By Melanie Heimburg

Earth Day (April 22nd this year) has evolved into a time when all of us take time to consider just how, in our everyday lives, we can help preserve the planet for future generations. It’s also a great time to share how we care for the Earth with our kids.

So, why not start an Earth Day resolution this year? (Like the ones we made for New Year’s, except we’ll actually keep this one!) Pick an eco-friendly habit to adopt as a family for the rest of the year, and start your resolution off right at one of these kid-friendly Earth Day events close to home:

Spring Workday Extravaganza
April 4; 9:30am-3:30pm at the Cosumnes River Preserve in Galt
Meet at The Barn, prepared to beautify the river preserve in the glorious sunshine. 684-2816

Earth Fest
April 4; 9am-4pm at the Sacramento Zoo
All ages can enjoy crafts, entertainment, the annual Recycle Rummage Sale & more amidst the exotic and local animals we share the Earth with! $7-$9.50. 808-5888

Creek Week
April 17-25; lots of locations throughout Greater Sacramento
Be part of this volunteer-based tradition that improves our local waterways. After getting muddy, making friends, creating art from trash and improving local habitats, join the celebration at American River College. Link to CreekWeek.net for details about activities, locations and celebrations. 454-4544

Celebrate the Earth
April 18; 10am-3pm at Mahany Regional Park in Roseville
Explore and learn about energy efficiency, natural resources, renewable technology, water conservation and recycling with interactive lessons. Rock climbing walls, bounce houses, music, food and games create a fun carnival-esque atmosphere. 746-1550

Earth Day for Kids
April 18; 10am-6pm at The Village at Squaw Valley in Olympic Valley
Tons of green and zany activities for the whole family: Earth Capades, an eco parade, plenty of games and a haute trashion show. Free music, transportation and a large kids activity area, too!

The California Earth Day Run & Walk
April 19; registration begins 7:30am at Discovery Park in Sacramento
Race (or stroll) along the scenic American River, raising money for environmental education, conservation and restoration efforts in Greater Sacramento. After your 5K or 10K, reward yourself with a picnic lunch, then help clean the Sacramento and American Rivers. $30 for the 5K/10K, $17 for Kids’ Fun Run. 364-3410

Children’s Earth Day
April 25; 11am-3pm at Star Eco Station in Rocklin
Star Eco Station Children’s Environmental Museum and Exotic Wildlife Rescue Center hosts this eco-educational celebration with music, performances and interactive exhibits. $5. 632-8347

California State Parks Foundation's Restoration & Cleanup Day
April 25; several water-access locations in the Foothills
Lend a hand to environmental improvement projects and pick up green living tips in this statewide effort to help sustain local habitats and natural recreation areas for future generations. 442-2119

Sacramento Earth Day
April 26; 11am-6pm at Southside Park in Sacramento
Celebrate, and help shape, a sustainable vision for Sacramento. Enjoy live music, local food, hands-on activities and crafts for all ages, plus info booths, eco displays and more! Free admission and free bicycle valet. 444-0022