Parent Time

If you’re looking for a way to get your kids thinking about the environment — or even just to get outside — April 22, Earth Day, is the perfect opportunity. Here are a few ways to celebrate; for more, go to earthday.net.

Get hunting.
For worms, of course. Peek beneath the leaves and turn the soil with a trowel in your quest for crawling critters. Talk about how worms help the soil stay rich.

Walk to school.
Or ride your bike or take the bus. If you must drive, park a few blocks away and walk. You’ll be doing your part to clean the air where it matters most, around the school and playground.

Plant a seedling.
Many local environmental groups sell or give away tree seedlings on Earth Day. Plant one in your yard, or, if you live in an apartment or it’s still too cold in your area, sprout some vegetable or flower seeds in a window.

Visit the crusher.
If your child’s interests lie more in Mighty Machines than green thumbs, see if you can visit a recycling facility in your area to watch pop cans get smushed.

Go litterless.
Pack a lunch using nothing that has to be thrown away. Forgo plastic bags and packaging for Tupperware and Thermos. If you’re feeling ambitious, decorate cupcakes for the whole class with blue and green icing for an earthy delight.

April 2003