Sometimes we make green living more complicated than it should be. The concept is simple – a natural lifestyle should come “naturally,” shouldn’t it?
But our culture’s disposable mindset and obsession with consumerism can make it tough to live simply. Especially when it comes to kids’ birthday parties.
Think of the last child’s party you attended. Chances are – the cardboard, paper, plastic, and heavy-duty tie wraps filled a garbage bag or two. And that’s just wrapping paper and packaging! Most people don’t realize that with all the laminates, dyes, and glitter… most wrapping paper is not recyclable.
Then there are all the toys and favors. What is the long-term impact of batteries and all the indestructible molded plastic? So many of those toys will never, ever break down in a landfill. And many of them came from China and are loaded with plastic toxins.
Add in the fact that an over-the-top birthday party reinforces the notion that “bigger and more is better.” Not exactly the message you want to send to your child, is it?
So, what’s a parent to do?
It all comes back to keeping it simple. These tips might turn the conventional birthday party upside down, but they’ll set you free along the way. Here’s how to host an eco friendly birthday party everyone will enjoy:
Adjust Your Mindset From Disposable to Reusable – The best party decoration is one that doesn’t end up in a landfill. Etsy sellers and shops like Green Planet Parties have gorgeous cloth birthday banners, party favors, and games. You can use them again, swap with other parents on your birthday party circuit, or sell them. Consider making your own piñata, and stock up on extra plates, cups and silverware from your local flea market or Goodwill, or at least be sure to avoid Styrofoam.
Ditch the Goody Bags – From one parent to another, does anyone really need another sheet of tattoos and a tiny plastic jug of bubbles? Experience parties (pottery making, tie-dyeing a t-shirt, touring the local fire station) leave a memory that doesn’t get lost in the bottom of the toy box.
Spare a Tree, Save a Dime – Aren’t we all tired of spending $4 on something that gets torn and tossed? Wrapping paper is just plain wasteful. If you have paper gift bags left over from gifts you’ve receive, by all means use them. But rather than buy new paper, try wrapping gifts with your child’s artwork, old travel maps, the comics, or any box, bucket or basket you have on hand. Another unique, reusable alternative is a fabric gift bag.
Blow off the Balloons – If you’ve never thought of where balloons could end up after the party is over, take a look at the photo gallery at BalloonsBlow.org. One look at the birds, seals, sea turtles and other marine life who are strangled, tangled, or choked by balloon ribbon or bits of balloon and you won’t find those balls of latex so festive.
Serve Healthier Treats – Your child’s birthday only comes once a year. If she loves cake and frosting, this is the time to let her have it! But there’s no need to have an entire table full of sugar-laden junk. Balance it out with fruits, veggies, and lean protein. And instead of sodas or conventional fruit juice, serve water in your reusable cups.
Think Natural Themes – Go beyond the traditional superheroes and princess parties. For some gorgeous ideas for parties inspired by nature, check out Anni Daulter’s Naturally Fun Parties for Kids. And of course, there’s the no-theme birthday party. Let the kids use their imaginations to celebrate the special day.
The post How to Host an Eco-Friendly Birthday Party appeared first on Green Child Magazine.