PREDA’s pilot: How children become planet guardians through creativity
PREDA team continues with an amazing process of turning children in real eco-heroes! Tina Anđić shared with us insights from their recent workshop, where they once again empowered Eco-Heroes through creativity and play.
How Children Become Planet Guardians Through Creativity
The future of our planet lies in the hands of the next generation, and workshops like “Join Nudgy’s Mission and Become an Eco-Hero” are paving the way for young minds to embrace environmental stewardship. This engaging and imaginative event brought children together to explore their creativity while learning about sustainability, proving that education can be fun, inspiring, and impactful.
A Story That Sparks Action
The workshop began with a captivating story about Nudgy, a green robot on a mission to clean the planet. Nudgy faces off against Polluto, a villain spreading pollution and destruction, and his army of Grubbies. But Nudgy’s solar energy is running low, and he needs allies—enter the children! Tasked with creating their own eco-heroes to assist Nudgy, the young participants unleashed their imaginations to design unique characters with special powers and missions.
From Butterfly of Cleanliness to Eco-Magnifier, these eco-heroes were more than just drawings—they were symbols of hope and action. The children’s creations will soon come to life in a comic book showcasing how these heroes join forces with Nudgy to restore the planet’s beauty.
Learning Through Art and Ecology
Guided by artist Boris Eremić and environmental expert Mario Crnković, the children explored environmental themes through art. They learned how creativity can amplify messages about ecology while designing Polluto, the antagonist. This hands-on approach not only deepened their understanding of environmental issues but also empowered them to see themselves as part of the solution.
Nudging Towards Green Habits
The workshop incorporated subtle yet effective nudge techniques to instill eco-friendly habits:
- Nature Sounds: The soothing ambiance of rustling leaves and birdsong immersed children in the beauty of nature, fostering an emotional connection to the environment.
- Healthy Snacks: “Nudgy’s Kitchen” offered wholesome treats paired with playful messages like “Brainy Hazelnuts – One bite, one smart thought!” Even picky eaters couldn’t resist these creative incentives.
- Eco Rules: Simple and engaging guidelines encouraged actions like saving water, recycling, and using cloth bags. These rules made sustainability accessible and fun.
- Bloomie the Recycling Box: A DIY creation that “ate” plastic bottles, Bloomie turned recycling into an interactive game. The collected bottles will be repurposed in future workshops, teaching children about circularity.
A Lasting Impact
This workshop was more than an afternoon activity – it was a movement. 🙂 By blending storytelling, art, and behavioral nudges, it inspired children to think critically about environmental issues and take tangible steps toward change. The participants left not just as kids who attended a workshop but as eco-heroes ready to make a difference.
As we reflect on this event, one thing is clear: when we equip children with the right tools, inspiration, and space for creativity, they can lead us toward a brighter, greener future. After all, the real heroes aren’t just in stories – they’re sitting among us.
