Technically, we, as adults should know how to and why we should have good habits when it comes to Mother Earth but do we practise what we preach? Do you recycle? Carpool to lessen exhaust fumes?
This is because we need to pour in effort to go green instead of making it a (force of) habit. Teaching little ones good, green habits is a great way to instill in them a love for the environment. Here are a few ways to teach your mini-me ways to go green.
Save Energy
Teach your child to not waste electricity as well by asking them to turn off the lights, air conditioner, fans and so on if they’re not in use. Wasting electricity by leaving appliances on when not in use creates a larger carbon footprint.
Gardening
If you live on landed property with a garden, set a space for you to plant something with your kids. Start your own vegetable patch and grow different vegetables such as onions, okra and aubergines. Doing this with your child brings you closer and junior will be able to understand how plants grow with the help of sunshine and water. Even better is harvesting your vegetables and having them for dinner!
Conserve Water
Turn conserving water into a game with the mission for the kids being – not letting the tap run while brushing their teeth and also taking shorter showers. Your role is to be a good example by running the washing machine only when the load is full.
Recycle!
Aside from food waste, a family would undoubtedly have a certain amount of recyclable waste. Involve your children in recycling by getting them to separate their rubbish and putting the recyclables in the right bins. Remember to supervise your kids when separating trash in case of sharp edges or breakables such as glass.
Donate
Teaching your child charity can be done by encouraging them to donate their old toys, shoes and clothes to the needy. Additionally, if your child loves animals, sign up to volunteer at a local animal shelter or bring them along to donate their old blankets to the homeless animals.
Go Outdoors
Instead of watching TV as a family, save on electricity and go outdoors! It doesn’t need to be a trip to the nearest national park but rather, even exploring your garden to look at insects and plants is already an outdoor activity. This would help instill a love for nature in a child and encourages them to be curious and open to learning new things about the environment.
Reference: SheKnows
