Welcome to UK Energy Saving’s Energy Watch page. The Energy Watch page is where we keep you up to date with the latest energy saving ideas or those which might be particularly appropriate to the time of year.
As well as energy saving, also included on the Energy Watch page will be other areas covered by UK Energy Saving such as recycling and saving water, so keep popping back to see what our latest suggestions are.
July 2009 – The school summer holidays are approaching fast with children everywhere looking forward to loads of fun in the sun. Parents, however, are trying to think about how to keep them entertained for six weeks come rain or shine! So, UK Energy Saving has come up with a few ideas, which will hopefully keep everyone happy.
IF IT’S DRY…
- Let the children play in the garden, if you have one. Try and create some shade if there is no natural coverage, and a paddling pool always goes down well (but never leave your children alone near water) and can also be filled with balls for a change. Try not to waste too much water though; if possible fill it from a water butt and use the water for the plants later that evening.
- Let the children have some messy fun outside with paints; if the weather’s warm they won’t need to wear much so washing can be kept to a minimum!
- For older children, why not encourage them to try their hand at some gardening?
- Use chalk to draw pictures on paving stones or draw out a hopscotch area. The chalk will wash away in the rain.
- Build a den or have a tea party in the garden.
- Go to the local park; always a good place to use up some excess energy!
- Depending where you live, older children could go on a nature trail collecting a list of items whilst learning about the world around them.
- Go for a bike ride for some clean, healthy fun.
- See if there is a local outdoor swimming pool for exercise, fresh air and fun all in one. Don’t forget to top up sun screen after being in the water.
- Have lots of picnics and BBQs!
If it is dry, don’t forget to use high factor sun cream and make sure children cover up with loose clothes and hats especially in the middle of the day.
IF IT’S WET…
- Bake some biscuits or cakes. Even young children like to join in with this.
- Make or buy some play dough.
- Dressing up always goes down well. You could have a fashion parade or put on a play.
- Build up a collection of scraps of material, paper and other bits and bobs and have a ‘craft session’.
- Get out some board games. Older children could have some friends round and have a competition involving playing various different games and earning points for wins.
- Darken a room and have a disco or cinema afternoon.
- Take a trip to the cinema.
- Head for the library where there may also be some activities planned. They often also have information on other children’s activities in the area.
Whether it is wet or dry, there are also probably local attractions you could take advantage of. Try to use public transport if possible and don’t forget to take your litter home for recycling.
If you have any more energy saving tips, please let us know by contacting us at energywatch@uk-energy-saving.com
