Kids vs. Plastic: Ditch the straw and find the pollution solution to bottles, bags, and other single-use plastics
#1 in Kids vs. Plastic Series
on Goodreads (16)
What’s inside...
Jam-packed with surprising information about plastic's effect on the environment, plus loads of practical ways kids can cut down on their plastic footprint, this is the kids guide to being part of the pollution solution! It's in your toothbrush, your clothes, and your earbuds. Plastic is everywhere and in almost everything we touch. Unfortunately, it takes a long time to break down and can harm our environment, especially wildlife. Discover shocking stats, surprising facts, and interviews with experts. Learn simple sustainable swaps and how to reduce plastic use for a more plastic-free future.
Discussion points
Why do you think it's important to use less plastic?
How do you feel when you see pictures of animals affected by plastic pollution?
What are some alternatives to the single-use plastics mentioned in the book?
How can we personally make a difference in reducing plastic waste in our daily lives?
What kind of changes would you like to see in our community to tackle the issue of plastic pollution?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by sharing your own feelings about plastic pollution and its impact on the environment. This demonstrates empathy and sets a comfortable tone for an open discussion.
Encourage your child to relate the content of the book to their everyday life. For instance, discuss how you might make different choices at the grocery store or while packing lunches.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and ideas. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and engagement in such vital topics.
Create a collaborative atmosphere, perhaps by brainstorming together on a family project that reduces plastic usage, making the discussion actionable.
Allow the child to express emotions they might feel, such as frustration or sadness about pollution, and brainstorm proactive ways to channel these feelings into positive actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: Through engaging content and real-world examples, the book teaches children the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing plastic use.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by practicing recycling and choosing reusable products like water bottles and shopping bags in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Innovation and Problem Solving
Explanation: The book highlights various innovative ways to tackle plastic pollution and encourages children to think creatively about solving environmental issues.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize critical thinking to develop new ways to minimize waste at home or school, such as organizing a recycling project or crafting with used materials.
Example Lesson: Community Involvement
Explanation: Kids vs. Plastic emphasizes the power of collective action and shows how community efforts can create significant environmental change.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in or initiate community clean-up events, promoting teamwork and the importance of working together towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Awareness and Education
Explanation: The book educates young readers about the sources and dangers of plastic pollution, fostering a deeper understanding of the issue.
Real-World Application: Children can share their knowledge with friends and family, spreading awareness and encouraging others to reduce their plastic usage.
Example Lesson: Long-term Thinking
Explanation: It presents the long-term consequences of plastic usage on the environment, teaching children the value of considering the future impacts of their actions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to make more sustainable choices, thinking ahead about how the things they do today can affect the planet tomorrow.