Raising Kids Who Can Navigate Our Chaotic Future
Empowering the Next Generation: Raising Children to Navigate the Climate CrisisIn a world where the future seems increasingly uncertain, one woman has found solace and inspiration in the wisdom of her children. Lydia Wylie-Kellermann, a writer, editor, activist, and mother, has dedicated her life to exploring the intersection of family, community, and the pressing environmental challenges of our time. Through her new book, "This Sweet Earth: Walking with Our Children in the Age of Climate Collapse," Wylie-Kellermann shares her insights on how to nurture resilient, compassionate, and engaged young people who can help shape a more sustainable and just world.
Embracing the Chaos: Lessons from a Family Navigating the Climate Crisis
Fostering Creativity and Resilience in the Face of Uncertainty
Wylie-Kellermann's children, aged 11 and 8, have become her greatest teachers in navigating the complexities of the climate crisis. From their deep fascination with jazz music to their unwavering dedication to caring for rescued turtles, Wylie-Kellermann has learned the value of embracing the chaos and uncertainty that often accompanies the journey of parenting. She believes that by allowing her children the freedom to explore their passions and follow their curiosity, they are developing the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in a world that is increasingly unpredictable."The more freedom and chances our kids have early-on to explore their limits, follow the things that they're passionate about, and to wander, the more opportunities there are [to learn] in their bodies what their limits are and trust themselves," Wylie-Kellermann explains. "It's like fostering their conscience."This approach to parenting is particularly relevant in the face of the climate crisis, where adaptability and creativity will be essential for navigating the challenges ahead. Wylie-Kellermann sees her children's ability to embrace chaos and find joy in the unexpected as a valuable asset, one that can inspire and guide the rest of us as we grapple with the uncertainties of the future.Navigating the Digital Landscape: Balancing Technology and Exploration
One of the key challenges Wylie-Kellermann and her family have faced is the role of technology in their lives. Recognizing the potential dangers of unfettered internet access, particularly for young people, the family embarked on a digital detox, shutting off all screens for two weeks, including their own."The more that we curate too much for them, then they don't know how to trust themselves," Wylie-Kellermann explains. "We were on our phones too much. I mean, we criticize kids for being on screens too often, but you go to a restaurant and all the adults are on phones and sometimes kids are just looking aimlessly."The digital detox proved to be a transformative experience, as Wylie-Kellermann's children rediscovered the joys of outdoor play, creative pursuits, and deep conversation. This experience has reinforced her belief in the importance of modeling the values and behaviors she hopes to instill in her children, rather than simply imposing restrictions."So much of passing on our values and what we care about to our kids has to do with modeling," she says. "It has to do with our kids watching what we love and what we value."Embracing Uncertainty and Empowering Children's Voices
One of the most challenging aspects of parenting in the face of the climate crisis is navigating the difficult conversations and emotions that arise. Wylie-Kellermann is adamant that shielding children from the realities of the situation is not the answer, as it can lead to anger and a sense of betrayal later on."If our kids get to be teenagers and [then] learn what's happening in the world, they're going to be pissed. They're going to be angry at us for not telling them, for not caring, for not being in this with them," she explains.Instead, Wylie-Kellermann advocates for creating space for children to express their anger, grief, and uncertainty, while also empowering them to take action. She has witnessed the power of her children's voices, whether it's an 11-year-old calling senators about global conflicts or a 4-year-old writing a letter to the former president, expressing their desire for a kinder world."The power that kids have at protests: They add so much beauty and joy and clarity," Wylie-Kellermann says. "We have a wall of all of the protest signs that [my kids] have made over the years. They're hilarious and wonderful and silly."By embracing the uncertainty of the future and trusting in their children's capacity for resilience and agency, Wylie-Kellermann and her family are forging a path forward that is both grounded in reality and infused with hope.Navigating the Decision to Have Children in the Face of Climate Change
For those grappling with the decision to have children in the face of the climate crisis, Wylie-Kellermann offers a compassionate perspective. She acknowledges the immense grief and uncertainty that surrounds this choice, but she also sees it as an opportunity to reimagine the future."We need more spaces to hold one another in that," she says. "I don't think there's a right answer on that question. We've got to release that [judgement on others] and trust one another to make this really hard decision that's so vulnerable and both so particular and so universal."Wylie-Kellermann encourages those considering parenthood to reflect on the gifts they hope to pass on to their children, the community they want to be part of, and their commitment to living into the challenges of the climate crisis with love and resilience."Are you really committed to living into the mess of what this is going to mean and lovingly bringing kids as part of the community into that work?" she asks.By embracing the complexity of this decision and trusting in the transformative power of raising children in this pivotal moment, Wylie-Kellermann offers a vision of parenting that is both deeply personal and profoundly impactful.
