Going green with children for the environment

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Going green with children and learning to care for the environment is important for everyone. After all, looking after our planet is a must for a healthy, sustainable future.

Little things we do can make all the difference. Working in child care, you get the opportunity to encourage children to go green every day.

Let’s take a look at five simple ways child care workers can show children how to do the best by the environment.

Recycle and reuse

As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Encourage children and families to donate toys, books, and clothing they no longer use or need. Invite families to bring household items like egg cartons and cereal boxes for you to get creative with. And always use the recycle bin for recyclable rubbish.

Want to know more about recycling in Melbourne? Click here

Turn off the tap

The tap doesn’t need to be running while children are brushing teeth or washing hands. Lather up with the water, then turn it off until it’s time to rinse. Don’t forget to do it up nice and tight — no drips!

Want to know more about water use in Melbourne? Click here

Catch water from the rain

Children will love setting up buckets and bowls in the centre’s outside area to collect rainwater. The excitement when they check them and they’re overflowing with water is priceless! Use the water for washing outdoor seats and toys, filling pots in mud kitchens and more.

Ditch the car

This one is good for the environment and for children’s health. If it’s not too far to go, encourage children and families to walk or ride to and from the centre when possible.

Turn the lights off

Teach children to assess whether it’s light enough in the room or if they need to turn the light on. Where possible, utilise natural light and encourage children to take note of unnecessary lights that might be on.

With these simple tips, you’ll be encouraging going green with children for the environment and a sustainable tomorrow.