Learning that recycling is an “adult” thing only perpetuates the “boring” stereotypes about it.

A crafting day filled with recycling initiatives not only makes for fun babysitting activities, but also teaches nieces and nephews about the values (and the fun!) of recycling. The following are three DIY recycling activities you can do.

Create a recycling station

Kids are more likely to get involved with initiatives if they play a big part in organizing them. Building “recycling station” helps develop a lifelong habit of recycling for kids. You will need: cardboard boxes, construction paper, tape or glue, and some markers and crayons. Take a day to create and decorate labels such as “plastic and cans”, “paper” and “glass” with the construction paper for each box. While beautifying the recycling station, the kids can learn about sorting different recyclable materials. Make sure to demonstrate what kind of material goes into each box.

Put together a “trashbook” out of recycled paper

My college had an initiative where students could bring in their own used papers to bind them into a notebook called a “trashbook.” You can do something similar with your kids or nephews and nieces. Staple together all the blank sides of some scrap paper facing the same way, then have a fun day of crafting the cover pages of your own “trash book” together. If you have more time, you can get creative with binding the trashbook with some yarn and needles.

Personalize reusable tote bags

Tote bags have become widely sold and widely popular, with some designer bags costing a fortune. Why not make unique bags of your own? You can find plain reusable canvas bags at local craft stores for under $5 each. Have a day of personalizing them with your nieces and nephews with permanent markers and glitter glue. While crafting, make sure to inform the children about the benefits of reusable bags against plastic bags.