I have always said that it is important to teach green ways and social consciousness to the kids. After all, they are the future!
So with the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22, you may want to start teaching your children to be green with a few of these ideas:
* Teach children to turn off electronics such as the computer and television when not in use.
* If you live near stores, take the children for a walk there instead of driving.
* Teach children to turn off the lights when they leave the room.
* Start your own compost and let the kids help.
* Teach children to turn the water off when brushing their teeth.
* Have the children take quick showers instead of baths to save water.
* During pretty days, hang the laundry on a clothes line instead of using the dryer.
* Recycle whenever possible.
* Donate unwanted toys to the local church or thrift store.
* Volunteer for one of your favorite causes and take the children to let them help.
* Send reusable bottles to school with juice or water and use reusable containers for lunch.
* Get kids to write letter to government officials about environmental causes. Check out Kids FACE for more info.
* Take a nature walk and take time to look at flowers, trees, and the sky. Take a bag along so you can teach the children to pick up trash along the way.
* Avoid turning on the heat or air conditioning and teach the kids to put on shorts or sweaters.
While showing children how to be green is important, remember to take the time to tell them why doing these little things is important for the environment. Talk about the impact our actions can have on the environment, wildlife, and plants.