Every child loves a good toy. But instead of just buying what you find in a toy store, it is important to encourage children to invent their own games, introducing the idea of conscious consumption from early on in their lives.

To do so, there is nothing better than encouraging recycling and using materials such as toilet paper tubes and paper bags, cups and straws to create unique toys. “Recycling gives meaning and creates a connection to the object and reinforces the concept of sustainability in a practical way,” says Gerusa Gasparini, child educator and parenting coach.

Here, we show you seven ideas to build your own sustainable games to increase your child’s environmental awareness and engage families, creating opportunities to have fun and learn together.

1. Cardboard Box House and Car

Playing house is a classic game that delights boys and girls of all ages. You know that big cardboard box left over from your last purchase? With a craft knife and a little creativity, you can transform it into a complete doll house, with doors, windows and even curtains made from scrap fabric.

You can use that same box to build a car. In addition to the windows, cut out wheels and glue them to the bottom of your vehicle. Allow your child to decorate it using paint and markers.

The fun here is not in the final product, but in the whole process of building a toy as a family. “This type of activity forges a deep emotional connection between parents and children, creating a closer and more meaningful relationship,” explains Gerusa, child educator and parenting coach.

2. Cardboard Pinball Machine

Using a long cardboard box, you can create a fun DIY pinball machine. Cut out ramps at different angles and glue them to the inside of the box. Then, choose a ball and the fun is guaranteed.

This activity develops the child’s logical reasoning and motor coordination, while also teaching them about reusing materials.

3. Dolls and Animals Made from Toilet Paper Tubes

Toilet paper tubes are excellent raw material for creating dolls and animals. Using dried leaves, paint, string and buttons, you can bring to life an entire forest of little animals, such as lions and foxes, and even mythological creatures, such as dragons—why not? Paint the tubes, glue on eyes made from bottle caps, and use crepe paper to make manes, wings or fire coming out of the dragon’s mouth.

4. Tissue Box Piggy Bank

Tissue boxes can also have a new purpose: they can be turned into piggy banks! With a few cuts and a touch of creativity, children can create their personalized piggy banks, decorating them with paint and stickers.

In addition to encouraging children to save, this activity reinforces the idea that recyclable materials can be useful in everyday life.

5. Toilet Paper Tube Snake or Caterpillar

Connect several toilet paper and/or paper towel tubes to each other, make small holes in the ends and tie them together using a piece of string to create a snake or caterpillar. Paint each tube a different color and make fun eyes and mouths for your little creature. The more tubes you use, the longer the snake will be, making the game even more exciting.

6. Finger Puppets

Finger puppets are great for creating characters and stories. Use toilet paper tubes cut in half and decorate them with colored paper, markers and scraps of fabric.

This activity helps children develop their storytelling skills and encourages teamwork, engaging everyone in putting together a puppet show.

Want to know how to create a more sustainable future for the next generation? Learn about Suzano products, such as paper cups, straws and packaging, which are renewable and reflect sustainability throughout their entire production process.