You don’t need to live by the coast or the Great Lakes to learn about marine debris. The NOAA Marine Debris Program (MDP) has free activities, videos, and more available online. On the MDP website, there is a dedicated section with resources and activities for all ages, where you can view activity books and browse lesson plans. Below are four ideas to help get you started exploring our “digital debris” fun:
1. “Isn’t it time we had an honest trash talk”? The Regional Emmy award-winning video series, TRASH TALK, helps students understand the impact of marine debris and what we can do about it!
Each video is two minutes or less and will walk you through a variety of topics, such as the mystery of garbage patches, what exactly marine debris is, and where it comes from. The series includes a hands-on activity demo, special features, and bonus footage.
2. Looking for puzzles, brain-teasers, and coloring activities? Jump into our activity book, Understanding Marine Debris: Games and Activities for Kids of All Ages.
There are word searches and crossword puzzles available to download that will teach children that marine debris can come from many different sources, such as shorelines, boats, and beachgoers.
Can you find all the discarded objects in these puzzles? The activity book also includes coloring pages, a game of “memory match-up” and a fill-in-the-blank story about a beach cleanup. There is something for everyone in this activity book!
3. Are you interested in becoming an Ocean Guardian? Learn more inside the Protect Our Ocean Activity Book.
Created by the NOAA Marine Debris Program and Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, the Protect Our Ocean Activity Book teaches students about the ocean, marine debris, and why it's important through word searches, games, and coloring pages. You can also sign the Ocean Guardian Pledge to protect the ocean and all the creatures that live in it. The activity book is appropriate for children in Grades K-3.
4. Let’s create a Marine Debris Magnet Craft in this next activity. All you need are a few supplies that can be found inside the house.
All you need is a printer, crayons, scissors, and tape! There are nine different options to choose from and kids can use the image as a reminder of how they can help stop marine debris. Don’t have any magnets on hand? You can still have fun coloring and find other ways to hang up your craft!
No matter where you are, you can get started with the NOAA Marine Debris Program's “digital debris” resources today!
Es muy bonito la vida los seres en el oceano