HERE’S HOW YOU ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILDREN TO DEVELOP BETTER RECYCLING HABITS

IMPROVING RECYCLING HABITS

Adults in Australia are continually improving statistically with how much plastic recycling they complete each year. It’s exciting to know that on average, everyone is taking a more involved stance on recycling and environmental care.

We know that Australian adults are making a more concerted effort, helped by plastic recycling rebates and designated bins as well as increased awareness and advertising. But is this new found attitude rubbing off on our children and if not what can we do about it?

One of the biggest reasons plastic recycling has gained so much traction is because of the notion that everyone wants their children to be able to enjoy the beautiful environment we’ve loved growing up. So, it’s worthwhile to impart that mentality into the children of tomorrow, and of course, it can be fun as well!

We’ve compiled some simple and effective methods to help introduce your kids into plastic recycling that work and will help to cultivate a more waste-free and helpful attitude. So, here are a few things you can implement within your home to help keep plastic recycling on the rise!

LEAD BY EXAMPLE

If there’s one thing you know as a parent it’s that children love pretending to be adults, whether they want to push a lawnmower or a pram, why not see if you can get them to copy your plastic recycling habits! Children will be very interested in what you are doing if they see you reusing an item that they would usually consider to be garbage.

It’s highly likely that completing a plastic recycling task like turning an old plastic bottle into a planter will fascinate your children and open up a dialogue about the benefits of plastic recycling. Making recycling fun and engaging for your children by teaching them about the different bottles and getting them involved in the sorting process is a good start.

BUY REUSABLE AND SEALED CONTAINERS FOR LUNCHBOXES

When it comes to plastic recycling one of the worst products out, there is soft plastic such as Glad Wrap. Avoiding single-use plastic wrapping is a great way to do your part in conserving the environment and kids love them as well.

You can personalise and decorate every piece of sealable container so that every time your child eats lunch, he gets excited by the prospect.. The only downside is that the other children in the class might get jealous!

TAKE THE BINS OUT WITH YOUR KIDS

When you next take the bins out why not get your young kids to come out with you. Involving them in your daily activities will make them feel big and important. As they mature, hopefully, they can take it on as one of their regular chores!

Additionally, you can start a conversation with your kids about what happens to the bins and where all your plastic recycling goes. It may get them thinking about how their actions can impact the environment.