Getting your kids on board with an eco-friendly lifestyle might seem a bit challenging, especially if this is a new foray for your family. However, there are numerous fun and exciting ways to get your little ones involved that are sure to keep them interested and teach them how to care for Mother Earth at the same time.
Grow a Garden
Of all the different ways to teach your kids how to take care of the planet, growing a garden with them is by far one of the most fun and most satisfying. It’s a phenomenal experience as it shows kids where foods come from, but it also gives them a hands-on experience that will serve them well for life. As your child watches your chosen fruits and vegetables grow, he or she will be in awe of the experience. Then, when the time comes to eat the delicious produce, your child will be filled with an immeasurable sense of pride and accomplishment.
Turn Zero-Waste Living into a Game
If you are one of millions of families attempting to reduce the amount of waste your household produces to zero, then getting your kids involved is a crucial part of seeing that vision become reality. The best way to help get kids excited about producing less waste is to encourage them to be creative by turning it into a game. For example, you might give your child a star each time he or she thinks of a way to reduce waste in your home. Then, when five stars have been accumulated, they can be traded for a special (eco-friendly!) treat.
Go Camping or Hiking
In order for kids to get excited about protecting the environment, they first need to understand and appreciate the environment around them. There’s no better way to do this than by making camping and hiking trips a regular occurrence. Use these times to collect trash along your local waterway and talk about the dangers of plastic on the fish and other wildlife in the area. Before long, your kids will be volunteering to do their part to save the animals. Make sure you involve your kids in the camping or hiking process, too. They will carry that sense of stewardship in caring for the planet with them for the rest of their lives.
Practice “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” Often
Finally, the slogan “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” is more than just a phrase. In fact, it’s a way of life that your children can learn early on. When your children shop with you, teach them how to look for products with minimal or sustainable packaging. Rather than throwing out glass jars or other containers, repurpose them into drinkware or containers to hold little bits and bobs. Finally, ask your child to think about every item he or she puts into the garbage at home. Can it be recycled? Is it necessary to throw it away? Over time, your kids will start making these eco-friendly choices on their own.
If you want to raise your children with an eco-friendly mindset, these tips are sure to help. Each one helps children develop their own critical thinking skills, and before you know it, they will be making choices that benefit the environment in new and exciting ways.