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The campaign on environmental preservation should cover people of all ages. Kids need to be involved in it as well to let them know their responsibility for taking care of their surroundings at a young age.
Teaching kids about environmentalism or what’s often referred to as the green movement has a domino effect on the lives of these youngsters. It will eventually enable them to learn to care not only for themselves but also for their loved ones, their homes and their community.
Parents need to show the right example at home where it should all start. Practice recycling, water conservation and proper waste segregation and remind kids from time to time about their responsibilities. Just remember to avoid being too preachy and doing it too often as children can get annoyed with it. The most effective way to prompt them take action is to do it in a fun way notably as an after school care activity.
The 4 Rs
One of the basic things you can teach your kids is the 4 Rs. It used be just the 3 Rs but another R has been added. They are reduce, reuse, recycle and repair. Paper bags can be reused while small appliances can be repaired instead of buying a new one.
Tell your kids as well that it’s okay to buy used products as a way to reduce consumerism. You may also propose the idea of joining or even organizing your own toy or clothing swaps.
Save Energy
In the home, tell your kids to do their share in saving energy. They should turn off the lights or any appliance when not in use and always unplug them before going to bed. It’s best to explain the reasons behind such actions so they will know the benefits.
The same is true when you’re in the car and waiting for a family member. Instead of keeping the engine running, it’s best to turn off the car and open the windows.
Earth Day
Let your kids know about Earth Day because it’s meant to preserve the planet for their future. Parents should explain that while the celebration is done only once every year, the actions they take such as saving energy and water, doing the 4 Rs and not littering the environment should be done every day as much as possible.
Start your kids early in taking care of Mother Earth. They will thank you for teaching them when they grow up and get to appreciate the amazing beauty of nature. And for sure, they will do the same for their kids in the future.
About the guest author:
Michael Liam is a professional blogger that provides information on after school care. She writes for The Learning Experience, a leading after school program with locations nationwide.