Thoughtful Thursday, August 20, 2009
EARTH911.COM has a simple message:
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8 Ways to Green Childhood
by Michelle Talsma Everson
This story is part of Earth911’s “Green Eight” series, where we showcase eight ways to green your life in various areas.
So, you’ve embraced the green lifestyle and may even be a champion of it. Now you’re ready to share your new-found eco-knowledge with the world. What better place to start than at home, with your own children?
After all, your kids are part of the next environmentally conscious generation, so why not get them started off on a green foot? No matter what age your youngsters are, it’s never too early (or too late!) to show them the green ropes and encourage an eco-friendly childhood.
by Michelle Talsma Everson
This story is part of Earth911’s “Green Eight” series, where we showcase eight ways to green your life in various areas.
So, you’ve embraced the green lifestyle and may even be a champion of it. Now you’re ready to share your new-found eco-knowledge with the world. What better place to start than at home, with your own children?
After all, your kids are part of the next environmentally conscious generation, so why not get them started off on a green foot? No matter what age your youngsters are, it’s never too early (or too late!) to show them the green ropes and encourage an eco-friendly childhood.
1. Use Fewer Diapers
If your child isn’t potty trained, help save the environment one diaper at a time by using fewer disposable diapers. You can do this the old-fashioned way by solely using cloth diapers, which can be washed and reused, or you can use fewer disposable diapers in general by implementing Elimination Communication (EC).
Also known as infant or baby potty training, EC involves training your baby to communicate with you when they need to go, so you can take them to the real toilet every now and then, thus reducing their dependency on disposable diapers. You’ll still use diapers – but you’ll use them less frequently.
2. Encourage (and Practice) Green Eating Habits
Reduce the amount of packaging waste from pre-made foods by making meals at home, and turn family dinners into a chance to cook your favorite organic or fresh food recipes. If possible, make your baby food from scratch – it’s healthier for baby and saves on excess waste from cardboard, glass, plastic and more. And if you’re really ambitious, consider starting a family garden. No matter its size, it will encourage your kids to appreciate their food and the earth it comes from.
3. Use “Green Bucks”
For older children, the concept of “Green Bucks” helps teach them about two types of green: money and the environment. Similar to an allowance, Green Bucks are given to kids as a reward, but instead of being used on the latest toy, they represent a set amount of money that is donated in their name to an environmentally-friendly charity of their choice.
For older children, the concept of “Green Bucks” helps teach them about two types of green: money and the environment. Similar to an allowance, Green Bucks are given to kids as a reward, but instead of being used on the latest toy, they represent a set amount of money that is donated in their name to an environmentally-friendly charity of their choice.
4. Explore The Great Outdoors
To help them learn to appreciate nature, give your kids a chance to really explore it. Do some quick research to find out more about the environmental treasures in your local community, and take advantage of the chance to spend time as a family.
5. Recycle Together
Recycling is one of the most basic green living concepts. But you aren’t born knowing the ins and outs of this eco-habit, and the best place to learn it is at home. Make recycling a family project and get your kids involved. By making it fun using games and activities, your children will not only learn how and what to recycle, but it will become a lifelong habit. Check out the EPA’s Environmental Kids’ Club for recycling ideas, games and activities.
6. Buy Green Toys
One of the best things about being a kid is, of course, toys! You know you’re going to give them a treat every now and then anyways, so why not buy your children environmentally friendly toys? Green toys come in all shapes and sizes, but without chemicals or additives. One place to start your hunt for the latest eco-friendly plaything is Eco Toy Town. Many department stores are also beginning to sell eco-friendly toys and organic baby products for even the littlest member of the family.
7. Earth-Friendly Reads
Just like you read up about the latest eco-topics, it’s never too early to start reading green kids books to your young ones. Not only does it help develop their reading skills, but it can foster early awareness of the environment. For older kids, pass along your favorite green articles or Web sites – it will give you a lot to discuss and provide an opportunity to learn together as well.
8. Set an Example
Perhaps the most important tip for green parents is to teach by example. If you want your kids to learn to be good stewards of Mother Nature, let them see your green efforts in action! And, don’t forget to tell them when you’re being green – pointing out your own efforts will help remind them to be mindful of even the simplest eco-steps, from turning off lights to unplugging electronics when bed time rolls around.
Perhaps the most important tip for green parents is to teach by example. If you want your kids to learn to be good stewards of Mother Nature, let them see your green efforts in action! And, don’t forget to tell them when you’re being green – pointing out your own efforts will help remind them to be mindful of even the simplest eco-steps, from turning off lights to unplugging electronics when bed time rolls around.
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