Looking for fun ways to keep your child off the iPad? With a focus on teaching kids about sustainability, these hands-on ideas not only spark creativity but also instill a sense of responsibility towards our planet in your little ones. Educational, entertaining and exciting – who said the perfect school holiday activity does not exist?
1. Make non-toxic cleaning spray
Teach your kids that cleaning can be both effective and eco-friendly by making their own non-toxic cleaning spray. This simple activity demonstrates how to repurpose citrus scraps into something practical and useful.
Start by saving citrus skins – orange, lemon, or lime – throughout the week. Once you have enough, place them in a jar and cover them with white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about three weeks, allowing the vinegar to absorb the fresh citrus scent and natural cleaning properties.
After the waiting period, strain the mixture and pour it into a spray bottle. Don’t forget to let your kids label their homemade cleaner with a fun name or design! This project not only teaches them about natural cleaning methods but also encourages them to see household items as valuable resources.
2. Create edible paint out of food scraps
Get ready to unleash your inner artist with a fun and eco-friendly project: making non-toxic paint using food scraps! This creative activity not only reduces waste but also introduces kids to the world of natural colours.
Start by boiling some cabbage in water for about 10-15 minutes to extract a vibrant purple hue. The kids will be amazed to see how a simple vegetable can transform into beautiful paint! For a sunny yellow, use turmeric. Just a pinch of this spice mixed with water creates a bright shade that can brighten any canvas.
Want to explore more colours? Add a pinch of baking soda to the cabbage water; it will change the paint from purple to blue! Encourage the kids to experiment with different food scraps, such as beets or spinach, to discover a whole palette of colours. This not only fosters creativity but also teaches them about the beauty of natural ingredients.
3. Whip up veggie chips from sweet potato and beetroot skins
Did you know that the skins of sweet potatoes and beetroot can be transformed into delicious veggie chips? This activity is a fantastic way to reduce food waste while treating your kids to a healthy snack!
After preparing your sweet potatoes and beetroots for a meal, gather the skins and give them a quick rinse. Toss them in a bowl with a splash of olive oil and their favourite spices—think paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist. Then, pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes until they’re crispy and golden.
Not only will your kids enjoy the process of making their own snacks, but they’ll also learn about the importance of utilising every part of the vegetable. Plus, these chips are much healthier than store-bought alternatives!
4. Meal plan to teach them about food waste
Finally, one of the most impactful lessons for kids and sustainability is understanding food waste. Involve your child in meal planning for the week, focusing on using what you already have at home and reducing unnecessary purchases.
Start by checking your fridge and pantry together. What ingredients are left over from previous meals? Encourage the kids to brainstorm creative ways to use those ingredients in new dishes. For instance, if you have leftover rice, they could suggest making stir-fried rice or rice pudding.
As you plan meals, talk about portion sizes and how to store leftovers properly. This can lead to discussions about food expiration dates and how to make the most out of every meal. It’s a great way to empower them to make sustainable choices in their eating habits.
Looking for more School Holiday Activities that will teach kids about sustainability? Lock in your free tickets to HelloFresh’s Climate Superstars Camp or download their online resources.
