Earth Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a mindset, a way of living that honors the incredible planet we call home. This year, Earth Day falls on Tuesday, April 22, and it’s the perfect time to slow down with your family and reconnect with nature.
As moms raising our little ones here in The Woodlands, we’re surrounded by beauty every day. With over 100 parks, nearly 220 miles of hike and bike trails, peaceful waterways, vibrant wildlife, and local farmers markets, there are endless ways to explore, appreciate, and care for our environment, starting right here in our own backyard.
Simple, Family-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Earth Day
Whether you’re spending a few mindful minutes outside or planning a whole day of nature-filled fun, here are some easy and meaningful ways to celebrate:
🌱 Plant Seeds Together
Start a small herb garden on your patio or plant native flowers that attract butterflies and bees. It’s a hands-on way for kids to learn about growth, patience, and pollinators. You don't have to have a green thumb either! Plant something easy that the kids will appreciate - like tomatoes, snap peas, wildflowers, and even mint that the kids can put in their tea and lemonade this season.
🚮 Pick Up Litter as a Family
Grab some gloves and take a “nature walk clean-up” around your neighborhood or favorite park. Kids love feeling like helpers, and they’ll quickly notice the difference they can make.
🛍 Switch to Reusable Shopping Bags
Haven’t made the switch yet? Now’s the time! Stash a few reusable totes in your car and skip the plastic bags for good.
✨ Go Stargazing
After the sun goes down, spread a blanket in your backyard or visit a dark spot on one of the many trails in The Woodlands for some low-key, magical stargazing. To get a clearer look at the stars, plan a trip to the George Observatory at Brazos Bend State Park which hosts Saturday Stargazing events throughout the year (but note - they sell out quickly).
🧺 Visit a Farmers Market
Support local growers and introduce your kids to fresh, seasonal produce. The Grogans Mill Farmers Market (Saturdays from 9 am–1 pm) is a wonderful local spot, and there are several others throughout our area to explore. Keep your eyes on the WoodlandsMommy.com Events Calendar for the details!
🚣 Get Outside and Explore
Rent a kayak (don't forget to spot the ducks!), take a stroll by the koi pond along the Woodlands Waterway, or pack a picnic to take to one of our scenic parks (Northshore Park has picnic tables right along the lake). Just being outdoors helps children form a deep connection with nature.
Earth Day Books to Add to Your Child’s Library
Books are such a powerful way to spark curiosity about the world. Here are five picture books that beautifully capture the spirit of Earth Day:
- "The Earth Book" by Todd Parr >>> View on Amazon
Simple, bold illustrations and positive messages teach even the youngest readers how to care for the planet.
- "We Are Water Protectors" by Carole Lindstrom >>> View on Amazon
Inspired by Indigenous-led movements, this lyrical book is a celebration of water and a call to action.
- "Thank You, Earth: A Love Letter to Our Planet" by April Pulley Sayre >>> View on Amazon
A stunning photo-illustrated book that reads like a poetic thank-you note to the Earth.
- "Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth" by Mary McKenna Siddals >>> View on Amazon
A fun and rhythmic introduction to composting that will have your little ones thinking twice before tossing scraps.
- "The Curious Garden" by Peter Brown >>> View on Amazon
This sweet story of a boy who transforms a gray city into a green oasis is sure to inspire budding eco-heroes.
Movie Night, Earth Day Style 🎬
Snuggle up and enjoy one of these Earth-loving films with your kids:
- The Lorax – A colorful, fun intro to environmental care with an important message.
- March of the Penguins – A stunning documentary about perseverance, family, and nature.
- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind – A true story of innovation, hope, and the power of one child’s idea. My girls also read the book. (There's a Young Reader's edition and a Picture Book edition as well as the regular edition.)
No matter how you choose to celebrate Earth Day this year, remember: every little act of love toward the Earth matters. Let’s inspire our kids to care deeply, act thoughtfully, and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us on on April 22 and every day after.
Happy Earth Day, mamas!
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