Kid- and earth-friendly summer projects

While sitting in a waiting room today, I read an article in Carolina Parent magazine entitled "Create backyard habitat." The author outlines some great ideas for getting kids involved in their own backyard--through creating creature habitat, feeding birds, and even "green" gardening (no pesticides!) These efforts are part of the National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Habitat Program. From Carolina Parent:

"Founded in 1994 to plant the seeds of environmental awareness across the country, the [National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Habitat Program] gives families the opportunity to make exciting, natural discoveries in their own backyards by helping wild creatures find food, water, cover and places to raise their young."

Another one of their articles lists some cool science projects using non-toxic ingredients...you might remember these classics from your elementary school science fair:

• create your own slime;
• make a tornado in a bottle; and
• grow your own crystals.

While I know my inner child is both cheering for these fun ideas and doing some mental eye-rolling at my mother's old charge: "why don't you kids go play outside, it's such a nice day," I'm planning on trying a few of these ideas with the kids in my life in the upcoming weeks. I'll post again with some stories and photos of our efforts!