Earth Day is Friday, April 22! We want to see our planet thrive, which is why it is so important that we teach our children to be kind to Mother Earth. Here are a few tips for raising environmentally-conscious children:
Educational materials
If you have children, you know that many of your requests are followed up with, “But why?” Children are curious. Therefore, they are more likely to pick up good habits if they understand why they are doing those things.
Begin by introducing the topic of environmental care with educational materials. There are many books and movies designed for children that have eco-friendly themes and entertaining plots. This introduction to the topic will be foundational in forming positive, lifelong habits.
Plant a family garden
As infrastructures grow, we lose plants and trees — which are home to many species. By planting trees and gardens, we protect wildlife, promote sustainable agriculture, reduce food transportation costs, and reduce water runoff.
Teach your children the importance of sustaining plant life by planting a family garden. From tending to the soil and planting seeds to watering and nurturing the plants, encourage everyone in the household to participate. In addition to its environmental benefits, this family activity will be great for teaching your children responsibility.
Use refillable water bottles
In 2018 alone, U.S. landfills received 27 million tons of plastic waste. Plastic often contains chemicals that can harm wildlife and pollute our food/water supply — and it’s not biodegradable, so it will sit in landfills for thousands of years.
When children are busy at play, it’s easy to just pass them a few pre-packaged water bottles to keep them hydrated. Reduce the amount of plastic your family uses by swapping out plastic bottles for refillable bottles! You can purchase a filter for your tap water and simply fill up your refillable bottle as needed. Refillable bottles often keep your water cooler for longer, which is always a plus.
Conserve energy
The average U.S. household uses about 900 kWh every month. Conserving energy reduces air/water pollution and conserves natural resources. Conserving energy is one of the easiest ways your family can do their part.
When busy at play, children often run from room to room. Remind them to turn out lights they are not using or turn off the television when they aren’t watching it. As a family, make a conscious effort to unplug appliances that aren’t in use.
Lead by example
The best way to reinforce good habits in your children is to lead by example. If you want to raise eco-friendly children, you must show them what it looks like to care for the environment.
Practice what you preach — reduce waste, recycle when possible, ditch the car and walk when you can, etc. Implement these practices in your day-to-day life and they will become habitual. Remember, children are sponges; children replicate what they see.
Looking for childcare in The Woodlands, Texas? TKF provides a quality educational environment for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years, including Private Kindergarten and before and after school care. Contact us today!
