The best long-term protection of the environment is to raise kids who will automatically take care of it. Many of the lessons are unspoken. Trying to teach children the importance of recycling is futile if you don't recycle. Telling them water conservation is important while you let the hot water run continuously for 20 minutes while you do the dishes is pointless. Environmental conservation is not a "do as I say, not as I do" issue. The best way to teach them is through our living model.
Being environmentally conscious does not mean giving up all your possessions, going to live in a hut on an organic farm where you till the soil with your bare hands, eat only what you raise, wear home-spun clothing, and ride a bike to work. Environmental consciousness involves an awareness of our role as part of the earth. It's about what we take and what we give and it's the little, daily things that really matter.
Children love to explore so visit parks, beaches, gardens, and other natural places. Teach them about your native flora and local wildlife. Take them to museums, aquariums, zoos, and other places where they can come face to face with plants and animals. Make sure to visit the endangered animals and talk to your children about the importance of species preservation. Take up outdoor hobbies such as bird watching, hiking, and canoeing. Instill in your children love and respect for nature.
Back home, teach your kids those easy, but important little lessons that will save you money and create good lifelong habits for environmental citizens--reduce, reuse and recycle. Remember, this starts with you.
Reduce your use of resources. Turn off appliances that aren't being used. This includes lights, computers, television sets, and video game consoles. Don't let the water run while you're washing dishes and teach kids to turn off the tap while brushing their teeth. Repair leaky faucets. Take shorter showers. Water your lawn early in the day or late in the evening to avoid evaporation. When shopping, buy green when you can and reduce waste by buying what you need and buying things that don't have a lot of wasteful packaging. Walk, ride a bike, take the bus, or carpool when possible.
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