There’s no such thing as too young when it comes to teaching kids to become eco-conscious. In fact, the earlier you start, the better because the habits they learn at an early age will be ingrained in them forever. As a mom with two toddlers I have been thinking of ways to ensure that my kids end up with a really healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle. One that as they grow up, they wouldn’t really have to think twice about since it’s what they’re already most comfortable doing. I’m pretty sure I could do more, but here are some of the things I’ve been putting to practice so far.
- Healthier and greener choices for me and the family – Kids learn by mirroring, and whether I tell about green living or not, they will subconsciously process the choices their mom makes. They’ll grow up without even thinking twice about eating in “real” restaurants and not in fast food chains, choosing veggies and fish over fried and junk food, and knowing that reusable diapers are better than disposables not because I “taught” them, but because they see the choices we make for them every single day.
- Nature exposure – I like spending time picking wild sunflowers with my toddlers, which luckily are quite plentiful in the empty lot two blocks from our house. We go to parks to play so that they can feel the grass beneath their feet and expose them to animals like cows in hopes that it will develop their love for nature. I figure that if they grow up appreciating nature, they’re more likely to live a life that is protective of something they see as beautiful and an essential part of their life.
- Cleaning up – My one-year old likes to toddle around and make a huge mess. After playing, we make the kids help in putting away their toys. This develops the habit of cleaning up after themselves, so that as they grow I can eventually link it to lessons on their carbon footprint and such.
How about you? Any tips on how to teach a toddler to live green?
Image via Easy Ways to Go Green