It’s no secret that kids don’t like doing chores, but if you explain how saving energy helps the environment, they might be more willing to jump on board. Teaching your children the importance of using less energy around the house is a great way to encourage personal responsibility, and it can also help save the planet, preserve our national resources, and reduce your monthly power bill.
Give your lights a break
Turning off the lights when leaving a room is a great way to encourage an energy-efficient lifestyle. This simple task can save approximately $150 a year — that’s money that could go towards buying fun toys!
Put the game console down
In addition to being better for a child’s development, reducing the amount of time spent watching TV or playing video games is a great way to save energy. As an alternative, you can encourage your children to play outside or read a book — things that don’t require any energy at all.
Turn off the water when brushing your teeth
It may not seem like a significant way to save energy, but because the average person brushes their teeth twice a day for one to two minutes each time, the dollars can really add up. Get your children started early on this good habit.
Help plant a tree
Planting trees in the yard is a great way to add some much-needed shade in the summer or windbreaks in the winter to reduce your heating and cooling costs — plus, it’s fun to see how much the tree grows over time!
Make sure the refrigerator door is closed tight
When kids take something out of the refrigerator, it is sometimes difficult for them to remember to close the door behind them. However, adding a simple note or picture on the door (or even inside the refrigerator itself) can help them remember and form a helpful habit.
Use a non-electric carpet sweeper
Young kids often like to use the gadgets around the house, so give them something they can handle — like a non-electric carpet sweeper. It’s a good way to get your kids moving and keep your carpets dust-free at the same time!
Want more energy-saving tips? Find tips for purchasing the best energy-efficient appliances for your home
