Kids love being a part of efforts that they know will help to protect the earth. Not only do they like knowing that they have a respected role to play but they like the fact that their parents and other adults acknowledge their abilities and maturity enough to discuss important issues with them like the environment.
Earth Day is an opportunity to really think about the messages and actions that cities and regional governments across the country are promoting to help our environment. “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” are messages that can take on greater meaning through purposeful activities that you choose to do with your family on Earth Day.
To begin with, why not gather everyone around and talk about the following questions:
What can we recycle in our household and how can we recycle these items?
How many disposable items, from diapers to plastic bags do we use as a family, and how many items can we choose to do without?
Where can we reuse items we no longer want?
Here are some uses for existing items that might be in your household:
• Reuse a plastic or paper bag as a gift bag – place some decorative stickers or other decorations on it and you’ve got a replacement for wrapping paper! • Reuse empty food containers as storage for leftovers. • Decorate a can and reuse it as a pencil holder. • Habitat for Humanity accepts building material donations – contact your local office for this non-profit group before disposing of old building material around your home. • Your local Goodwill can make good use of your gently worn clothing and gently used furniture or other household items. Contact them to find out delivery options.
Suggest that your children organize an Earth Day Groceries project with their classmates and teacher. The project involves each child in the class decorating a cloth, canvas or other durable and reusable bags that can serve as great grocery bags. Once the bags are done present them to your local Grocery store as a way to promote Earth Day and the strong relationship between your local store, school and patrons in the community.
Hiking is a great family activity that can turn into a enjoyable Earth Day Activity if the purpose of the hike is to pick up garbage in your local park or trail. It’s a satisfying project that will make kids feel they are doing their part to take care of an area that gives them and their friends in the community much enjoyment – especially animals!
One of the best ways to teach our children about the impact of trash on our environment is to show them the “trash trail.” Where does the trash go after we put it out for the garbage truck? On Earth Day why not take your kids on a little journey along the “trash trail.”
The garbage workers or sanitation engineers take residential garbage usually to a transfer station that collects the community’s waste/rubbish before shipping it off to a regional solid waste facility. In many cases the garbage gets trucked to a landfill or incinerator plant. Sometimes that garbage is then burned to produce electricity – depending on the town.
Investigate if you are within traveling distance to a waste facility and ask if they do tours for schools or community members. If so, you’ll be in for an eye opening experience that will make this Earth Day one that will be an educational and fun experience for you and your family.
April 22 is the annual Earth Day celebration. Global communities will do their part promoting public awareness on environmental issues. Earth Day Fairs will be held in many cities which will include activities such as park cleanups, tree planting, educational videos, and local environmental demonstrations to name a few. For the entire day the public is focused on thinking 'green' and what actions will serve to protect our planet. It is a national holiday of sorts for those who care deeply about environmental issues and an opportune time for those that want to learn more.
To ensure a safe and clean planet for future generations it is not enough to think environmental issues for one day only. We must think 'green' every day of the year. Decide now to start small with these easy resolutions to make 'green' living an essential part of your daily routine.
Begin by making a pledge
When you make a commitment you are more apt to follow through. Pledges may be available at Earth Day festivities. Or go online and do a Google search for "Earth Day Pledge" in quotes. There are several sites listed that have a variety of pledges you can sign. Compare the various petitions. Commit to the one that lists options that best fits your daily habits. You can also challenge yourself by resolving to do something that falls outside your normal comfort zone. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that going ‘green’ doesn’t mean you have to be a martyr.
Educate yourself and others
Check your community for local environmental programs that educate. Once knowledgeable concerning environmental issues, you could offer to give a class at the local library or school classroom to educate others on living 'green'. In this way you will be contributing to the community and raising environmental awareness at the same time.
Change out incandescent lights with fluorescent lights
This might seem like a small step but it is an important one. Initially, there will be an upfront expense. Besides saving energy, however, over time you will see a significant savings on your electric bill. Replacement costs will decrease since fluorescent lights will not have to be replaced as often.
Turn off lights and appliances when not in use
When you leave a room, turn off the light. Put all appliances and electronic devices on power strips so you can easily turn them off just by flipping the switch.
Recycle
Check with your local recycling center to find out what kind of materials is accepted in your area. Commonly accepted items include paper, glass, plastic containers and aluminum cans.
Drive less and walk more
Are you close enough to shops, school or work to walk? Plan your driving trips. Cut down on fuel costs by combining errands? If you must drive, team up with neighbors or workmates.
With Earth Day quickly approaching, resolve to do your part today and every day to make the earth a safe place to reside. With a strong commitment and a little extra effort living 'green' will become second nature.
With the approaching celebration of Earth Dayon April 22 you will want to start thinking of ways you can take an active part. What are some things you can do to contribute to environmental awareness with family members and in the community?
Most cities will host an Earth Day Fair. Attending the fair will afford you the opportunity to take part in a multitude of activities. There may be locally grown foods to enjoy, videos on environmental issues, Earth Day games and puzzles for the family, fund raising for a local environmental program. Taking part in these festivities as a family will not only be fun but it will also serve to educate everyone on planet safety.
In preparation for Earth Day what can you do to promote Earth Friendly awareness?
Listed here are some Earth Day ideas to get you and your community involved on this important day.
Check with local public works for proper procedures and guidelines. A community park is a good choice. Instruct participants to pack a waste free lunch as part of the Earth Day awareness. Enhance the project with word games, songs and quizzes on Earth Friendliness. Other locations for cleanups include national parks, community waterways, and along highways. Make sure to stay in groups and avoid traffic.
Build a bird sanctuary
Build a habitat for our feathered friends. You can ensure that it is favorable for nesting, eating and social activity. Fill bird feeders with bird seed for a variety of different birds and provide suet feeders, which basically look like little cages with bird seed in them. You can even make your own and make it a family project. Birds need water for drinking and for frolicking and a birdbath will provide both. These simple activities will help your family enjoy nature as you bird watch together and try to identify all visiting species.
Moderate an outdoor class on Earth Friendliness
Invite the neighborhood children for an outdoor Earth Day party. Provide crafts and activities that teach Earth friendliness. Many sites on line have downloadable coloring books, craft ideas and puzzles with Earth day themes. Encourage the children to share their ideas on protecting the Earth, and make a pledge to do their part. Refreshments can be served and recycling can be encouraged.
Visit a Recycling plant
With family and friends take a trip to a recycling plant to learn the value of recycling. Gain a broader understanding of what household items that can be recycled. Children are especially fascinating with the recycling process and it is a good way for them to learn that the story does not end when the garbage leaves the curb.
Spread the Word
Send email reminders to friends and family and post on community bulletin boards. Wear brown and green colors to focus attention on environmental issues. Publicize upcoming Earth Day activities.
Be creative, no doubt you have ideas of your own. The important thing is to be aware of reducing our impact on the planet. Then pledge to make a difference.
Kids love being a part of efforts that they know will help to protect the earth. Not only do they like knowing that they have a respected role to play but they like the fact that their parents and other adults acknowledge their abilities and maturity enough to discuss important issues with them like the environment.
