Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival children eagerly look forward to. From bringing Bappa home and decorating the puja space to helping prepare modaks and taking part in the celebrations, there is something for them to be involved in at every step.

This year, the festival can also give children a lesson they can carry with them long after the celebrations are over by showing them how to care for the environment.

The best part is that it does not need to feel like a lesson. Give children small responsibilities and let them see how small choices can reduce waste and protect nature. Here are some ways to make sustainability a part of your celebrations at home.

1. Make your own Ganpati idol

Instead of buying a Ganpati idol, involve your child in making one at home. Natural clay is an easy option, and children can help knead the clay, shape the body, and add small details to the idol.

Younger children can help with simpler tasks, while older ones can take on more of the shaping. Once the idol is ready, let them paint it using natural or non-toxic colours.

What kids can do: Help prepare the clay, shape the idol, add details, and paint it with environmentally friendly colours.

What they learn: Children understand that the materials used for celebrations matter. Making their own idol also shows them that something meaningful does not always have to be bought.

2. Turn decoration time into a craft activity

Children naturally enjoy decorating the house, so give them the freedom to create the festive decor themselves. Instead of buying plastic decorations, collect things already available at home.

Old newspapers, cardboard, paper, fabric scraps, leaves, and dried........

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