In the heart of Junín de los Andes (Neuquén), each school day in the “Martín Pescador” room of the Jardín de Infantes N°11 begins with an invitation to discover how to care for the environment.

There, learning intertwines with the surroundings: the Chimehuín River, the flight of birds, the colors of the sky, and the history of the indigenous peoples become part of the classroom.

Learning with nature: a pedagogy sensitive to the territory

The teaching team composed of Nancy Vera, Estefanía Carrillo, and Daniela Valdebenito promotes an educational proposal where the relationship with nature is central.

The environment is understood as a network of natural, social, and cultural relationships, and it translates into projects that spark children’s curiosity and cultivate ecological awareness.

Living experiences: river, birds, and brigadiers

The activities include:

• Visits to the Chimehuín River to learn about its courses and species
• Participation in the Huemul Festival in Lanín National Park
• Learning about forest fires through “Salvador,” the brigadier owl from the Fire Prevention Education Program

During an outing, the group observed a Kingfisher, a bird that became the symbol of the room and a trigger for multiple learnings.

Mapuche worldview: culture and nature as part of the classroom

The pedagogical proposal expands into the cultural terrain, incorporating the perspective of indigenous peoples.

Through stories, myths, legends, and videos, the teachers present birds from the Mapuche worldview, strengthening respect for diversity and the spiritual connection with the territory.

Environmental education from early childhood: sowing awareness for the future

The experience of Jardín N°11 demonstrates that early environmental education is key to:

• Forming responsible citizens who value the environment as a vital part of human life
• Preparing children to face challenges like climate change
• Developing critical skills such as informed decision-making and problem-solving
• Transforming family habits through actions like recycling and energy saving
• Creating deep connections with nature, difficult to achieve in adulthood

Institutional articulation and project continuity

Last week, the Provincial Directorate of Fauna visited the kindergarten to share information about protected areas and native species.

Soon, the local Wildlife Network and the Urban Nature Reserve of San Martín de los Andes will join, expanding the project’s reach.

Through songs, stories, walks, and observations, the children of Jardín N°11 learn that caring for the environment is caring for their home, their history, and everyone’s future.

This pedagogical experience in Junín de los Andes is an inspiring example of how environmental education can be sown from the early years, with deep roots in the territory, culture, and community.

Cover photo: Neuquén Informa