Raising children in an environmentally friendly way is fast becoming one of the primary concerns of modern, forward-thinking mums. After all, the day-to-day running of the home makes a huge impact on children and teaches them a great deal about their world.
Most mothers would agree that the best way forward is to lead by example, encouraging the whole family to live greener lives.
Making the family more green can be simple and fun. Start off by drawing attention to energy and water use in the home, explaining why lights should be turned off when a room is not in use and why taps should not be left running.
Praise older children when they remember not to leave the TV on standby, or choose showers over baths. Make it into an enjoyable challenge, so that they decide early on that saving the planet is exciting, something they are never too young to learn.
You can also start a recycling routine for your household, which children can help with. Take time to explain why it is better to rinse and recycle an old jam jar than to throw it in the bin.
If you want to get them enthusiastic about recycling, explain the how old waste becomes new products or better still, see if there is a recycling plant near you that allows public visits and arrange a family trip. Never underestimate the fun you can have hearing the clash of broken bottles when you deposit them into the bottle bank!
Look into the way that your family as a whole can reduce their carbon footprint.
If you have two cars, or make unnecessary trips, try cutting back or using alternative transport.
The same goes for holidays abroad: whilst in some cases the plane is the only viable option, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy some quality time together without overdosing on air miles.
When you have established a greener routine, start looking at ways in which you can support the environment by buying more eco-friendly products. In supermarkets, high street shops and online retailers you will find a wide range of greener everyday products including ecological detergents, reusable cotton nappies, ethical toiletries and fair-trade clothing.
Take a look at what you regularly buy for your household and see if you could swap it for a more environmentally sound version.
One area in which it is especially important to think green is your family's food. Aim to buy organic food where possible, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce. If you visit farmers' markets or other local suppliers it need not be more expensive and if you want to eliminate food miles altogether try planting a vegetable patch the children will love watching it grow.
At the same time, make wasting food a real no-no in your household - come up with creative uses for leftovers and compost what you cannot use.
As you create a greener home for your children, remember to explain to them the reasons behind the changes as you go. It will help educate them about the choices they should make when they grow up and show them just how much you care about their future.
