Parent to Parent: Going Green Early

WSVN -- Kids are singing about it, hearing about it and looking very closely at it. We're talking about nature, and at Nova's Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies, the goal is for kids as young as 4 to gain an appreciation for the environment.

Penny Bernath: "And through appreciation and recognition then starts the awareness that they can do something about it."

Every morning the pre-schoolers bring in items to recycle and learn to separate them. It's something parents say they practice at home.

Powell Morris: "It teaches them at such a young age how sensitive the earth is and what they can do to conserve the resources of our planet."

Mom Rachel Docekal says she hopes to instill healthy habits early with her 5-year-old Carly.

Rachel Docekal: "And, hopefully, if enough parents do this and embrace it, we can really make an impact in our world."

Seven's Parenting Expert Dr. Valerie Goode says kids are naturally curious about nature.

Dr. Valerie: "They have a natural interest in the environment and taking care of the environment."

Dr. Valerie says show kids bugs, catch butterflies. All can be a learning experience.

Dr. Valerie: "Children don't go outside and play anymore. We don't want our children outside. They may get dirty. Children love to get dirty."

Other going green tips: teach kids to recycle and explain why it's so important, and here's a good one that will also save you money: fix a toy instead of replacing it.

Dr. Valerie: "Show them how to fix it. Wheels come off of the car, but we don't have to go buy a new one, let's go fix it."

By teaching good habits early on, kids will build a life-long love of the planet that will carry on well into adulthood.

Penny Bernath: "We want to empower them to be people that are responsible for their earth."

Lynn Martinez: "Another fun way to get your kids involved in taking care of the planet, organize a nature walk through your neighborhood or a local park."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Nova Southeastern University
Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies
www.nova.edu/msi/