ECO-FRIENDLY FAMILY MOBILE

Activity Description:

Spending quality time working together with family members or child care providers helps promote social and emotional growth in children.

Reinforcing that each member of the family or group is important, unique and special through representation on the mobile will give children confidence as individuals. At the same time, working together will leave children feeling comfortable taking on roles as part of a group as well.

Using discarded items throughout the house to represent each family member promotes the idea that items of value can be found anywhere and all things should be treated properly and with respect.

Cutting, tying, and handling ribbons and other items while creating the mobile is a great way to develop fine motor skills.

Suggested Ages:

All Ages

What Is Needed:

• Objects that represent each member of the family and what Earth Day means to you and your family
• Colorful Ribbon or Yarn
• Hot Glue Gun/Masking Tape 2 sturdy 10 - 12 inch sticks

Activity Directions:

1. Each family member should choose 1 - 2 small, lightweight objects to represent them on the mobile. Let older children help choose things to represent infants in the family. Be open minded - a toddler may choose an old fish food container to represent their favorite pet. A preschooler might choose a mini cereal box because it is their favorite kind of breakfast food. Represent your baby with an empty baby food jar, and let older siblings decorate it. Get everyone involved!
2. Grab colorful ribbon or yarn and attach the objects to them. The ribbons should be varying lengths. Tie everything securely and secure the ribbons even further with a hot glue gun. Note: Its best to keep the heaviest objects on short pieces and the lighter pieces on medium and longer length ribbon.
3. With the two sticks and string, make an "x" with the sticks and use strong string to tie them together. Wrap the sting in and around the middle of the "x" many times and tie the string off when they are secure.
   Note: You can use masking tape or anything else you need to secure the sticks.

4. Tie the objects onto the "X". Finish the project by tying ribbon to the top and hanging it somewhere that everyone in the family can see. It will be a great reminder of Earth Day all year round and represent the individuals in your family at the same time!
   
   SAFETY TIP: Only adults should use hot glue guns and any of their components. Any breakable objects should be handled by adults or under close adult supervision.
   
   Other household "waste" recycled:

   • Milk cartons - cut the tops off, toss in some soil, and plant some seeds!
     
   • Laundry Detergent Container - cut the top to create a wider opening, decorate the outside and start a compost! It will be a great learning experience for everyone.

Have you recycled houshold objects into crafts or other activities? Let us know by sharing your comments below.