Sustainable Parenting: Eco-Friendly Parenting Guide

Green parenting 6 Min Read

If you're on social media, you've probably noticed that 'going green' and living more sustainably is all the rage, especially amongst young families.

We've said it many times before, but there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. If you're interested in eco-friendly parenting, there's no 'right' way to do so; the same goes for green parenting.

In this blog post, we'll explain what it means and give you some eco-friendly tips to action, but don't think this is the sustainable guide to green parenting you must abide by– feel free to pick and choose the advice that resonates with you. Even small steps are still steps in the right direction.

What Is Green Parenting?

Green parenting, also known as eco parenting, can loosely be defined as raising kids' awareness about the environmental impact of their decisions. As a result, they become eco-conscious.

Part of teaching children how to respect and be good stewards of the planet is exemplifying eco-friendly behaviors ourselves. You know what they say, kids are like sponges! They absorb everything they see and hear.

So, for example, stocking their nursery with sustainable diapers and wipes can make them aware of the importance of using eco-friendly products. We recommend explaining this choice as well, and if they see you using sustainable products 24/7, they will want to be just like you!

What Makes A Home Eco-Friendly?

The makings of an eco-friendly home are quite simple. There are little things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and create a more sustainable environment for your children.

First, work towards becoming a zero-waste household by avoiding single-use plastics like straws. You can also save food scraps for a compost pile instead of throwing them away.

Second, reduce, reuse, and recycle. Purge your belongings regularly, avoid impulse purchases and hoarding unnecessary items, and recycle whatever doesn't need to be tossed in the garbage.

Third, be conscious of your energy and resource consumption. Pay attention to the lengths of your showers and baths and how long you leave the lights on. This will also help cut down on your bills.

Green parenting will be a breeze if you can apply these measures in everyday life.

How Can Families Be More Eco-Friendly?

There are many ways that families can be more eco-friendly, but instead of using the following ideas and suggestions as rules to live by, explore what works best for you.

Switch reusable products, like silicone or stainless steel straws
Try eco-friendly diapers and wipes
Use GOTS-certified or recycled wooden toys
Swap-in reusable nursing pads
Try making your own baby food to avoid packaging
Use biobased products

What Are Some Eco-Friendly Activities?

Now you may be wondering, what fun, habit-forming tasks can I give my kids or do with them? We've got you covered.

Start a compost bin or pile in the yard. Each time you collect food scraps, assign a little one to compost them. This may look like adding them to a bin under the sink or taking a trip out to the yard to deposit the goods.

Make some plant-based treats. Your family doesn't have to be vegan or vegetarian to enjoy some plant-based goodies. Try blending avocado, cacao powder, a little maple syrup, a pinch of salt, and some coconut milk for a creamy and nutritious pudding that everyone will enjoy.

Get out in the garden. Not only is this an opportunity to enjoy the sunshine or roll around in the mud, but gardening with your family is an excellent way to show them the possibility of growing your own food and nurturing the earth. After all, you are what you eat!

Spring clean together. Decluttering can be fun, especially when you allow kids to choose what to donate. Getting rid of needless things can show them how little is needed to live a happy, healthful life.

Recycle. We keep coming back to this one! Sorting through each item in your blue and red bins can be an enjoyable and educational activity.

Key Takeaways

As you can see, there are several ways to go about sustainable parenting. We hope this handy eco-friendly guide will help you on your journey to going green.