Chipper for Parks: Recycle Can Craft for Conservation
“Going outside the classroom – and observing what is right there – that is where meaningful learning happens.” – Lilian Katz, Professor Emerita of Early Childhood Education, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Start the new year off right by getting outdoors and supporting our national parks and open spaces! Not only do parks preserve the earth’s beautiful ecosystems and diverse animals, they help our children grow into conscientious, healthy adults. Studies show that kids who are exposed to nature, and engage with their natural surroundings, develop an appreciation for the environment and empathy for all living creatures. Nature helps us feel happier and expands our imagination. We feel calmer and more at peace in the outdoors. So with the New Year barely underway commit to connecting your children to your local parks and make a plan to visit at least one state or national park. Say “hello” to a park ranger and thank them for what they do to keep our lands available to all.
January 20, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is the first Fee-Free Day* of 2014 so plan a nature trip for the long weekend. Here are some Chipper Tips for camping and hiking with kids!
Chipper engages, excites and educates young children and families to become the environmental stewards of tomorrow through meaningful connections with our local, state, and national park systems. Kids delight in exploring paths, discovering critters, and playfully exercising while at the same time fostering community bonds. Get your “I’m Chipper for Parks” badge today! A portion of our profits go to a park of your choice. Learn more about our Chipper for Parks program!
Chipper has worked with Girl Scouts, community leaders, teachers, Park Rangers and more to help lead a new generation into the great outdoors. Chipper teaches the principles of Leave No Trace and important safety lessons to keep everyone on the path together. Read our Park Ranger Interviews to learn more about being a protector of nature!
Teach your little one(s) more about conservation and keeping our planet clean with this fun and useful recycle craft! The majority of human waste going into landfills comes from consumer goods. We must find creative, alternative ways to reduce waste. Chipper’s recent partnership with Keep Phoenix Beautiful highlights the 5 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Reconsider and Reimagine! Reimagine a recycled can or container into a cute collections bin! Place it on your kitchen counter, in the classroom and help raise funds for parks. Once filled, visit your local park or make a trip to a national park and share the joy in supporting our park systems.
What You Need:
• Standard Can or Container
• Scissors
• Tape or Glue (double-stick works great)
• crayons or markers
• Chipper for Parks Can Label (click here to save and print!)
Instructions:
1. Simply collect and clean a can, container or bottle.
2. Print out our FREE Chipper for Parks Collection Can Label.
3. Have your child color and write their name and the park they want to donate to.
4. Cut out your decorated label so it fits on your can or container.
5. Then tape (Chipper uses double-stick) or glue on to attach!
6. Find a place for your recycled collection can.
Parks need our support. As you walk the paths share with your child that their contribution is what helps maintain paths and flora and fauna. Our parks rely on government funding and donations so every coin counts! We’re Chipper for parks and this is our “Piggy Banks for Parks.” Help us spread the idea!
Park Rangers are happy to share their knowledge about their park with our future environmental stewards and many parks run great activities and outings for kids.
Find more ways to help our parks here or consider organizing a local fundraiser! Which park is your favorite? Share your answer and pictures of your Collection Can with Chipper!
*Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise.
