Recycling is not the first thing that needs to be done to make a difference for our environment.

The first thing that needs to be done is to reduce the need to buy so much of a given product. Everyone should then try to reuse items as much as possible to recycle, whether as the same product or in a different mode.
Thinking of creative ways to reuse as much paper as possible in the home can be a rewarding challenge. Shredded paper can be used for packing and mailing fragile items. Newspapers and old magazines make for unique gift wrapping options. Reuse paper with writing only on one side when possible. Use paper as compost. Put only leftover paper into the recycling bin. You can also get your kids involved and try making crafts and other activities out of recyclable materials.
Try to get rid of recycling as much as possible by purchasing groceries that don’t require lots of extraneous packaging. Buying in bulk is a good way cut down on packaging (and the food is typically fresher and tastes better).