Kids
This Mobile Game Teaches Kids How to Segregate Trash
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources launches Basura Buster, an mobile game for kids 5 to 8 years old.
As a guardian to two toddlers, I am always on the lookout for tools that I can use during the time I spend with them. These include mobile games and TV shows, which I often check on for their learning.
Parents and guardians understand that they cannot hide their gadgets from their kids forever. It’s important that apps they use on gadgets must be something that is educational. Like the importance of waste management and caring for the environment.
Seeing the importance to teach kids at a young age, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources recently launched “Basura Buster“. It’s a gaming app that teaches kids the importance of waste segregation.
Kids ages 5 to 8 years old can play the app.
The game is part of DENR’s Solid Waste Management Advocacy Campaign, which hopes to instill proper behavior among Filipinos.
I downloaded the app on my Android phone to check it out. I found the game fun because it also brings me back to the basics of waste segregation. The best part is that it’s user-friendly.
Users simply drag the “falling” trash divided into four color-coded bins. Green is for biodegradable, black for residual, blue for recyclable, and yellow for household care.
For every trash in the correct bin, the gamer earns a point. The gamer’s “life” is deducted or they will have to repeat the level again if the trash falls in the wrong bin.
As the user reaches a level, color-coded bins are added and the speed increases. It also has a tally board, wherein users will see the top scorers from around the country.
Just a Start
During the launch, DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu said that through the “Basura Buster” app and Solid Waste Management Advocacy Campaign, they hope to attract and strengthen their ties with the youth through various partnerships and collaborations using technology, communication, and education.
“Amidst the pandemic, solid waste management is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges in our country today. And as technology is evidently valuable in the education of children, we have created this educational game app to build a firm foundation on managing solid waste while they are still young,” he said.
DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Concerns Benny D. Antiporda added that with the app, they hope it will bring more awareness, change the behavior, and train kids on the importance of waste management.
So the next time you look for something for your kids to play with on your phone and tablets, encourage them to play the “Basura Buster” and start training them young about helping Mother Earth.
*You can download Basura Buster on Google Play Store for free.
Looking for educational apps for your kids? Check these out:
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