Future Explorers (Ages 5-10) | Taking Care of Earth
Hello Future Explorer! In 2050 (when you’re 35), will there be enough water? YOU decide!
EARTH HAS LOTS OF WATER… BUT!
- 97% is salty ocean water (can’t drink!)
- 2% is frozen in ice (can’t use!)
- Only 1% is fresh water we can drink!
1 billion people don’t have clean water NOW. We must save it!
WHERE DOES YOUR WATER GO?
Average family uses:
- Toilet: 27% (flush, flush, flush!)
- Washing machine: 22%
- Shower: 17%
- Faucet: 16%
- Leaks: 14% (WASTED!)
- Other: 4%
Total: 300 gallons PER DAY! That’s like 5 bathtubs full!
EASY WAYS TO SAVE WATER
In bathroom:
- Turn off water while brushing teeth (saves 4 gallons!)
- Take 5-minute showers (not 10!)
- Fix dripping faucets (1 drip/second = 3,000 gallons/year wasted!)
In kitchen:
- Run dishwasher only when full
- Fill up sink to wash dishes (don’t run water continuously)
- Keep water in fridge (don’t run tap until cold)
Outside:
- Water plants in morning (less evaporation)
- Use watering can (not hose)
- Collect rain in buckets!
ACTIVITY 1: SHOWER TIMER
Put timer in bathroom. Challenge: 5-minute showers! Save 5-10 gallons per shower!
ACTIVITY 2: LEAK DETECTIVE
Check all faucets. Drip drip drip? Fix it! Put food coloring in toilet tank. If color appears in bowl without flushing = LEAK!
ACTIVITY 3: WATER DIARY
Write down every time you use water for 1 day. Count total uses: _____ Tomorrow: Try to use 20% less!
1,500 words, 3 activities, Parent guide included
