Parenting isn't easy. Days are packed with activities and it's hard to find time to talk to your kids about real issues. But the lessons kids learn now will stay with them for the rest of their lives. One important lesson they should learn from you is how to use energy. What should you tell kids about saving energy? Here are some tips.

It all adds up

Kids tend to live in the moment. Long-term thinking is not their strong suit. Show your kids your energy bill and discuss how much of that amount you're paying is spent for them to watch TV, use a computer or play video games. Your kids may think that it's not that much money. Teach them how that energy usage and money can really add up month after month, year after year.

It's not hard to do

Let's face it, kids are more likely to cooperate in conserving energy if you make it easy. Start with simple measures. Remind them to turn off lights when they're the last one to leave a room, or close the door when they come in or out. Unplugging chargers and shutting off game consoles are other easy tips that can add up to big savings. When conserving becomes something your family does without thinking about it, you're living an energy-efficient lifestyle.

We can do it together

Set a good example by living by the steps you teach. Here are some simple steps:

• Turn off lights when you leave an empty room.
• Lower the thermostat in winter. Use blankets and wear heavier clothing to stay warm.
• Raise the thermostat in summer. Open windows and use ceiling fans to stay cool and save.
• Stay in or stay out. Leaving doors open not only brings in hot or cold air, it lets that expensive conditioned air escape outside.
• Take shorter showers; it'll help save energy and water.
• Unplug chargers and electronic devices when they're not in use. Many devices still draw power even when turned off.

With these simple, no-cost measures, your entire family can save money and live more sustainably.