Kids Going Green

My 3 year-old toddler Dylan has a monster footprint, a carbon one, that is. Her daily use of pull-ups, paper towels and plastic snack bags is embarrassing for an earth conscious mama.

So, for her birthday I was determined to throw her a party that was two parts “cool kid” and one part green.

Here’s my cheat sheet:

Find a green location: Fun spots like Karma Kids Yoga (104 West 14th Street, 646.638.1444) will help you design a party where kids play recycle games and learn to appreciate the earth (all while doing yoga!). Birthday packages start at $475 for ten kids. Parties run an hour and a half with lots of downward dogs, pizza and juice.

Let them eat organic cake: Order a delicious (wheat, gluten, dairy and refined-sugar free) cake from Babycakes (248 Broome Street, 212-677-5047). Their yummy, organic sweets, like chocolate cake with creamy vanilla frosting, are better for your guests and the environment. Be sure your tableware is recycled and biodegradable. You can order Seventh Generation napkins and Natural Value compostable plates online at Kokopelli’s Green Market.

Give eco-party favors: Avoid cheap, plastic, throw away party favors. Give gifts that children can use again and again like vibrant, eco-friendly soybean crayons, a book or homemade playdough. Wrap all your gifts in newspaper. Attach an earth tip on each gift for parents to read. For example, “when doing laundry, only run a full load and always use cold water.”

Say thank you: For sophisticated city mamas, a hand-written thank you card is de rigeur. Order some eco-friendly note cards from Mr. Ellie Pooh’s. This paper is made from elephant dung (no smell – I swear!). Lee’s Art Shop also offers tree free paper made from 100% cotton.

Kelcey Kintner is the creator, author and editor of the mama bird diaries, a smart, funny and always unpredictable take on motherhood.