Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
The Family Day Care association in Scott County identified interest in ways to ‘go green’ as one of their group’s priorities. Providers requested that ISU Extension present a program on this at one of their monthly meetings. The providers are looking for ways to save money by using less energy and helping children to learn about nature and the environment.

Response:
Mary Crooks presented a program on ways to go green at the May 20 meeting of the Family Day Care association. The program focused on ways that child care providers can implement green practices in their daily care. Ideas for activities and education to connect children to nature and the environment as building blocks for earth care were included.

Impact:
16 child care providers attended the program. At the beginning of the event, less than half were able to identify one ‘green’ practice they were using in their personal or business life. Most felt that they were not ‘green’ and were feeling a strong desire to change that. During the presentation, providers began to identify simple, effective ways to use resources effectively and reduce waste. Most felt that this would help them to save money and teach children to be responsible in their use of resources. They identified steps they could take to involve children in environmental activities. After the program, all participants could identify at least one thing they were doing that is green and they set mini-goals of steps they could take to make additional changes.

Contact:
Mary Crooks
Louisa County Extension
317 Van Buren Street
Wapello, IA 52653
319-523-2371
mcrooks@iastate.edu