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Free Earth Day workshops for kids ages 6-13 at Idlewild Environmental Center in Springfield Gardens next month

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Mar. 27, 2024 By Athena Dawson

Looking for a great way to spend spring break just in time for Earth Day? The Idlewild Park Preserve Environmental Science Learning Center, located at 222-02 149th Ave. in Springfield Gardens, is hosting three days of free interactive workshops next month for kids ages 6-13. 

From Apr. 23-25, local kids can come in from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about pollution, energy and environmental activism. 

In the energy workshop, students will explore the advantages of alternative energy sources and construct models of renewable energy systems. Additional offerings cover the environmental impact of human-induced pollution and investigate sustainable alternatives to plastics.

There will also be a workshop on upcycling and where garbage ends up. An environmental activism workshop will inform kids on how they can protect the environment, regardless of their location. Program attendees will put on skits and make posters inspired by young environmental activists such as Greta Thunberg and Brandi Guan.

In the 1970s, a lack of environmental regulations in the United States led Wisconsin Sen. Gaylord Nelson to create Earth Day as way of bringing environmental issues to the national stage. Twenty million Americans held demonstrations to bring awareness, and, in December 1970, Congress authorized the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to focus on environmental issues. This year, Earth Day falls on Monday, Apr. 22.

To learn more and reserve your spot at the Idlewild Environmental Learning Center, click here.

Photo via Idlewild Environmental Learning Center

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