Kid-Friendly Upcycling Crafts Using Jars and Cans
Did you know that something you might throw away could become your next awesome creation?
Today’s Plastic-Free Challenge is all about upcycling—a fancy word that means turning trash into treasure! 💎
Let’s get crafty with things like jars, cans, and containers that usually end up in the recycling bin. ✂️🖍️
Upcycling means reusing old stuff in a brand-new way—like turning an empty jar into a pencil holder or a can into a plant pot! It’s fun, helpful, and great for the planet. 🌱
Why upcycle?
It keeps trash out of landfills
Saves money and resources
Gives YOU a fun art project!
Grab an empty glass jar (from jam, pickles, or peanut butter—cleaned out, of course!) and try one of these:
You’ll need:
A clean jar
Tissue paper or paint
Glue and a battery tea light
Wrap your jar in tissue or paint designs on the outside, drop in the light, and ta-da! You’ve got a glowing lantern for your room!
Decorate the jar with stickers, ribbon, or washi tape. Fill it with pencils, crayons, or markers. Perfect for homework time!
Use a clean soup or veggie can (smooth out sharp edges or ask an adult for help):
Paint your can with fun colors or designs. Add soil and plant herbs, flowers, or even a seedling! Water it and watch it grow! 🌻
Flip the can over and tap it with a stick. Want a whole band? Use different-sized cans for different sounds!
🧺 Have a “craft night” with recycled materials
🖼️ Display your masterpieces on a shelf or windowsill
🎁 Turn your creations into gifts for teachers or friends!
Before you throw something away, ask:
“Can I turn this into something new?”
Your imagination is more powerful than any plastic wrap!
Every year on December 11, people around the world celebrate International Mountain Day, a time to learn how mountains shape our planet and support life in incredible ways. Even if you do not live anywhere near a mountain, these towering natural wonders affect the water you drink, the animals you love, and the adventures you dream about.
Soil might look like simple brown dirt, but it is one of the most alive and important parts of our planet. World Soil Day is a chance to explore the tiny world hidden beneath our feet, a world filled with creatures, nutrients, and natural systems that help plants grow, clean our water, and even protect the climate. When we understand how soil works, we can appreciate this incredible resource and learn how to protect it.
World Wildlife Conservation Day takes place every year on December 4, and it reminds us how important it is to protect the amazing animals we share our planet with. Many species are endangered because of wildlife crime, which includes poaching, the illegal pet trade, and the destruction of habitats.