Eco-Friendly Parenting: Tips for Raising Kids Who Care for the Planet

As parents, we want to raise a generation that values the planet and understands the importance of making mindful choices. Eco-friendly parenting is all about teaching kids how to live sustainably, reduce waste, and appreciate the natural world. It’s easier than you think, and it’s a win-win for both your family and the Earth. Here are some simple zero-waste swaps, sustainable toy finds, and tips on how to inspire a love for the planet in your little ones.

*This site includes amazon Affiliate Links

Zero-Waste Swaps for the Family

Cloth Diapers Instead of Disposables
If you're in the baby phase, cloth diapers are an amazing zero-waste alternative to disposables. Not only are they reusable, but they also come in cute designs, and you’ll save money in the long run. Plus, they’re less harmful to the environment since they don’t end up in landfills.
Reusable Snack Bags & Containers
Instead of using single-use plastic bags, switch to reusable snack bags or containers. You can find colorful, durable options that your kids will love. They’re perfect for lunches, road trips, or just a quick snack on the go.
Bamboo Toothbrushes
Make the switch from plastic to bamboo toothbrushes. They’re biodegradable, affordable, and work just as well as plastic brushes. Plus, they come in fun colors and designs that your kids will enjoy!
Cloth Napkins Over Paper Towels
Swap out paper towels for cloth napkins or rags. You can easily find cloth napkins in fun prints or colors that appeal to your kids. They’re perfect for cleaning up messes without creating waste.

Sustainable Toy Finds

Wooden Toys
Wooden toys are not only durable but also eco-friendly. They’re free of harmful chemicals often found in plastic toys and can last for years, becoming heirloom pieces for future generations. Think wooden blocks, dolls, cars, and puzzles.
Secondhand Toys
Buying secondhand toys is a great way to reduce waste and give items a second life. Look for toys at thrift stores or swap groups. These toys are often in great condition and much more affordable.
Eco-Friendly Craft Supplies
Instead of buying plastic or synthetic craft supplies, opt for natural materials like wood, paper, and clay. These are not only better for the environment but also provide a sensory experience that your kids will love.
Upcycled Toys
Get creative by repurposing old household items into toys. For example, cardboard boxes can become playhouses or vehicles, and fabric scraps can be used to make soft toys. It's a fun way to teach kids about reusing materials.

Teaching Kids to Love the Planet

Nature Walks & Exploration
Take your kids on nature walks, hikes, or bike rides. Explore local parks, forests, and nature reserves, and teach them about the flora and fauna around them. Let them observe the beauty of the environment and instill a sense of wonder and responsibility for protecting it.
Gardening Together
Gardening is a fantastic way to teach kids about sustainability. Whether you plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs, it’s a hands-on lesson in where food comes from and how to care for the earth. Plus, growing your own food helps reduce your family’s carbon footprint.
Recycling & Waste Sorting
Make recycling a family activity by teaching your kids how to sort recyclables at home. Create an easy-to-follow system with bins for paper, plastic, and glass. Turn it into a fun game to see who can collect the most recyclables throughout the week.
Reduce Water and Energy Use
Encourage your kids to be mindful of water and energy consumption. Teach them to turn off lights when leaving a room, take shorter showers, and use water-saving appliances. These simple habits can make a big difference over time.
Eco-Friendly Family Activities
Look for eco-friendly activities like attending a local community garden, volunteering for a clean-up event, or participating in a tree-planting day. These activities not only help the environment but also set a great example for your kids on how to make a positive impact.

Eco-friendly parenting is about making small, consistent choices that benefit both the planet and your family. From zero-waste swaps to teaching kids about nature, it’s all about creating lasting habits that make a difference. Start with simple changes, and before you know it, you’ll be raising little eco-warriors who are passionate about taking care of the world around them.

Skip the hassle of running to multiple grocery stores in search of hard-to-find plant-based ingredients—Try Amazon Fresh instead!

About The Creator

Hi, I’m Mary Ellen, the creator of the YouTube channel "Life is Messy but I'm Learning as I Grow." I’m thrilled you’re here, joining me on this journey of discovery and creativity! As a mother of two, married to my high school sweetheart, and with a career background in childcare, my life is wonderfully busy and, yes, a little messy—but that's part of the fun.

On this site, I share my favorite things: plant-based cooking, crafting and DIY projects, family-friendly travel tips, gardening advice, and the occasional antics of my two adorable cats. I'm always eager to learn something new and love sharing my discoveries with anyone who will listen—so I’m glad you’re here to listen!

Whether you're looking for inspiration, practical tips, or just a place to connect, I hope you'll find something here that sparks joy and encourages you to learn and grow along with me.

Return to Home Page

Contact and Interact with me