Why ETY?
Global challenges
Today, children grow up in a globalized world. Through a variety of media they see and hear about big problems and challenges, like climate change, war, poverty etcetera. It can be really difficult for educators and parents to address these topics without overwhelming children.
Why young children?
Within the project, we are focussing on 4-8 year olds. That probably sounds quite young, but it is probably too late to discuss such topics at an older age. Research found that children who connect to nature in early childhood care better for nature as an adult. Further, young children do not have to be shielded from reality, because it affects them anyway. But it is important that they are supported in the right way.
Research shows that children in this age group are capable of far more complex reasoning, perspective-taking and social participation than early developmental theories suggested. They use symbolic thinking, intuitive logic and emerging empathy to explore ideas, test hypotheses and engage in collaborative problem-solving.
Let’s make a change
We feel our institutions can make a change. In the ETY-project, we explore the potential of using talking objects as a way of discussing these problems with young children in a light-hearted and empowering manner. The goal is to make them feel like they can really do something about these problems, even by small actions. Let’s do it together!