Children are the future generation and the one that needs to be more aware of climate change and all the consequences for the planet. Sustainability will guarantee the future of these children, and therefore it is not a fad, it is a necessity.
First of all, it is very important to say that children learn by example and nothing better than parents and schools setting an example, so that small changes in habits become part of the routines of the little ones and become the environment in which they grow up.
There are several children's books that address the topic and suggest several small changes that make all the difference, as well as games that in a fun way "teach" children about sustainability issues. They can also watch documentaries and films on the subject as a family.
Some ideas to bring sustainability naturally into your home:
- Contact with nature is essential for children to understand and respect the environment. Take nature walks, explore animals and plants, keep journals, go camping
- Picking up trash on the beach or in a forest can become a fun and educational activity for children
- Recycle and correctly explain the separation of waste to the little ones so that it becomes an unquestionable habit for them
- Start a small home composting system. Several cities have deposits for compost
- Upcycling, taking advantage of materials and giving them a new life, reusing everything possible, giving old toys and furniture a new life, renovating before recycling
- Make eco friendly products for cleaning the house and clothes
- Stimulate the circular economy, why not organize a garage sale. Explain that they can sell toys they no longer play with or clothes they no longer wear, and they can also exchange things they want/need with other children
- Stipulate one or two weekly vegetarian meals to reduce meat consumption
- Minimize the use of disposables at home as much as possible
- Learn how to buy vegetables and fruits at local producer markets and always following what the seasons give us
- Turn the daily shower into a game so that they are quick and with the least possible waste of water
- Even if you live in a city you can plant plants that are good for bees and other pollinators
- Set up a “plastic free” week once a month