Resources To Support Our Witness to Walking Gently on the Earth!
“We recognize that the well-being of the earth is a fundamental spiritual concern. From the beginning, it was through the wonders of nature that people saw God. How we treat the earth, and its creatures is a basic part of our relationship with God. Our planet as a whole, not just the small parts of it in our immediate custody, requires our responsible attention.” — Philadelphia Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 1997.
Children
- The Earthcare for Children curriculum from Quaker Earthcare Witness (QEW) is designed to nurture children ages 5-12 to walk gently over God’s Earth through interactive and fun activities. Great to use throughout the year in religious education programs!
- Here: The Dot We Call Home by Laura Alary is a picture book that encourages children to see themselves as descendants, ancestors, and caretakers of the Earth. There is a wonderful discussion and activity guide for families and teachers to explore big questions about climate care and encourage agency and hope.
- 40+ Multicultural Children’s Books for Earth Day from Colours of Us
Books illustrating the intersection of nurturing creation and community in urban spaces:
- Grow by Cynthia Platt.
- The Curious Garden by Peter Brown.
Youth
- Host a screening and discussion about “Youth v Gov” the documentary about teens and young adults who have been suing the U.S. government for violating their constitutional rights to life, liberty, personal safety, and property through the climate crisis. Watch the trailer.
- Youth Earth Week — Join young people from around the country taking action for Earth Week, April 22-29. Online programs for youth and a toolkits to support youth witness: Activist Toolkit, Letters-to-the-Editor Toolkit
Family Fun Activities
Activities for getting outside and paying attention to the wonder and beauty around us.
- Earth Day Coloring Page from Illustrated Ministry
- Earth Day Backyard (or behind the meetinghouse!) Scavenger Hunt Can be adapted for meeting or shared with families for home.
- Celebrate Creation Care with Wondering Questions Suggestions for nature walks, journaling, collecting, noticing.
- A Collection of Books, Music, and Activities to celebrate Earth Day from the Quaker Religious Education Collaborative
