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Composting for Dummies: Teaching Denver kids to compost

Composting for Dummies: Teaching Denver kids to compost

Teaching children to compost is a great way to foster environmental stewardship while reducing waste. Composting is not only a valuable lesson that combines environmental stewardship and science but it will teach them life-long practical life skills. Denver’s mayor recently announced plans to rollout a citywide compost service so we’re here to help get you started. 

Compost Colorado has this nifty visual and more tips on their website.

Be sure to also check out these fun resources: Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth (for kids) and if you’d like to get a headstart, don’t miss Composting Made Simple (for grownups).

Here’s a quick overview of how to start a kid-friendly composting project in Denver:


Why Compost?

Explain the benefits in simple terms:

  • Reduces Waste: Keeps food scraps and yard waste out of landfills.
  • Nourishes the Soil: Creates healthy soil for growing plants.
  • Helps the Planet: Reduces greenhouse gases by keeping organic materials out of landfills.

How Composting Works

Introduce the concept with a basic explanation:

  • Composting is nature’s way of recycling.
  • Microorganisms, worms, and bugs break down organic waste into rich, dark soil called compost.

Getting Started with Kids

  1. Choose a Composting Method
    • Backyard Composting: Great for larger spaces; involves a bin or a designated pile.
    • Worm Composting (Vermiculture): Perfect for kids and small spaces; uses red wiggler worms.
    • City Composting Program: Denver offers a curbside compost collection program for households. Teach kids to sort compostable materials for pickup.
  2. Set Up Your Compost System
    • Backyard Bin: Purchase a compost bin from a garden center or make one from a wooden frame or chicken wire.
    • Worm Bin: Create a worm habitat using a plastic container with air holes.
  3. Understand What to Compost
    • Yes: Fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, grass clippings, leaves, and shredded paper.
    • No: Meat, dairy, oily foods, or pet waste (these attract pests or slow the process).

Make It Fun for Kids

  1. Hands-On Sorting
    • Create a labeled bin system: one for trash, one for recycling, and one for compost.
    • Let kids be “compost captains” to help the family sort correctly.
  2. Observation and Exploration
    • Encourage kids to monitor the compost for changes in smell, texture, and temperature.
    • Look for compost creatures like worms, beetles, and pill bugs.
  3. Compost Crafts
    • Build a worm hotel or compost thermometer.
    • Decorate the compost bin with eco-themed art.
  4. Science Experiments
    • Bury different scraps and track how fast they decompose.
    • Measure how much compost reduces weekly trash.

Composting in Denver

  1. Take Advantage of Local Resources
  2. Seasonal Considerations
    • In winter, keep the compost active by insulating it with straw or leaves.
    • During summer, ensure the pile stays moist but not soggy.

Using the Finished Compost

  • Show kids how compost enriches the soil by using it in your garden or potted plants.
  • Plant a garden together and watch how compost helps plants grow strong and healthy.

The stewardship of our beautiful earth begins with us! By involving children in composting, you not only teach them valuable life skills but also help them become more connected to nature and their community. It’s a small action with a big impact!

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Mile High Mamas
Author: Mile High Mamas

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