As a nanny or babysitter, you have an excellent opportunity to influence young minds and set an example as kids learn and grow. By introducing eco-friendly practices, you can teach children the importance of caring for our planet while also benefiting their future. Making even small changes can create a greener space for the kids and instill values that last a lifetime. Let’s dive into some friendly tips on how to be an eco-conscious caregiver!
Reusables to the Rescue
We can each do our part to reduce the waste we create, including in our childcare activities. Consider where you can opt for reusable items with the children you care for when possible. Here are some suggestions for incorporating reusable items while caring for children:
- Swap paper napkins, plastic bags, and water bottles for reusable options. Pack snacks and lunches in a reusable container with a cloth napkin, and bring a reusable water bottle to activities. If the family you’re with doesn’t have these items, you might suggest getting some together or bringing your own if that feels comfortable.
- Use cloth diapers rather than disposable ones. If you’re caring for an infant, this tip will go a long way–think about how many diapers a baby uses each day! While this option requires a bit of a mindset shift–and maybe another load of laundry each week–it’s a fantastic way to reduce landfill waste. Plus, using cloth diapers will save parents tons of money in the long run!
- Use reusable art supplies as much as possible. Try using washable and eco-friendly art supplies when engaging in creative activities. Look for paints and crayons made from natural materials, and consider crafting with items like wood, cotton, and wool. Check to see if there’s a second-hand art supply store near you–there are often lots of treasures there!
Foster a Love for Nature
As a nanny or babysitter, you have a wonderful opportunity to help children develop a deep appreciation for the natural world–and have fun while doing it! Consider these ideas for how to cultivate a sense of love and respect for nature in the children you care for:
- Take children on outdoor adventures when the weather is nice. A stroll around the neighborhood, a picnic at the park, or simply playing in the backyard can be fun and engaging activities for kids. Encourage them to notice the different plants, trees, and animals you see along the way. You could even turn it into a fun scavenger hunt or observation game! If it’s a rainy or chilly day, local nature museums or the indoor areas of a zoo can offer great opportunities to explore and learn about the natural world while staying warm and dry.
- Plant a garden with the kids you’re caring for. You don’t need a whole yard to do this; a balcony is plenty of space to grow small vegetables, or even a windowsill can be the ideal spot for an indoor herb garden. Children can help plant seeds, water them, and harvest vegetables. Involving kids in planting, watering, and eventually harvesting teaches them about nature and where our food comes from while they get their hands in the soil!
- Craft with natural materials such as leaves, pinecones, and sticks. You can make leaf prints, paint with mud, or construct bird feeders from recycled items. These activities not only inspire creativity but also help children forge a connection with the environment.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink
You can teach children the fundamentals of reducing their carbon footprint by setting an example during your time with them. Here are some daily habits to reduce your carbon footprint to incorporate into your childcare routine:
- Encourage recycling by making it a fun activity or game! Explain the different types of recyclable materials, and then have them help sort items and empty the recycling bin. They’ll love being part of the process!
- Minimize food waste as much as possible. Planning meals helps cut down on leftovers. Encourage your little ones to take only what they can eat and involve them in creating new dishes with any leftover ingredients. It can turn into a fun cooking adventure!
- Rethink before purchasing new items. Before grabbing new toys or school supplies, discuss alternatives like borrowing, swapping, or looking for second-hand options. Encourage creativity by teaching them how to fix broken toys instead of throwing them away. Plus, it’s an excellent way for them to learn new skills!
- Model energy-conserving habits. Turn off the lights when leaving a room, unplug devices that aren’t in use, and keep the thermostat at a cozy yet efficient temperature. Remind your kids to join in, helping them develop good habits for the future!
Educate and Empower
When spending time with the kids you care for, why not weave in some lessons about caring for our planet? Children can learn that their everyday choices genuinely matter in creating a healthier environment with these ideas:
- Read books with eco-friendly themes. Look for stories featuring environmental heroes or adventures that celebrate nature. Maybe take a trip to the library to ask the librarian for suggestions that suit the kids’ interests!
- Engage in eco-friendly activities together. Plan a neighborhood cleanup, start a small garden, or find local events that promote environmental awareness. These activities teach important lessons about caring for our earth and help kids connect with others who share similar values.
- Have conversations with children about why it’s important to protect the environment. Use simple, relatable language to explain concepts like pollution and sustainability. Daily activities—like brushing teeth or preparing meals—can be great opportunities to discuss water conservation and their food’s journey from farm to table. Kids are more likely to understand and value these lessons when they see their relevance in everyday life!
Embrace Sustainable Transportation
As a caregiver, you often find yourself on the go, taking children to school or driving them to activities. While using a car is sometimes necessary, you can also explore greener alternatives that benefit both the environment and the kids you look after! Consider these ideas for more eco-friendly transportation:
- Walk or bike for short trips when possible. Not only does this help reduce your carbon footprints, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to get some exercise and discover your neighborhood together.
- Utilize public transportation. It’s a great way to minimize emissions and ease traffic. Plus, riding the bus or train can be an exciting adventure for kids, allowing them to see their city from a different perspective. Just be sure to chat with the parents first to ensure they’re comfortable with this option!
Mindful Meal Times
When it comes to being eco-friendly, food is often a missed opportunity, especially if you’re looking after kids. Meal and snack time is a great chance to introduce more sustainable habits! While you may not have complete control over the pantry, there are still plenty of ways to encourage earth-conscious choices during meal or snack times:
- Choose local and seasonal foods when possible. If you can, opt for fruits and veggies that are in season and sourced from local farms. This helps cut down on transportation emissions and supports your community. You can even take the kids to a local farmers’ market if it’s the season for it!
- Prepare plant-based meals and snacks more often. Incorporating more vegetarian and vegan meals into the mix can have a big impact. Whether it’s a hearty veggie stir-fry, a veggie-packed pizza, or carrots and hummus, there are so many tasty plant-based meals and snacks to explore together.
- Minimize processed foods. Whenever possible, choose whole foods that are minimally packaged. This choice reduces waste and means you’re offering healthier options that the kids will enjoy.
Find Your Next Babysitting or Nanny Job with Jovie!
You’ve got the skills, knowledge, and heart to care for the earth while caring for little ones. Now, take your nannying or babysitting career to the next level with Jovie! We provide our nannies and sitters with the most up-to-date training and education in all things childcare, so you can be the best nanny or sitter possible. Plus, you’ll join a community of other passionate childcare providers who care just as much as you do! Get started with Jovie today!
