Greening Your Classroom

 “Green” your classroom with these simple ideas from Project Learning Tree’s Environmental Experiences for Early Childhood.

• Set up recycling bins for paper, metal and plastic. Label the bins with words and pictures of the items that can be recycled in your community. Show your students where to find the numbers on plastic containers and teach them what can and cannot be put in the bins.
• Set aside a separate box for paper that can be reused before being recycled. Regularly use paper from this box yourself so that your students see that it is something that adults do too.
• Involve your students’ families in saving and collecting recyclables or throwaway items for projects (e.g., toilet paper tubes and empty egg cartons)/ Send home notes with lists of items your class can use.
• Use cloth bags for your classroom shopping. Use the bags to transport items in and out of your classroom. Explain that you can use the bags repeatedly. Use reusable cloth bags in your dramatic play area when it is set up as a store.
• Build a simple compost bin outside the school. Place fruit and vegetable scraps from snacks and other compostable materials in it. Invite children to help you add materials and turn the compost. Find more information at www.kidsgardening.com.
• Be a positive role model by conserving water, closing doors and turning off lights. Explain to your students what you are doing and why.
• Use reusable plates, cups and utensils for snacks.
• Plant a tree.