Act locally, think globally 70% of the industrial admissions that contribute to human-driven climate change, it's easy to feel as though our individual efforts are a waste of time. But now more than ever, we need to work to reduce our carbon footprint and encourage our kids to do the same.
How did Earth Day come about? A major oil spill in 1970 was the catalyst for what is now known as Earth Day. U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day as an initiative to draw awareness to air and water pollution, and on April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was celebrated.
If you're looking to teach your kids about recycling and sustainability, here are some Earth Day crafts and activities for a variety of ages.
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There's something to be said for leading by example and demonstrating to your children that most of the environmental issues we face today are a direct result of climate change.
Erin Royer teaches fourth and fifth graders in Denver, Colorado, and believes that kids this age are fully equipped to make this important connection. "If you teach from a problem-based learning style, students will repeatedly arrive at climate change as the cause and effect of many problems/issues in their world,” the elementary teacher told NPR. "When they read information, through their research, put out by reliable scientists, they arrive at climate change again and again."
Make a fruit and vegetable food craft
Recent data indicates that both the meat and dairy industries are some of the top contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Incorporate plant-based meals into your family meal plan. This celery and snail fruit and vegetable snack craft pairs well with The Very Hungry Caterpillar as a story-time snack for you and your kids.
Easy pillowcase shopping tote bag
If you're refreshing your linens this year as part of your spring cleaning routine, don't toss those old pillowcases. You can create a no-sew pillowcase bag or, if you have time and a sewing machine, teach your child a valuable life skill and make these eco-friendly shopping bags.
Bring the bees to your yard
Not all bees live in hives; Mason bees are solitary bees that live in small holes or hollow tubes in nature. Attract these important pollinators to your yard by building a DIY bee hotel.
