Non-Toxic Kids: Helping Your Kids Stay Safe, Healthy and Smart

Back to School: Help From the Blogosphere-

2008-08-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

After my last post about consumer paralysis I read this post from Enviroblog, which gives links to great green parenting blogs and sites which share ways to start the school year as green and non-toxic as possible. Check it out. Thanks to the blogging mamas who provided all this information.

Back to School Series: Eco-Friendly Backpacks, and Other Supplies-

2008-08-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

The search for a PVC free backpack for my little soon to be preschooler has not been easy. I looked at every link on the Center for Health and Justice's guide to PVC free back to school products. There was not one backpack for preschoolers.

I looked at the lunch pack from LL Bean, and those contain vinyl on the inside. Their backpacks seem fine, but I wanted to find one that was made in the U.S. (it seems most of LL Bean products are "imported", probably from China.)

On Amazon I found many that have series gender stereotypes going on, and many are shiny with vinyl.

The Jansport preschool backpack looked good, but it doesn't fit a normal folder in it. Too small.

See what I mean? Consumer paralysis!

I just started looking at Crocodile Creek's backpacks and lunch boxes. They read my mind: it says the lunch boxes are "PVC free, phthalate free, lead-safe, and conforms to safety standards". Me like that.

It starts getting to the point where I just need to buy something and move on. I would love to buy a U.S. made backpack created from sustainable materials, for under 35 dollars, that would fit my 3 year old. I do not think it exists. Business opportunity! You mama-entrepreneurs, get to it.

Also, I looked into these wraps for sandwiches called Happy Sacks that save plastic sandwich bags from the landfill. I emailed the mama who makes them to make sure they don't contain PVC. She said the lining was made with some sort of polyurethane, but that it is on the inside of the lining which doesn't come in contact with the food. There are many cute designs to choose from.

I'll probably buy one of those, or something like it, and use small glass containers for snacks as well. I'm always on the lookout for more ideas for how to pack a green, healthy lunch and snacks. If you have some ideas, please post a comment. I do like the idea of Laptop Lunches, but I don't want more plastic, either. It is certainly better than a completely disposable lunch, however. See, more green consumer paralysis!

Buy and Make Local Art-

2008-08-23T06:15:00.000-07:00

I had the distinct joy of attending a huge and fantastic arts festival in Pennsylvania this summer. I have been going since I was barely able to walk (and calling it the Art's Vegetable). It has diverse music performances, plenty for kids to do, and high quality, creative and gorgeous art.

I was looking for a present for my nephew and found a wood craftsman who made the most simple and beautiful wood toys. He finished them only with food grade mineral oil, and looked me in the eye as he told me this. I bought a truck carrying a car, that my 9 month old nephew could pull on and off. I thought long and hard about how we as a society barely meet the people who make something that we are buying, unless we shop at local festivals and attend farmer's markets. I was happy to make a personal connection, and to know my money was going right into the hands of the artist, not some impersonal mega corporation. I know there will be lots of fall craft festivals, and I hope to visit more and to try and buy some presents for the holidays. Yes, it can be a bit more expensive, but not always. The toy I bought was very reasonably priced, especially considering that it was handmade.

Speaking of handmade, I just learned about a neat magazine called Craft: Transforming Traditional Crafts. This magazine is a wealth of information about how to make just about anything. It has articles about crafters around the world, with links to beautiful, creative and original works. And most importantly, it shares clear directions, with diagrams and photos for how to make all sorts of things. The issue I looked at shares how to make a map coffee table, batiks, herb pots, and shoes. Now, I am not the most crafty, but I have always wanted to try batik and will keep this article until I have the time and space to do so. Instead of buying local art, you can use Craft magazine to make it yourself.

Google Ads: Not Always in Line with This Blog-

2008-08-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

Regular readers of this blog might have noticed a Febreze ad running on this site. This is most likely a product that I would never recommend (although I haven't done the research) I can predict that the products contain phthalates, and who knows what other chemicals to create that falsely natural, chemically heavy smell.

I found out about the ad from a reader, who kindly and gently asked me if Febreze was non-toxic, and I quickly yelled at the computer, No! Of course not. I didn't know the ad was there.

So I am learning how to block particular ads using Google. See, I do write quite a bit of writing on this blog and am trying to generate some income (just a little!) from the advertising. It is my goal to have it be advertisers whose products are in line with non-toxic, green and chemical free (as much as possible)living. That's why you'll see the Non-Toxic Goodies listed (stores I handpicked to be on the site), and some Google ads. If you see something that isn't in line with my goals and readers' concerns, please do let me know. I will be trying out a new Google feature that let's me preview all the ads, so that should help.

Thanks for understanding. Right now, I am beginning a new school year, transitioning from staying home with my kids to being back full time. And yes, we are still living in a tiny one room cabin while they finish renovating our house. It's more than a little crazy.

My Favorite Lip Balm: Burt's Bees Beeswax

2008-08-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

I used to be a chapstick girl. That was back in the 90s, before I knew the stuff was made with petroleum and other chemicals. Yuck. I'm loathe to think how much of it I actually consumed.

In any case, I floated around, from balm to balm, getting that dried out, addicted feeling with some brands, and the overly slick gone too fast feeling with the others.

Then I found Burt's Bees Beeswax lip balm, and it's all I need. No chemicals, simple, soothing, non-addictive (well, sort of.)

And if you are feeling fancy, they do carry some lip glosses and shimmers, that look nice but don't have lead, cadmium or other nasty chemicals in them.

New York Times Article on Breastfeeding Causes Many Comments, Much Discussion-

2008-08-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

In a follow up to my post last week about Breastfeeding Week at Eco-Child's Play, I just learned of an article in the Well section of the New York Times.

It validated what I commented my mom and I were discussing: how many moms stop breastfeeding (the article says some 64 percent stop within the first 6 months), and it gives some interesting demographic information about the mamas who stop and those who continue.

Notice I didn't say "Give Up" or "Quit". What was most eye opening about the article was the comments from folks who really didn't want to feel guilty about stopping breastfeeding, particularly those working women who don't have an office or 15 minute breaks to pump.

As a teacher in a busy and small school, I had to find an empty space to pump and I would pray on many occasions that the door did not open (which it did on several times, to my embarrassment). My colleagues were extremely supportive and this is the only reason I was able to pump for the entire school year. But I did have to stay longer, and do more work at home (or while eating) to make up for the lost time. I have loads of empathy for women lugging their pumps to work, and trying to fit it in while sitting in bathrooms, offices and while working. And of course it just doesn't work for everyone, particularly those in less supportive and in many cases lower paying jobs.

Also discussed was the lower income group of women on the WIC program who were more likely to stop breastfeeding. One commenter pointed out that these women are given formula, but not a breast pump (which can run hundreds of dollars) as part of the program. It seems to support this group with breastfeeding, this needs to be changed (even with the formula industry pressure).

I had no idea the rate of breastfeeding in the U.S. was as low at it is. This does not occur in a vacuum. We need more family friendly policies and workplaces to support women who want to continue to breastfeed.

Finally, Parents Rejoice: Toy Safety Bill Signed into Law-

2008-08-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday President Bush signed into law a comprehensive new toy safety bill that will have wide reaching effects in the toy industry and help parents all over the U.S. calm their many anxieties about purchasing toys and products for children.

The Chicago Tribune reports that President Bush signed the bill yesterday, which will require third party testing of toys, ban the use of lead and phthalates in toys, significantly increase the budget and power of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and increase the penalties for manufacturers who violate the safety provisions. The bill is the toughest in the world in its ban of lead in products.

This was a long time coming, especially after the endless recalls over the past few years. It will take time for these new laws to take effect, and I will be eager to hear the plans of retailers and manufacturers about how they will handle toys currently for sale, and how they will build back trust and assure consumers that the products are tested and safe.

But for now, we can all rejoice that progress has been made to limit the exposure of current and future children to dangerous toxins and chemicals. Thanks to the leaders on this issue on behalf of parents all across the U.S.

photo by CHEJ

Terrain Magazine: Helping Us Live a Little Greener

2008-08-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

Elisa from the Mothertalkers blog (a great mama blog about politics, parenting, and most everything else-)emailed me for comments about an article she was writing on living green with babies and children.

She wrote HATCH: Green Eggs and Yam: Raising a Low Carbon Child, for Terrain magazine, and what a gem of a magazine it is. It is focused on environmental health and greener living in the Bay area, and beyond. I am nowhere near California (maybe in mindset, at least-) but I certainly appreciated the articles in the magazine. I read Elisa's piece about green living with babies, and then about greener weddings and even greener choices for the end of life (funerals and cemeteries). The coverage was thoughtful and detailed, and I'll be reading it more often.

And in the article Non-Toxic Kids was featured in the sidebar as good reading for interested parents, and I have a quote about toy safety in the article as well.

I'm thrilled to have found this magazine, and I am sure I will be learning a great deal from reading in the future. Thanks Elisa, and Terrain magazine!

Back to School Series (Green Backpacks for Kids)-

2008-08-11T12:58:00.000-07:00

Completely out of character, I have been prowling around some kid's stores. I don't particularly like shopping, but I don't have regular access to the web, and I am sending my oldest daughter off to preschool this year. I need to get the requisite backpack and lunch box.

I can't believe she is starting her school career forever. She is beginning her journey, gulp, farther away from us and into the big world. This is a bittersweet time for me, made more so by trying to find PVC free, lead free, as green as possible products for her to start the school year.

So I was happy to get an email from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice about where to find PVC (aka: poison plastic) products for back to school time. They have created an extensive guide of products, companies and websites that are better choices for children and the world. Many of these can be found in children's stores as well. In fact, I held a few in my hand today, but wanted to do more research before I made a purchase.

In the guide, they list all sorts of back to school gear, including backpacks, lunch boxes, shoes, rain jackets, sneakers, and school supplies. Also listed are other plastics to avoid. This is a great guide to print out and take with you to the store. I'll be checking out the backpacks and other products, and will write more about them here.

Breastfeeding Week at Eco-Child's Play-

2008-08-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

In case you missed it, Eco-Child's Play ran a series of posts about breastfeeding this week, in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week. There are lots of great posts about the joys and challenges of breastfeeding. I wrote about some of reasons women are giving for quitting, and words of encouragement for mamas not to give up.

It's been a slow week in my world of blogging and internet access. I am computerless and in the hinterlands of northern New York and Vermont. Next week, we are off to rural Maine (we are still renovating and not living in our house). I will try to post an article or two, but please be kind and know I will be back at it with gusto as soon as I can!

Interview with Helen Coronato, Author of Eco-Friendly Families (part 2)-

2008-08-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

This is the continuation of my interview with the author of Eco-Friendly Families, Helen Coronato.

What are some tips from the book you can share with our readers about how to manage birthdays, holidays, and other gift giving?

I was brought up to believe the bigger the gift, the bigger the love. Yikes! So managing birthdays and the like has been a process for me. I have a chapter in the book "Marking Milestones: Birthdays and Beyond" which offers great ideas for commemorating special occasions without accumulating stuff. For instance, in the spring you can keep a nice windowsill herb garden in assorted pots and take one along with you as a hostess gift when invited to a BBQ. In the summer, you can make a donation in someones name to Heifer International and help feed families around the world. And in the winter, when trapped indoor with the kids: do it yourself! I offer a slew of crafts using have on hand materials and recyclable goods that kids of all ages will love to make. My best advice here is: be the change you want to see. Even if everyone else is showing up at grandma's house with the latest and greatest plastic toy shipped from China, stick to your green goals and walk through the door with your sustainable gift wrapped in, of course, a reusable canvas bag :)

Have you met any resistance from your children in your family¢s effort to live a more green life? How did you work it out?

My kids are 3 and 1 so they are (thankfully!!) learning one way and don't know that Wal-Mart is open around the clock, that "lunchables" exist, or that you can by a 24 pack of plastic water bottles for $5.00. For me, my husband has been a tougher audience on some fronts. He automatically goes to throw mail in the garbage instead of the recycling container, for example. So I am constantly monitoring the garbage can. But he hates waste more than any person I know and will whip out a fantastic soup using the end of week greens and produce we have so nothing goes bad. We all have our strengths and weaknesses (including me) so the best approach seems to be looking for ways to complement each other instead of attack each other. I'll get the recycling, you get the fridge and viola - a greener household.

Have you had any challenges with your extended family members and your efforts? How have you handled those?

As soon as I started writing this book I got "You're writing a book on going green?" with the same tone you would ask Paris Hilton if she was writing a book on modesty. People tend to see you in a certain light. They have created an image for you and no matter how outdated it may be, it's what they're comfortable with. Oh well. All I can do is try and live a life of attraction. My kids are hardly ever sick. I'm a relatively content person with lots of energy and I don't own expensive designer bags or drink caffeine. I cook "weird" food for visitors but everyone wants the recipe after wards. I am so fortunate to have made friends who are traveling a similar road as me so I lean on them and vice verse. Most of all, I don't worry about being "green enough" anymore, I just live life with an eye towards Eco-friendliness and let the rest go.

What are your hopes for the publication of this book?

That families will look at the 12 month calender of ideas in Chapter Three and pick one thing a month (or a year) to try. That at the next family baby shower families will choose to wrap presents in receiving blankets instead of paper. That other three year olds will take pride in remembering to fill everyone canteen before heading to the park (as my three year old does). Most of all, I hope that families read the book and think "I can do that" and do. What a wonderful gift that would be :)

Interview with Helen Coronato, Author of Eco-Friendly Families (part 1)-

2008-08-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

I had the good fortune of interviewing Helen Coronato about her recently released book, Eco-Friendly Families by Alpha Publishers. She is an established writer of several books, including The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Reading with Your Children, Alpha Books, and The Only Real Estate Investing Book You’ll Ever Need, by Adams Media. She is a co-leader of the Warren, NJ chapter of Holistic Moms Network,and is committed to a green lifestyle through personal choices and community outreach.

How did becoming a parent motivate you to life a greener lifestyle with your family?

How could it not?! When I was pregnant I started hearing about the dangers of everything from cleaners to cold-cut sandwiches. I made some changes, and once the ball started rolling, it just gained momentum. I grew up on coffee, cigarettes and Chinese take out, so everything was new to me. I struggled a lot to find a balance between all the great ideas I was learning about and practicality. That's the motivation behind Eco-Friendly Families - I wrote the book I was looking for! I wanted to make changes as "mom" but also wanted to raise my family green so environmentally friendly sustainable living was a way of life.

What do you find the most challenging about living in a more sustainable, green way? And how do you deal with it?

My biggest frustrations come from the media. While I think it's great that mainstream media talks about going green, the examples and profiles they show tend to be big ticket items and big name celebrities. It's great that a mega movie star has built a solar powered house out of grass and drives a water powered car - but that's not what most of us can do. And just because we can't do that doesn't mean what we can do - bringing our own bags, using recyclable water bottles, putting on a sweater instead of adjusting the thermostat - doesn't mean as much. I deal with it by being as vocal as I can about the small changes that do add up to big results, writing a practical guide for families who want to go green and still need to get dinner on the table and co-leading my area's chapter of the Holistic Moms Network where I am tapped into a community of like minded green mamas.

How do you deal with the consumer culture of acquiring more and more stuff as a measure of success as an adult and with your children?

This is something i have to be aware of all the time. For me, the slippery slope culture of "more stuff" is a lot like cookies. If I have one cookie, I want ten (or twenty). I'm never satisfied once the sugar monster is unleashed. It's the same thing with the want monster. I get a new shirt, so I need new pants. Well, now I need new shoes, and so on. Advertising is a multi-billion dollar machine that wants us to feel unsatisfied. That is there one goal. Make consumers feel unsatisfied, and then offer then a product to cure that feeling. There has not been a cookie or pair of shoes created yet that can fix someone self esteem, but try telling that to Famous Amos or Jimmy Choo. So I keep it really basic. I put myself on a pop-culture diet when I sense I am being sucked in to consumer hell. I avoid magazines, entertainment programs and the like (like googling Kaie Holmes). My kids only watch PBS as a treat as we limit TV to avoid commercials for them. We don't hang out in the mall. And as a measure of success we opt for experiences over items. When I sold my first book I was able to invest in a time share for my family to use for vacation - that is a lot more meaningful (and eco-friendly!) than a closet full of new clothes.

The rest of the interview will be published in the coming days.

Book Review: Eco-Friendly Families by Helen Coronato

2008-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of Eco-Friendly Families by Helen Cornato this week. On the cover the book is described as a way to “guide your family to greener living with activities that will engage and inspire… from toddlers to teens.” And this is absolutely what the book does.

In an easy approachable format (not preachy or overwhelming), Helen breaks down greener living into organized, well researched and thought out chapters. She offers guidance in how to take stock of where you are, and to set realistic environmental goals as family. There is even a yearly plan based on seasonal goals and issues offered, with lots of creative ways to reduce consumption, waste and last minute decisions which often results in wasted energy and resources. Helen takes a fresh look at reducing, reusing, recycling, eating, cleaning, gift giving, party planning and decorating, showing us the many small ways we can all live a little lighter on the earth. Peppered through each chapter are recipes, activity instructions, lists, checklists, and tips that are immediately usable and relevant for parents.

What I really like, thinking about how most of us sleep deprived parents operate, is the summaries and checklists at the end of each chapter. This makes the book useful in that you can look back, highlight, and remind yourself what it is you read in the first place.

Eco-Friendly families also explains ways to involve your toddler, school age child and even your teenager in these activities. The author even shares ways to explain environmental issues to the younger sets in non-threatening ways. Helen also tells us how important it is to instill the environmental ethic in our children by explaining what it is we are doing and why. This is something I often forget to do!

Often when I am feeling rushed or under pressure, I make decisions that aren’t as environmentally responsible as I would like them to be. This book is a great resource to tell us what have on hand as you head into the holiday season, birthday party planning, or any time you need an infusion of creative ideas for how to make green choices in different (and sometimes challenging) situations.

She also stresses the importance of meal planning to limit waste and last minute take out. This is a major challenge for me! I will be looking back at this chapter for tips and inspiration in area. Like this tip—have one of your children pack cloth napkins and silverware in the car so you don’t have to take and use plastic utensils and paper napkins. Brilliant!

Helen shows us that little acts such as using rainwater to water houseplants, reusing back to school supplies, or trading toys with another family, can add up to a big environmental benefit. I recommend Eco-Friendly families to any one who is looking to lead a greener lifestyle, no matter if they are just starting out, are already making greener decisions, or just need a little more inspiration. Look for this book in your favorite bookstore in August.

And come back and visit, I'll share my interview with the author, Helen Coronato, in the coming days.

House Passes CPSC reform and Bans Lead and Phthalates In Children's Products-

2008-07-31T13:02:00.000-07:00

Finally!

The House passed a bill to ban lead and phthalates from toys and children's products and gives the Consumer Product Safety Commission more funding, authority, and the right to impose penalties on manufacturers who violate this law.

And, last but certainly not least- this bill requires third party testing of toys for safety before they hit the marketplace.

It's about time. Now we just have to wait for the Senate to approve the bill, and for the president to sign it into law. The New York Times article I cited says that the president has "problems" with provisions in the bill-- which ones, exactly? The one that bans lead, a dangerous neurotoxin, from coming into contact with children via products? Or would it be actually making the CPSC a force in toy and product safety? Or maybe he has a problem with requiring folks other than manufacturers to test for safety? I'm not sure. But at least he hasn't threatened a veto. Who wants to be the guy who vetoes a toy safety bill?

By the end of this week, we should hear of the Senate's overwhelming support for this bill. Stay tuned--

Ingredients to Avoid in Make-Up-

2008-07-30T22:31:00.000-07:00

I found an article in The Desert Sun, out of Palm Springs California, about toxic ingredients to avoid in makeup. Thankfully, this subject seems to be getting more attention lately.

The best way to check out your favorite cosmetics is to visit the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database. There you can find ratings about the chemical safety of thousands of products.

You could also use this list of toxic ingredients, many of which I have written about here. Again, from the Desert Sun:

"Lead and mercury: Lead is found in hair dyes and makeup. It is a toxin for the brain and nervous system and can cause infertility or miscarriage.

Mercury is found as a preservative in eye cosmetics. It is a toxin for the nervous system.

Parabens: Found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, cleansing gels, personal lubricants, topical pharmaceuticals and toothpaste, parabens have been found in tissue samples from human breast tumors, according to one study.

Parabens come in many types, including methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, butyl-, isobutyl- and others and can mimic estrogen.

Phthalates: Found in fragrances, hair products, deodorants, lotions and much more, this chemical plastic has caused birth defects in lab animals.

Phthalates are often listed under the term “fragrance” on labels, so select fragrance-free products.

Petrochemicals: Found in anti-aging creams, lipsticks, baby creams, eye shadows, mascara, perfume, lip balm and more. Listed as petrolatum, paraffin and mineral oil, these products can cause allergic reactions and contain suspected carcinogens.

Placenta: Found in hair relaxers, moisturizers and toners. Placenta produces hormones that can disrupt the body's normal hormone production and lead to serious problems.

Nanoparticles: Found in sunscreens, eye shadows, bronzers and lotions. These are extremely small particles that can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream and have not been tested for safety.

Diethanolamine (DEA): Used in shampoos, DEA is a suspected carcinogen. Also look for triethanolamine (TEA), which can be contaminated with nitrosamines, compounds shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals. Contamination is more likely if the product also contains Bronopol.

Formaldehyde: Found in eye makeup, mascara and other cosmetics, formaldehyde is classified as a probable human carcinogen.

In its liquid state, look for it listed as DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea and quaternium-15, which can be absorbed through the skin and nails.

Bronopol, often listed as 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, can contribute to the formation of cancer.

Glycol Ethers: Found in nail polish, deodorant, fragrances and other cosmetics, some glycol ethers are hazardous to the reproductive system and can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and throat.

Avoid EGPE, EGME, EGEE, DEGBE, PGME, DPGME and those with “methyl” in their names.

Phenylenediamine (PPD): Found in hair dye, this is also called oxidation dyes, amino dyes, para dyes or peroxide dyes. PPD has been banned in Europe as a carcinogen.

Toluene: Found in nail polish. Can cause liver damage and irritate the respiratory tract."

One problem I see with this list is that no product has a label that shares lead or mercury as ingredients! Why are manufacturers able to put in ingredients that aren't listed on their labels?

And it's worth saying again that any manufacturer can use anything in their products (barring a handful of chemicals) and sell it without any government review, approval, or research about its safety.

Image: Flickr by Hailey Von Purr

Maine Takes On Toxic Chemicals-

2008-07-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

It's nice to share a bit of good news here on this blog, because much of the time the news of chemicals in products we all use everyday is overwhelming and deeply troubling.

But at least now, more and people are paying attention and taking action.

I've had the good fortune of meeting some folks from the Alliance for a Clean and Healthy Maine, and apparently, along with the state legislature, they've made some great progress. We recently started a similar alliance in Vermont, and I am hoping to begin working more closely with them and VPRIG this fall on the topic of reproductive toxins.

So I read that Maine passed legislation to (from Rueters): "broadly identify and investigate “chemicals of high concern” in consumer products, particularly those that may reach children." It also requires that "makers of toxic chemicals to notify state authorities of the quantity and purpose of the chemicals and work to develop safer alternatives."

The common criticism, it seems, is that we need a federal system for this (did someone say the Kid Safe Chemicals Act? Yes!). But as often is the case, the states need to set the example and break new ground before this happens. And the Maine legislature is sending a clear message to chemical manufacturers and to those who use these chemicals in their products-- we want to protect the environment, and our citizens, especially children.

The Reuters article goes on to indicate that other states are considering similar legislation, and that states such as Washington and California have made bold steps by banning toxic flame retardants and phthalates. It also points out that the last chemical the EPA banned was asbestos in 1989. Yep, 1989 folks, when Milli Villi came out with the song "Girl You Know It's True". Don't pretend you don't remember, and that was quite a long, long time ago.

Radon and Granite Countertops-

2008-07-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

My mother, the consummate reader and researcher, just sent me an article from the New York Times about granite counter tops and the radioactive gas, radon.

She knows that in the throws of our house renovation, we are making decisions about what counter tops to use in our kitchen, and on top of the vanities in our bathrooms. I've written here about some environmentally friendly(er) options such as PaperStone and Richlite, but we are still considering all options.

So I read with great interest this article about granite counter tops possibly causing radon gas problems in people's homes. I'd never heard about this.

I knew most granite comes from far away (South America is the source at our local tile and granite store), is heavy and shipped using lots of ozone depleting gas, and it needs some sort of chemical treatment to look nice. Although, at my good friend's house, the granite looks beautiful and she has never treated it in the 8 years since I have known her.

One homeowner from the article had a granite counter top that was emitting radon and contained uranium (which is radioactive and emits radon). Check this out:

"The E.P.A. recommends taking action if radon gas levels in the home exceeds 4 picocuries per liter of air (a measure of radioactive emission); about the same risk for cancer as smoking a half a pack of cigarettes per day. In Dr. Sugarman’s kitchen, the readings were 100 picocuries per liter. In her basement, where radon readings are expected to be higher because the gas usually seeps into homes from decaying uranium underground, the readings were 6 picocuries per liter."

The Director of the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University in New York, David J. Brenner, says the cancer risk from granite counter tops, is “on the order of one in a million.” Being struck by lightning is more likely. But, he says, “It makes sense. If you can choose another counter that doesn’t elevate your risk, however slightly, why wouldn’t you?”

I had pretty much ruled out granite for our counter tops for other reasons, but this helps me make that decision more firmly, even though the risk is unclear and probably minimal.

The EPA and the Marble Institute of America insist that all granite counter tops are safe and there is no cause for alarm.

If you are interested in testing your already existing counter tops for radon, the article suggests using a radon test kit available on-line and in hardware stores. They run about 20 to 30 dollars.

image: Grand Installations LLC on Flikr

Tees for Change-

2008-07-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

I recently heard from Andreea of Tees for Change, which makes beautiful, colorful and simple onsies and t-shirts for babies, and adults made on organic cotton and printed in the U.S.

Andreea was inspired to make her first t-shirt with a positive, inspirational message while planning to give birth to her son at home. She printed a shirt that said, "Be Courageous" (a message every birthing mother needs), and both her healthy son and Tees for Change were born.

The shirts share messages we could all hear more of, such as to live mindfully, laugh often, practice kindness and live fully. For babies and children, sayings like grow stronger, laugh often, play often and dream big grace the front of these tees.

And what's even better is for every shirt they sell they plant a tree! Tees for Change has also partnered with and donated their tees to various charities.

Lucky Non-Toxic Kids readers get 15% off their purchases at Tees for Change through August 31st by typing in the code: NONTOXIC. Enjoy!

Another Scientist Raises the Alarm about Cell Phones and Cancer-

2008-07-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Yet another article has appeared about the link between cell phones and cancer. The director of the Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Dr. Ronald B. Herberman, issused a warning to his faculty and staff, recommending that they limit their cell phone use. Especially children.

He based his recommendation on some unpublished research, and he's using the precautionary principle to guide his thinking.

Dr. Ronald B. Herberman said, "Really at the heart of my concern is that we shouldn't wait for a definitive study to come out, but err on the side of being safe rather than sorry."

Well put.

His advice? Children should only use cell phones during an emergency because their brains are still developing. He also suggests that adults keep their heads away from cell phones and use the speakerphone function or a hands-free device.

That is direct, clear and counter to what most Americans are doing. I certainly don't use my cell phone a great deal, but I am concerned with my increased usage this summer, and what my exposure might be. And I am very concerned about the million of teenagers and children using cell phones everyday.

Click here to see more research, articles, recommendations and analysis about cell phones and cancer.

Peanut and Tree Nut Free Snack List-

2008-07-21T14:45:00.000-07:00

As we come up on the new school year next month, you may be thinking about what to send with your child for snacks and lunch. I've been making a list for my daughter's school about some snacks that are nut free, that all preschoolers can enjoy. They range from organic (which I prefer, but as we all know, can be expensive) to conventional brands. Please post a comment and let me know if there are any you know about that I have missed.

These snacks should not contain peanuts, tree nuts or facility warnings, in my experience. Please let me know if you find anything different.

Robert’s American Gourmet: Pirate’s Booty, Veggie Booty, Tings, Smart Puffs, Soy Crisps

Kashi TLC Crackers: Any Flavor

Wheat Thins and Triscuits by Nabisco

Shaw’s Brand Pretzels (no flavor)

Cheeze Its by Sunshine

Tortilla Chips by Guiltless Gourmet, Green Mountain Gringo, Tostitos, Kettle Chips

Calbee Snapea Crisps

Earth Bound Farms Organic Raisins

FruitaBu Organic Smooshed Fruit

Any fruit

Any veggies

Annies Goddess Dressing

Annies Cowgirl Ranch Dressing

SunButter by Sun Gold Foods (peanut butter replacement, available at Berlin Shaws, very good and healthy)

Goldfish Crackers (plain, cheddar cheese and whole wheat)

Popcorn with butter and salt (please make butter isn’t contaminated with peanut butter)

Smart popcorn (cheddar cheese)

Saltines

Sunchips

Cheerios (not Honey Nut cheerios) and Purely Os by Cascadian Farms

Honey Maid Graham Crackers and Graham Snacks

The Environmental Working Group Takes On Triclosan-

2008-07-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Remember a few months back when I first learned about Tricolsan? It is that toxin that shows up in all the "antibacterial" products that have been exploding on the market lately. You'd be amazed about all of the products that tricolsan is in. It's everywhere.

I found it in my toothpaste. Yep, I'd been putting a persistent, toxic pesticide right in my mouth.

So I was very interested when the heroic folks over at the Environmental Working Group released a new report on the troublesome chemical, including a printable guide for consumers, a guide to where it is found in the home, and recommendations for the EPA and the our leaders for action to take to protect families.

Triclosan is not safe for children or the environment. According to the Environmental Working Group,

"Lab studies link triclosan to cancer, developmental defects, and liver and inhalation toxicity. A secret study by Colgate scientists revealed exposure to low levels of triclosan caused liver tumors in mice (See 1996). Colgate refuses to release this study to EPA for evaluation, though it provided it to FDA in order to ensure it could add triclosan to toothpaste and other oral care products. Based on the study summary alone, and using a controversial assumption about the way this type of liver tumor forms in mice, EPA classified triclosan as “not likely to be carcinogenic to humans” (EPA 2008). This decision flows in part from EPA’s lack of regulatory authority to demand release of Colgate’s findings, a clear indication of the need for reform of the U.S. system of chemical health protections."

And the Environmental Working Group also shows us that the antibacterial properties of Triclosan are not any better then plain old soap.

So, now it is time to get serious. Avoid this toxin in your products and house as much as you can. Check out the resources linked here. As much as I like my fresh (although apparently chemically laden) mouth, I'll be avoiding Triclosan as much as possible. I'm outraged that my children have already been exposed to this through breastmilk and who knows what else.

And let's be on the lookout for how we can help nudge the EPA and Congress to take action about Triclosan.

Natural Products Association Certified Seal (there's a new label in town)-

2008-07-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've talked a lot on this blog about how confusing labels on personal care products can be. The labeling of "natural!" "organic" and "made with natural ingredients" are used widely, when in fact many of these same products contain parabens, phthalates, synthetic perfumes and other harmful ingredients.

This is part of a larger problem, a lack of testing chemicals before they are in use in products we use everyday. Many of these chemicals have been found to cause cancer, endrocrine disruption problems, among many other things.

I was happy to find out that the Natural Products Association has released a new label for products that meet their certification process. And from what I've read, it seems like a good one, although I am eager to hear what the Environmental Working Group has to say about it.

Here is a list of their standards for certification:

"The following is the initial standard as of May 1, 2008:

• All products that are labeled or branded “Natural” must:
– Be made with at least 95% all natural ingredients
– Contain only synthetic ingredients specifically allowed under this standard and environmentally-friendly products that are nurturing to us and as harmless as possible to the earth (see Appendix I)
• What is “Natural”:
– Ingredients that come or are made from a renewable resource found in nature (Flora, Fauna, Mineral), with absolutely no petroleum compounds. (See Appendix II for allowed processes and ingredients.)
• A synthetic non-natural ingredient can be used:
– Only when there is not a readily available natural alternative ingredient
– Only when there are no suspected human health risks as indicated by peer-reviewed third-party scientific literature
• Ingredients that are prohibited:
– Ingredients that have suspected human health risks as indicated by peer-reviewed third-party scientific literature
– Incorporate synthetic silicone or petroleum compounds
– The following is an illustrative list of classifications of ingredients that are prohibited (see Exhibit II for a longer list of prohibited ingredients):
• Parabens – Synthetic preservatives that are potential endocrine disrupters(1-8)
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate – Harsh cleansing agent that can potentially damage the lipid layer of your skin and cause irritation (9-12)
• Petrolatum/Mineral Oil/Paraffin – Non-renewable byproducts of crude oil with potentially dangerous impurities(13-18)
• Chemical Sunscreens (Avobenzone/Oxybenzone) – Synthetic sunscreens that get absorbed and potentially disrupt hormone balance(19-22)
• Glycols – Petroleum derived synthetic chemicals that can potentially draw other chemicals into the bloodstream(23, 24)
• Phthalates – Synthetic fragrance components that are potential toxins(25-34)
• Ethoxylated ingredients like Sodium Myreth Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEGs or PPGs – Ingredients that are made in part with the petrochemical ethylene oxide, that results in 1,4 Dioxane as a trace contaminant, classified as a possible carcinogen(35-37)
• Ethanolamines like MEA/DEA/TEA – Foam and viscosity boosting ingredients that can interact with other ingredients to form nitrosamines, a known carcinogen(37)
• Synthetic polymers (PVP/ Acrylates) - Synthetic stabilizers that may contain residual PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons); most widespread organic pollutant
• Formaldehyde Donors (DMDM Hydantoin/ Diazolidinyl Urea/ Methylisothiazolinone) – Preservatives that work by releasing formaldehyde(5)
• Other requirements:
- For each ingredient, the substance is listed as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used in accordance with FDA's good manufacturing practices (GMP) and contains no residues of heavy metals or other contaminants in excess of tolerances set by FDA or EPA or has been reviewed using criteria in this Standard.
– Companies must be transparent, fully disclosing their ingredients accurately and truthfully.
– Companies should strive to maximize their use of recyclable and post-consumer recycled content in packaging
– No animal testing of ingredients or products."

Pretty comprehensive! I was thrilled to read about many of the problem chemicals prohibited, as well as a focus on less packaging. What a great step in the right direction, and I will certainly be looking for this seal.

By the way, companies whose products have already met these requirements include Burt's Bees, Weleda, Aubrey Organics, and Badger.

Mindful Mama: New Magazine for Mamas who care about the Environment and Healthful Living-

2008-07-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

I just posted a review, links and information about a cool new magazine for moms. It's got some great features, writers, and a website featuring a social network for health care providers, midwives, chiropractors and others to connect with parents. You can check it out over at Eco-Child's Play.

For the Love of Ergo Baby-

2008-07-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

For my first daughter I used a Baby Bjorn to carry her around. I had the old version, with the strap stretching across my upper back.

I walked miles and miles in that thing. I carried her front facing, forward facing, all around our town, and up mountains. My lower back ached more and more, and then I heard that excessive use of the Bjorn might yield spinal problems for young children, due to the increased pressure on the crotch area. I never did find a substantive article or post about this, however.

After I had our second baby, I went to a party and forgot a baby carrier. I was tired of carrying her in my arms, and she had colic and needed to be carried the entire time. My friend offered me her Ergo Baby carrier. I put it on, and carried my daughter in it the entire time. She slept soundly, and it was actually comfortable.

I went out and bought it the next day (and drove FAR to our nearest baby store).

I used it throughout my youngest's babydom, and then forgot about it for awhile. Now that she's a toddler, and its summer, I've been using it again as a backpack. You might be intimidated about turning this carrier around to use this way. But don't be, it just takes a few times practicing over a bed to figure it out. Now I keep it in the car, and use it grocery shopping, during errands, or hiking. It is much smaller than frame backpacks, and it is pretty comfortable even for long distances.

I do know after visiting their site that the Ergo is now made in China (like most things). But they do describe ethical wages and working conditions there, as well as a commitment to to quality and sustainability.

If you are pregnant and considering a carrier, this is a good one. I also used Maya wrap sling, but after a certain point slings didn't work for me as well as the Ergo did. I know this is an issue of personal preference, and I wanted share my experience with you readers in case you have an aching back, and are looking for a more comfortable way to carry your baby.

(and PS- you can nurse your baby while wearing the Ergo, and it comes with a nifty DVD that shows you how to wear it in all the ways (front facing, backpack and side carry)).

Flame Retardants in the News-

2008-07-13T18:41:00.000-07:00

Forgive my slowing down of posts this week. I'm visiting family, and have been happily chasing my nephews around, watching the firefly show, taking in some music and art at an outdoor festival, and generally just loving summer.

Mostly the happy part of this post ends here. As I read some news today I noticed two articles about flame retardants, and one in particular is quite troubling.

Turns out a flame retardant, called Chlorinated Tris, which was outlawed in children's sleepers in the 1970s, is showing up again (and has been being used for a long time) in sofas, other furniture, and in baby carriers.

That last one really stopped me.

But the EPA says it's a safe chemical. The article explains that the studies the EPA used to defend this statement were (shocker) funded and in some cases run by the chemical industry. No conflict of interest there, folks. Many weren't even peer reviewed.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel goes on to tell us that the EPA's findings are in stark contrast to important groups like "World Health Organization, the National Cancer Institute, the National Research Council and even the EPA's own internal assessment".

Here's what the World Health Organization had to say about Chlorinated Tris:

"Chlorinated Tris causes cancer "at all levels that were tested" in male and female rats. The organization said the exposed animals showed an increase in liver, kidney, brain and testicular cancer"

This paper also included a link to a Q and A about Chlorinated Tris. But be warned, it doesn't tell you what items have it. There are very few answers, and consumers can't pick and choose their way out of it.

Now from the Globe and Mail, Cananda banned the manufacturing of Deca, a different flame retardant. They will still allow the importing and sale of products with the chemical. The main reason for the ban was that the manufacture of Deca is poisonous to wildlife. Then why exactly, should people be allowed to wear it, sit on it, and be surrounded by it?

Here in the U.S.,we need the Kid-Safe Chemicals Act to help us straighten this out, stat!