Parents’ Perspectives on Climate Change Education: A Case Study From New Jersey

Abstract

Purpose With climate change education becoming more prevalent in schools around the globe, it is increasingly important that we understand parental perspectives on this topic. Children cross the boundaries between home and school culture every day, and their parents’ attitudes, beliefs, and practices can influence their academic engagement in all content areas. In the 2022–2023 academic year, New Jersey (NJ) adopted climate change education standards across grade levels and subject areas. We seek to understand parental perspectives on this curriculum change. Design/Approach/Methods In October–November 2022, a survey was distributed to parents of children attending public (state) school in NJ to identify how they discuss, support, and question their children's education about climate change. A total of 83 parents responded to the survey. Findings Survey results revealed that parents talk to their children about climate change with the support of various tools and strategies. However, parents expressed concerns about teachers’ preparedness to introduce climate change topics appropriately and their own readiness to support this instruction at home. Furthermore, several respondents voiced concerns about how to approach climate change discussions in a way that is mindful of children's developmental and mental health needs. Originality/Value Little is known about the way in which parents view educational innovations affect their implementation. This study examines parents’ perspectives on a novel approach to integrating climate change instruction across subject areas and grade levels.