The Giving Tree

K2 has spent the majority of the school year thus far learning about Plants and Animal in Science class. Lately, we have been discussing how plants and animals work together to ensure a balance is kept so their habitats can remain healthy.

Today we read the story "The Giving Tree", which is a rather sad story of a boy using a tree (to sell its apples, to build a house, to build a boat, etc.) until all that's left of the tree is a small stump. This story can be sad for children (and adults too!), however I like to think of it more as an opportunity to teach stewardship skills - being responsible for and protecting our one and only Earth!

If children talk about this story with you, here are some ideas we discussed in class about how to be responsible stewards of the Earth!

Here are a few simple ways kids can help save trees. Feel free to try some at home! 

1. Use paper wisely.
We can save trees from being cut down by using less paper. How can kids help? 

• Make a space for reusable paper. Dedicate a spot in your home for paper that’s blank on one side. Then reuse it before you recycle it. Put the kids in charge!
• Use scrap paper (preferably recycled, too) for coloring, drawing, sketching, etc.
• Use both sides of paper (this one works great for homework).
• Use cloth napkins. 
• Choose a reusable lunchbox instead of a paper bag, complete with reusable containers, metal utensils, a cloth napkin and a reusable water bottle.

2. Play and create with trash.
Children love playing with cardboard boxes, empty toilet paper and paper towel rolls – even shoeboxes. Boxes can become forts and superhero headquarters, toilet paper rolls turn into binoculars and bird feeders, and paper towel rolls become spotting scopes and periscopes.

3. Borrow, share and donate books.
We read a lot around here, which translates into tons of books – and therefore lots of paper. The library is a great alternative to buying new, as are friends who are willing to swap books. Instead of holding on to books when your kids have outgrown them, donate them to a used bookstore, library or reading program.

4. Plant a tree.
Although planting trees is a popular Earth Day activity, fall is the season to plant trees and shrubs.Do your homework to make sure you pick the right tree for your space. 

5. Visit the forest.
Our favorite way to pay homage to trees and forests is to spend time with them. V

6. Stay on the trails. 
When you visit the forest, stay on marked trails. This will minimize your impact on wilderness areas, preserving them for future generations.

7. Get your Smokey on.
Remember Smokey the Bear? He’s still around, helping to prevent wildfires – which, by the way are one of the greatest threats to forests. Smokey’s message is worth repeating:

• Only you can prevent wildfires,
• Always be careful with fire,
• Never play with matches or lighters,
• Always watch your campfire, and
• Make sure your campfire is completely out before leaving it.