(sheri)
Monday is Earth Day. For us we consider the Earth in what we sell, how we live, and what we teach everyday. So to have one day to call international attention to our quest for a better and safer place to live is great. It is an opportunity to teach our kids about the importance of taking care of and honoring our planet. By doing so, I believe we also honor ourselves and each other.
Children learn so much through play so why not teach them about our planet through creative projects and play?
We found some great ideas on the web and wanted to share them with you.
(Image from Momtastic blog)
Momtastic has a great idea, have your little one make their own recyling bin. They will be so proud to have the family recycling in their bin. It is a great way to show them about how we can recycle, what can be recyled and why we recycle. This can start great habits early on!
(Image from Maryland Momma's blog)
Maryland Momma's post about how to make a tree for Earth Day caught my eye right away. I think it is a great craft for a little one. It can also make a great centerpiece for the dinner table on Earth Day, making an opportunity to discuss Earth day with the whole family. The craft incorporates recycling, creativity and nature, a great combo for any craft, any day.
(image from Turning the Clock Back blog)
On the blog, Turning the Clock back, this Tin Can Birdfeeder is the featured Earth Day craft. This craft is great for any age. Your little one will have a great time recycling a tin can into a bird feeder, after all what kid doesn't love to paint? I think this bird feeder would be a great way to remind kids every day about Earth Day since they will see the feeder a lot as it hangs in your yards. It is also creates opportunities to talk about birds and other outdoor creatures.
The Make Myself at Home blog featured this great Earth Day craft. I love teaching kids how to plant and care for flowers or plants. Imagine planting an herb in a tin can so they can even eat their Earth Day craft all summer long. This craft allows each child to customize the craft to reflect them. If you cut out images from nature you can talk to your child about the earth and the importance of caring for it while you make their flower pot.
I love this craft from East Coast Mommy! You can upcyle instead of recycle, which is even better for the planet. You can also play outside, if it is warm enough, or in the bathtub or sink if it isn't. There is so much opportunity for creativity, for talking about recycling, upcycling and the effect of plastic trash on our oceans and other waterways. Your kids can have fun creating their own custom boats, while learning about rivers, oceans, lakes, ponds, waterfalls and streams. They can learn about the importance of conserving water so there are plenty of places for people to sail their boats.
What will you be doing for Earth Day? We would love to hear about and see your crafts or ideas!