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Going Green: Back to School ... a Lesson in Green

acavanagh
Explorer A

The heart is a symbol of how much we care, and we extend that care to our planet.  With the summer break behind us, we want to share a few green tips and resources to incorporate into the new school year. Carpool or Ride Bikes: Nothing screams fun like a band of kiddos riding to school, and you get to skip the carpool lane.  Parents in my neighborhood take turns riding bikes with the kids to ensure everyone learns the ropes and has a safe experience—helmets and all!  If bikes are out of the question, coordinate with families in your area and set up a carpool schedule.  By doing so, you can save time, gas, and nerves by not battling the sea of cars in the carpool line. Time to Reduce and Recycle: We hear about spring cleaning but why not a back to school clean out?  I think my kids grew a foot over the summer, so the new school clothes come in and the small duds must go out.  Most schools have a clothing closet for students that need an extra hand.  If not, you can donate the items to a nonprofit organization in your area.  And don’t forget about the books!  I know I just filled a box with books the kids have outgrown.  Talk to the school librarian or counselor about sharing with students that don’t have many books at home.  Paying it forward is a heartwarming way to be green. Get the School into it: Talk with your parent organization and discuss ways the students and school can get into the green scene.  Try suggesting a green week filled with various activities encouraging environmentally-friendly practices.  Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling:
  • Collect grocery store plastic bags and take them in mass to the appropriate recycle center (many grocery stores have onsite receptacles).
  • Ask kids to bring old catalogs and magazines in from home—what the teachers can’t use for schools projects can go straight to the recycling container.
  • Invite someone from the city or community to teach the kids about the importance of conserving water, saving energy, and protecting our environment.
  • If they don’t have one already, talk with faculty about planting a school garden.  It creates a great service project for families, learning opportunity for students, and natural habitat for much-needed pollinators.
Here are a few website that have interesting, kid-friendly resources all about the environment: http://pbskids.org/itsmylife/family/greenliving/ http://www2.epa.gov/students/games-quizzes-and-more https://kids.usa.gov/science/our-planet/index.shtml Welcome back to school!