Conceived by a U.S. Senator back in 1970, Earth Day (celebrated annually on April 22nd) has become a global movement bringing over a billion people from around the world together to work towards the common goal of protecting our planet for future generations.

That first Earth Day laid the groundwork for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit, the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the passage of the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.

If you can’t tell, I like history, but I find the history of Earth Day extra impactful because not only are environmental issues near and dear to me, but I love that it just took one person with an idea and a will to make change for the betterment of society, despite the risks or the uphill battle he may have faced politically.

I’ve found a few good resources from around the web to help you and your littles celebrate Earth Day together this year. Hopefully they’ll inspire you to create new habits that encourage us to protect our environment not just on Earth Day but every day!

National Geographic Kids has a great write-up about Earth Day that includes not only tips for protecting the planet but also fun facts (did you know one reusable bag saves 600 plastic bags from going to the landfill in its lifetime?!). There are also stories about kids making a big impact on the environment (have you heard about this kid?!) and a save the earth quiz!

Kids World Travel Guide gives a global perspective on climate change but keeps it kid friendly with their Earth Day Facts for Kids.

SocialMoms offers 15 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with Kids with simple ways to contribute, such as a toy and clothing swap, eating by candlelight, and cleaning up your neighborhood.

8 Interactive Ways to Teach Children About Earth Day found on Earth911 got me excited about some creative ways to engage with my littles. Creating a story together about our earth, up cycling “trash” to make art, and participating in a local Earth Day event are just a few. We also like to sing and dance in our family, so another idea is to make up an Earth Day song, or dance to nature themed songs.

Speaking of Earth Day events, if your littles are interested in science, the Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley has an Earth Day celebration on April 21st where you can look closely at things that grow.

I also found a good reminder at Mindful to awaken to the nature all around us — the colors, the smells, the sounds — and be thankful for the beauty of it all and the joy it brings us.

Happy Earth Day to you all and may you find inspiration, joy, and passion to care for our planet today and every day!