Children/youth/families
Partner Interview: ‘We the Children’
In this special episode, we speak with the 12-year-old host of another climate podcast – called ‘We the Children’. Our guest, Zach Fox-DeVol, discusses what inspires him to engage other kids. We get to hear an excerpt of his podcast episode on our oceans and plastic pollution. He also suggests how kids can get involved.
Raising Children During the Climate Crisis
We discuss the personal impact that climate change-fueled fires had on our guest and her young child. She also explains, from a therapist’s perspective, the steps parents (and others) can take to deal with the growing problem of climate anxiety in themselves and in their families. We share many helpful resources.
Hands-On Climate Education and Action In Elementary Schools
We explore hands-on climate education and action at elementary schools: featuring McDowell Elementary in Petaluma, CA. Third grade teacher Angela Werner has incorporated a slew of climate education activities into her curriculum – from creek restoration to visiting local wetlands to cultivating a school garden. She and her former student, Sherlyn Deras Ramos, reflect on their experiences and encourage other schools to get involved in nature-based programs.
Music as a Voice for Climate Action
We hear from songwriter Pete Kronowitt of the Face the Music Collective and Music Declares Emergency U.S. We also listen to excerpts of three engaging climate songs he’s involved with. (Hint: prepare to rock!) He’s organizing a campaign for one of them, “I Wanna be Cool,” in which a large number of kids sing the chorus and commit to taking effective climate action.
Climate, Food, & Justice: Farm to School Cafeteria in Watsonville, CA
We speak with three inspiring young people involved in the Farm 2 Cafeteria program in Watsonville, CA: a partnership between Esperanza Community Farms and Pajaro Valley High School. We learn about how they work on both climate justice and local food systems issues in their rural community. You’ll also find out how YOU can get started addressing these issues – maybe even at your local school.
Climate Conversations with Kids and Adults
Special double episode! While talking about the climate crisis can lead to action, it can be tough to bring up with family and friends. We get tips from educator Anu Ramamurty, founder of Kat Kid Adventure, and Marcia Pugsley, a retired clinical social worker and grandmother. Learn to have fun, meaningful climate conversations with the children and adults in your life.
Giving Eco-Friendly Gifts
We hear from Abbe Clemons, owner of Simple, an eco-market in San Francisco. Abbe discusses how to choose and give gifts with the planet’s health in mind – no matter the occasion. She offers ideas about avoiding plastic, and considering climate-friendly choices. Abbe says: “Hopefully it’s such an easy alternative that it just becomes a natural part of your life.”
Youth Taking Climate Action in SIlicon Valley
We speak with Peri Plantenberg, Chair of the Leadership Team of Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action. As a young climate activist, she shares her experiences and insights concerning the organization’s work and how it affects our communities. Additionally, Peri speaks about how she got involved, what inspires her, and how others can join them.
Adapting to Droughts During the Climate Crisis
We meet landscape designer Stephanie Morris, as she discusses what people can do inside and outside of their homes to adapt to droughts. She has a myriad of helpful ideas for how native plant gardens and mindful water usage can make a real difference when it comes to a precious resource we all need: water.