How to Incorporate Green Habits Into Your Family’s Lifestyle

Kids gain more than just their genetics from you. They also pick up your habits. When it comes to caring for the planet, assume they’ll live as greenly as you do.

Here are some simple tips to help your family live a greener lifestyle.

Be a green commuter.

We all spend plenty of time traveling with our families from one appointment or event to another in our busy lives. Instead of opting for motorized vehicles for transportation, choose to walk or ride bikes whenever possible. Getting into this habit will help your family to reduce their carbon footprint, spend more time together, and get more exercise.

Be a green shopper.

Those disposable diapers, sandwich bags, and water bottles have a way of adding up over time. They fill up our landfills and deplete our wallets. Consider purchasing reusable eco-friendly kids products instead. You’ll feel good about your contribution to your world while you enjoy longer-lasting products that don’t require frequent repurchase.

Have a green thumb.

Having your own miniature garden is a simple step towards green-minded living and self-sufficiency. Grow a windowsill herb garden , or regrow foods like scallions and romaine lettuce in a beautiful pot on your countertop. Get your kids involved by assigning them planting or watering duty.

Let them decide.

Another effective way to engrain green living into your family’s lifestyle is to involve everyone in the decision-making process. Ask for their input when planning a bike ride. Allow them to choose what will be grown in the garden. Talk about which products you should buy at the store and why some are better choices than others.

“Life is defined by the choices we make, and it’s important that we equip our children by teaching decision-making skills starting at a young age,” says Dr. Allie Ticktin . “By building small choices into the daily routine, you are teaching your child to be an active part of the decision-making process and allowing them to learn to manage both decisions and their outcomes.”

Green living with kids doesn’t have to be a herculean effort. Just set a good example for them through the way you live and the choices you make. Let them help you make those choices. You’ll likely see their appreciation and preference for living an eco-friendly lifestyle emerge.