May 24, 2008

Kids Alternative Energy

With growing up kids, explaining everything would mean hours, even days of questions and answers. And with lots of topics to tackle, it may be hard to single out which should go first. But would it be better that at the early age, your kids would know and learn more about the world and all its potentials? Would it be better to explain more about the energy the sun could produce, not only pointing to them what the sun looks like? And would it be better to let your kids understand how does steam could create electricity?

All these fall into one category, letting your kids understand the all the alternative energies.

Alternative energy is a form of energy source that does not require the use of oil. It is derived from nontraditional sources such as air, water, sun, geothermal heat, biomass, and hydroelectric. Alternative energy is often called renewable energy since their forms are not wasted and can be reused several times over.

Assuming they already know what the air, water, sun, geothermal heat, biomass, and hydroelectric are, you can now take it one step further. Teaching your kids what are their purposes would let them appreciate more their importance. The question right now is "how?".

Here are some of the ways to make develop your kids' awareness on alternative energy.

Instead of simply talking about the sun and the heat it creates, why not add information like the power it can provide. Talk about the sun and the use of solar panel. With solar panel, sun's heat is absorbed that can be converted to electricity that can run some home appliance and even a whole town.

"If water is clean it is safe; if not then it is unsafe" Instead of telling this to your kid, why not discuss more about water as an alternative energy. Okay, here it goes. Water can produce electricity in 3 known means: tidal, hydroelectric and wave. Each is distinct from one another but almost the same principle is used. Utilizing the power of water through hydroelectric means involves dams. Turbines are the key to this. When turbines (installed under the dam) are passed by water, they revolve. The revolution enables the generator to store energy. And when it does, electricity is created. Tidal energy also applies the same principle used by dams. Turbines underwater move when tides change, thus electricity is created. Waves energy relies on the fluctuation of water below and on the surface.

Air allows us to breath. This is correct. But would it be better to add more? Air as an alternative energy can produce electricity. Wind turbines attached to shaft allow them to move generators. This free form of alternative energy is safe and clean.

Instead of saying: "The steam will hurt you, don't place your hand above the kettle!" Why not introduce your kid to geothermal power. Steam under the earth can tap electricity. Steam can move turbine that will charge generators with electricity that would light up the streetlights at night and let them play their consoles after homework.

The key in all these is: be simple and practical. Use small illustrations that can be found at your home. Show them pictures. If possible, bring them to actual power plants. Just make sure it is safe for kids. Remember, doing this would spark interest and awareness to your kids that would make them more appreciative the things around them.

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