Teaching Children About Sustainability

May 24, 2018

This week, MindBodyGreen shows us some tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle with your kids.

1. Start By Conserving Water

According to the EPA, the average family of four uses 400 gallons of water each day. Although it’s difficult to visualize that large number, your child might enjoy conserving water if it’s introduced as a game.  Challenge them to take shorter showers or turn off the tap while brushing their teeth.

2. Make Recycling a Part of Your Routine

Your home is a great place to start a recycling habit: set up recycling bins in the kitchen so it becomes second nature to separate cans, paper and plastics from food waste and other trash. The grocery store is also full of opportunities to recycle. You can have fun returning glass and aluminum cans for a bottle deposit or teach your child to carry groceries in a reusable bag.

3. Plant a Garden Together

Planting together is a great way to spend time outside and show your child where food comes from. Plus, caring for the garden fosters a sense of responsibility. If you don’t have outdoor space for a garden, try a windowsill version or visit a nearby farmers market.

4. Start Composting

Many people are intimidated by the idea of compost, but it’s as easy as you want to make it. Setting aside food waste is a great way to show kids the full life cycle of organic matter. Along with recycling, composting will also reduce the size of your trash.

5. Donate Unused Items

Teaching your child that their belongings are not disposable can help them reduce, reuse, and recycle from an early age. Go through your child’s wardrobe and toy chest to show them how to donate old or unused items, rather than throwing them out.

For other tips on recycling with your kids, see here.

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