Being water smart
A Smart Water pilot in early childhood centres was so successful it has run again.
The 20-minute Smart Water show hosted by musician Chris Lam Sam — a former Funky Monkey — is all about water — what we use it for, the rain cycle, water songs and how to save water.
The show, aimed at three to five year olds, took place around the Waikato last week.
The shows in Waipa¯ went to Crackerjacks Te Awamutu, Te Awamutu Playcentre, Jump Start Cambridge and Grow Early Cambridge.
Smart Water Coordinator Michelle Templeton said the show aims to provide children with a greater understanding of how water gets from source to tap and encourage them not to waste it.
“There are more than 300 early childhood centres in the sub-region and water play is a key part of the curriculum, particularly in the summer time,” Michelle said.
“Encouraging childcare centres to be mindful of their water use without compromising children’s play and learning experience could have huge water-saving potential.”
The centres that participated enjoyed the experience and learnt a lot about water, why it is precious and why we should look after it. Each child was given a pack including a resource booklet and a shower timer.
A Smart Water song and music video has also been developed for young children — check out tinyurl.com/yclamhgp.
More smart water play ideas for children are on the Smart Water website www.smartwater.org.nz/ smart-water-play