My wife and I where pretty busy this week organising all there is to organise for our newest addition to the family. This is such great fun but I also wondered what the future of our little will be like when she grows up. In what kind of world will she live in terms of environmental diversity and freedom to do what she likes with her life. Obviously it is impossible to look into the future but I would like to see her being open to sustainability ideas and being an open minded person that does not judge a person after a first impression. This is a very big topic and not easy to answer in a single blog post. So lets tackle this by looking at sustainability ideas today. 
So what is your view on how we could encourage our children to be more sustainable people then we are today? What experiences did you make raising a child and providing it/them with access to sustainability idea and a more sustainable way of living?
This is where I will start
I will try to be a very good role-model for our little girl and I am sure my wife and I will try to raise in the most sustainable way possible for us. But one of biggest fears is that I would take away her own personal way of making up her view of the world. This is what really helped me to go where I am today and I believe that this is a key element of each individuals personal development.
Obviously this is very early to worry about these kind of topics but I wanted to raise this topic you my readers and ask for your comments if you have any.
Picture Credit: sabianmaggy
Gareth Kane|January 20, 2013
You must be so excited!
In my experience, as in business, kids are more influenced by your actions than what you tell them, so you've got to be an exemplar!
A love of nature is a pretty easy thing to instil in kids – my eldest and I have just set some underwater bait and a wildlife camera in the river by our house, hoping to 'catch' our elusive otter. That sort of adventure appeals to boys small & large!
Having said that, I spend an inordinate amount of time wandering about the house, switching off lights and grumbling about it. A true dad!
All the best – I hope it goes well!
FabianPattberg|January 20, 2013
Excited indeed! Thank you for your comment. I totally agree with you about the actions. Being a good example is what will be our biggest aim. :)
Have a good Sunday Gareth.
Florian Kaefer|January 23, 2013
What great news, Fabian! As Gareth said, I also believe that being a good exemplar to follow is the best you can do, while at the same time giving your daughter the necessary room to develop. I'm appalled by how much some parents try to influence and shape their kids, often requiring them to perform and deliver at a far too early age. In terms of sustainability awareness, a soft but informed approach is probably your best bet to make sure as an adult your daughter won't grow up scared and haunted by issues overload (http://sustainablefutures.info/2013/01/17/sustainability-generation-issues-overload/).
FabianPattberg|January 23, 2013
Thank you for the comment and best wishes Florian. Yes I believe this is what we are going to try to be. Flexible in terms of point of view but guiding parents. This is more easily said then done of course! But we will give it our best.