by: Lindsay Hutton
Explore the beauty of nature with your children and teach them the importance of caring for our planet with these simple and meaningful ways to celebrate Earth Day.
Read a Nature-Inspired Book
Read about all things green, from the importance of recycling to how to plant your own tree. These 10 Earth Day Books for Children are a great lesson in learning to respect Mother Nature.
Up-cycle Trash into an Eco-Friendly Craft
Create a craft made from recycled materials that you can find at home or in nature. Take it a step further and make your own craft supplies, too. They're easy to make, better for the environment than store-bought supplies, and save you a ton of money to boot!
Take a Bike Ride
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, highway vehicles release about 1.5 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere each year. Take a family bike ride to one of the day's destinations, and ask your children if they can think of any other environmentally-friendly modes of transportation. You can get the conversation started by mentioning skateboards, rollerblades, or even your own two feet!
Feed the Birds
Even if you don't have time to build a bird feeder, simply scattering some seeds or bread crumbs in your back yard will help feed your feathered friends. Ask your child to point out all the different birds that come to feast.
Open Your Windows
According to the EPA, air pollutants in the home can be 2-5 times higher than outdoor air pollutants. Throw open your windows and let the fresh spring air in! While you're at it, encourage your kids to listen for nature sounds and write down what they hear.
Get Outside
Picking up trash in your neighborhood, going on a scavenger hunt, or planting some flowers are all great ways to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate Earth Day.
Cook with Local Produce
Local produce doesn't need to be shipped long distance, and therefore helps to promote energy conservation by reducing the use of fossil fuels and packaging. It also helps to support the environment by offering a habitat to local wildlife and preserving open space.
Even if you don't have a backyard vegetable garden, you can still cook with locally grown produce. Find out what fruit and vegetables are in season with this printable seasonal produce list, and then let your kids help whip up one of these tasty spring-inspired meals.
Conduct a Science Experiment
Try one of these simple science experiments at home to help your children understand the greenhouse effect. Afterwards, talk about different ways they can reduce their impact on the environment. Check out these "going green" resources for ideas!
