13 Upcycled + Repurposed Projects from Swoodson Says

Stephanie offers a fantastic selection of upcycled and repurposed projects to get you motivated for Earth Day. You will undoubtedly find something you like if you check them out.

1. DIY Mason Bee House – Turning Back the Clock

Even though Diane’s blog is all about green living, I have a particular soft spot for this do-it-yourself mason bee house! Because we don’t give bees the respect they deserve, this do-it-yourself bee house is the ideal Earth Day project. Take care of your bees!

2. Wine Cork Board

A wine cork board is a creative and functional craft project that involves reusing wine corks to create a bulletin board. Wine corks, typically made from natural cork or composite materials, can be collected from wine bottles over time. These corks can be glued together in various patterns and arrangements to form a unique and environmentally friendly display board. Here’s how you can make one:

Materials Needed:

• Wine corks (at least 30-50, depending on the size of your board)
• A sturdy backing (such as a corkboard, wooden board, or canvas)
• Hot glue gun or craft glue
• Scissors (if needed for trimming)
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Pushpins (for attaching items to the board)

Steps to Make a Wine Cork Board:

1. Prepare the Corks:
   • Collect wine corks and clean them if needed. You may need to trim the corks slightly to ensure they fit evenly.
2. Cut the Backing to Size:
   • Measure and cut your corkboard, wood, or canvas to the desired size for your cork board.
3. Arrange the Corks:
   • Lay the corks out on your backing before gluing. You can arrange them in rows, columns, or a more random pattern depending on your design preference.
   • You can also arrange corks in a creative shape like a heart, circle, or other design.
4. Glue the Corks:
   • Once you’re happy with the arrangement, use a hot glue gun or craft glue to attach the corks to the backing. Apply glue to the base of each cork and press it down onto the backing.
   • Make sure the corks are firmly attached and allow the glue to dry completely before moving to the next step.
5. Attach to the Wall:
   • Once your wine cork board is ready, you can mount it on the wall using picture hangers, nails, or hooks, depending on the backing material.
6. Use Your Cork Board:
   • You can now use your cork board to hang notes, photos, or reminders with pushpins. It’s a functional and stylish way to repurpose wine corks!

Tips:

• For a more polished look, you can stain or paint the corks before assembling the board.
• If you’re new to crafting, consider starting with a smaller cork board.
• You can also create a wine cork bulletin board with a frame to give it a more traditional look.

This project is a great way to recycle wine corks and add a personal, rustic touch to your home or office.

3. Recycled Succulent Planters – Creative Green Living

Carissa’s entire blog is filled with fantastic Earth Day activities! Her blog is a great place to visit if you’re looking for exciting Earth Day activities, and these lovely succulent planters are just one of hundreds of fantastic ideas!

4. DIY Beeswax Wraps – Craft Invaders

DIY beeswax wraps are an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to plastic wrap for food storage. Beeswax wraps are made from natural materials like cotton fabric, beeswax, tree resin, and jojoba oil. They are reusable, biodegradable, and can be used to cover bowls, wrap sandwiches, or store fruits and vegetables. Here’s how to make your own beeswax wraps at home.

Materials Needed:

• Cotton fabric (old shirts, tea towels, or new fabric)
• Beeswax pellets (or grated beeswax from a block)
• Jojoba oil (or coconut oil as an alternative)
• Tree resin (optional, for added stickiness)
• Parchment paper or baking paper
• Iron (or oven)
• Scissors
• A paintbrush (optional)

Steps to Make DIY Beeswax Wraps:

1. Cut the Fabric:
   • Start by cutting the cotton fabric into your desired size. A good standard size is 12×12 inches, but you can adjust depending on your needs. Choose fabric with a fun pattern or plain colors to match your kitchen style.
2. Prepare the Wax Mixture:
   • In a heatproof container, add 1 part beeswax pellets, 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil, and, if desired, 1 tablespoon of tree resin. The resin helps the wrap become more sticky, but it’s optional.
   • You can also use a double boiler method to melt the mixture: fill a pot with water and set the container with the beeswax mixture inside the pot, making sure it doesn’t touch the water. Heat over low to medium heat until the beeswax is completely melted.
3. Apply the Wax to the Fabric:
   • Lay a piece of parchment paper or baking paper on a flat surface, then place the fabric on top.
   • Use a paintbrush to spread the melted beeswax mixture evenly across the fabric. Ensure all areas are covered, including the edges.
4. Set the Beeswax:
   • If you’re using an iron, place another piece of parchment paper over the fabric and gently press the iron on low heat. Move the iron back and forth to melt the wax and evenly distribute it across the fabric. Be careful not to burn the fabric.
   • Alternatively, you can set the fabric in the oven at a low temperature (around 170°F or 75°C) for 5-10 minutes. Watch closely as the wax melts and soaks into the fabric.
5. Let It Cool:
   • Once the wax has been absorbed, carefully lift the fabric off the parchment paper and allow it to cool for a few minutes. The wax will harden as it cools.
6. Trim and Store:
   • If needed, trim any excess fabric to clean up the edges. Your beeswax wraps are now ready to use!
   • Store the wraps in a cool, dry place. They can be reused for several months, and you can refresh them by repeating the waxing process when they start to lose their effectiveness.

Tips for Using Beeswax Wraps:

• Use the warmth of your hands to mold the wraps around items, like bowls or food.
• To clean the wraps, rinse them with cold water and mild soap. Avoid hot water, as it can melt the wax.
• You can create different sizes of wraps for different purposes, such as small ones for snacks or large ones for covering big bowls.
• Over time, the wraps may lose their wax coating, but they can be re-waxed to restore their functionality.

This DIY project is an excellent way to reduce waste while adding a personal touch to your kitchen essentials. Beeswax wraps are not only practical but also a fun and creative way to go green!

5. DIY Compost Bin from Wood Pallets – Pink Fortitude

This wood pallet compost bin is just one of many fantastic do-it-yourself projects that Holly shares on her blog. Composting is a wonderful way to show your world that you care, even if it’s not Earth Day! I wish I had a garden so I could do this myself!

6. DIY Doggy Poo Backpack – The Carpenter’s Daughter

The “Doggy Poo Backpack” by The Carpenter’s Daughter is a clever and functional DIY project designed to help dog owners conveniently carry their pet’s waste bags while walking. This backpack is designed to hold used dog waste bags so that you don’t have to carry them in your hands during walks, making it a practical and hygienic solution. Here’s how you can make a simple version of this DIY Doggy Poo Backpack.

Materials Needed:

• A small fabric pouch or an old bag (you can repurpose an old backpack, purse, or small pouch)
• Strong thread or a sewing machine
• Velcro strips or zippers (for closure)
• A small plastic container or ziplock bag (optional, for additional odor control)
• Scissors
• Fabric (optional, for adding a new cover or design)
• Sewing needle (if sewing by hand)

Steps to Make the DIY Doggy Poo Backpack:

1. Choose Your Bag:
   • You can use any small bag or pouch that’s large enough to fit a few dog waste bags. A small backpack or a pouch with a flap is ideal because it allows easy access and is comfortable to wear.
2. Prepare the Bag:
   • If you’re using a pre-owned bag or backpack, clean it thoroughly before starting. You might want to add extra fabric to the outside for a fresh look or for added durability.
3. Add a Secure Closure:
   • Attach Velcro strips or a small zipper to the opening of the bag. This will help keep the used dog waste bags securely inside without the risk of them falling out while you walk. You can sew on the Velcro or zipper, depending on the type of closure you prefer.
4. Design the Bag to Carry Waste Bags:
   • Create a separate compartment within the bag for storing the clean, unused waste bags. You can sew in a small pocket or simply leave space for them to roll up and easily access.
   • For used waste bags, add a secondary compartment or pocket that allows you to drop them in once they’ve been used. Some people opt to use a small plastic container or a ziplock bag within the pouch for odor control.
5. Secure the Bag to Your Back:
   • Attach adjustable straps to the bag so it can comfortably sit on your back, like a mini backpack. If the bag already has straps, you’re good to go! You can also create a simple sling design that you can wear across your shoulder.
6. Optional – Add Decorative Touches:
   • Personalize your Doggy Poo Backpack with fun fabrics, embroidery, or fabric paint. This makes the bag not only practical but also stylish and fun!
7. Test the Backpack:
   • Once everything is sewn together and dry (if using glue or paint), test out the backpack by packing a few dog waste bags in the clean compartment. Make sure the used bag section works and stays secure.

Tips:

• Consider Odor Control: You can add a small container of baking soda inside the used bag compartment to help neutralize odors. Alternatively, consider using bags made of thicker plastic that will contain smells better.
• Functionality: Make sure that the straps are adjustable so you can wear the bag comfortably for long walks with your dog.
• Durability: Use sturdy fabrics that are easy to clean, as the bag will likely be exposed to dirt and mud.

This DIY Doggy Poo Backpack is a great way to keep your walks more hygienic and hands-free. Plus, it’s a creative and eco-friendly way to repurpose materials you already have at home. Enjoy your walks without worrying about carrying waste bags around!

7. How to Make a Succulent Terrarium.

Amy assures us that even those with poor gardening skills can create this chic layered terrarium with low-maintenance succulents! Take a look.

8. DIY Little Fairy Home .

A DIY Little Fairy Home is a charming craft project that allows you to create a magical, miniature house for fairies, gnomes, or other tiny creatures. These whimsical creations are perfect for outdoor gardens, indoor displays, or as a fun activity with kids. Here’s a simple guide to help you make your own fairy home using natural and craft materials.

Materials Needed:

• Small wooden box, birdhouse, or a cardboard box (for the base of the house)
• Twigs, small branches, or sticks (for the structure of the house)
• Moss or green fabric (for adding a natural, earthy look)
• Craft glue or a hot glue gun
• Paints and brushes (for decorating the house)
• Small pebbles or stones (for a stone path or foundation)
• Small flowers, leaves, or artificial plants (for decoration)
• Miniature furniture (optional, you can buy tiny dollhouse furniture or make your own)
• Felt or fabric (for the roof or curtains)
• Decorative items like acorns, pinecones, or shells (for added charm)

Steps to Make a DIY Little Fairy Home:

1. Create the Base:
   • Start with a small wooden box, birdhouse, or even a cardboard box to serve as the foundation of the fairy home. If you use a wooden box or birdhouse, you may want to paint it in soft, whimsical colors like pastel pink, lavender, or earthy browns and greens.
   • For a cardboard box, you can cut and fold it into a small house shape. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to support the decorations.
2. Build the Structure:
   • Use small twigs, sticks, or branches to create the walls and roof of the fairy home. Glue them around the edges of the box or base, overlapping them for a rustic, natural look. You can cut them to size if needed.
   • For the roof, you can use larger pieces of twigs or craft a thatched roof using dried grass or straw for a more realistic look. Alternatively, you can cover the roof with felt or fabric to add color and texture.
3. Decorate the Fairy House:
   • Add moss to the roof or around the base of the house to give it a cozy, nature-inspired look. Moss can be glued directly onto the surface or added in small clusters.
   • Use small pebbles or stones to create a charming path leading up to the door, or scatter them around the house to give it a stone foundation.
   • Attach tiny flowers, leaves, or artificial plants to the house or around the yard to create a magical garden atmosphere. You can also glue on small mushrooms or acorns for added fairy-tale charm.
4. Add the Door and Windows:
   • Cut out a small door and windows from felt, paper, or craft foam. You can add little decorations like tiny buttons or beads as handles for the door and window frames. These details will make your fairy house feel more inviting.
   • Alternatively, if you’re working with a wooden box or birdhouse, you can carve or paint the door and window directly onto the surface.
5. Furnish the Fairy Home:
   • If you like, you can add miniature furniture or accessories to the inside of the house. Create a tiny bed from twigs, a small table from buttons or beads, or a chair from pinecones. There are also many pre-made miniatures available at craft stores or online that you can use to furnish your fairy home.
   • You can also add a small piece of fabric for curtains or a rug inside the house to make it feel more homely.
6. Personalize with Extra Details:
   • Use glitter or metallic paint to give your fairy house a little sparkle. You can lightly paint the edges of the windows, door, or roof with gold or silver paint for a magical touch.
   • Consider adding tiny accessories like fairy lights, small beads, or even a miniature mailbox for an extra special fairy touch.
7. Place Your Fairy Home:
   • Once completed, place your little fairy home in your garden, on a bookshelf, or as a centerpiece for a fairy-themed display. If it’s an outdoor fairy house, consider using weatherproof materials for durability.

Tips:

• Get Creative: The beauty of a DIY Little Fairy Home is that you can let your imagination run wild. Use whatever materials you have on hand, such as old buttons, fabric scraps, and natural elements like pinecones and bark.
• Use Recycled Materials: You can repurpose old packaging, bottle caps, or natural items you find outdoors, such as leaves, small sticks, and moss, to keep your project eco-friendly.
• Fairy Garden: If you want to create a larger fairy garden, consider adding miniature plants, tiny fairy figurines, or a small pond made from blue glass pebbles.

This DIY Little Fairy Home is a magical project that sparks creativity and brings a touch of whimsy to your home or garden. It’s a fun way to connect with nature and create a miniature world filled with charm and enchantment!

9. Earth Day Jello Balls 

Earth Day Jello Balls are a fun and colorful treat that are perfect for celebrating Earth Day! These jello balls represent the Earth with their vibrant blue and green colors, making them a great way to combine creativity with a delicious snack. You can make them for a party, school event, or as a fun activity with kids. Here’s a simple guide to help you make Earth Day Jello Balls.

Materials Needed:

• Blue Jello (berry or blue raspberry flavor works well)
• Green Jello (lime or lemon-lime flavor)
• Unflavored gelatin (optional, for extra firmness)
• Water
• Small round molds or a melon baller (to create the ball shape)
• Whipped cream (optional, for decoration)

Steps to Make Earth Day Jello Balls:

1. Prepare the Jello:
   • Begin by making the blue and green Jello. Start with the blue Jello:
     • Boil 1 cup of water and mix it with the blue Jello powder. Stir until the Jello powder dissolves.
     • Add 1 cup of cold water and stir.
     • Allow the blue Jello to cool slightly, then pour it into a shallow tray or dish. Let it chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until it is firm enough to scoop out.
2. Prepare the Green Jello:
   • Repeat the same process for the green Jello. Boil 1 cup of water, dissolve the green Jello powder, add 1 cup of cold water, and stir.
   • Let it cool slightly before pouring it into a separate shallow dish or tray. Chill in the fridge until it is firm.
3. Form the Jello Balls:
   • Once both the blue and green Jello have set, it’s time to make the balls. Use a melon baller or a small spoon to scoop out small balls of the Jello from each tray.
   • Take a few scoops of blue Jello and a few scoops of green Jello, and gently press them together to form a ball. The two colors will create the appearance of land and oceans, like Earth!
   • If you want the Jello balls to be firmer, you can mix in a bit of unflavored gelatin (about 1/2 tablespoon per packet of Jello) before chilling the Jello to give them extra structure.
4. Decorate (Optional):
   • Once the Jello balls are shaped, you can optionally top them with whipped cream or a small green candy for a “tree” on top to represent plants or nature.
   • You can also sprinkle edible glitter or small edible beads to make the Jello balls look even more festive.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Place your Earth Day Jello Balls on a platter and serve them chilled. These colorful, fun treats will definitely be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Tips:

• Different Jello Flavors: You can experiment with different Jello flavors to get creative with the colors, although blue and green work best for representing Earth.
• Layering: If you want to make more intricate designs, you can layer the Jello in different colors. Let each layer set slightly before adding the next.
• Environmental Twist: If you want to tie this treat more closely to Earth Day, consider making the event eco-friendly by using reusable plates and utensils or serving the Jello balls in eco-friendly containers.

These Earth Day Jello Balls are a fun, easy, and delicious way to celebrate Earth Day with friends and family while honoring the beauty of our planet!

10. Roasted Potato Peelings with Rosemary and Sea Salt

By repurposing potato peelings to create these delicious, crispy snacks that resemble potato chips, Kate demonstrates to us how to reduce waste! Excellent Earth Day concept.

11. Raw Beetroot Salad Lettuce Wraps.

Raw Beetroot Salad Lettuce Wraps are a healthy, fresh, and vibrant dish perfect for a light lunch or snack. The crunchy, earthy flavor of raw beetroot pairs wonderfully with the crisp, refreshing taste of lettuce and other fresh vegetables. This dish is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional wraps. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 1 medium raw beetroot, peeled and grated
• 1 carrot, peeled and grated
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A few large lettuce leaves (such as iceberg, butter lettuce, or Romaine)
• Optional: Avocado slices, sprouts, or seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin) for extra crunch and flavor

Dressing (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon tahini or yogurt (for a creamy dressing)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Make Raw Beetroot Salad Lettuce Wraps:

1. Prepare the Salad:
   • Start by peeling and grating the raw beetroot. Use a box grater or a food processor for quicker results.
   • Grate the carrot and slice the cucumber and red onion. Add these to a large bowl.
   • If you’re using parsley or cilantro, chop it and add it to the bowl as well.
2. Make the Dressing (Optional):
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a creamy dressing, mix tahini (or yogurt), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
   • Pour the dressing over the grated beetroot salad and toss well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated.
3. Prepare the Lettuce Leaves:
   • Carefully wash and dry the lettuce leaves. You want to use the larger, more flexible leaves that can hold the salad without tearing. If the leaves are too thick or hard, you can gently cut out the stem to make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps:
   • Place a generous amount of the beetroot salad mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf.
   • Add any extra toppings, like avocado slices, sprouts, or seeds, if desired.
   • Carefully fold the sides of the lettuce over the salad and roll it up into a wrap.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the Raw Beetroot Salad Lettuce Wraps immediately. These wraps are perfect for a fresh, light meal or as a healthy appetizer.

Tips:

• Variety of Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, radishes, or baby spinach, for extra color and flavor.
• Crunch Factor: For added texture, you can sprinkle some nuts or seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin seeds) on top before serving.
• Make Ahead: The beetroot salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours. Just make sure to assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
• Vegan or Dairy-Free: For a vegan or dairy-free option, use tahini or dairy-free yogurt for the creamy dressing.

These Raw Beetroot Salad Lettuce Wraps are a simple, nutritious, and vibrant dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing snack or meal. Enjoy the crispiness of the lettuce combined with the earthy flavor of the beetroot in every bite!

12. Earth Day Cookie Bites

Earth Day Cookie Bites are a fun and delicious way to celebrate Earth Day! These bite-sized treats are not only cute but can also be made with colorful decorations to represent the Earth, nature, and the environment. You can make them using simple ingredients and get creative with the decorations. Here’s a simple recipe for making Earth Day Cookie Bites.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Blue and green food coloring (gel or liquid)
• Optional: Mini chocolate chips, candy sprinkles, or coconut flakes for extra decoration

Steps to Make Earth Day Cookie Bites:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
   • Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
2. Divide the Dough:
   • Split the dough into two equal portions.
   • Add a few drops of blue food coloring to one portion and mix well until the dough is a vibrant blue color. Do the same with green food coloring for the other portion, creating a vibrant green dough.
3. Shape the Cookie Bites:
   • Take small spoonfuls of the blue dough and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
   • Do the same with the green dough.
   • Gently press a small blue dough ball onto a green dough ball (or vice versa) to create a “mini Earth” look. You can lightly swirl the two colors together, but don’t mix them completely – the goal is to have a two-tone, Earth-like effect.
4. Bake the Cookie Bites:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Place the cookie dough balls onto the baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart, as they will slightly spread while baking.
   • Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
   • Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Decorate (Optional):
   • Once the cookie bites are cooled, you can add extra decorations to make them more Earth Day-themed. For example:
     • Use mini chocolate chips to create a pattern on top.
     • Sprinkle some green coconut flakes to resemble grass or foliage.
     • Add edible glitter or sprinkles to represent stars or other fun designs.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Your Earth Day Cookie Bites are now ready to be served! These little treats are perfect for sharing at an Earth Day event, school party, or any celebration.

Tips:

• Make Them Vegan: You can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water) or use a store-bought egg replacer for a vegan version.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in some chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
• All-Natural Coloring: If you prefer to avoid artificial food coloring, you can use natural food coloring options made from vegetables like spinach (for green) and spirulina powder (for blue).

These Earth Day Cookie Bites are a fun, creative, and easy way to celebrate the planet with a sweet treat. Enjoy making them with friends and family and share the joy of Earth Day in every bite!

13. Healthy Lorax Craft and Snack

A Healthy Lorax Craft and Snack is a fun and interactive way to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax” while promoting healthy eating and creativity. This activity is perfect for kids and involves making a Lorax-inspired craft using natural materials and a healthy snack that’s both delicious and nutritious. Here’s how to combine both into one enjoyable experience.

Materials for the Lorax Craft:

• Construction paper (yellow, orange, and brown)
• Scissors
• Glue stick or craft glue
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Googly eyes (optional)
• Cotton balls (for the Lorax’s mustache and fur)
• A pencil or a pen (for tracing shapes)
• A small piece of cardboard (for stability)

Steps to Make the Lorax Craft:

1. Prepare the Lorax’s Face:
   • Cut a large circle from yellow construction paper for the Lorax’s face.
   • Cut a small rectangle or oval shape from orange construction paper to make the Lorax’s nose and glue it in the center of the face.
2. Make the Lorax’s Mustache:
   • Use cotton balls to create the Lorax’s iconic bushy mustache. You can pull apart the cotton balls to make them fluffier, or cut small pieces to create a more structured look.
   • Glue the cotton balls above the nose to form the mustache.
3. Add the Eyes:
   • Glue two googly eyes (or draw eyes with a black marker) to the center of the face.
   • Draw or cut out a mouth and glue it below the nose.
4. Create the Lorax’s Fur:
   • Cut out small strips of orange construction paper to create the Lorax’s “fur” and glue them around the outer edges of the face. You can layer the strips for a more textured look, or use additional cotton balls for more volume.
5. Complete the Craft:
   • If you’d like, glue the completed Lorax head to a small piece of cardboard to give it extra support.
   • Color the entire face with crayons or markers to add more details, such as his eyebrows or other features.

Now your Lorax craft is ready!

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Healthy Lorax Snack:

For a Lorax-inspired healthy snack, you can make a snack that reflects the “Truffula Trees” from the book—colorful and healthy!

Ingredients:

• 1 banana
• 2-3 sticks of celery
• Peanut butter or almond butter
• Carrot sticks (or other colorful veggies)
• Raisins or dried cranberries
• Sunflower seeds or chia seeds (for extra texture)

Steps to Make the Healthy Snack:

1. Make the Truffula Trees:
   • Cut the banana into slices to represent the colorful tops of the Truffula Trees.
   • Spread a small amount of peanut butter (or almond butter) on the top of the banana slices for “glue” to attach the “trunk.”
2. Prepare the Trunks:
   • Take 2-3 sticks of celery and cut them into shorter pieces (about 2-3 inches long). These pieces will act as the trunks of the Truffula Trees.
   • Insert the celery sticks into the peanut butter on the banana slices, making them stand up like tree trunks.
3. Add Decorations:
   • Use carrot sticks, raisins, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds to decorate the base of the banana slices or to add a bit more texture to the trunks and foliage.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Place the completed snack on a plate and enjoy! These Lorax Truffula Trees are fun, healthy, and a perfect complement to the craft activity.

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Tips:

• Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly snack, use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Alternative Fruits: You can also use strawberries or other colorful fruits for the tops of the Truffula Trees.
• Nut-Free: If allergies are a concern, substitute peanut butter with sunflower butter or a similar spread.

This Healthy Lorax Craft and Snack activity is a wonderful way to engage kids in a creative, educational experience while promoting healthy eating. It’s a fun way to honor “The Lorax” and the importance of taking care of the environment, all while enjoying a nutritious snack!