New parents
Family-friendly green guide
Reusable nappies have come a long way since terry-towel squares and safety pins. They are easy to use and can be washed at home.
For details, go to the Australian Nappy Network website.
Save money by borrowing toys from a toy library.
This is also great for the environment, since toys get reused instead of ending up in a landfill. The Moreland Toy Shed on Jolley St in West Brunswick is the nearest toy library for Moreland residents.
Use the sun’s heat in winter and cool breezes in summer as much as possible to keep your child comfortable while saving on heating and cooling bills.
Merlyston residents Shane French, Christine and baby Elsie have chosen cloth nappies.Identify rooms that are comfortable at different times of the year and, if practical, use these rooms more.
Draught-proofing your home can reduce heat loss in winter and shading can keep you cool in summer.
Energy advice for new parents
Bringing a new baby home is an exciting experience and one that changes any parent's perspective on life. On top of the boundless challenges and joys of a new baby, it is likely the family's lifestyle will change. Parents will be at home much more. Sleeping hours, heating and cooling, the washing machine - all of these varied patterns can lead to a substantial jump in enegy use in the home.
We can help
We have helped many local families who have been shocked to see their energy bills leap following the birth of their child. We offer a range of services to help, usually for free, including:
- Our new Green baby plan for new parents (PDF download), a handy checklist with tips and local resources that you can stick on your fridge.
- A more detailed Energy for Babies kit (PDF download), which covers everything from how to keep baby cool in summer to things to keep in mind when renovating for a larger family
- Throughout the year we also talk to new parents groups in the Moreland community, at maternal and child health centres
For more advice please contact Asha Bee Abraham.
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