Everything around us - air, water, land, plants, and animals - all connected like one big bubble.

Why it matters: Every creature depends on its environment to live; when one part is hurt, the rest feels it too.

Fun Fact: Even city air is part of the ocean’s story; winds carry dust and nutrients across seas!

Say it like this: en-VAI-run-ment

Your turn: Look around and name three things in your home that come from nature (you’ll be surprised!).

The sunlit top layer of the ocean where most sea life swims, eats, and plays!

Why it matters: It’s where photosynthesis happens: tiny plankton here make oxygen for the whole planet.

Fun Fact: This zone only reaches 200 metres deep, yet it powers nearly all ocean ecosystems!

Say it like this: eh-pee-peh-LA-jik zone

Your turn: Can you draw the ocean’s layers like a sandwich and colour the “sunlight zone” golden yellow?

A special place where rivers meet the sea, mixing fresh water and salt water: these busy waters are home to fish, crabs, and even birds

Why it matters: Estuaries are safe nurseries for baby fish, crabs, and birds.

Fun fact: Backwards River! When the tide rushes in, parts of a river in an estuary can flow backward for a little while. WHOA!

Say it like this: ES-choo-air-ee

Your turn: Question time! If you were a baby fish, would you rather grow up in a busy coral reef or a calm estuary? Why?

We have something for you: Grab your crayons and bring this estuary to life:!