Which term best describes a child's tendency to view natural phenomena as if they are created by humans?

The term that best describes a child's tendency to view natural phenomena as if they are created by humans is artificialism. This concept reflects the understanding that children may attribute human-like qualities or intentions to natural events, suggesting that they believe elements of nature are made or controlled by people. This perspective is typical during certain developmental stages when children are still forming their understanding of the world around them and often have a magical thinking approach.

In contrast, animism focuses on the belief that objects and animals possess a spirit or life force. Environmentalism refers to a concern for and action to protect the environment, which is more of a social and political stance rather than a developmental perspective. Naturalism, on the other hand, relates to understanding nature based on observable and scientific phenomena without attributing human characteristics to it. These distinctions help clarify why artificialism is the most fitting term for the described tendency.