Teaching Young Children to Go Green

Making correct decisions to help the environment and to be green is a lifetime learning process that can start at a very young age. Setting a good example for your children is the most important step to take in teaching them to reduce their carbon footprint and to love the Earth. The following are some other tips to help you start to teach your young children in their every day lives to be more eco-friendly.

• Arts & Crafts—Take the time to brainstorm together, check out a book from the library or browse the web to find activities that you can reuse supplies to have fun. Teach them to be careful with the amount of paper they use and to always recycle when possible.
• Errands—When possible, walk, not only is it helpful to the environment but it encourages a healthy lifestyle and gets their wiggles out! Arrange errands with neighbors and carpool, explain to your children why you are going on errands together.

• Family/Friend Outings—Plan activities, playgroups, vacations that can give you the opportunity to help the environment, support a charity or visit a place that can teach your children more about being eco-friendly.
• Snacks—Cut down on packaging by reusing bags, drink containers, etc. Get your children in the kitchen to help you make snacks to use throughout the week together!
• Meals—While at the grocery store or farmer’s market make shopping more fun by explaining to them why you buy organic and local food items.
• Chores—Involve them in the preparation of homemade safe cleaning products, explain to them why you choose to stay away from harmful chemicals. Give them a large part of the recycling job in your home by involving them in collecting, sorting and disbursing recycled goods.
• Nature—Start young by your example in teaching them how to love the Earth. Make sure they understand how beautiful everything is so you can help develop their care and concern for taking care of their surroundings.