A greener child awaits

You don’t have to be all grown up to be green. Here are five simple ways the little ones (and their parents) can jump on the eco-friendly bandwagon:

• Walk, carpool or take the bus to school: Carpooling and public transit save money and cut carbon emissions. Walking is among the most eco-friendly methods of getting around, with the added benefit of aiding health.

• Turn off water while brushing your teeth: Saving a little water every morning adds up in the long run.

• Handwash dishes: Avoiding that water-guzzling dishwasher is a great way to cut water and energy use.

• Cut down on disposables: When packing lunch for school, reusable containers are best. Avoid boxed, store- bought lunches and plastic bags.

• Get outside: Turn off the TV or the Nintendo and go run around outside! Not only are you cut- ting energy use, you also are laying the foundation for a healthy life more in tune with the environment.