Safe Non-toxic School

As parents start shopping for school supplies in time for the opening of classes next month, a waste and pollution watchdog has called on concerned government authorities to conduct a random testing of school supplies for chemicals which may be harmful to their children.

        At the same time, Mother Earth Foundation EcoWaste Coalition also cautioned parents in their choice of bags, notebooks and other school supplies that have proliferated in shopping malls which may be hazardous to one’s health.  “It is the responsibility of parents to make informed choices that will protect their children, who are most vulnerable to chemical exposure, from toxins that are lurking in school supplies that they use every day,” Sonia Mendoza, a retired chemist and a member of the Mother Earth Foundation and the EcoWaste Coalition, said.  cont...

 Toxic chemicals in our children's schools are a big concern for me as a parent and a teacher as well.  To do our share, we consciously use organic and non-toxic cleaners in our school.  It might cost a little more but you can't put a price on our student's health.  

These are some examples.  They're so simple, you can do it at home too. 

• We use natural products for cleaning agents such as baking soda, soda ash, vinegar, and cream of tarter. A variety of nontoxic products can be found in health food stores and some supermarkets. 

• We only use genuine Citronella or Lemongrass oils to ward off mosquitoes.  We never ever use the conventional bugsprays available.  

• We check labels carefully and keep all hazardous products well-marked and away from children. Check to see if  school  appliances, toys, and learning materials are hazardous. 

• We import our paints from a manufacturer in the US.  We are guaranteed its safe, washable and non-toxic.  As much as possible, we refrain from buying paint made in China because we are just not sure about its safety.  

• The same goes for crayons and other coloring materials.  We recommend Crayola and Rose Art products because their companies undergo strict monitoring from government agencies.

• We keep our playing and learning areas, including the kitchen and bathroom, clean and safe.

How about you?   How do you make sure your kids are toxic free?