Parenting Tips

Earth Day is an annual celebration of the environment and learning to improve our world. Taking some time as a family to celebrate Earth Day is not only educational, but fun as well. There are many cities that host Earth Day activities. Check and see what is offered locally.

Visit your local zoo and see the animals in their environments. The zoo will probably have educational programs planned, as well as fun activities for the entire family. It can be a great way to spend the day. Some zoos even offer free admission, or free admission if you either take public transportation or ride your bike to the zoo.

As you make your way through the zoo, you can talk about how the ecology of one area of the world affects another. Discuss with your family how we benefit from things like the plants from the rain forest and how important it is to preserve them.

Why not spend the day at the local botanical gardens? Not only are the plants beautiful, but your family can learn about how we benefit from the plants. Plants provide food, medicines and oxygen. They also provide ground cover that helps prevent erosion and flooding. After visiting the gardens, it might be fun to plant your own garden at home. Research the plants that will be the best for your climate. It will be a great family activity that will last beyond Earth Day and will be a reminder to help care for the planet as you care for your own garden.

Planning fun activities at home is also a great way to celebrate Earth Day, as you will be saving gas by not traveling. Reuse items from around the house to create clever crafts. Turn off the TV, go outside and enjoy the fresh air, weather permitting, and have a picnic in the yard.

There are many websites that give additional ideas for celebrating Earth Day. You can also find scheduled events for your hometown that can inspire other family fun that also helps the earth.