The New Year is almost here! It is time to celebrate and reflect upon the past, while ruminating over the possibilities of change and new beginnings for the year to come.
The act of setting goals and making resolutions can be empowering for children, as well as for adults. Consider taking on a family resolution for 2010. Sharing a goal or a mission as a family can be a great way to carve out special time together, share values and forge bonds. Resolutions don’t have to be painful. In fact, they can be fun! Why not make a family resolution to embrace greener living in the coming year? Plant a tree together, start a compost pile, adopt a stream, or see how many crafts you can come up with using recycled items found in your home. Kids will enjoy the challenge of finding creative ways to save energy and natural resources, especially when they get to set an example for the adults. Here are a few books full of ideas to get you started:
10 Things I Can Do to Help My World, Fun and Easy Eco-Tips, by Melanie Walsh
Ten simple ways that children can contribute to living in a healthier world are artfully conveyed through clever cut-out illustrations in this charming, made-from-recycled-material, picture book.
Get Out! : 150 Easy Ways for Kids and Grown-Ups to Get into Nature and Build a Greener Future, by Judy Molland
This book is bursting with inspirational ideas for sharing time together while exploring nature, fostering an interest in conservation and a life-long passion for outdoor activities.
Heroes of the Environment: True Stories of People Who Are Helping to Protect Our Planet, by Harriet Rohmer; illustrated by Julie McLaughlin
Twelve stories demonstrate the many faces of environmental heroism, presenting the true stories of teachers, grandparents and teens who have become champions of environmental causes throughout North America.
Try This at Home: Planet-Friendly Projects for Kids, by the editors of Owl Magazine
For practical tips on going green and having fun in the process, this book is hard to beat. Crafts, facts, quizzes and personal conservation tips abound, making this a great beginning guide to everyday, easily adaptable green living.
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