The Clean Room

We all remember “The Three R’s:” Reading, wRiting and aRithmetic, don’t we?

Let’s hope so!

Well, as the kids go back to school to learn those three R’s, a new trio of R’s has risen to prominence for the rest of us: Reuse, Recycle and… Replenish!

There are countless things you can do to put your kids on the green path to learning and the US Environmental Protection Agency has actually come out with a list of eco-friendly tips you can adopt as the fall semester begins. Here are a few recommendations from the list.

• Buy Smart! Purchase and use a wide assortment of supplies made from recycled products, such as pencils made from old blue jeans; binders made from old shipping boxes. Many types of recycled paper products contain a percentage of Post Consumer Waste (PCW). You can also reuse items like refillable pens, rechargeable batteries and scrap paper for notes.

• Waste from packaging accounts for more than 30-percent of all the waste generated each year. Use school supplies wrapped with minimal packaging; use compact or concentrated products; or buy products that come in bulk sizes.

• Use nontoxic products, inks and art supplies, such as vegetable-based inks, white tape instead of white out, water-based paints and batteries with less mercury.

Once you’ve got the kids squared away with their eco-friendly supplies, it’s time to replenish! Wipe away that summer grime… Replenish your home! Not only will your house shine and smell fresh, Replenishing could actually contribute to your child’s educational success! Really! The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Happy Learning recommends a “clean, well-lit space” for kids to do their homework to enhance their learning experience. And did we mention Replenish is non-toxic and thus safe for kids?

Get your kids on the right path to learning their three R’s by adopting your own: Reuse, Recycle and Replenish. It’s a win-win for your family and the environment.