5 Cool Ways To Teach Children To Care For The Planet

As we are still in a crisis, it looks like the global warming crisis has been put on the backburner. With this in mind, we thought that we would write this article as a little reminder of the state the planet is in at the moment.

The funny thing, since the lockdown, air pollution has started to improve all around the world. Especially in major cities like London, Cardiff, and Birmingham. Unfortunately, as life starts to go back to normal, we will likely see massive rises in Co2 levels. 

This means that, in order to fight climate change, we’ve all got to do our bit.

In today’s article, we’re sharing a few ideas that we can do that where you can also get your kids involved.

Reuse Packages

Of course, this isn’t exactly rocket science, but by far the easiest way to care for the planet is by reusing packaging like Jiffy bags. 

Simply remove the old label from the packaging or use a marker pen to delete the old details and then stick a new label over it.

As online orders have quadrupled over the last few years, so has the packaging industry, with more and more goods being ordered and delivered.

Recycle 

If there’s no way to reuse packaging, then recycling is the next best option. It all starts when we buy our items. We can try to ensure that the packaging our goods are packed and delivered in are able to be recycled. 

Most items will display the customary recycle option if they are able to be recycled. However, just double-check with your local council recycling centre which items will be acceptable to recycle. For example, some recycling centres won’t even allow you to recycle certain tin cans or plastic bottles.

Reduce Waste 

Food Waste

Did you know that one-third of the food that we buy is thrown away? I must admit, I had to read that stat a few times and found it hard to believe. 

As adults, it’s virtually impossible to turn the clock back on the mess we have made to this planet. However, what we are able to do is teach our kids better. 

It’s important for them to know the impact we are making when we throw away so much food. As far, as most kids are concerned, once the food goes into the bin, that’s the end of it. 

But, what they don’t see is when it is taken to landfill it is stacked up high, rots, and produces dangerous gases that are not only harmful to us but are also harmful to the environment. 

Also, the added amount of energy and packaging that goes into producing this food and then transporting it to the supermarket.

As far as food waste is concerned, we ought to be teaching our kids the importance of not taking more than they can eat and also re-using our leftovers for another day. 

We could even ask our kids what we think you could be done with the leftovers. For example, some spaghetti bolognese can be used as topping on a pizza, or leftover meat and potatoes can be stir-fried the following day and provide another meal.

In fact, check out this article for some leftover ideas - https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/leftovers

Saving Water

A lot of people leave the tap running when they are brushing their teeth. In turn, our kids copy us and do exactly the same thing. However, to save water, we should get into the habit of switching the tap off and only turning it back on when we need it.

Saving Energy

Many of us leave the fridge or freezer door open longer than we need it. We just need to retrain ourselves to only keep these doors open when we are actually removing or placing food back in there. 

Your fridge also has to work a lot harder if you place warm food in there. Your best bet is to allow it to cool down.

Where possible show your kids that you should only fill your fridge so that it is three-quarters full. The fridge works much more effectively if the air is allowed to circulate.

Waste Walks 

The term “waste walks” must sound really odd to a lot of people. However, one nursery that came up with this idea encouraged kids to collect three pieces of rubbish from the street on a daily basis and put that rubbish in the bin. 

This was their way to encourage them to do their bit in looking after the environment.

Now, there's no reason why you couldn't do the same with your kids. You don't need to do this every day as this would be impractical, but every now and again, get them to pick up litter in your neighbourhood. Not only does this educate them not to litter, but it also keeps your surroundings clean (especially if more people did this with their kids after seeing your example).

Energy Saving Light Bulbs

I’m guessing that most kids very rarely think about lightbulbs, but, it’s important that they know the difference between a normal light bulb and an energy-saving one.

Whenever a light bulb needs to be changed, where possible, call your son or daughter and get them to help you change it. You can explain the importance of using them and why they should turn them off when they leave the room or not needed anymore.

They are also good if you’re looking to save money. The average saving from using an energy-saving lightbulb is around £35 per year. 

Now, if you multiply that overall the light bulbs in your home, I’m sure you would recognise the significant savings during the course of a year or years. It’s important that your kids know this too!

In Conclusion

The points in this article may not be that significant in the grand scheme of things. However, educating kids on the importance of trying to look after our planet bodes well for future generations.