Class is in Session!

With the beginning of the school year finally here (Congrats parents you made it!), it’s time to start teaching your youngsters how to recycle. Think of it like an at home school lesson, because who doesn’t need more of those?

You can keep it very simple and stick to just two basic categories to get your kids started. Try focusing on: Paperand Plastics. Or, even better, just hone in on one and introduce the second a few weeks later. 

How should you do it? Since a lot of us are visual learners, present it as a Show and Tell. Pull out items from your fridge, pantry, bathroom, etc, and lay them out on your table. Then teach them which items can go in the curbside recycling cart and which should go in the trash. 

Below are some accepted items you can focus on that are common at home. If your kid starts to recognize even just one or two of these items as recyclables, and actually starts recycling them, then job well done mom and dad. As time passes, you can eventually add in more categories.

PLASTICS– Make sure your kids remember these numbers- #1, #2, #5, and #7. That means, water bottles, plastic to-go clamshell containers, empty tubs found in the refrigerator like butter, yoghurt, and creams, and those harder plastic reusable water bottles. Of course, this list can be expanded, but this is a good start. And when in doubt, always remind them they can look at the bottom of the plastic item to see what number it is.

PAPER– This one is a little easier. Everyone knows what paper is. Have your kids remember to recycle unused composition school paper and art paper, junk mail, newspapers, cardboard toilet paper rolls, and cardboard boxes.