Summer is full swing, which means your kids are out of school and looking for things to do. Summer is the perfect season to get them outside and unplugged from their TVs, phones and video games. Now is a great time to get them involved in fun eco-friendly activities and teach them the importance of looking after our environment. After all, they are our planet’s future, so it’s essential that we encourage them to start helping create a greener world. Here’s a list of 5 eco-friendly activities that you can enjoy with your kids this summer.
Splash Sustainably: When it’s scorching outside, the only way to cool off is to get wet! But running the backyard hose all-day for a slip and slide is not friendly to the environment or your water bill. Instead of wasting water, try soaking up a few sponges or washcloths in your kiddie pool for hours of fun water play. Or, poke some holes in a recycled water bottle to make a quick and easy sprinkler.
Put on a fashion show: Spend a day going through their wardrobe with them and encourage them to recycle some of their old clothes to put on their own fashion show! Let them get creative with beads, buttons and fabric paints. Suddenly, their old t-shirt they wanted to throw out will have a second life and they’ll want to wear it every day of the week.
Create a garden: There’s no better way to teach your kids how to appreciate nature than by getting directly involved with it. Show them how to nurture a plant from its start as a seed; explaining how seeds need clean water, healthy soil, fresh air, and sunlight to grow strong. If you don’t have the space to create a large garden, a good alternative is to plant your seeds in a pot or small cup.
Volunteer: Find local volunteer opportunities to encourage your kids to contribute to their community. Wildlife restoration projects, maintaining a food pantry garden, walking dogs for the local animal shelter, and maintaining hiking trails for local parks are all great activities. Find out about volunteer opportunities in your area by speaking with organizations or searching online.
Go Camping: Whether it’s in the woods, by the beach, or in your backyard, camping is the quintessential summer activity! Camping will bring your kids face-to-face with nature’s beauty, giving you the opportunity to discuss the significance of carbon footprints, and how to protect our planet from pollution and carbon emissions.
These eco-friendly activities will keep you and your kids busy and having fun all summer long. Produce less waste and teach your kids the significance of recycling and living a greener lifestyle with these creative crafts and ideas.