Parenting Through Action: Community Service in Conifer with My Kids

This weekend, we took part in a community service project in Conifer, Colorado, where my kids and I rolled up our sleeves to clean up the area. It was a great opportunity to teach them about giving back and the importance of caring for our environment.

Key Takeaways

• Engaging kids in community service teaches them valuable life lessons.

• Hands-on activities can replace screen time and foster a sense of responsibility.

• Working together as a family strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.

Getting Started with Community Service

We kicked off our day at Big R, a local store, to grab some gloves for the kids. It’s funny how they always seem to lose one glove, right? After a quick stop, we were ready to hit the streets and start picking up trash.

The Adventure Begins

As we arrived at our designated area, I reminded the kids to stay safe and away from the road. They were excited, and honestly, I was too. It’s not just about cleaning up; it’s about teaching them to appreciate where they live.

• Safety First: Always keep kids away from busy roads.

• Stay Engaged: Encourage them to look for trash and talk about what they find.

What We Found

Let me tell you, the amount of trash we found was shocking. From cigarette butts to fast food wrappers, it was everywhere. Here’s a quick list of some of the more interesting finds:

1. Cigarette Butts: A lot of them, unfortunately.

2. Burrito Wrappers: Thanks to the nearby restaurant, we found plenty of these.

3. Glass Bottles: We had to be careful with these, but we picked them up safely.

4. A Golf Ball: Random, but hey, it’s a find!

5. Animal Bones: My kids were curious about these, and I had to explain what they were.

Teaching Moments

As we picked up trash, I took the chance to talk to my kids about why it’s important not to litter. I wanted them to understand that every piece of trash they picked up was a step towards a cleaner community.

• Life Lessons: Teaching kids about responsibility and caring for the environment.

• Engagement: Asking them questions about what they see and why it matters.

The Fun Side of Cleaning

Despite the hard work, we had a lot of fun. My kids joked about finding a “trash detector” and made up stories about the items we found. It was a great way to keep the mood light while we worked.

Wrapping Up the Day

After a few hours of hard work, we filled up several bags of trash. I was proud of my kids for sticking with it and making a difference. We ended the day with a pizza party at a local brewery, celebrating our efforts and enjoying some well-deserved treats.

Final Thoughts

Community service is a fantastic way to bond as a family while teaching kids about the importance of giving back. It’s not just about cleaning up; it’s about instilling values that will last a lifetime. I encourage other parents to get their kids involved in similar activities. You might be surprised at how much they enjoy it!