Earth Day With Your Family

Earth Day, which began April 22, 1970, is a special day for every generation to remember and understand the importance of keeping our environment clean. Each year, schools celebrate this day with our children because they are our future.  This year, Earth Day falls on a Sunday, so what better way to celebrate this special day than with the whole family!

First, teach your children simple steps to conserve energy and reduce waste.  On Earth Day, advise your children to turn off the lights as they leave a room, switch off appliances (like the TV) after use and make a point to recycle everything!  Add a fun twist to these activities by singing “Recycle songs”* while being conservative! All these steps help our environment by conserving energy and reducing waste - keeping our planet healthy. 

Now that they’ve got the basics down, set out on an Environmental Cleanup** with your family, friends or neighbors in your community.

Items that you will need:

·         work gloves

·         trash bags

·         shovel & bucket (for sharp objects)

·         first-aid kit (always be prepared!)

·         camera

Pick a location to clean-up in your area.  This can be your neighborhood, local park or nearby riverbank.  Create a competition to see who can gather the most garbage and be sure to take photos of everyone’s hard work!

End your Earth Day with a pizza party and photo viewing session to reward your family and friends for supporting the planet.  Remember, every little bit counts!

Recycle Song* http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/earth/rrr.htm
Environmental Cleanup** http://www.education.com/activity/article/Hands_On_Environmentalism/