It’s important to me that I raise my son to understand the importance of composting, growing a garden and to respect the need to live an eco-friendly life. The other day I had a greasy paper bag which most people would throw in the trash, but is actually perfect for adding to the compost.
I gave him the task of cutting up the bag into small piece for the compost. At first glance this may seem like just another chore, but he actually liked it and it kept him busy.
We chatted while he performed the task and I noticed the following skills being learned:
Fine Motor: scissors use small finger muscles important for writing and other tasks
Nature and Science: paper can decompose just like kitchen scraps since it also comes from a plant
Math: a whole can be divided into smaller parts
Good Citizenship: reduce waste for a greener world.
Isn’t it marvelous how simple, practical life tasks teach kids so much? Do you compost with your kids?
Starr Weems de Graffenried says
August 10, 2009 at 10:33 amHa! This cracks me up. I do the same thing when I teach my high school classes. “Ok, art class! We are painting pictures of world maps today. You will learn about geography through art!” …Then I hang them up on the wall and use them to teach Spanish class. Wahaha!
Valerie @ Frugal Family Fun Blog says
August 10, 2009 at 7:47 pmHahahahhaa! You are soooo clever! I love it!!
Fun Mama - Deanna says
August 10, 2009 at 10:40 pmFabulous idea. I think I'll get right on that one. 😉
Kim Baise says
August 10, 2009 at 11:00 pmI need to start thinking more like you!These days (w/new baby) I need all the time and energy I can get. Keeping the kids busy while they do chores w/out knowing it is a fantastic idea!!!!
Alycia in Va. says
August 11, 2009 at 12:04 pmwe love chores around here…we haven't started composting though. My neighbor has a massive been and it's something about the “worms” in hers that totally makes me a little turned off by the idea.