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Creating a healthy learning environment for a child’s playroom is key. But is the space really healthy? What could you be doing to make it a greener space for everyone in the family. If you have kids like mine that are constantly in and out of their playroom, I want to make sure I am creating a healthy space for them to play and learn in.
Today I’m sharing 5 Steps to a Greener Playroom. As Earth Day approaches next month, now is a great time to start having talks with your kids about how they use their resources. Encourage them to turn the lights off in the playroom when they leave. Put the caps back on the markers so they don’t dry out. By talking about consumption we can educate our kids on living a more eco-friendly lifestyle without having to be an “ego-nag.”
- Use eco-friendly toy cleaners. There are lots of choices now on the market. You can use an all-purpose spray for the majority of the playroom. I like the Babyganics Toy & Highchair Cleaner
. Want to make one yourself? Take a peek at my DIY Green Cleaner Board on Pinterest for lots of easy to make cleaners using basic ingredients like vinegar, castille soap and essential oils. Also, skip the snacks in the playroom. You will avoid having to clean up sticky spills that may need stronger cleaners.
Limit the number of stuffed animals. This may seem a little harsh, but it’s not just for your health, but your sanity when it comes to clean-up time! Stuffed animals tend to harbor dust mites and allergens. Limit the number you have and remember to give them a little run through the washing machine on occasion. Our new dryer actually has a sanitizing setting and a flat tray that I can put the animals on for a little spring cleaning.
Chose Eco-Advanced Batteries. Let’s face it, kids do love their electronics. Whether it’s the batteries in the remote control or the ones for a Leap pad, as parents we go through A LOT of batteries. Energizer has come out with the new Eco-Advanced Battery and it’s the first one to use recycled batteries and materials. It’s also their longest lasting battery so you can also feel good about cutting down on your purchases too.- Choose old toys over new ones. Ask neighbors if they are ready to part with toys if they have older kids. Legos seem to last forever so they are a perfect choice to pass along to friends and family. You can also look for local consignment sales for kids, like the Parent Talk Semi-Annual Used Clothing/Toy/Gear Sale on May 2nd. (yes, shameless plug. )
Create a recycling bin for kids to use freely. I got this idea after reading this book and it’s been working great. Not only can the kids reuse the back of paper for their own projects, but I am also encouraging them to repurpose their art into new creations. The kids paint all the time and we truly don’t have room for all their masterpieces. They have helped me take their watercolor art and repurpose them into gift tags and mosaics.
Find the new Energizer Eco Advanced Battery at your local Walmart. We had some fun girl time on our shopping outing.
If you want to take a peek at more stories about living a greener lifestyle, Energizer has pulled them together here and there are tons of fun ideas for your family.
What other ways can you create a greener playroom in your home? Leave a comment and share with everyone your great idea!
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Thank you for sharing practical tips for making your playroom more green. I want to be green but sometimes life gets in the way.
I love the idea of a recycling bin for the kids! We also love Babyganics everything! I haven’t seen those ECO batteries – will look for them next time we are out! Great tips!
We keep two big bins in the playroom filled with materials that can be recycled into art, games, creations and more! Corks, newspaper, toilet paper tubes, packaging from fruits and vegetables, odd packing materials, etc.
My best green tip is to select a few high quality toys instead of a whole bunch of mediocre toys. They will be played with more and there will be less waste!
I definitely think it’s about the quality of the toys and craft items, over quantity!
I love the idea of having a recycling bin for the kids! I’ve gotten into the habit of photographing their artwork since we can’t possibly keep all of it, but reusing the backsides of papers or even upcycling them into gift tags and mosaics as you suggested would be so cool! Great tips.
Great ideas!! We just put a recycling “bin” next to our daughter’s activity table so she can help recycle the paper she is done using. #client