As a former elementary school teacher and now a parent of an elementary aged child, the anticipation of a new school year ALWAYS fills me with excitement. It’s a time for children and parents alike to embark on a new adventure, and it’s also a fantastic opportunity to instill eco-friendly practices that benefit both our kids and the planet. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share numerous eco-conscious ideas and essentials for preparing your child for school. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or a first-timer, these tips will help you make the back-to-school experience more sustainable and enjoyable. (Note: Some of the product recommendations below include affiliate links, while others do not.)
1. Lunch Box: PlanetBox Bento Box
One of the most eco-friendly choices you can make is selecting a durable, reusable lunch box. I highly recommend the stainless steel lunch box by PlanetBox. It’s not only dishwasher safe but also comes with multiple compartments, making it perfect for packing a variety of foods. Plus, it’s designed for easy access, allowing even the littlest hands to open it without assistance. What’s more, it’s built to last for years, eliminating the need for disposable lunch containers. (Note: This is not an affiliate recommendation.)
2. Silicone Snack Bags: Stasher Bags
Another fantastic eco-friendly addition to your school routine is silicone snack bags, such as those offered by Stasher. These bags have become a staple in our family for good reason. They’re not only dishwasher safe but also incredibly durable. Unlike disposable plastic bags, they can be used over and over again, reducing the waste produced by your child’s snacks. Whether you’re packing fruit, nuts, or sandwiches, Stasher Bags are a reliable and environmentally friendly choice. (Note: This is not an affiliate recommendation.)
3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Beautycounter Sunscreen Stick
For outdoor activities and sun protection, opt for a reef-safe sunscreen like the Beautycounter Sunscreen Stick. This sunscreen is not only easy for little hands to apply but also leaves no white cast, making it suitable for people of all ages. It’s formulated with safety in mind, ensuring it’s gentle on your child’s skin and the environment. So, you can send your child to school with the peace of mind that they’re protected without harming our oceans. Use code CLEANFORALL20 for 20% off your first purchase
4. Secondhand Clothing: Embrace Sustainable Fashion
When it comes to clothing your child for school, consider eco-friendly options like secondhand clothing. Hand-me-downs from friends and neighbors can be a great way to reduce waste and save money. Additionally, explore in-person thrift stores or online platforms like Kidizen, which specialize in gently-used children’s clothing. By choosing secondhand options, you’re not only reducing the environmental impact of clothing production but also promoting a circular economy. Use code CFF0i for $5 your first order ( thats a zero btw)
5. Eco-Friendly Transportation: Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
One of the most impactful ways to make the school journey eco-friendly is by choosing sustainable transportation options. Encourage biking, walking, carpooling, or taking the bus to school whenever possible. Not only do these choices reduce carbon emissions, but they also help alleviate the chaos of drop-off and pick-up lines. As an example, our 6-year-old will be riding the school bus this year with her cousins, and she couldn’t be more excited about this eco-friendly adventure.
6. Reusable Water Bottle, Utensils, and Cloth Napkins: Ditch Single-Use Plastics
Reduce single-use plastic waste by investing in reusable essentials. We love Yeti water bottles because they’re not only durable but also dishwasher safe. In today’s busy world, the convenience of being able to toss them in the dishwasher is a big plus. For utensils, you can either use what you already own or opt for bamboo utensil sets, which are a sustainable alternative to disposable plastic ones.
Additionally, consider sending your child to school with cloth napkins instead of paper ones. These small changes can significantly reduce the amount of single-use plastic your family generates.
7. Label Everything: Teach Responsibility and Organization
Labeling your child’s belongings is not just about keeping things organized; it’s also a valuable lesson in responsibility. Help your child label everything, from backpacks to lunch boxes and clothing. Establish a routine for putting items away when they’re done with them at school and when they return home. This practice not only prevents items from getting lost but also teaches kids the importance of taking care of their possessions.
8. Zero-Waste Snacks: Minimize Packaging Waste
When packing snacks and lunches for your child, think about ways to minimize packaging waste. Invest in reusable containers for snacks like fruit, vegetables, and trail mix. By reducing single-use packaging, you not only reduce waste but also save money in the long run.
9. Teach Sustainability: Involve Your Child
Lastly, make back-to-school eco-friendliness a family affair. Involve your child in the process and teach them about sustainability. Explain why you’re making certain choices, like using reusable containers or choosing secondhand clothing. By including your child in these discussions and actions, you’re instilling a lifelong appreciation for eco-conscious living.
10. Volunteer for Green Initiatives at School
Get involved in eco-friendly initiatives at your child’s school. Volunteer to help with recycling programs, participate in community clean-up events, or join the school’s sustainability committee if available. By actively engaging in green activities within the school community, you not only promote environmental awareness but also contribute to a more eco-conscious educational environment for your child and others. These efforts can inspire positive change and demonstrate the importance of sustainability beyond the classroom.
In conclusion, preparing your child for school can be an opportunity to embrace eco-friendly practices and instill valuable lessons in sustainability. These tips and essentials will not only make the back-to-school experience more environmentally friendly but also set a positive example for your child. Here’s to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and eco-conscious choices that benefit both your child and the planet!