Children’s Kinship with the Natural World

In her article, “Growing Our Sense of Place and Kinship with the Land,” center director Rukia Monique Rogers writes,

Young children offer a unique perspective and kinship with the natural world that has not been subdued by capitalism’s tendency to commoditize the gifts of this earth. For example, we witnessed the children’s empathy for trees when planting them on our playscape. We asked, “What do the trees need to feel welcomed here at The Highlander School? What do the trees need to feel love here?”

And the children responded:

Hunter: Hugs.
Ellison: Hugs on the tree.
Jace: Medicine.
Cooper: And water.
Ellison: And sun.
Eve: … we could give the trees lots of love and we could come out every day to check to see if it’s here or not.
Margot: Water.
Ellison: Love… good stuff.
Eve: We could make a sign that says there are trees, there are fruit trees, there are a lot of stuff you could eat.
Margot:  I can give them my lovie… we can make a small toy for the tree.. we give them hugs and kisses, they will be happy.

The adults spent their own time reflecting on our kinship with the natural world, wondering:

• What does it mean to be in relationship with the land we inhabit?
• How do children view the rights of the natural world?
• How do children show us and communicate with us their deep yearning to be in relationship with others and the world around them?
• What can we learn from children about how they connect, perceive, and relate to the natural world?

Take in more of Rogers’ reflections in her article and in the recording of our Engaging Exchange with her. Both are available with a free membership in the new Exchange Hub. Then, explore the free Environmental Kinship Guide.

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