27 Fun World Environment Day Activities for Kids
World Environment Day isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s a global movement that teaches us the value of preserving our planet. But how do we help children understand what this day means and why it matters? That’s where fun and educational World Environment Day activities for kids come in.
If you’ve ever asked, “What is World Environment Day for kids?” or “Why do we celebrate World Environment Day?”—you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a parent looking for World Environment Day activities for kids at home, or a teacher seeking World Environment Day activities for kids in school, this post is packed with creative, hands-on ideas that bring eco-awareness to life.
We’ll explore free and easy projects, environment-themed games, and eco-friendly crafts that teach children how to care for nature. From recycling art and nature scavenger hunts to planting seeds and creating upcycled decorations, these ideas are tailored to all age groups and environments.
We’ll also touch on what activities can be done for World Environment Day, how to celebrate Environment Day in school, and simple answers to common questions like “What are the main points of World Environment Day?” and “What activities can we do for the environment?”
By the end of this post, you’ll have a list of joyful, purposeful ways to engage kids while building lifelong respect for the Earth. Let’s turn learning into action—one small step at a time.
Why do we celebrate World Environment Day?
We celebrate World Environment Day every year on June 5th to raise awareness about protecting our planet. It’s a global reminder that we all share the Earth and must take care of it. This day encourages people to reduce pollution, plant trees, recycle, and live more sustainably.
Started by the United Nations in 1972, it’s now celebrated in over 100 countries. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, World Environment Day is a great time to learn more about the environment and take small actions to make a big difference.
🌍 27 World Environment Day Activities and Crafts for Kids
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or caregiver, these fun and meaningful World Environment Day activities for kids will help children connect with nature, understand sustainability, and celebrate the environment in creative ways.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Crafts for Kids
Perfect for celebrating World Environment Day, these crafts encourage creativity while teaching sustainability. All materials are easy to source at home or can be found affordably online. Below, we’ve included Amazon product suggestions to help you get started faster.
1. Recycled Bottle Planters
Activity: Transform old plastic bottles into mini planters for herbs or flowers. Kids can decorate them with paints, googly eyes, or eco-stickers.
You’ll Need:
- Empty plastic bottles (cut and cleaned)
- Acrylic Paints
- Potting Soil
- Seeds or small plants
Amazon Picks:
2. DIY Bird Feeders
Activity: Use toilet paper rolls, peanut butter, and bird seed to craft feeders that attract local birds—a great way to teach about ecosystems.
You’ll Need:
- Toilet paper rolls
- Natural peanut butter (no added sugar/salt)
- Bird seed
- String for hanging
Amazon Picks:
3. Paper Mâché Globes
Activity: Use balloons, newspaper strips, and homemade paste to create globes. Once dry, paint the continents—great for geography learning!
You’ll Need:
- Balloons
- Old newspapers
- Flour and water paste
- Paints & brushes
Amazon Picks:
4. Egg Carton Critters
Activity: Cut and paint egg carton cups into cute critters like caterpillars, ladybugs, or frogs. Add pipe cleaners and googly eyes for fun effects.
You’ll Need:
- Empty egg cartons
- Paints
- Googly eyes
- Pipe cleaners
Amazon Picks:
5. Upcycled Collage Art
Activity: Collect old magazines, fabric scraps, paper pieces, and buttons to create a colorful collage that represents nature and Earth.
You’ll Need:
- Recyclable scraps
- Glue sticks
- Scissors
- Cardstock or old cardboard
Amazon Picks:
6. Nature Paintbrushes
Activity: Head outside and collect twigs, leaves, feathers, and grass. Tie them together to make natural paintbrushes for a textured art session.
You’ll Need:
- Leaves, twigs, feathers
- Rubber bands or twine
- Paint
- Paper
Amazon Picks:
7. Plastic Cap Mosaics
Activity: Gather colorful plastic bottle caps and arrange them into a mosaic design on cardboard—like trees, oceans, or animals. Use strong glue for a long-lasting finish.
You’ll Need:
- Plastic bottle caps
- Cardboard or canvas board
- Non-toxic glue
Amazon Picks:
These eco-friendly crafts make World Environment Day fun, educational, and impactful. Whether you’re reusing household items or adding a few craft supplies from Amazon, kids will love getting creative while learning how to care for the planet.
Related Article: World Environment Day 2025: Date, Theme, and Significance
🌳 Outdoor & Nature-Based Activities for Kids
These nature-inspired activities are perfect for schoolyards, parks, or your own backyard. They’re hands-on, sensory-rich, and help kids build a deeper connection with the environment—all while having fun outdoors.
1. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Activity: Create a checklist of natural items (like a feather, round rock, red leaf, spiderweb, etc.) and have kids explore outdoors to find each one. Great for observation skills and physical activity.
You’ll Need:
- Printed scavenger hunt sheet
- Clipboard or notepad
- Crayon or pencil
Amazon Picks:
2. Plant-a-Tree Challenge
Activity: Kids plant a tree or small native plants in their yard, school garden, or local green space. Teach them the role plants play in air quality and climate health.
You’ll Need:
- Young tree or seedling
- Trowel or shovel
- Watering can
Amazon Picks:
3. Garden Storytime
Activity: Choose eco-themed children’s books and read them in a garden or under a shady tree. A peaceful and educational way to connect with nature.
You’ll Need:
- Nature or environment-themed picture books
- Blanket or picnic mat
- Quiet outdoor space
Amazon Picks:
- “The Earth Book” by Todd Parr
- “Compost Stew” by Mary McKenna Siddals
- Outdoor Picnic Blanket (Waterproof)
4. Leaf Rubbing Art
Activity: Place a leaf under a sheet of paper and use the side of a crayon to gently rub over it. This reveals the leaf’s textures and veins—great for art and science lessons.
You’ll Need:
- Fresh or dried leaves
- Paper
- Crayons (peeled)
Amazon Picks:
5. Bug Observation Station
Activity: Encourage kids to find bugs in the garden and observe them in clear containers (briefly!) to learn about insects and their habitats.
You’ll Need:
- Clear observation jars with magnifying lids
- Insect ID guide
- Notebook for notes/drawings
Amazon Picks:
6. Rock Painting with Eco Messages
Activity: Collect smooth stones and paint them with Earth-themed designs or positive eco messages like “Reduce Waste” or “Love Your Planet.”
You’ll Need:
- Smooth rocks (found or bought)
- Acrylic paint or paint pens
- Sealant spray (optional for weatherproofing)
Amazon Picks:
7. Build a Mini Herb Garden
Activity: Teach kids how to grow herbs in small containers. This encourages responsibility and shows how plants support health and sustainability.
You’ll Need:
- Small pots or recycled containers
- Soil
- Herb seeds or seedlings
Amazon Picks:
These Outdoor & Nature-Based World Environment Day activities for kids are perfect for encouraging exploration and nurturing a deep love for the planet. They’re engaging, easy to set up, and blend fun with important lessons about nature, biodiversity, and sustainability.
🌳 Outdoor & Nature-Based Activities for World Environment Day
Getting kids outside is one of the best ways to celebrate World Environment Day. These outdoor activities encourage exploration, observation, and appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re a parent planning backyard fun or a teacher organizing a school event, these ideas will make World Environment Day meaningful and memorable.
1. 🌿 Nature Scavenger Hunt
Kids love treasure hunts—and nature is full of treasures waiting to be discovered! Create a checklist of outdoor items like different shaped leaves, bugs, bird feathers, flowers, and cloud types. Give kids a basket or bag and let them explore safely. This activity builds observation skills and appreciation for biodiversity.
Tip: Print a reusable checklist or laminate one for repeated use. Add challenges like “find something soft” or “spot something that crawls.”
2. 🌱 Plant-a-Tree Challenge
Help kids leave a legacy by planting a tree or even a few small plants or herbs. Talk about how trees clean the air, provide homes for animals, and cool the Earth. You can do this in your backyard, school garden, or a local green space.
Tip: Choose native trees or pollinator-friendly plants to support the local ecosystem.
3. 📚 Garden Storytime
Combine reading with the great outdoors! Set up a picnic blanket under a shady tree and read eco-themed children’s books like “The Earth Book” by Todd Parr or “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss. This calm, immersive experience is perfect for reflecting on why we celebrate World Environment Day.
Bonus: Follow the story with a related craft or discussion about what kids can do to help the planet.
4. 🍂 Leaf Rubbing Art
This classic activity turns leaves into beautiful art. Place leaves under a sheet of paper and use the side of a crayon to rub gently, revealing the texture and veins. It’s a creative way to teach kids about leaf anatomy, plant diversity, and seasonal changes.
Extension: Try comparing leaves from different tree species or turn the rubbings into greeting cards.
5. 🐞 Bug Observation Station
Encourage curiosity by letting kids safely observe insects. Use a clear jar with holes in the lid or a bug viewer with a magnifier. Watch ants, beetles, ladybugs, or butterflies in their natural habitat. This fosters respect for even the smallest creatures and highlights their role in the ecosystem.
Reminder: Always release bugs after observation and avoid disturbing nests or hives.
6. 🎨 Rock Painting with Eco Messages
Collect smooth stones and let kids paint them with positive environmental messages like “Protect Nature,” “Be Green,” or “Love the Earth.” Display them around your garden or hide them in a local park for others to find.
Eco Tip: Use non-toxic paints and consider sealing the rocks with eco-safe varnish if placing them outdoors.
7. 🌿 Build a Mini Herb Garden
Help kids create a small herb garden in pots, recycled containers, or raised beds. Herbs like basil, mint, parsley, and thyme are easy to grow and care for. This teaches responsibility, patience, and the joy of growing food from the Earth.
Add-on Activity: Label each plant with recycled popsicle sticks and have kids track growth weekly in a garden journal.
These World Environment Day activities for kids are more than just fun—they help instill a sense of environmental responsibility from a young age. Whether spotting bugs or planting a tree, each hands-on experience teaches children what activities can be done for World Environment Day and how their small actions support a healthier planet.
🏫 In-School World Environment Day Activities
Looking for World Environment Day activities for kids in school? These classroom-friendly ideas promote sustainability, teamwork, and environmental responsibility in fun and creative ways. They’re easy to organize, low-cost, and perfect for all grade levels.
1. ✅ Eco Quiz or Trivia Game
Turn environmental education into a fun competition! Create a quiz with multiple-choice questions like “What gas do trees absorb?” or “Which material takes the longest to decompose?” You can host it as a classroom contest or inter-class challenge.
Bonus: Offer eco-friendly prizes like plantable pencils or reusable water bottles.
2. ✍️ Green Pledge Wall
Create a wall where students write how they will help the Earth—like “turn off lights,” “pick up trash,” or “stop using plastic straws.” This visual activity inspires action and commitment.
Tip: Use recycled paper or sticky notes, and decorate the wall with a tree or Earth illustration.
3. 🎭 Environment Skit or Play
Let students act out short plays on themes like deforestation, water conservation, or endangered animals. This allows them to express what they’ve learned in a creative and memorable way.
Idea: Let older kids write the script and younger ones perform it!
4. 🧹 School Cleanup Drive
Divide students into small groups and assign them areas around the school for a litter clean-up. Provide gloves and bags, and turn it into a fun timed challenge.
Learning Outcome: Teaches responsibility and shows firsthand the impact of waste.
5. 🖼️ Poster Making Contest
Let kids design posters that answer “What is World Environment Day for kids?” or promote eco-friendly habits like recycling or saving water. Display the posters around the school or create a digital gallery.
Tip: Offer themes like “My Dream Green Planet” or “One Small Change I Can Make.”
6. ♻️ Upcycling Workshop
Teach students how to turn waste into art or useful items—like pencil holders from cans or tote bags from old t-shirts. This is a hands-on way to explore what activities can be done for World Environment Day.
Supply Ideas: Bring in recyclables from home and set up craft stations.
7. 🏃 Recycling Relay Race
Make recycling fun with a team-based relay where kids race to sort items into correct bins (plastic, paper, metal, compost). It’s active, educational, and a great way to reinforce recycling habits.
🏡 At-Home World Environment Day Celebrations
Celebrating World Environment Day activities for kids at home? These simple and meaningful activities help families connect with nature and sustainability—all while having fun together!
1. 🚫 No-Plastic Day
Challenge the whole family to go a day without using plastic. Swap plastic wrap for beeswax wraps, use cloth bags, and skip single-use packaging.
Reflection: Discuss how hard (or easy) it was and what habits can change long-term.
2. 🍌 Home Compost Jar
Start a compost system in a jar using fruit peels, vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds. Teach kids about food waste and soil health.
Tip: Layer greens (wet waste) and browns (dry waste) for best results.
3. 🎬 Eco-Movie Night
Host a family movie night with eco-themed shows like The Lorax, Wall-E, or Our Planet. Follow up with a short chat: “What did we learn about taking care of the Earth?”
Snack Idea: Serve popcorn in reusable bowls or homemade veggie chips.
4. 🧁 Green Baking Project
Bake plant-based or organic treats, like banana oat muffins or vegan cookies. Use local ingredients and talk about how food choices impact the planet.
Fun Element: Let kids decorate treats with “Earth Day” symbols or messages.
5. 🍱 Zero-Waste Lunchbox Challenge
Pack a lunch using only reusable containers, no plastic packaging or disposable items. Kids can decorate their lunchboxes with eco-stickers to stay inspired.
Goal: Reinforce sustainable habits that can continue beyond the day.
6. 🌱 DIY Seed Bombs
Mix clay, compost, and wildflower seeds to create seed bombs that can be planted in gardens or green spaces. This fun, messy activity supports pollinators and beautifies the Earth.
Instructions: Mix dry clay, compost, and seeds. Form into balls, dry, and plant!
These World Environment Day activities for kids, whether at school or at home, help answer “how can we celebrate environment day in school or as a family?” in impactful, engaging ways. Every game, skit, or compost jar planted is a small but powerful step toward a greener future.
Frequently Asked Questions About World Environment Day
What is World Environment Day for kids?
For kids, World Environment Day is a fun and educational time to learn how to care for nature. It’s about understanding how things like trees, clean water, animals, and air are connected to our daily lives. Kids can join activities like planting trees, making crafts from recycled items, and cleaning up litter. It’s also a great time to ask questions, read books about nature, or watch cool documentaries. World Environment Day helps kids become Earth Heroes by doing simple things that help protect our planet’s future.
What activities can we do for the environment?
There are many simple and fun activities we can do to help the environment. We can plant trees or flowers, pick up trash in parks, and start recycling at home or school. Turning off lights when we leave a room, using reusable water bottles, and saying no to plastic bags are easy ways to help too. Composting food scraps and saving water also make a big difference. Whether you’re indoors or outside, every little action adds up and helps keep the Earth clean, green, and healthy for everyone.
How can we celebrate Environment Day in school?
Schools can celebrate Environment Day with fun, educational events. Teachers can organize eco-friendly games like recycling races or host a quiz about the planet. Students can create posters or skits about saving nature, plant trees in the schoolyard, or clean up litter around campus. A “Green Pledge Wall” where kids write how they’ll help the Earth is a great idea too. These activities make learning about the environment hands-on and exciting. Celebrating at school helps kids understand their role in protecting the planet and inspires lasting habits.
What activities can be done for World Environment Day?
There are so many great activities for World Environment Day! You can plant a tree, start a compost jar, or go on a nature scavenger hunt. At school, kids might create environmental posters, join a clean-up drive, or write eco pledges. At home, families can watch nature movies, try a no-plastic day, or bake organic treats. Crafts using recycled materials are also fun and creative. Whether indoors or outside, these activities help kids and adults learn why nature matters—and how we can all protect it every day.
What are the main points of World Environment Day?
The main points of World Environment Day are to raise awareness, encourage action, and promote care for our planet. It highlights the importance of clean air, water, forests, and wildlife. The day reminds us that small daily actions—like saving energy, reducing waste, and recycling—can lead to big environmental changes. It also focuses on global unity, showing that people everywhere can work together to solve problems like pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. Most of all, it teaches us that protecting the Earth is everyone’s responsibility.
Final Thoughts,
Celebrating World Environment Day with kids is more than a one-day event—it’s a meaningful opportunity to spark curiosity, foster responsibility, and inspire change. Through fun, accessible activities like upcycled crafts, nature-based learning, and school-wide green challenges, children gain a real-world understanding of why we celebrate World Environment Day and what they can do to make a difference.
These World Environment Day activities for kids—whether done at home or in school—plant seeds of environmental stewardship early on. When children understand what activities can be done for World Environment Day and how they can help the planet, they’re more likely to develop lifelong eco-conscious habits.
So whether you’re organizing World Environment Day activities and crafts, planning a classroom lesson, or simply looking for World Environment Day activities for kids free to do over the weekend, you now have plenty of ideas to get started.
Let’s empower the next generation to become Earth heroes! 🌍 Share this post with fellow educators and parents to help spread the word and multiply the impact. Every child has the power to change the world—let’s guide them there, one fun activity at a time.
