“The Story of Stuff” teaches kids to be responsible consumers
The Family Ties Parents Panel is taking a short holiday break. This month, enjoy a few previously published posts. Originally posted April 17, 2009, by Rob Baggett.
“The Story of Stuff” is a very funny, creative and thought-provoking online video that I strongly recommend for parents, teachers and religious leaders who are concerned about the misplaced values of an economy that teaches us that the more we consume, the more successful we are.
Annie Leonard, the creator and narrator of “Stuff,” presents her case in front of an animated background that humorously illustrates the not so funny facts about where our stuff comes from and what happens to it when we throw it away. She makes a compelling case for reordering our priorities and becoming more concerned about what our patterns of consumption are doing to the environment and to people in underdeveloped countries.
I have recommended “The Story of Stuff” to teachers as a springboard for Earth Day lessons. Parents can use it to help their older children and teens build up a little sales resistance. Ms. Leonard’s bit about how we are manipulated into buying all manner of useless junk is hilarious and spot-on.
Click her to watch the video; then click on “movie download.” Another link provides 10 things we all can do to make a difference.
After you’ve watched the video, I would love to hear your comments. Do you agree that our consumer economy is bad for the planet and bad for our emotional, physical and spiritual health?
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