It’s back-to-school time, but this year is pretty unique. Many students won’t be headed back to school in person, but will instead attend school remotely due to COVID-19. For many parents, this will be their first experience with homeschooling. While the school may provide most of the lessons, there is still a unique opportunity to teach students important lessons they may not learn in school. We think it’s a great time to teach kids about the solar energy. Read on for age-appropriate ideas for learning about one of our most valuable renewable resources.
Start with the Sun
Any lesson about solar power must begin with learning about the sun. Start with an overview of what the sun is, what it’s made of, and how it powers the solar system. Then, dive into how the sun as been used as an energy source through time. Talk about how plants use the sun to make food and grow, and how early humans used the sun for warmth and to dry food. Once your students have a basic understanding of the sun as an energy source, you can introduce solar panels. Explain what solar panels are and how they work to collect, store, and distribute energy. Some great resources include the Energy Kids website from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and this video from PBS on Solar Energy.
Get Hands On
Once your kids have a basic understanding of how solar energy works, get some hands-on experience by doing an active project to harness your own solar energy. For very young children, a simple experiment using ice cubes will work well to illustrate how the heat from the sun can affect objects. On a sunny day before it gets too hot, take ice cubes outside to an area where you can find direct sunlight and shade. Place one ice cube in direct sunlight and the other in a shady spot. Ask your child which ice cube they think will melt faster. Record your observations. Another popular experiment for older kids is to make a solar oven. This project uses captures the heat from the sun with a pizza box, plastic, and foil. Use it to make nachos or even s’mores! Other ideas include making sun tea, or even experimenting with solar powered batteries.
Learn By Doing with Kosmos Solar
The best way to teach your kids about the value of solar energy is to make the switch to solar power with Kosmos Solar. Investing in solar can reduce or eliminate your electric bill; reduces your energy footprint, helps the environment, and supports a growing industry. When you choose us as your solar panel provider, our team will work closely with you to find the best solution for your home and family. We take pride in providing quality solar panel installation at a reasonable price and deliver a top-notch customer experience. On installation day and beyond, your kids will get a unique opportunity to observe the many benefits of solar energy at work in their own home. Give us a call or contact us online to get started with free quote today!