The very best kind of tourism for children, who have received less attention in the field, is ecotourism, an expert in tourism for children said.
“The claim can be proved if one casts a glance at children’s strong inclination for the environment and wildlife,” ISNA quoted Maliheh Namani as saying.
Namani, who has carried out the first scientific research on tourism for children, believes that bringing children in direct contact with the environment would create an ideal learning atmosphere, positively affecting a child’s personal growth and development.
“Ecotourism is generally explained as visiting while preserving local communities, wildlife and culture,” the expert said, adding that involving children in the field can be significantly beneficial because the experience offers them an opportunity to learn the concept of sustainable tourism.
Moreover, it can increase the kids’ awareness of environmental degradation. An important component of ecotourism is to inform tourists about ways to minimize waste, soil erosion, air and water pollution so as not to disturb the environment. “These are lessons that no doubt will stick in children’s minds when learnt with love of nature,” Namani said.
Environmental Awareness
Engagement in conservation efforts is the other benefit of ecotourism for the younger ones. Whatever and wherever it is, it provides in-depth knowledge of the fragility of the natural world. Furthermore, the ongoing depletion of natural resources can be put in perspective for the kids.
“Whether it’s learning about how an ecolodge harnesses solar or wind power for its operations or how countries are employing renewable bio-energy to power engines, ecotourism teaches how tourism is affecting sustainable land development … and how other countries are using low-carbon technologies today.”
Exposure to cultural experiences can be added to the numerous positive points that ecotourism offers children, she added.
Lasting Impression
“From tasting new dishes to learning phrases in a local accent, ecotourism promotes cultural traditions that would leave long-lasting impressions about different regions.”
Children are categorized by UNESCO as a social group with special needs, regarding them as pillars of development in various fields.
“This is not the case in Iran, for unfortunately we have almost ignored the key role of children in building the future,” Namani lamented.
Pointing to the positive results of nature schools, the expert said there are three cases of such educational centers in Khorasan Razavi Province, which actively involve children with the environment and wildlife with no bias. Admitting children between 3 to 11 years of age, the schools’ programs contain educational eco-tours along with their conventional education, she added.
Connecting With Nature
Dedication to the cause of the environment and its preservation can improve the way younger generations feel connected to ecosystems in the future.
“Not only will children establish a deeper, longer-lasting connection with the region they are visiting during an eco-tour, they will learn more about how they can make a more positive impact on their surrounding world.”
Taking eco-tours in the early years of life also turns kids to enthusiastic eco-tourists and environmentalists, oiling the wheels of domestic tourism.
