What do the words happy, healthy and safe bring to mind for you?  Well as parents, most of us want those things and much more for our children.  We worry whether our kids are eating enough, sleeping enough, growing adequately, making friends at school, and the list goes on and on.  No one ever said parenting would be an easy job.  In today's world, we now add to our list of concerns whether or not the environment is safe for our children.  What types of chemicals are they exposed to in the air and in their food and in our homes?  It can be overwhelming to say the least.

What is a parent to do?  Well, take a deep breath and relax.  As parents we do the best we can and taking some simple steps can make a big impact in your child's life and in keeping our planet green.  One place you can start would be to buy organic or locally grown fruits and vegetables when possible.  According to experts apples, bell peppers, strawberries, spinach, peaches, pears, cherries, celery, nectarines, potatoes, grapes, and red raspberries are most contaminated and should be purchased organic if possible.

Secondly, when was the last time you let some fresh air into your home?  Weather permitting, throw open those windows.  Allow the chemicals that may build up in your home a way to get out.  Speaking of chemicals, stop cleaning with them!  Have you ever stopped to read the label on some of these store bought cleaners?  They may smell like a fresh pine forest or a field of lavender, but they're loaded with all types of toxic chemicals that are definitely not eco-friendly.  Use items such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice for your cleaning.  These earth friendly cleaning items produce great results and minimize the toxins in your home.

Finally, be choosy about the toys that your children play with.  Opt for toys that are constructed of wood.  If the wood is painted, make sure it is non-toxic paint.  Look for toys that are PVC-free (polyvinyl chloride).  If you must buy your children toys requiring batteries, please purchase the rechargeable ones.
  
These few simple tips can truly impact the health and safety of your children as well as keeping our environment green.  There is a wonderful website dedicated to keeping children safe from harmful environmental exposures.  This organization works with educators, the public, parents, and health professionals to increase awareness regarding environmental hazards while educating about healthier lifestyle practices.  If you would like to learn more, please click the link below.
 
http://healthychild.org/main/