Good habits begin at home, and there’s no better way to inculcate appreciation for Mother Earth than to instill the passion in our children from young. By providing our kids with a foundation early on to be mindful of their impact on their environments, we can collectively be responsible for helping to slowly reverse the ecological damages our Earth has faced in the recent century.
We share some tips on how you can raise natural kids using affordable, eco-friendly methods and products without breaking the bank:
1. Breastfeed as much as you can. It’s good for you and your baby! If you opt for formula, buy them in large containers to cut back on packaging.
2. Shop conscientiously. Bring reusable bags every time you go to the supermarket. Save resources and money by buying things in bulk and then re-package the items yourself in reusable glass and BPA-free containers. Swap paper napkins for cloth ones, or even old burp clothes. Go for wooden toys instead of plastic ones.
3. Conserve energy and water. Remind your children to turn off lights when not in use, including switching off the computer, TV when nobody’s watching, and resist lingering in front of the refrigerator with the door open. Make sure your kids turn off the water when they brush their teeth and take baths in moderation. Replace the batteries for the toys in your house with rechargeables.
4. Clean with nature-friendly products. Teach your kids the many uses of natural products such as baking soda to deodorize carpets; vinegar and baking soda for everything from oven cleaning and drain clearing to stain removal and metal polishing. If you prefer to buy, choose non-toxic cleaners.
5. Use cloth diapers. Disposable diapers can cost a lot, but also contribute to landfills over the years. Cloth diapers are comfortable, reusable and can be passed on to siblings.
6. Instill passion for the outdoors. Plant a garden/tree and set up a bird feeder or bath in your garden. Get your children to be responsible in maintaining them. Better still, grow your own vegetables and fruits for family consumption! On a larger scale, you can also plan family vacations and outings that focus on the great outdoors. If possible, walk or cycle to nearby destinations instead of drive.
7. Recycle. Prepare bins or boxes for each type of recyclable: one for plastic, one for glass, one for paper, and one for cans. Get your children’s help to sort items, place them in the correct bins, and take the containers out to the curb for collection.
8. Drink/bring your own water. Bottled water is expensive and a source of carbon footprint. Have your kids bring boiled water from home whenever they are out and about, instead of buying bottled ones. Invest in a good reusable bottle that can be used over the years.
9. Shop secondhand. Babies grow quickly. Instead of buying brand-new outfits, visit flea markets or secondhand sites. Some of these clothes and toys not only come at a fraction of the retail cost, but you’ll feel glad to be part of cutting down additional resources. Just be sure to wash everything well before wearing. When your child has outgrown these stuff, get their help to spring clean and donate them away. Instead of buying new toys, get crafty and make DIY instruments from toilet rolls, food jars/bottles and cardboard box.
10. Choose seasonal fruits and veggies when making your own baby food. They taste best because they’re at their peak of freshness, plus they’re richer in nutrients and less expensive. Fruits and veggies from the freezer are mostly flash frozen after being picked, so they’re good choices too.