Caring for the world around us is an important quality that children learn while growing up in a family. Respect for all people, big and small creatures, natural resources, and places of historical significance can be encouraged through thoughtful parenting, meaningful conversations, and educational experiences. The habits learned in childhood stay with us into adulthood, so if we want the next generation to respect and value what is meaningful to us, we must make choices that teach them the right habits while they’re still young.
Today, we’re sharing several tips on how to teach children to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Make eco-friendly living a regular topic of conversation
Talk about it, watch documentaries together, read books, and play with “eco-friendly” toys made from materials that don’t harm the planet. When making decisions about which products or services to choose, explain to your children why those choices matter. By bringing these conversations into everyday life, we not only stay focused on our goal of living sustainably, but we also help our children accept it as a natural and familiar way of living.
2. Reduce plastic consumption at home
There are many ways to cut down on plastic use at home: use reusable bags (for example, bring separate cloth bags for fruits and vegetables). When shopping, choose products that can easily be refilled using your own containers (look for stores where you can buy cleaning or laundry supplies into your own jars). Store food leftovers in reusable containers instead of plastic bags. And most importantly, teach children to sort their waste—plastic should always go into the correct recycling bins. As your children follow your example, these habits will naturally become part of their own lives.
3. Visit the library with your children
Why buy new books when you can enjoy an unlimited selection at the library? Turn library visits into a family tradition. Borrowing books regularly saves not only money but also space at home!
4. Give clothes a second life
Fast fashion heavily pollutes our planet, and the overconsumption of clothing is a growing problem. Children grow quickly, and their outgrown clothes are often still in great condition, making them perfect for passing on to others. If you haven’t already, explore clothes-swapping or second-hand shopping platforms. Shopping at thrift stores is also an eco-friendly choice—you can find high-quality items while staying budget-friendly.
5. Use items until they wear out
Unfortunately, many of the things we throw away are still in good condition. It’s important to ask yourself whether an item has truly reached the end of its life or if you’re simply tired of it. For example, sheets or towels may not look as nice as they once did, but that doesn’t mean they need to be discarded. Imagine how much waste we could reduce if we all used our things just a bit longer or repaired them instead of buying new ones!
6. Buy digital content
Download music instead of buying more CDs. Rent or purchase movies online. Today, there are countless digital books available for adults and children—you can read them online or listen as audiobooks. This not only protects the environment but also saves space in your home.
7. Be creative when giving gifts
Whenever possible, choose to give experiences instead of physical items—like a trip to a water park, a museum membership, a family movie night, and more. When attending children’s birthday parties, buy toys or items only when you’re certain they will be truly appreciated and useful.