Earth Day only comes along once a year, but 9-year-old twin reporters Tristin and Tyler are always on the lookout for kid-friendly ways to help the planet which they then share on their webseries “Tristin and Tyler’s Tales from the City.”
As the producer of the series, and Tristin and Tyler’s mom, I’ve learned that going green is not just about recycling, it’s also about accumulating less stuff that could end up in a landfill and caring for nature. Want to give your child experiences that will make them love and care for the planet without leaving New York City? Here are five fun green experiences to share with your child for Earth Day.
Animal Haven: If you have a little one who loves animals or wants to be a veterinarian, Animal Haven is a great place to take him or her. Animal Haven has a Caring Kids program which gives children a chance to care for animals and teaches them about animal welfare. Taking care of and sustaining life is what going green is all about! animalhavenshelter.org
Art Farm in the City: Move on over to the East Side and visit an eco-friendly farm that teaches kids how to love and care for the planet and its various creatures. Little ones can jump like frogs and hop like bunnies in this farm in the city. Check out their location in the Hamptons, too! theartfarms.org
Little Swappies: Kids outgrow clothing fast don’t they? Teach your little ones the importance of giving by heading to a Little Swappies event. Instead of throwing old clothes, toys, and books away, swap them for items you need at these local events. Not only do they allow you to swap the stuff you can’t wait to get rid of, the events are super social so it’s also a great way to meet and mingle with other swappers. littleswappies.com
Local Nature Centers: Did you know that New York City is home to 15 Urban Park Ranger Nature Centers? Learn what kinds of furry pals live in your neighborhood by visiting one of these in-park community centers. From learning about the environment to seeing it all while taking a hike, nature centers are great way to learn about and enjoy the outdoors. Tristin and Tyler had a ball meeting with a park ranger in Inwood and learning how to care for trees. nycgovparks.org/facilities/naturecenters
Urban Kid Adventurers: Getting close to nature in NYC is easier than you think thanks to Urban Kid Adventurers. Your little explorer can take an afterschool or weekend class and learn outdoor survival skills such as building a shelter or starting a fire. Explore Central Park in and go on a worm hunt in this program that readies kids for anything that may come their way in the outdoors. urbankidadventurers.com
