Preschool Ideas for World Ocean Day: Ocean Facts and Fun 

Grab your imaginary snorkels because June 8 is World Oceans Day! The idea started in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, and the United Nations officially recognized it in 2008. Why? Because oceans cover about 71% of the Earth! They provide over half the oxygen we breathe (thank you, tiny plankton!) and are home to dolphins, turtles, and so many fin-tastic friends. Your little one’s future beach days depend on keeping our oceans happy!

Why Our Ocean Needs Tiny Titans

Oceans aren’t just beautiful, they’re powerful climate helpers too! They absorb about 30% of the carbon dioxide we release into the air, helping to keep our planet cool. Those colorful coral reefs? Even though they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor, they support about 25% of all marine life. But our seas need help. Every year, around 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean. Imagine five grocery bags of plastic on every foot of coastline worldwide!

The good news? People are stepping up! “Coral gardeners” have planted over hundreds of thousands of baby corals. In 2024, Ocean Conservancy removed more than 34 million pounds of icky plastic and trash. And thanks to expanding marine protected areas, over 7% of the ocean is now under conservation.

Splashy Ways to Be Ocean Heroes Today 

Start with a beach walk adventure. Hunt for pretty shells, rescue stray bottle caps, and leave sea critters safely at home. Each piece of plastic you pick up helps sea turtles swim a little safer. Before you splash in the water, choose sunscreens labeled “reef-safe”. They act like invisible shields for coral reefs. 

No ocean nearby? No worries! You and your little one can still dive into the deep blue sea through storytime. In Way Down Deep in the Deep Blue Sea by Jan Peck, a silly bathtub adventure turns into a pretend journey through the ocean, where a boy meets all kinds of splashy sea creatures. Over in the Ocean: In a Coral Reef by Marianne Berkes is a sing-along counting book with bright, bubbly pictures of fish, dolphins, and other reef friends. And when it’s time to get cozy, Good Night, Little Sea Otter by Janet Halfmann is a sweet bedtime story where a baby otter says goodnight to all his ocean pals before snuggling up with his mama.  

Meet the Ocean’s Quirky Crew 

Did you know that clownfish pop to communicate? Octopuses have three hearts and squirt ink to escape sharks. Vibrant coral reefs keep 25% of all marine species safe. The ocean is full of amazing sea creature secrets just waiting to be discovered!  

Even if you can’t visit the ocean, you can still get up close to real sea animals through the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s live cams. Watch sea otters float on their backs, moon jellies glow like lanterns, and sharks dart through the water without leaving your couch! 

Dive Deeper with Creative World School 

At Creative World School, we turn curiosity into care for our planet. Through hands-on exploration and playful learning, children discover what makes our world and its oceans so special. Find a Creative World School preschool near you and see how every child can grow into a proud protector of our blue planet.