Parent to Parent: Causes

WSVN -- Saving the environment was the hot topic that brought hundreds of students together along with ecologists, political experts and community leaders.

Allison Goodman: "If we don't discuss it now, continuing to rely on fossil fuels is really going to affect us in the future."

Students were allowed to voice concerns about the energy crisis at a forum hosted by Mast Academy, and they were challenged to come up with their own solutions.

Dr. Wafa Khalil: "I tell them, 'You are part of the change, you can be part of the change, don't feel like you are kids and no one listens to you.'"

Seven's Parenting Expert Dr. Valerie Goode says, parents need to encourage children to take part in programs like this, so they can take a stand on important issues.

Dr. Valerie Goode: "The environment is like part of our extended family, and so, in the same way that we take care of each other, it's important for children to learn how to take care of the environment."

Dr. Val says help kids focus on a cause they are passionate about. Get them to talk about whatever it is. It will teach them better communication skills, and make sure, as a parent, you are also involved.

Dr. Valerie Goode: "Your children will do what you do, but they won't do something different."

Getting involved in a cause also that they believe in teaches kids that they can be heard and bring about change in a meaningful way. Student Carla Aronsohn saved her family 25 percent on their energy bill by implementing changes at home.

Carla Aronsohn: "We have fluorescent light bulbs, we do recycling, we shut off the computers and other appliances when we're not in the house."

Proving again, one person can make a big difference.

Lynn Martinez: "This year's forum was appropriately held at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Dr. Valerie Goode
www.drvaleriegoode.com