Most people believe that learning starts at home. This is undeniably the place where children were first taught of their ABC’s, numbers, and even art.  The impact of each family member working together is too wonderful to be disregarded.  As youngsters nowadays become more and more exposed to urbanization, they likewise become aware of what “convenience” can do to Mother Earth.  This is the perfect time for parents to teach their children the art of recycling – a simple yet noble way of saving the environment.  The family can easily launch a recycling plan by undertaking the following steps:

  1. Gather used materials and sort them out


    Instead of jamming everything in a bin, take time to examine which ones can be still used for other purposes. Organize the non-biodegradables by labeling each:  paper (including table napkins), bottles, and even garments! Paper, for example, can be reused in a number of ways.  Use the blank side as a notepad, scratch paper, or a drawing slate.  You may also use them to produce home-made paper, which not only saves you money, but also unleashes you and your kids’ artistic side! The premise behind this step is that materials must be maximized before they are discarded, or in our case, recycled.  In the same manner, biodegradables such as food scraps and leaves must be kept in a separate bin.

  2. Encourage your children to put their paper scraps and leftover crayons aside for another purpose  

    This is a good practice to get your family into recycling – a “green” way of teaching your children to be creative.  Paper scraps and cut-outs, in whatever shape, color, or texture, may still be used as decorative elements in their projects, scrapbooks, albums, and journals.  Let them learn the virtue of being resourceful by using wisps from sharpened crayons and pencils as ornaments in mosaic and cards.

  3. Be ex-shellent in the kitchen 

    No need to worry if your family is composed of mussel aficionados.  Clam shells and the like may be pound into finery to make them a chalk additive.  Egg shells may be used for the same purpose, although you may maximize its use in the art department.  Egg shells are also commonly mixed with soil as they are proved to be an excellent fertilizer.

  4. Creative Substitution

    Aside from the aforementioned steps in launching an at-home recycling plan, the best way to inculcate the importance of “going green” is to reinforce a bit of eco-resourcefulness.  Shop with a large canvas bag so you can spare the plastic. In unavoidable circumstances, encourage your family to reuse the plastic bags (you can turn them into garbage bags as well).

    Recycling, on the other hand, is not only creative; it could be your family’s gateway to business opportunities, too.  Keep your kids’ tetra packs and aluminum foil bags and transform them into fashionable totes and pillows, respectively.  This not only launches your family in the “saving Mother Earth” movement, but it also opens you to endless possibilities.  Moreover, your family helps lessen waste – you save money and gain worthwhile hobbies – and not at our environment’s expense.

  5. Make recycling a habit. 

    Though this may seem trivial, this is actually the last and most important step of all.  Starting a recycling plan is fun, but it also entails the discipline to continue what your family has started.  Treat recycling as if it is a lifestyle.  Should children ask, always give them a logical explanation for this activity and mention the advantages for doing such.  Best of all, share your advocacy with other families.  Go green at home, and our planet will thank you for it.