Remember when we played outside as kids? There was nothing better than playing at the creek on a lazy summer morning, or sledding down a snowy hill on a brisk winter's day. Things are a little different today; kids needn't leave the comfort of their own home (or their friends' homes) for entertainment. The advent and rise of the computer and television is both a blessing and a curse. While convenient tools for learning, shopping and communicating, they can also be a substitute for good clean outdoor fun.

Striking a balance for the health of our children and the future of our planet begins with you, the parent. Children look to you when developing their own habits and attitudes toward the earth, creatures, and cohabitants. Setting an example for them is the first step. Here are some earth friendly activities you can do together:

Plant a tree ...or a garden, or a flower pot, or a seed. Watching something grow from a seed or plantling is not only fun to watch and track, but it helps kids connect to the earth. Suddenly their food comes from the earth, not the grocer. Suddenly the tree commands awe and respect, instead of being just another fixture in the lawn.

Pesticide 101 Take a glass of tap water and add a few drops of blue food coloring. Explain to your child that the blue color represents chemicals and pesticides that are often found in the water we use in our gardens. Cut a stalk of celery and place it in the water. Within a few days, you'll see how chemicals are systemically absorbed in our veggies - and are not something you can just wash off!

For the birds If you don't have an outdoor cat, a bird feeder is a great way to watch nature. There are many great organic seeds that will attract a variety to your back yard. Even squirrels provide ample entertainment (although some can be pesky). Keep a set of child-sized binoculars by the window, and your child will naturally be curious to observe the birds. If your child is artistic, keep a pad of paper nearby and encourage sketching.

Recycling Sometimes it can be tempting to just let the recycling go out with the trash. What a bother to rinse, separate, and drag those recycled goods to the curb. But what may be a chore to you is a great way for a kid to learn about the value of recycling for the future of our planet. And if you offer a penny, nickel, or dime per can/bottle, it will also place a positive value on the act of recycling while teaching about saving.

Article courtesy of Eco-Logics, Inc. www.green-kits.com