Parent Hacks: 7 ways to get your kids to go green for Earth Day

Although Earth Day is officially April 22, as parents we can take the opportunity any day of the year to reinforce the importance of taking care of the planet with our kids. The “reduce, reuse recycle” message can be easier to overlook when we’re caught up in our busy day-to-day lives. Here are some fun — and slightly less fun — ways to embrace the earth.

1. First and foremost, turn things off! This means turning lights off in rooms you’re not in, but it also means shutting down electronics  overnight and when not in use. And remember, those gadgets are still consuming energy if plugged into the outlet. Constant reminders will help the kids form habits, and maybe work on Mom and Dad too.

2. Make your own rad reusable shopping bags. We all know plastic is a no-no, but having your kids make their own tote bags will drive the message home in a fun manner and make grocery shopping a special activity. Grab canvas totes and fabric paint at your local craft shop, and then let your mini Emily Carr go wild painting earth-friendly scenes. 

3. Teach your kids how to deal with waste. Do your kids know what goes in the blue recycling bin versus the garbage? When food shopping, try to avoid items with packaging.

4. Donate. Kids sprout like weeds and are constantly outgrowing their clothes. Fewer garments produced means less manufacturing, which has a big environmental impact. Rather than letting them pile up in their closet, hand them down or donate them directly to a clothing bank. Another alternative is to download the nifty Bunz app. Items that no longer fit can easily be posted, traded for things that are actually needed. Maybe that means a bigger sweatshirt or maybe three TTC tokens! This also applies to unused toys and other kiddie gear.

5. Transform old food cans into planters. Wash out used cans and make sure they’re free of any edges that may hurt little fingers. Then hammer a few holes into the bottom and layer pebbles so that the tin is still visible. Carefully transplant seedlings into the new planters. These are great for fresh herbs that the kids can help incorporate into healthy meals.

6. Make your own lotions and potions. That fancy toothpaste with baking soda you love? A quick google will turn up a cheap ’n’ cheerful recipe that is free of chemicals that are detrimental to both the world and bodies — big and small. Same with deodorant. Hey, coconut oil does wonders.

7. Reassess electronics. Smartphones and other electronics are piling into landfills. Before upgrading, make sure you assess why the new piece of tech is necessary and whether it’s worth getting rid of the old one. And remember, you have to set an example.

Kids complain there isn’t a Kids’ Day. Use the argument that every day is Earth Day, and that it’s really all about them and their future.

Article exclusive to STREETS OF TORONTO