Becoming environmentally friendly is increasingly important. Many families are finding ways to live “greener” lifestyles.

If you want your family to become more environmentally friendly, your kids will need to understand how important it is to recycle. We’ve come up with 8 ways to get your children interested in recycling.

Turn it into a Game

Kids love games. As a parent, you already know this! One of the most effective ways to get kids interested in recycling is to use games that involve recycling.

There are several games you can play with your children at home. Designate a recycling bin for each child and see who can recycle the most materials.

There are also several fun games online that will help your kids learn more about recycling while having fun. Making recycling fun will get (and keep!) them interested in it.

Start Early

When it comes to recycling, the earlier your children start, the better. Make recycling a habit that is ingrained in your family.

If your child is exposed to the practice of recycling early on, then you won’t have to struggle to get them to do it later. If it’s a normal staple in your household, they will already be used to it.

Educate Them

Education is also an effective way to get your kids to recycle. Find some ways to get your kids to learn about recycling in a way that is entertaining.

Fortunately, there are several resources online that can help you do this. Videos, games, and books are very effective. The more they know about recycling, the more they will be interested in participating.

Visit a Recycling Center

What better way to get your kids into recycling than to show them how it’s done? Most cities have a recycling center that you can visit.

Recycling centers are great for getting your kids to understand the importance of recycling. Many of these centers provide tours for those interested in learning more about recycling. Find a recycling center near you check it out!

Activities with Recycled Items

There are several activities that your child can engage in that involve items or crafts that are recycled. You can look online and find many different ideas for things your children can do using recycled materials. We even have a whole pinterest board dedicated to eco-friendly crafts for kids and a board for art made from recycled materials!

Set the Example

Want your kids to recycle? Do it yourself. As a parent, you already know how important it is to model the behavior your want your kids to follow.

Make it a point to have your kids see you recycling. Additionally, take the time to explain why you’re doing it. This will give your children the example they need to become interested in recycling.

Give them a Job

Want a great way to help your kids develop a work ethic while teaching them the importance of recycling? Give them a way to earn money doing it.

Have them collect cans and other recyclable materials and then take a trip to the recycling center so they can get paid for it. It’s a great lesson that can show them the value of working to earn money. It also helps you further establish the importance of recycling.

And last but certainly not least: Use Worms

Yes, that’s right. Worms. If you’re trying to get your kids to recycle these little creatures might become your best friend.

Worm composting is a fun and easy way to recycle your organic waste. It’s also a great project for you and your children. Your kids will learn a great way to recycle organic material while creating fertilizer.

Do you have any tips to get your kids more involved? Leave them in the comments below!