green energy, recycling, etc. I think learning by example is the best way to learn. The children can participate by, say, researching to find the best sources of green energy.
We are taught, “According to the effort is the reward.” Children right away pick up on the idea that when something takes effort and commitment, that means that it’s real. Take the Mitzvah of Tzedaka, charity. I’ve taught Jewish children from all kinds of backgrounds, and they get the idea of Tzedaka — I think that is because they understand the value of money, and that it’s going to hurt a little when they have to take some of their money and give it away. To really connect kids with the environment, it I think it should involve something where they have to sacrifice — whether it’s their time, their money, their efforts.