7 Tips for How to Talk to Kids and Young Adults About Climate Change
- Without Leaving Them Hopeless
Talking about climate change with young people is important—but it’s equally crucial to do so in a way that empowers rather than overwhelms. While it’s essential to be honest about the realities of climate change, focusing on solutions, hope, and individual actions can make these conversations positive, inspiring, and motivating. Here’s how to approach this topic to foster optimism and a sense of agency for the future.
- You're never too young to have a voice -
1. Start with the beauty of nature
Before discussing climate change itself, start by cultivating a love for the natural world. Kids and young adults who develop an appreciation for nature are more likely to feel motivated to protect it.
Celebrate the wonders of nature: Encourage outdoor time, visits to parks, and watch documentaries about our ecosystems and wildlife. When they get to witness the beauty of our planet firsthand, they understand why it’s so important to keep it healthy.
Framing: “Isn’t it amazing how everything in nature works together? From the tiniest insect to the biggest tree, each part of nature plays a role, and we’re all part of that story.”
2. Frame climate change as a challenge we’re tackling together
Instead of presenting climate change as an overwhelming problem, frame it as a global challenge we’re actively working to solve. This approach helps young people feel more empowered and less burdened by the issue.
Explain in simple terms: Describe climate change as the warming of the planet, caused by certain human activities. Emphasize that it’s a problem that people everywhere are addressing together.
Framing: “Some things we do, like burning certain fuels, can warm the planet. But the great news is, people worldwide are coming together to fix it.”
“We are not the ones who broke this world, but we are the ones who have to fix it.”
3. Highlight solutions and progress
When discussing climate change, focus on solutions rather than problems. It’s essential for young people to know that real progress is being made and that they can contribute to it.
Talk about innovations: Explain advances in renewable energy, recycling, sustainable farming, eco-friendly technologies, etc.. Create a shared excitement for what is possible in the future.
Framing: “Did you know that many countries are using solar and wind power instead of fossil fuels? People are coming up with new ways every day to help reduce pollution and protect the planet.”
4. Share stories of young people making a difference
One of the best ways to inspire kids and teens is to share stories of others their age who are making an impact. Young activists, inventors, and community leaders can show them that they, too, have the power to make a difference.
Highlight role models: Share stories of young people like Greta Thunberg, Xiye Bastida, Zanagee Artis, or local youth organizations working on environmental projects. These examples show that age isn’t a barrier to creating change.
Framing: “There are so many young people around the world standing up for the environment. For example, Greta Thunberg started a movement called ‘Fridays for Future’ to raise awareness about climate change. She’s inspired millions of people to do the same!”
Greta Thunberg
5. Encourage simple, meaningful actions
Climate change can feel overwhelming, but by focusing on small, achievable actions, you help foster a sense of agency and in that, curiosity to explore more.
Suggest simple steps: Encourage actions like recycling, saving water, using less plastic, and joining community clean-ups. Let them know that their efforts, no matter how small, make a real difference.
Framing: “Even if you can’t change everything at once, you can start with small steps that inspire others and ripple effect into even bigger changes. Every little action counts!”
6. Encourage them to imagine a brighter future
Our future lies in our ability to imagine and a wonderful activity for kids is to explore what a sustainable future could look like. This lets them dream big and think creatively about how they could help build that future world.
Invite their ideas: Ask them what kind of world they would like to live in, and what changes they’d like to see. This approach gives them a sense of ownership and possibility.
Framing: “If you could design a world where everyone took care of the Earth, what would it look like? What changes would you make to protect the planet?”
7. Keep the conversation going - BUT AVOID BYPASSING!
Talking about climate change shouldn’t be a one-time conversation. Keeping the dialogue open allows young people to continue asking questions, learning, and exploring ways they can help.
Stay engaged: Regularly bring up new ideas and solutions, and explore ways you can work together to protect the environment. This ongoing discussion helps deepen their understanding and keeps them motivated to participate.
But avoid bypassing! Although it’s important to focus on the possibilities of a sustainable world, not talking about the severities of the situation can be harmful for their mental health. The youth today is well aware of the dire outlooks of the climate crisis so dare to meet them where they are. Openly sharing their worry and grief can help foster trust and create a space where they feel validated in their emotions.
Framing: “I see and understand your worries for the future. In fact, there are days that I’m worried too, and it’s okay to be. But we shouldn’t forget that there are so many things we can and it’s important we focus our attention on unlocking opportunities and creating change.”
Final Thoughts
Talking to kids and young adults about climate change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on nature’s beauty, sharing solutions, highlighting role models, and fostering hope, we can help young people approach climate change with optimism and a sense of agency.
Our goal isn’t to burden them with despair but to equip them with the tools and confidence to be part of the solution. With the right approach, we can inspire the next generation to create a healthier, more sustainable future for us all.
