Earth Day is a great time to help your students learn about caring for the planet. With the right books and videos, you can bring Earth Day to life in a fun, playful way.
Before jumping into Earth Day activities, it’s important to help young learners build background knowledge. Many children are still learning what words like “recycle,” “pollution,” and “habitat” mean. Books and videos give them a chance to see real-world examples, hear new vocabulary in context, and connect ideas to their own lives. When students understand the why behind the day, they’re more engaged and ready to take action in playful and meaningful ways.
I’ve gathered a list of books and videos that are perfect for primary classrooms. These resources will help your students explore big ideas like reducing waste, protecting nature, and making better choices for our Earth—all through stories and playful learning.
Why Use Books and Videos To learn about Earth Day
Books and videos give children the chance to learn through listening, watching, and talking. These kinds of experiences help build vocabulary, spark curiosity, and make learning more meaningful. You can use these resources to start a conversation, launch a project, or lead into a playful activity like building with recycled materials, sorting items by type, or creating posters to share Earth-friendly messages.
Playful Learning Ideas Supporting Earth Day
Dramatic Play – Set up a recycling center or Earth-friendly shop where children can sort, pretend to buy eco-products, or act out taking care of the planet.
Art and Creativity – After reading a story, invite students to create art using recycled items or natural materials.
STEM Challenges – Try a build-and-test activity like creating a bird feeder from found materials or building a mini compost bin.
Outdoor Exploration – Watch a nature video, then take your class outside to observe plants, bugs, or signs of pollution.
When you mix in playful learning, kids stay curious, get creative, and understand the “why” behind caring for the Earth.
Book Suggestions
I’ve gathered a list of books and videos that are perfect for primary classrooms. These resources will help your students explore big ideas like reducing waste, protecting nature, and making better choices for our Earth—all through stories and playful learning.
Video Suggestions
Do you have any favourite books or activities that I can add to my list?
Happy Teaching and Learning,
Lynda
