Today marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! In 1970, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson came up with the idea to organize a national “teach-in” to educate and inspire others to protect the environment. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrations may look a bit different this year. Nonetheless, there are many ways you and your kids can show your appreciation for our incredible planet. Try out some of these fun and educational Earth Day activities with your kids to demonstrate the importance of the holiday!
Plant a tree in your backyard.
When you think about Earth Day, planting a tree is likely one of the first activities that comes to mind. Trees offer many beneficial resources and are an essential part of our ecosystem. Besides showing your appreciation for Earth, planting a tree is an effective way to teach kids observation skills and responsibility. For pointers on how to successfully plant a tree in your backyard, check out these tree planting tips.
Make energy conservation signs for your home.
Leaving lights and electronics on when they’re not in use is a common mistake for young children (and let’s face it – sometimes adults are guilty of this too). What better time than Earth Day to embark on a family effort of practicing energy conservation? Create and post signs throughout your house to remind your family to turn off lights and faucets when you’re not using them. Also, consider making a sign to highlight which items are recyclable and which belong in the trash as a quick reference guide.
Create art using recyclable materials.
Plastic water bottles, cans, cardboard boxes, and other recyclable products make for resourceful art supplies when crafting! Art projects are a fun way to inspire your kids to think outside the box while celebrating Earth Day and demonstrate how items that may be perceived as “trash” can be repurposed into treasures! Many such projects only require basic art supplies, recyclable household products, and an inventive imagination. Search for recyclable art projects online or try one of the crafts listed below!
Explore the outdoors on a sensory scavenger hunt.
If you’re looking for a way to get your kids outside and engaged with nature, look no further. Simply print out this Outdoor Sensory Scavenger Hunt, grab something for your kids to draw with, then head outside to explore. This unique activity includes different sensory words to keep the hunt exciting, and it provides space for kids to sketch their findings. The best part is – no setup is necessary!
Go on a nature walk.
Earth Day is a great excuse to get some fresh air and appreciate the outdoors – especially during social distancing. Take the opportunity to go for a nature walk on a nearby trail, around your neighborhood, or to a local park. Get the whole family involved for some bonding and exercise. You can even incorporate the Sensory Scavenger Hunt listed above to add to the fun!
We hope these Earth Day activities help educate and inspire your kids to take care of our environment! Be sure to appreciate, celebrate, and recognize how important the Earth is every day, not just on April 22nd. For even more creative ideas for family fun during social distancing, be sure to check out our recent blog post, 20 Rainy Day Activities for Families During COVID-19.