A Guide to Climate Change for Kids

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather is temporary and can change quickly, while climate is the typical weather in a region over a long time, like 30 years.

Front

Why is Earth warming?

Back

Earth is warming because greenhouse gases trap heat from the Sun. Human activities like cutting down trees and burning fossil fuels add extra greenhouse gases.

Front

What is climate change?

Back

Climate change is a change in the typical weather for a region over a long time, like changes in temperature and rainfall.

Front

How do we know Earth’s climate is getting warmer?

Back

Scientists use satellites and instruments to collect information about Earth's land, atmosphere, ocean, and ice.

Front

What does carbon have to do with climate change?

Back

Carbon is in all living things. When plants and animals die, they can turn into fossil fuels. Burning these fuels releases carbon dioxide, which warms the planet.

Front

Has the climate ever changed before?

Back

Yes, Earth's climate has changed many times over millions of years, but now it is warming much faster than before.

Front

How are scientists studying climate change?

Back

Scientists use tools on the ground, in the air, and in space, like NASA satellites, to study climate change.

Front

What does climate change do to the ocean?

Back

Climate change causes sea levels to rise because of melting ice and warmer water expanding.

Front

Why does climate change matter?

Back

Even a small increase in temperature can have big impacts on the health of Earth's plants and animals.

Front

What can kids do to help with climate change?

Back

Kids can participate in NASA citizen science projects to help collect data about climate change.