Even with the rise in temperatures and pollution worldwide, it’s never too late to educate kids about recycling, especially with learning why it’s a vital step in reducing our carbon footprint. To make learning about reusing even more fun, here are different ways to teach waste management to children.
Upcycling Art Project
Through fun activities, such as crafting things from recycled items, children can actively learn about the importance of recycling.
Start off the day by sorting through different recyclable piles—avoid ones with sharp edges or glass—and come up with various projects to do through upcycling scraps.
For instance, you can create a chain of plastic bottles as plant holders for the backyard. All you need to do is drill holes into the sides, draw fishing line or thin rope through, and hang it from the fence.
This upcycling project teaches kids that reusing certain plastics can reduce the number of synthetic bottles in landfills.
Throwing Out Household Waste
The other method of instructing children about waste management is showing them the proper way to dispose of waste. For instance, when working on a home remodel, you can teach them how to separate all recyclables into piles.
Eventually, children will learn which recyclables are okay to take to a landfill and which can be reused. Since children learn by example, making it a daily habit to separate different recyclable items can help them learn how to split up and organize junk.
Organizing a Clean-Up Project
Although teaching kids about the importance of recycling different materials is essential, it seems to make a lasting impact when they participate in a community clean-up project.
When a community organizes a local clean-up day, children from around the area learn why it’s wrong to litter. Additionally, they find out that picking up after yourself is not only encouraged, but that it’s the right way to keep a town looking beautiful.
After organizing a local clean-up day, start by taking small groups around the neighborhoods, picking litter up with gloves and picks. This activity shows children the importance of waste management in their local area.
Learn Through Play
Children learn best through play. All you need is a fun experiment or project to teach children about reusing particular recyclables and properly throwing things in the garbage bin.
The different activities to play include kits that teach kids about physics and reusing items to create a more sustainable environment. These activities encourage more of a positive spin on how many approach teaching children about waste management.
As you conclude our list, you’re halfway to leaving a positive impression on children when discussing recycling. Keep your kids informed each day of the year by showing them how to recycle waste properly through play, volunteering, and reusing renovation waste.