Eco-Friendly Santa

Christmas is quickly approaching and gift shopping is in full swing. While we spend our dollars on manufactured store bought gifts we should keep our eyes open for environmentally friendly options. Things we buy have a bigger impact on our environment than we may have previously been aware of. We need to be consciences about what materials are used to make our gifts. Plastic stays in our environment forever and never breaks down, that is why recycling plastic is very important. I could go on about how we are contributing to environmental problems, but the more important step is actually taking action on the knowledge we have. Making responsible choices this Christmas season not only makes a difference to our environment but also impacts the lives of our children. Keeping the health of the environment as our top priority this season can make a difference in our children’s lives as they watch and follow what we do. Connecting our green choices to the theories of nature play is just as important as playing in nature. Making it a great way to ease your kids into the topics of why eco-friendly toys are different and special.

Now the steps for taking action can include finding alternative gifts, making your own gifts or giving the gift of an experience. These choices are easy, simple and they have the potential to be more personal as well.

Toys:

Like I mentioned before the biggest problem with common kid toys is the plastic used to make them. So finding toys that are recyclable or made of recycled materials is the main goal. I have already done some research and have come across some pretty cool alternatives that I think would made a great hit this Christmas.

• §  HULKI play houses are super cool animal shaped play houses that are completely recyclable. Kid’s toys only last so long because they are continuously growing and their interests grow along with them. So this is a great options that is completely recyclable when they move on to the next toy.
• §  The Green Life offers a large variety of toys for babies and young children that are made with eco-friendly materials. They are cruelty-free, BPA free, non-toxic and recyclable.  

Nature play toys encourages creative imaginative play with natural materials. Check out these ideas for bringing nature into your home.

• § Mud Kitchens are a great way to get your kids outside, they can be purchased or a great DIY project.  
• §  Natural building blocks are a great way to introduce nature play. The blocks could be used for building or even mixed with other loose parts to entertain creativity.

The Gift of An Experience:

While gift giving is a wonderful thing to part take in, all the Christmas parties and family get-togethers have us spending money on physical objects that in a year or so will be out dated, or no longer useful. Another “gift” giving idea that will be remembered for years to come and add to the enrichment of our family’s memories is the gift of an experience. For many years my parents took my younger sister and I on vacation every year to the same location and resort. I also personally know families that pick a different event to attend or vacation spot to visit to celebrate Christmas. The experience and memories you create will last a lot longer than any physical toy. The memories I have of family time together and meeting new friends are honestly some of my most treasured childhood memories.

Whether you are looking for an alternative for common toys, trying out new nature play toys or wanting to give memories as a present this year, there are many more options than what I mentioned in this blog. So do your research and make responsible purchases to make Christmas a little greener this year.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!