Happy Earth Day

by Marilynn Halas on April 22nd, 2013
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Earth Day is celebrated in almost 200 countries and the list continues to grow.  It is a great day for celebrations and a chance to have meaningful discussions about how we can be good stewards of this magnificent planet.  Even more than that, it is an opportunity to share ideas with our children about how we can all help each other and our planetary home live healthy and happy lives.

I think kids feel empowered when we let them know that they are capable of making a difference in this big world.  Most kids love to help and even older ones want to get involved when we put any project in the right context.  It’s important to do more than just tell our kids what to do, we need to make sure they understand why it matters so much.

I wrote a book for families who want to raise enthusiastic helpers called Fuzzwippers Make Good Helpers and I’d like to share some of the tips with you.   Whether it’s an Earth Day beach cleanup or a spring cleaning in the garage, kids want to feel needed and working together is a great way to bond and build up your family team.

The first thing to do is to be clear.  Most of us aren’t mind readers so whether you are talking to a toddler or a teen, be clear about two things; what you need done AND how much you appreciate the help.  People are motivated best when they know what to do and they feel like their efforts aren’t taken for granted. (This is also a good policy when talking to co-workers, contractors and even spouses!)

The next thing is to make sure your team knows that every job matters and that even though we need to work on different parts of a project, all the parts are important.  Even if you didn’t get the part you wanted, the part you did get is just as needed.

Last, but not least, think sustainability!  No matter what you are doing, it only helps if you stick with it and finish the job.  We want our kids to understand commitment and this is a great way to teach it.  Doing a little of anything and then giving up almost always makes things worse.  There is nothing like knowing you have the ability to stick with something, even when it gets tough. That ability is called character and most of us hope to see it grow in our kids just like the garden we tend and hope will sprout.  Help your kids feel the satisfaction of a job well done.

On Earth Day and everyday we have the chance to help our kids become understanding and strong contributors to the world we share.  Earth Day isn’t only about educating people to care for our planet, it is also the opportunity to empower others to care for our community.  Building a strong family team, community team and even an empowered planetary team.

Happy Earth Day and remember to keep your face to sun, just like your Mother Earth does everyday.

Marilynn


Categories: General