Purchase three plastic bins. Label them plastic, aluminum and paper. Give the children examples of these recyclable products. An empty gallon of milk would go into the plastic bin, a soda can would go into the aluminum bin, and an old magazine would go into the paper bin. Encourage them to rinse out food containers before placing them in the recycle bin to avoid odors.
Purchase reusable bags. Designate a bag for each child to use when shopping with you. Explain that by using the reusable bags, you decrease the amount of trash the family creates.
Visit the local recycling center in your area and show the kids how the items are recycled. Allow each child to keep the money from recycling, or save the money for a family activity or dinner out.