Raise environmentally aware grandkids
Rather than looking at the negative factors about the environment and the state of climate change (which, by now we’re all well aware of), here we’re going to look at the number of proactive people – both activists and everyday people – who have brought environmental issues to the forefront through positive behaviour. As a result an empowered and ever burgeoning social movement has taken shape and “green” is in! What’s more, this movement is no longer comprised of a niche group of hippies, but rather it’s now a zeitgeist driven by increasing awareness and adopting more eco-friendly behaviours.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2009, 98 per cent of Australian households recycled waste and 86 per cent reported they reused waste. Suffice to say, many families in our country are already lending a helping hand. In ensuring we continue to be as sustainable as possible, it's important for children to understand why we take all of these measures. So whether you’re a devoted waste-not-want-not person who keeps a compost bin the corner of your backyard or and avid recycler who shops with canvas bags, it’s easy to get the little ones in your life onto the path to greener living. Try these tips:
Conserve energy: It really is as easy as flicking a switch or turning a button to off. Encourage your grandchildren to always turn lights off when leaving a room, to power down computers and turn the TV if nobody’s watching. Tell them why doing this is important. You could even turn it into a little game by ask them to go into “Turn off time” mode and finding everything in a room that needs to be turned off before leaving.
Water wise: Explain to your grandkids the concept of when we use something too much or waste it; it will often lead to it running out. Just like hot water can. Teach your grandkids to always turn off the taps after using them.
Recycle routine: Recycling, thanks to the bins we are provided by our local councils, is all too easy today. But do your grandkids know why they’re separating paper from plastic? Talk to your grandkids about where the garbage goes after the council takes it and how the process of recycling works. You could also reward them for their efforts, perhaps they get a $1 for every 10 things they recycle.
Shop smart: Designate a day to take your grandchild shopping – you might even want to dub this “Green day” whereby you head out with your reusable bags and take advantage of the outdoors. Head to the local farmer’s market and get the little ones to help you pick out organic produce. Avoid processed and canned foods and tell them why you are doing this.
Related link: Learn how to become a sustainable family on a budget.