Volunteer Project: Trash Pickup
Take your kid on a do-good jaunt around your 'hood.
Submitted by
Laura
Laura
Invite your kid to go on a trash-collecting walk around the neighborhood. Grab some gloves and a bag and help him pick up litter. You'll not only beautify your neighborhood, but you'll give your kid's problem-solving skills a workout, prep him with his first environmental lesson and improve his gross motor skills. We're thinking Parent of the Year Award, no?
- Garbologist:Your kid
- Sanitation Supervisor:You
- A large garbage bag
- Rubber gloves
- Soap and water
Put on your rubber gloves, grab a big trash bag and invite your little trash collector to go for a walk.
Take a stroll around the block or through your local park and pick up trash as you go. Teach your kid what things are trash (that empty soda can) and what things aren't (your neighbor's prize roses).
As you walk, talk to your kid about littering, why it's bad, why he shouldn't do it, etc. Not sure what to say? How about these little tidbits: Litter is ugly. It harms the environment, especially when it ends up in rivers and streams. Animals can get trapped in or poisoned by litter and some can even mistake cigarette butts for food, which can be harmful or fatal to animals—not to mention humans! (Sneak in a little anti-smoking message while you're at it.)
When you get home, toss the garbage bag into your garbage bin to show your kid where trash is supposed to go.
If you come across a lot of cans, bottles or other recyclables, consider inviting your kid to help sort them from the trash trash. You can then place them in your recycling bin at home or take them to a recycling center. The multi-layered lessons of garbology never cease!
Wash your hands thoroughly so they're nice and clean as you pat yourselves on the back for a job well done.
If you are up at the crack of dawn on trash day (show us a family who isn't) invite your kid to watch the garbage truck and its trusty garbologists in order to see the whole garbage thing go full circle.
- Not to sound preachy, but kids learn to litter from their parents. So set a good example and toss your trash into the bin!
- Looking for more environmentally friendly things to do with your tyke? Check out NickJr.com for more green activities.
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