Kids and the Planet

CEBU, Philippines - On Tuesday, April 22, more than a billion people around the globe joined in the Earth Day celebrations. Like in past observances, the annual event inspired awareness on environmental challenges facing today's generation.

Taking care of Mother Earth and being aware of what ails it, however, is not only to be done during Earth Day - but every day.  Even kids need to learn about the importance of caring for our planet, find ways to lessen pollution, and undestand what will happen if we do not properly handle the planet's resources.

 For example, young children learn at school that flowers bloom when the plant gets proper nourishment. They are also taught not to dump toxic wastes into rivers or streams and, instead, develop a deep love and appreciation for Mother Earth.  It is also vital for children to spend more time outdoors so they get to connect with nature. This way, they can better appreciate the beauty of nature and what it offers.

What do kids need to know about protecting the planet? The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. Dolores Aboitiz Children's Fund suggests a few suggestions for parents to teach their children about "green" living:

Go outside

Children are more likely to want to take care of nature if they have a strong connection to it.  When they only see nature on TV or through the Internet, it does not create a true sense of familiarity as compared to taking nature walks, digging in the dirt, exploring oceans, or seeing insects in the garden.

There shall also be a regular occasion for engaging in family activities that are nature-oriented. The family can walk around the neighborhood to enjoy the natural view, work in a garden, or plant seeds in pots. Children can be assigned to take photographs of butterflies they see or draw their favorite flower in a sketch book.

These activities offer quite an adventure for the whole family. Games such as letting family members compete who can identify the most number of plants or flowers or bugs are fun to do and educational too. The little ones are sure to love it.

Execute the three Rs

Children learn best at home. Green habits are easier developed by executing the three Rs (Reduce, Recycle and Reuse) as part of the family culture. It does not only bring a huge, positive impact on the efforts to reduce consumption, it also helps raise earth-friendly family members.

 Reduce.

Children, especially the young ones, need to learn to always turn off the faucet when brushing their teeth or washing their hands. Children are to be taught to turn off the lights, TV, and other electronic equipment when not in use.

Also, instead of hopping always using the car, walking, biking, or using public transportation are healthier, cost-saving options. The family's gasoline expenses go down and family members get to exercise.

Reuse:

As much as possible, used things shall be reused, rather than disposed of. For example, putting food in washable containers rather than in disposable plastic bags, and using lunch boxes instead of disposable packs. It is good habit to use washable materials, like cloth, which can be reused.

Recycle:

Do you have bundles of papers in your storage room? If the other side is not yet used, why not use them as scrap paper for scribbling notes and solving math problems? For the next birthday celebration, fabric scrap or recycled newspapers may be used instead of that expensive gift wrap. Some families use recycled paper for the kid's artwork rather than buy a sketch pad.

Parents may involve the kids in sorting plastic and other recyclable materials at home. Many things can either be reused or sold. Or, old toys, outgrown clothes, and other items may be donated to charitable organizations or collecting individuals.

Join a regular clean-up drive

Taking children to the park is one such learning experience for them. Parents may ask the kids to look around for litter. Taking the time to explain the effects litter on the environment goes a long way in raising earth-conscious and environmentally responsible kids.  One family's good example can encourage other families in the neighborhood to follow suit. Then, a regular clean-up drive may be organized in the community, in which children are encouraged to take active parts. 

There are many ways to teach children the importance of nature. Every small and seemingly insignificant effort in preservation, conservation and promotion of nature helps in a big, especially when coming from growing children. The effects can outlast their own lifetime.

Helpful Source: http://www.brighthorizons.com (FREEMAN)