As America Recycles Day approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity for homeschoolers to explore the importance of recycling while unleashing their creativity. This annual celebration encourages us all to think about how we can turn trash into treasure, and what better way to engage your children than with some fun, hands-on activities? In this blog post, we’ll share five enjoyable and educational activities that not only emphasize the value of recycling but also inspire your kids to become more environmentally conscious. Get ready to transform everyday items into something spectacular and make this America Recycles Day a memorable one for your family!
Table of Contents
Science: The Magic of Recycling
Compost in a Jar
Dive into the fascinating world of decomposition by creating your very own miniature ecosystem in a jar! Witness “nature’s recycling process” as organic matter breaks down and transforms into nutrient-rich soil. This hands-on experiment allows children to observe the interconnected web of life as bacteria, fungi, and other decomposers work together to break down plant material.
MATERIALS:
- A clear jar or plastic container with a lid (this could be a mason jar or a liter bottle)
- Soil (about 2-3 cups)
- “Brown” scraps (such as paper bags, dry leaves, cardboard, sawdust, etc.)
- “Green” scraps (such as coffee grounds, fruit or vegetable scraps, etc.)
- Water
- Paper towels or cloth (for covering the jar)
- Rubber band or string (to secure the cloth)
- Spoon (for mixing)
- Sand (optional)
STEPS:
- Prepare the container:
- Clean your jar or plastic container to ensure there is no leftover residue inside.
- If you’re using a bottle, cut it in half to create two open sides, or leave the top open if you’re using a mason jar with a lid.
- Layer the compost ingredients:
- Layer 1 – Soil: Start by adding a small layer (about 1-2 inches) of soil at the bottom of the jar. Soil provides microorganisms that help break down the organic matter.
- Layer 2 – Organic Scraps: Add a layer of brown and green scraps. Make sure the pieces are small to help them break down more easily.
- Layer 3 – Soil: Add another thin layer of soil to cover the scraps. This helps trap moisture and keep odors at bay.
- Optional Layer – Sand: If you’d like, add a thin layer of sand. Sand helps with drainage and can make it easier to stir the compost in the jar.
- Add water:
- Lightly sprinkle water over the top layer. Compost needs moisture, but not too much – just enough to make the material damp, like a wrung-out sponge. Too much water can cause the compost to become soggy and smelly.
- Seal and label:
- Cover the jar with a paper towel or cloth to allow air circulation while keeping bugs out. Use a rubber band or string to secure the cloth.
- Label the jar with the date. You can also draw a picture of a composting symbol or write “Compost Jar” to make it more fun!
- Shake and observe:
- Every few days, gently shake/stir to mix the compost. You might also need to add a little more water (be sure the compost remains moist). You can also open the jar to check the progress. Look for signs of decomposition, like changes in the color or texture of the materials.
- Talk about the process of decomposition – how microorganisms break down the organic matter and turn it into compost that can be used to enrich soil.
- Wait and watch:
- Over the course of 1-2 weeks, observe the changes happening inside the jar. Depending on the temperature and the material used, it can take longer or shorter for decomposition to occur.
- Encourage kids to keep a ‘compost journal’ where they record the changes they see, including how the materials look and smell.
- Discuss the results:
- After about 2-3 weeks, you should begin to see the organic materials breaking down. The texture of the soil will change, and it may smell earthy.
- If the jar starts to smell unpleasant, it may be too wet or not getting enough air. Shake it more often to allow circulation and dry it out a bit, if needed.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:
- Materials to Use: Only use organic materials – fruit scraps, vegetable peels, coffee grounds, paper, etc. Avoid using meat, dairy, or oily foods, as these can create bad odors and attract pests.
- The Importance of Aeration: Aerating (mixing) the compost every few days is key. This introduces oxygen, which is necessary for the microorganisms to break down the organic matter efficiently.
Social Studies: Culture & Recycling
Research Project on Global Recycling Practices
It might be America Recycles Day, but what about recycling in other countries? For a social studies spin, invite children to investigate how other countries recycle. This activity can open up a world of knowledge and understanding about different cultures and environmental practices around the globe. Through this investigation, children can learn about the innovative recycling techniques used in different parts of the world, as well as the challenges and successes each country faces in its efforts to promote recycling and reduce waste. This project not only sharpens research skills but also deepens students’ appreciation for global citizenship and responsibility.
- Choose a country and research its recycling laws, practices, and cultural attitudes toward waste.
- Create a presentation using visuals like maps and charts.
Math: Money & Budgeting
Recycling Center
Help children identify recyclable times in the household and assign them a designated ‘value’ (for example, a plastic bottle could be valued at $0.10, while a can could be worth $0.05, and so on). Create a designated “recycling center” where kids can earn (pretend) money by recycling various items. Once they have recycled a specific number of items, they can tally up their total earnings, count their coins, and even “spend” their money on something else (such as a special activity or treat).
Literature & Writing: The Story of Recycling
A Day in the Life of a Recycled Object
Read “The Adventures of an Aluminum Can” or “The Adventures of a Plastic Bottle“. Then have children imagine that a recyclable object (like a cardboard box or old newspaper) could talk. Have them write a story from the perspective of that object, explaining where it’s been, what it’s seen, and why it’s excited to be recycled.
Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” is another classic tale with a recycling theme.
Art: The Story of Recycling
Recycled Art Project
Have children collect recyclable materials (bottles, cardboard, paper scraps, etc.) and use them to create a work of art. This could be a sculpture, painting, or even a functional object (like a chair or table).
So gather your recyclables and start exploring these activities! A treasure trove of knowledge awaits. Enjoy engaging in recycling activities together on America Recycles Day!
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commission from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com.