Treading Lightly as a Family

Most of my memories growing up revolved around being outside-running, playing, and exploring from dusk until dawn. We spent our weekends at my grandparents' lake cabin. I have vivid memories of my grandfather crushing hundreds of aluminum cans and loading them in his car each Sunday to bring them into the aluminum recycling plant for what was probably pennies in return. Recycling was not the buzz word it is today. However, in our family we knew not to throw cans or bottles in the trash. Now with curbside recycling pickup available in most cities, all it takes is separating the materials and dragging them to the curb.

Families may be busier now more than ever, but instilling values of treading lightly on the earth and giving back to the community are integral-whether it is analyzing the packaging in the foods purchased, choosing to have a family day at a nature reserve, or reading books about peace. Raising conscientious children and families can be done in the simplest of choices we make throughout the day. You can use the resources and articles in this section for ideas.