Let's talk serious business about our planet. Climate change is happening, and it's causing big problems. Our health and the environment are at risk, and guess what? The future might be even tougher for our kids if things don't change. That's why teaching sustainability is a big deal.
Here are some practical ways to get your kids thinking green:
Teach Your Children About Sustainability
Start the conversation about why taking care of our planet matters. Show them how pollutants and stuff that doesn't break down hurt the Earth. Reading kid-friendly books on sustainability can help—so add those to the reading list.
Be a Role Model
Actions speak louder than words! Show your kids how it’s done by switching off unnecessary lights, shutting windows when the A/C's running, and not wasting water when brushing teeth.
Walk the Walk
Cars are one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Walking is better for the environment and keeps us fit. If distance is an issue, consider biking, scooting, or using public transport—it’s a win-win.
Make a Recycling Routine
Use separate containers for waste and recyclables. You can use bright colors to color code them, making it easy to teach your kids which items are recyclable and which are not. You can even turn sorting into a game so kids can have fun placing items into their designated containers.
DIY Sustainable Toys
Repurpose old stuff into new toys! Cardboard boxes make excellent playhouses, and those empty containers? They can be turned into cool instruments. When buying, opt for wooden toys—they’re more Earth-friendly.
Donate Items
Kids go through things quickly. They grow out of their clothes and toys in record time.
Instead of throwing these items out, consider donating them. Get your kids involved by asking them which items to donate. When you’re ready to drop off items, go to the recycling centers as a family so they get the full experience.
Plant Together
Gardening is good for the environment. It cleans the air and soil. Teach your children about the benefits of gardening by planning a planting activity. You can grow fruits and vegetables can create recipes together with the food you planted. Or they can choose some pretty flowers, nice smelling herbs, or even put together a cute cactus garden. By growing something special, kids learn the importance of keeping pollutants out of our water and soil.
Plan Outdoor Excursions
Outdoor excursions will teach your child to appreciate nature. Take them to local parks and green spaces where they can be immersed in wildlife. By fostering a love of plants and animals, they will become more interested in helping the environment.
Celebrate Earth Day
Earth Day (April 22) is a celebration of the earth and the environment. Plan a fun Earth Day activity for your family. Go out to a local festival or spend the day in nature.
Other earth-friendly holidays to celebrate include Arbor Day (April 28) and World Oceans Day (June 8).
Integrate Sustainability Into Self-Care
You may be surprised to learn how much waste is created through hygiene practices. So many products come in plastic containers that don’t break down after use. Bathing and brushing our teeth can also use a lot of water if we aren’t careful.
Encourage your children not to waste water while practicing self-care. Show them how they can turn the water off between rinses when they brush their teeth and how to bathe efficiently so they conserve water.
You can also teach children about sustainability by buying them an eco-friendly toothbrush made from bamboo floss made from straw wheat, and biodegradable soaps and shampoos. These items are made of sustainable materials that break down in the environment. They are also better for your child’s health.
Smartlifeco helps your children integrate sustainability into their self-care practices. We offer an environmentally friendly toothbrush made from sustainable bamboo floss products made from biodegradable straw wheat, and we plan a tree with every purchase! These practices show how small steps can lead to big change.
It’s essential to teach your children about eco-friendliness. Our sustainable products will introduce healthy practices into their lives that can be part of a bigger effort to instill your children with environmental responsibility.