On 15 May 2025, the Nursery 2 (N2) children from E-Bridge Preschool (Montreal Link) celebrated their Start Small, Dream Big (SSDB) Launch Party 2025, proudly titled “Green Hands, Big Hearts.” This event marked the beginning of a meaningful journey into recycling and sustainability, inspired by the children’s natural curiosity and growing care for the environment.
During their regular nature walks, the children often observed the blue recycling bins in the community and showed keen interest in their purpose. They frequently pointed out litter on the ground and remarked that rubbish should be properly disposed of in the rubbish bin. Some children also expressed that leaves and flowers should not be plucked, and reminded one another not to litter. These thoughtful observations reflected their increasing environmental awareness and sense of responsibility.
Motivated by their genuine concern for the environment, the class launched a recycling and sustainability initiative. On the day of the launch, the children worked together to design the title banner for the event, taking pride in introducing their theme—Green Hands, Big Hearts.
To deepen their understanding of recycling, teachers shared educational slides from the National Environment Agency (NEA), introducing the blue recycling bin and explaining what can be placed inside. The children actively participated and confidently identified the four key materials accepted in the blue bin: paper, plastic, glass, and metal.
They also learned about the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – and eagerly shared practical ways to put them into action. For example, they suggested using both sides of a sheet of paper to avoid wastage, demonstrating their ability to translate learning into everyday habits.
As part of the initiative, the children named their classroom recycling bin “Yipp Bin.” This fun and creative name gave them a sense of ownership over their recycling efforts. The Yipp Bin was placed beside the classroom dustbin to encourage proper waste sorting as part of their daily routine.
To symbolize their pledge to protect the Earth, each child stamped their handprint on a class pledge board. Teachers joined in as well, adding their handprints to show shared commitment. Together, they recited their class pledge:
“I use my hands to care and clean.
I pick up litter, turn off the tap.
With a big heart, I promise today –
To help the Earth in every way!”
This heartfelt moment brought the launch party to a meaningful close, reinforcing the children’s understanding of environmental responsibility. With green hands and big hearts, they are ready to make a positive impact on the world—one small step at a time.
