Washington Toxics Coalition offers some great information with regard to choosing safer, organic products for your children. With all of the recent news related to the toxic effects of chemicals used in plastics and lead found in many toys, it’s important to educate yourself as to what products are the best choices in order to avoid the most dangerous chemical ingredients and protect your children. Some of the highlights from Safe Start for Kids are:

Arts and Crafts

Choose child-safe items that have the Non-Toxic Seal from the Art & Creative Materials Institute

Select water-based, unscented paints and markers

A Sample Healthy Craft Kit for Kids: Children’s crayons, Colored pencils, Glue stick and/or white glue,, Water-based markers, Water-based children’s paints, Colored paper, Fabric pieces, Yarn, Stamps and water-based ink pads, Scissors (age-appropriate), Adhesive tape

Feeding

Avoid bottles and sippy cups made from Polycarbonate Plastics (see my previous post for safe choices such as Born Free)

Use silicone nipples and pacifiers

Store breast milk in glass, cloudy plastic, or breast milk storage bags

Store food in plastics number 1, 2, 4, or 5 as marked in the center of the recycling symbol (on the bottom)

Clothing

Choose PVC-free materials and avoid vinyls

Avoid clothing that is chemically treated with pesticides and stain guards

Toys

Check a product’s safety rating on HealthyToys.org

Choose plastic-free toys when possible

Avoid children’s metal jewelry and small magnetic pieces

Personal Care

Check the Toxic Rating of Your Bath and Cosmetic Products

Buy California Baby or other organic baby products

Avoid anti-bacterial hand soaps

Tags: green products, healthy crafts, healthy toys, organic, organic personal care, pesticides, plastic-free, pthalates, pvc, toxic for children