The best way to raise your kids to become stewards of the environment is to get them to like, even love, nature. And what better time to start than summer? These activities will get you going, but once outdoors you'll come up with dozens more fun, creative ways to appreciate the natural world.

By helping children to name and understand their emotions, you give them tools to cope with their feelings all their lives. In fact, being our child's emotional "tutor" is one of our most important jobs as adults.

It can be easy to get caught up in the business of our everyday lives and forget to take time to be aware in the present. Being mindful helps us to think intentionally, find gratitude for what we have, and be more understanding toward others and ourselves.

Want to add a bit of altruism to your children's summer? Instead of collecting shells and rocks, hold a collection drive for those in need. It could be cereal for a food pantry, cat or dog toys for a humane society, diapers for a crisis nursery, or books for a family homeless shelter.
A donation drive is a fun, easy family activity that can improve lives.