I became interested in green living before I had my first child, but since the birth of my daughter; I realized the even great impact for the need to protect our environment and our planet. As parents, we are given the enormous responsibility in rearing of our child to raise a compassionate, fulfilled individual, but what’s more important is our role as the guardian of this planet we are entrusted with. Although we as a society might put that care aside or even completely abandon it; I truly believe that we DO and CAN make a difference. Fortunately, I am not the only one who feels this way. A mother and a geneticist, Maggie Zhou headed to Washington, DC to attend Monday’s U.S. Senate hearing on climate change policy. Zhou is paying for the trip with her own money because “I felt I had to be in the same room with the people who are going to make a decision that will determine the kind of world my daughter will live in.”

Zhou is a mother of five year old daughter, but not only is she a mother; she is a scientist as well. Trained as a geneticist, Zhou began digging dipper into the Climate issue by researching scientific reports and discussing her findings with colleagues who specialized in Climate Change. With further exploration, she was convinced that much more had to be done to protect the Earth’s climate. In a press release by Massachusetts Coalition for Healthy Communities, Zhou used the scientific understanding she acquired to open a dialogue with national environmental groups and some of the leaders of the climate protection movement.

“The science shows that we may have a critical window of only a few years to take action before planetary processes take the matter out of humanity’s control and bring on catastrophic warming. Congress needs to get this right now if children like my own are to have a future.”

According to Zhou, the recently passed energy bill in Washington, The American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) is an insufficient solution to the quickly escalating energy crisis that we as a nation will soon face. “This bill does as much harm as good, and in many ways it ties our hands by doing so many favors for the fossil fuel lobby.”

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One of my absolute favorites is the Weleda Everon Lip Balm. As the lip balm queen who has tried every jar, tube, and stick imaginable, this is the creme de la creme of lip moisturizers without the hefty price tag. Weleda Everon is ultra nourishing with ingredients like Jojoba oil, Shea Butter, and precious Rose wax. Should I mention that it’s also 100% natural and all Organic?

• It’s also Petroleum-free. Did you know most lip creams still use a petroleum base.
• Contain no artificial preservatives, colors or fragrances
• Cruelty-free

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I was fortunate enough to have professional make up artists as friends. They told me the industry secrets as well as tips of looking beautiful or  at least well put together. Almost all of the make up artists I have come across stressed the importance of a good foundation. A good foundation provided the “canvas” in which the make up become the paint that either contoured or highlighted a face. And since foundations usually covers the entire face; it is essential that this foundation is not only a good primer, but good for your skin as well.

Miessence Translucent Foundation heeds this call in a very good way. It’s a pure and natural make-up that is made with certified Organic ingredients. Best of all; Miessence foundation provides a light yet flawless coverage that’s perfect during the daytime; but worthy of night time consideration with a finishing powder.  Other reasons why you might want to consider Miessence foundation:

• Made with the pure ingredients that are SO good for your skin. I love the herbal like smell that is void of toxic chemicals. You would be surprised what’s REALLY in traditional cosmetics. FDA doesn’t regulate make-ups, so it’s a free for all within that industry.
• Protects against pollution, UV rays and free radicals.
• Looks natural in any light; it is a sheer light coverage that looks NATURAL. Evens out skin tone which is what you want a foundation to do. Caked on, and it starts to look like a mask.
• Keeps skin hydrated and protected throughout the day. Contains the added benefits of organic, nourishing seed and fruit oils.

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  ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2009/06/16/miessence-organic-foundation-is-the-perfect-primer-that-is-also-good-to-your-skin/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/10/bpa-free-boon-bendable-baby-spoon-is-helpful-to-those-who-are-learning-to-feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/10/bpa-free-boon-bendable-baby-spoon-is-helpful-to-those-who-are-learning-to-feed/#comments Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:30:09 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/10/bpa-free-boon-bendable-baby-spoon-is-helpful-to-those-who-are-learning-to-feed/ Boon Benders are the perfect eating utensils for your toddler. There will come a time when your baby or toddler will graduate the infant spoon yet doesn’t have the mouth big enough for an adult spoon. That was my problem. I couldn’t use the infant spoon because it wouldn’t hold anything yet the adult spoon wouldn’t fit into Laylas mouth. Then walking around BabysRUs looking for a carseat; I found these little gem. Of course when I saw a big sign that read BPA, Pthalate and PVC free on the package; I didn’t hesitate to purchase one. Extra kudos for how modern and fabulous it looks.

  The Boon Benders are designed with self feeding {or self attempting to self feed} toddlers in mind.

  Benders adaptable utensils were designed to help make the transition to regular utensils a little easier. Parents can position the adjustable end to the perfect angle to accommodate the child’s grip. As motor skills develop, adjust little by little, until straightened.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/10/bpa-free-boon-bendable-baby-spoon-is-helpful-to-those-who-are-learning-to-feed/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/09/plan-toys-baby-walker-is-the-perfect-toy-to-encourage-budding-infants/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/09/plan-toys-baby-walker-is-the-perfect-toy-to-encourage-budding-infants/#comments Wed, 10 Jun 2009 02:24:51 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/09/plan-toys-baby-walker-is-the-perfect-toy-to-encourage-budding-infants/ I always intended to get Layla the Haba Baby Walker Wagon, but starting at $150; it was an expensive purchase that I hesitated over. I am so happy I hesitated, because I came across Plan Toys baby walker that we totally love {great sustainable and safe toy company}. The Plan Toys baby walker is sustainable, because its material is composed of all natural Organic recycled Rubber Wood. The traditional walker is sturdy, comes in natural and primary colors to encourage visual play, and best of all; it also comes with a set of 24 very substantial and colorful blocks. This is the PERFECT toy for budding walkers, but can also be great for toddlers too.

  Some of the features of the Plan Toys Baby Walker:

  • There are two adjustable height for infants as well as for toddlers.
  • And I mentioned previously, it does come with a set of blocks. If you have seen how much a set of blocks costs these days; you know that this is a huge perk. These are some serious blocks and very large sized; so no worries about a choking hazard. If the walker does not; then the blocks will provide entertainment for hours.  Block toys are one the greatest toys to encourage learning and creativity.
  • Made in Thailand out of sustainable and recycled rubber wood
  • Has gotten accolades from other moms which is always reassuring

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/09/plan-toys-baby-walker-is-the-perfect-toy-to-encourage-budding-infants/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/phthalates-used-in-plastics-and-beauty-products-can-weaken-bones/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/phthalates-used-in-plastics-and-beauty-products-can-weaken-bones/#comments Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:32:12 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/phthalates-used-in-plastics-and-beauty-products-can-weaken-bones/ We have been educating concerned parents about the effects of Phthalates here at Eco Child’s Play. Well studies now show that it is more harmful than what scientists have originally thought. According to Environmental Health News, Phthalates may soften and even weaken bones. “Phthalates used in plastics and beauty products can trigger bone cell death, finds this animal study. Phthalates provoke DNA damage that can lead to bone cell death”, researchers said in a study published by Journal of Cellular Biochemistry.

  This study shows how a low-dose exposure to two types of commonly found phthalates has a profound effect on bone cells. Based on the results, long-term exposure to phthalates could have devastating effects on developing bones in young bodies and accelerate deterioration in aging bones. Estrogen deficiency is responsible for a number of bone diseases such as osteoporosis. For this reason, many are concerned about the effects of phthalate exposure on bone health.

  Phthalates are plasticizers which are used to add flexibility to plastics. It has been the common ingredient in everyday items like food containers, baby bottles, and packaging for beauty products. Known as as a reproductive or endocrine disruptor; it is slowly being phased out by United States and European nations, but unfortunately, not quickly enough. Even more dangerous is the fact that Phthalates are used in a large variety of products including children’s toys. “Phthalate use is widespread. Phthalates are commonly found in household items made of plastics and in health and beauty products.  Some products with phthalates include toys, vinyl flooring, plastic medical tubing, shower curtains and personal care products such as shampoo, hair sprays and detergents.”

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/phthalates-used-in-plastics-and-beauty-products-can-weaken-bones/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/the-journey-of-a-green-girl-and-a-first-time-mom-breastfeeding-beyond-first-year/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/the-journey-of-a-green-girl-and-a-first-time-mom-breastfeeding-beyond-first-year/#comments Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:30:01 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/the-journey-of-a-green-girl-and-a-first-time-mom-breastfeeding-beyond-first-year/

  Writers Note: I wrote Breastfeeding Experience from A Green Girl and First Time Mom …
  soon after my daughter was born to chronicle my beginning journey as a first time mother and a breastfeeding one. This is a follow up as a mother of a 14 month old and still a breastfeeding mother.

  The American Pediatric Association* recommends breastfeeding for at least a year, but the World Health Organization** wants the nursing mother to go longer to two years minimum; longer if the mother and baby wishes. However, when Layla’s first birthday was approaching {and some way before that}; I got asked that dreaded question, “How long do you intend to nurse?” by well meaning relatives, friends, and even strangers. Good question. I gave myself a year tops to devote to the art of breastfeeding. I just couldn’t see myself being my baby’s feeding station longer than that, but now at fourteen months; we are still breastfeeding with no intentions to wean anytime soon.

  The beginning of our breastfeeding journey like for many new mother was rocky with lots of ups and downs. There were days when I wondered how I would make it up to a year; climbing a Mount Everest seemed liked an easier feat. With engorged breast, cracked nipples, and gushing milk that sprayed my baby’s face due to overactive let down; the first weeks {even months} were the most challenging. Oddly enough, as time went on; breastfeeding got much easier. I can honestly say that decision to breastfeed and continue to breastfeed was the best decision I made as parent. It really is the holy grail of parenting. I remember during my six week check up, the prenatal nurse confided in me that she nursed for years. She whispered to me with sincere conviction, “There really is nothing like it.”

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/08/the-journey-of-a-green-girl-and-a-first-time-mom-breastfeeding-beyond-first-year/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/06/happy-baby-foods-are-the-healthy-and-nutritious-alternative-to-baby-jar-foods/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/06/happy-baby-foods-are-the-healthy-and-nutritious-alternative-to-baby-jar-foods/#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2009 13:23:46 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/06/happy-baby-foods-are-the-healthy-and-nutritious-alternative-to-baby-jar-foods/

  I thought I would be one of those mothers who would lovingly home make all the baby food. I sniffed at the idea of baby food in the jar. Why would I ever want to feed my baby THAT? I got a copy of Super Baby Food, read through it and smugly declared that I would never resort to feeding my baby those unhealthy commercialized baby products… Organic or not. Of course, reality set in once I became a mom. Days when just doing one more thing was an impossible task, I begrudgingly reached for those Organic baby food jars at our local grocery store with a heavy guilty conscious. On my defense, I did try to make homemade baby food, but Layla turned her head and longingly looked at the baby food jars. So even she agreed that my calling was not to be a home cooking mom.

  Well there’s a healthy compromise with the HAPPYBABY frozen baby meals. Aptly tag-lined, “Think Outside the Jar” It’s a great alternative to busy, very tired, or cooking challenged moms. Instead of processed jar food, you get fresh but frozen food that is delicious as well as nutritious. All the ingredients are Organic. There are vegan and vegetarian option as well as organic meat for carnivores {which we are}. “HAPPYBABY was born when we saw the need for nutritious and convenient alternatives to highly processed baby food. We believe baby’s first meals should taste and look delicious—and nourish baby’s body”. Should I mention that it is endorsed by Doctor Sears {who is my go to person on parenting}.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/06/happy-baby-foods-are-the-healthy-and-nutritious-alternative-to-baby-jar-foods/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/05/born-free-sippy-cups-are-the-perfect-bpa-phthalates-and-pvc-free-cups/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/05/born-free-sippy-cups-are-the-perfect-bpa-phthalates-and-pvc-free-cups/#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2009 07:13:20 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/05/born-free-sippy-cups-are-the-perfect-bpa-phthalates-and-pvc-free-cups/

  Although I really loved the idea and the look of a stainless steel sippy cup {like the Foogo}; EC did point out that they would probably maim someone should it be used as a missile by an upset toddler. Case in point, I got whacked in the head with a sippy cup today, but it was the BPA free Born Free sippy cup so it didn’t maim, just hurt for a second. We are a Born Free fanatics here. We used to have the Born Free baby bottle {although ours was glass}, then we got the Born Free pacifier, and now we are using the Born Free sippy cups. I love this sippy cup.

  Born Free is a company that is well known to provide safe and workable solutions to baby feeding. They are thoughtfully made with the baby in mind. It’ is designed well for convenience and best of all; it’s all BPA free. Another case in point, additional drinking sprouts can be purchased so if one wears thin because of a teething baby {like ours}; just replace the sprout and not the entire cup.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/05/born-free-sippy-cups-are-the-perfect-bpa-phthalates-and-pvc-free-cups/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/21/natural-and-gentle-bath-time-with-belli-baby-calm-me-body-wash/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/21/natural-and-gentle-bath-time-with-belli-baby-calm-me-body-wash/#comments Fri, 22 May 2009 06:11:53 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/21/natural-and-gentle-bath-time-with-belli-baby-calm-me-body-wash/

  There is always so calming about baths. Maybe it’s a reminder of our time in the womb when we floated freely and without worry. Regardless of the reason, it’s also a great way to create night time ritual and connect at the end of the busy day. I can not say enough good things about baths, so it is especially important to have the most natural and non-toxic cleanser for the tiniest of tots since they will be immersed in it.

  Of course, almost all baby product companies claim their products are “natural” and “pure” but this seems to be more of a misleading advertisement rather than their commitment to bring safe products to consumers who don’t have the time or desire to do more than read the label that states it is, and so it must be. (That’s why there are sites like Eco Child’s Play to provide education on that… but I digress). It doesn’t help when FDA refuses to take a stance on reproductive disruptors like Phthalates and BPA.

  But as with any darkness, there comes hope. Created by a physician who wanted only the very best for his then pregnant wife; Dr. Jason Rubin with his wife created Belli Skin Care, a line of natural prenatal and baby products that didn’t contain the dreaded Phthalates as well as other “xenoestrogens– ingredients which can act like hormones and interfere with normal development of the reproductive system”. The essential cleansing ingredient is coconut oil with some essential oil extract like Calendula and chamomile, both which have soothing qualities.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/05/21/natural-and-gentle-bath-time-with-belli-baby-calm-me-body-wash/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/18/thera-wise-natural-therapeutic-ointments-are-available-at-your-local-cvs/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/18/thera-wise-natural-therapeutic-ointments-are-available-at-your-local-cvs/#comments Wed, 18 Feb 2009 14:00:22 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/18/thera-wise-natural-therapeutic-ointments-are-available-at-your-local-cvs/

  I was lamenting the day we would run out of our Thera Wise Homeopathic and Natural ointments. We have been using them religiously for every scrape and burns. The Zit Ointment has become EC’s favorite, but being that the company is from Canada; I didn’t think we would be ordering more when we ran out. Well, Thera Wise must have read my mind because now Thera Wise is available at CVS online store. I can say that I am extremely happy to hear this. I am a huge fan of natural stuff THAT WORKS, and Thera Wise definitely works. It’s made from botanical and pure of toxins that are in so many over the counter medication today. It’s alarming what we are really putting on our skins and that we are so clueless about it.

  A company that is not only committed to your health but to the Environment as well. Thera Wise stresses, “Utmost consideration is given to the selection of naturally-occurring “body-friendly” source ingredients, low impact manufacturing processes, and environmental sensitivity.” After using their products for months, I have to say that this household is a huge fan. Currently, only the VpR Natural Vaporizing Rub (THE perfect replacement for Vicks) and Thera Wise HmR Natural Hemorrhoidal Ointment is available at CVS. Hopefully they will be adding on the Skin Healing and Acne Oinment very soon.

  So go, I mean sit down and with a click of a mouse; order these healthier substitutes for over the counter creams and medications. They are worthy of the  shipping charges (since it’s online, probably will save on taxes so it works out). It’s really that good.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/18/thera-wise-natural-therapeutic-ointments-are-available-at-your-local-cvs/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/17/check-out-the-bpa-free-first-silicone-baby-bottle-from-prince-lionheart/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/17/check-out-the-bpa-free-first-silicone-baby-bottle-from-prince-lionheart/#comments Wed, 18 Feb 2009 04:15:19 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/17/check-out-the-bpa-free-first-silicone-baby-bottle-from-prince-lionheart/

  After all the hoopla about BPA in 2008, a worthy hoopla, but hoopla nevertheless; I have been in search for the perfect baby bottle. Not that we really need one. I am a breastfeeding mother, but I think of all the mothers who decide to go on formula (or maybe a break from Breastfeeding once in awhile) and want the safest option for them. There have been many reviews here on Eco Child’s Play about BPA free baby bottles, and I would like to add another one to the mix.

  Introducing the first Silicone baby bottle from Prince Lionheart, it’s an option for those mothers who do not like glass or want to ditch plastics altogether. Starting at about nine dollars a pop, the price point is very similar to other BPA free bottles, maybe a bit more affordable. Made with medical grade silicone, it is considered more safe than any polycarbonate or bottles made out of synthetic materials. According to Twilight Moon, one of the suppliers for the bottle, “The plastic ring, collar and cap are made of FDA-approved food grade material and contain no polycarbonates or BPA”. It is suppose to be colic reducing but all the baby bottle companies make that claim; it’s hard to really know for sure. So take that with a grain of salt. However, other reasons why you might want to consider Prince Lion Silicone Baby Bottle:
  

  • BPA, Phthalate, PVC latex and lead FREE
  • Unbreakable
  • Microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe
  • Easy to Clean
  • Heat-resistant

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/17/check-out-the-bpa-free-first-silicone-baby-bottle-from-prince-lionheart/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/02/say-good-bye-to-baby-wipes-and-say-hello-to-miessence-baby-bottom-cleansing-gel/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/02/say-good-bye-to-baby-wipes-and-say-hello-to-miessence-baby-bottom-cleansing-gel/#comments Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:26:54 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/02/say-good-bye-to-baby-wipes-and-say-hello-to-miessence-baby-bottom-cleansing-gel/

  Cloth Diapering is often the choice for Eco-friendly moms; it keeps diapers out of the landfills, but we often overlook the disposable baby wipes. Now you have the option to go with cloth wipes with Miessence Baby Bottom Cleansing Gel.

  It is the perfect accompaniment to cloth diapering and keeping paper out of landfills. Also with harsh chemicals that disposeable wipes are laden with; it’s also a natural and healthy choice. Being certified Organic is an extra plus. According to Miessence:

  A very gentle, yet effective cleanser for nappy change time. Soothing organic marshmallow, chamomile and calendula clam and soothe baby’s sensitive skin. Organic aloe vera inner leaf gel and yucca juice gently cleanse and soothe baby’s bottom. A hint of organic vanilla helps neutralize odors. Gentle enough for newborns.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/02/02/say-good-bye-to-baby-wipes-and-say-hello-to-miessence-baby-bottom-cleansing-gel/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/11/13/naturally-nursling-provides-green-baby-products-and-hemp-baby-carriers/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/11/13/naturally-nursling-provides-green-baby-products-and-hemp-baby-carriers/#comments Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:30:12 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/11/13/naturally-nursling-provides-green-baby-products-and-hemp-baby-carriers/

  I have taken a sabbatical from writing to focus on raising my little bean and trying to be a better mother to my daughter. During my leave, I had the fortunate opportunity to reach out to some Work at Home Mothers who are Eco-conscious and also saavy business women. Starting with this post, I am going to highlight some of the WAHMs I was happy to come across. I would like to support their endeavor because they are working from home to raise their children who gets the best of both worlds by having a stay at home mother who also has the ability to earn an income. (Not to knock on working mothers because I am sure it’s hard to leave your little ones behind) but also because in most instances; WAHMs suppport local economy by employeeing their community and offering them fair wages.

  Erika from Naturally Nursling offers natural and green products for Eco-conscious parenting. But futhermore, she offers Hemp Tai Baby carriers that is made with Eco wonder fiber hemp  and Organic cotton which is well touted for its sustainable and renewable characteristics. The Hemp Tais are comfortable, well-made, and a must have for baby wearing parents. I have written about the virtues of baby wearing, and encourage any parent to start this wonderful endeavor. It’s a way to keep your baby close to you while going on with your daily activities. The Hemp Tais are a variation of mei tai which is considered an Asian Inspired baby carriers. Used extensively in China; it has a waist, panel, and long straps that tie around the baby’s back and bum.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/11/13/naturally-nursling-provides-green-baby-products-and-hemp-baby-carriers/feed/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/09/15/yes-to-carrots-organic-body-care-line-is-rich-and-creamy-but-good-for-the-planet/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/09/15/yes-to-carrots-organic-body-care-line-is-rich-and-creamy-but-good-for-the-planet/#comments Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:55:37 +0000 Susie Kim http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/09/15/yes-to-carrots-organic-body-care-line-is-rich-and-creamy-but-good-for-the-planet/

  Yes to Carrots introduces a body care line that includes shampoo, body wash, ultra luxe moisturizers and even FIrst USDA certified lip balms widely available at your local drugstore. Using materials only sourced from Organic farmers, Yes to Carrots use natural ingredients like Carrots rich in beta carotene and Dead Sea mud and minerals. Their products are rich and creamy; unlike many organic beauty products that smells herbally and a bit crunchy granola. At first, I was a bit taken back at its unherbal like scent; but soon enjoyed it smooth creaminess that borders on luxurious. C Through the Dry Spell Body Butter is incredibly moisturizing even to my very very dry almost arid skin.

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  ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/09/15/yes-to-carrots-organic-body-care-line-is-rich-and-creamy-but-good-for-the-planet/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/ecovers-delicate-wash-laundry-detergent-is-tough-on-dirt-but-gentle-to-the-planet-and-clothes/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/ecovers-delicate-wash-laundry-detergent-is-tough-on-dirt-but-gentle-to-the-planet-and-clothes/#comments Tue, 09 Sep 2008 23:51:14 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/ecovers-delicate-wash-laundry-detergent-is-tough-on-dirt-but-gentle-to-the-planet-and-clothes/

  Although we are a Charlie’s Soap loving household; they are hard to come by. We usually have to order it online. So when we run out and need a laundry detergent; we turn to Ecover’s Ecological Delicate Wash Laundry Wash. It’s gentle on the planet but tough on cleaning. We even wash our cloth diapers in Ecover (with Bac-Out by Biokleen). LIke Seventh Generation, Ecover is a well known Environmentally friendly company that stands on its brand reputation. What we love about Ecover is that its relatively affordable for a family on a budget (like us) and its wide availability. It used to be available in the Natural and Organic section at our local grocer. Since our move to South Florida; we do have to trek to Whole Foods, but it’s worth it. We like to browse the bulk aisle while we are there.

  Reasons to Love Ecover Delicate Wash

  • It’s good on fragile materials like silk and wool. Great to wash wool covers with.
  • No petrochemical ingredients. Only plant based ingredients which reduces our dependence on petroleum
  • No phosphates or brighteners (Not necessary to get clothes clean; I can assure you)
  • Cruelty Free
  • Ecover is a trusted brand for green and natural products. (No Greenwashing here)

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/ecovers-delicate-wash-laundry-detergent-is-tough-on-dirt-but-gentle-to-the-planet-and-clothes/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/finding-the-wrapping-love-with-didymos-the-organic-woven-baby-carrier/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/finding-the-wrapping-love-with-didymos-the-organic-woven-baby-carrier/#comments Tue, 09 Sep 2008 22:43:56 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/finding-the-wrapping-love-with-didymos-the-organic-woven-baby-carrier/

  I am a big advocate of baby wearing and either I or my significant other wear our daughter on a daily basis. Studies and experts have proved that baby wearing encourages natural bonding and it’s a great colic reducer. If you have a fussy or a high needs baby defined by Dr. Sears; then baby wearing is a must. Wrapping is a type of baby carrier that seems to have a highly emotional attachment both to the mother and the baby. Like a big blanket or comforter that comforts; wrapping is a great way to keep your baby close to you while leaving your hands free to do other things. Wrapping is an art that is used by many indigenous countries; however it has taken modern societies by a storm. Mothers who wrap can attest, there’s an invisible cord of attachment that surrounds the act of wrapping.

  Didymos, a german company that produces these beautiful woven wraps, are the best of the best in the world of woven wraps. Didymos, a company started by Erika Hoffman in 1972 makes the finest wrap that utilizes organic fabrics such as wool, cotton, and even silk. Didymos also released a limited edition of ultra luxe cashmere wrap that’s highly sought after.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/09/finding-the-wrapping-love-with-didymos-the-organic-woven-baby-carrier/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/create-natural-bonding-time-by-wearing-your-baby/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/create-natural-bonding-time-by-wearing-your-baby/#comments Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:39:51 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/create-natural-bonding-time-by-wearing-your-baby/
  The buzz word in parenting nowadays seem to be “bonding” and nurturing that bonding can be a lasting effect on having a loving and connected relationship with your child. I am all for bonding; therefore, I am also into baby wearing. Baby wearing has been done for centuries and even dates thousands of years. Hard to know that a carriage or a stroller is a modern invention. The plastic contraption that wheels your baby around is actually counter-productive to this phenomenon called bonding. But I digress, We have a stroller and we happily use it. However, I do notice that we are naturally more connected to our daughter when we baby wear Layla. 

  So what exactly is baby wearing? Baby wearing is exactly that. Wearing your baby to your body. There are numerous ways to achieve this. A Psling to a long wrap (pictured above) can achieve baby wearing. Many primitive cultures baby wear and scientists have discovered that in those societies, colic is virtually non-existent. Keeping your baby close to you also have great benefits. It frees up your hands so you can get on with your life, WITH the baby in tow. One of the most inspiring thing I heard was from Ergo Baby DVD. A woman worked FULL TIME while keeping her baby in the Ergo Baby. I must say that I was highly impressed with this. Anyone with a newborn knows; there are days when taking a shower is a struggle. So imagine working full time while wearing your baby. This is one of the tenants of attachment style parenting which I am a proponent of. I knew from the beginning that I would baby wear perhaps because It was so common in Korea, seeing halmonies (grandmothers) carrying their grandchildren on their back wearing a podeigi (a korean style wrap). So it was ingrained into my brain that this is what I would be doing when I grew up and had children.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/create-natural-bonding-time-by-wearing-your-baby/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/introducing-solids-are-healthier-and-more-natural-with-earths-best-organic-oatmeal-and-rice-cereal/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/introducing-solids-are-healthier-and-more-natural-with-earths-best-organic-oatmeal-and-rice-cereal/#comments Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:05:40 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/introducing-solids-are-healthier-and-more-natural-with-earths-best-organic-oatmeal-and-rice-cereal/

  Has it been five months already? I feel like time has flown since Layla was born. We have reached another milestone because my little one is ready for her solids. I know that that most health experts (including Amercian Academy of Pediatrics) NOW recommends breastmilk or formula for the first six months, but quite frankly; I got tired of Layla eyeballing me whenever I put something to eat in my mouth. Feeding experts like experienced moms recommend that you can start your little one on solids if the baby starts mooching. Like Layla eyeballing my Tiramisu the other day… and no, she didn’t get any. What she did get was the Earth’s Best Organic Whole Grain Infant Cereals. I know many start off on rice but a friend of mine informed me that oatmeal is gentler on the stomach. This was according to her pediatrician, not the friend. Although the friend is a wealth of resources on babies and good resources too. I decided to go with Oatmeal on her and her pediatrician’s recommendation. 

   

  The Earth’s Best Organic has no genetically modified ingredients and it’s certified by the USDA as organic. Why do I choose Organic? A lot of my friends and family asks me that. The reason I choose organic as much as possible is because it’s farming methods are gentler to the planet. It uses less pesticide and uses more humane methods that doesn’t erode soil and shoots up steroids to the animal to beef up the production. No pun intended. Reading from the back of the box, Earth’s Best Organic states

  The long term effects of potentially harmful pesticide residues are not fully understood, but we do know that the risks are real, especially for infants and children. That’s why Earth’s Best brings to you only organic foods grown without potentially harmful pesticides or herbicides. Earth’s Best is also made without genetically engineered ingredients.

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  ]]> http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/07/introducing-solids-are-healthier-and-more-natural-with-earths-best-organic-oatmeal-and-rice-cereal/feed/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/04/have-a-haba-and-play-time-is-endless-with-baby-bear-ankle-and-wrist-rattle/ http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/04/have-a-haba-and-play-time-is-endless-with-baby-bear-ankle-and-wrist-rattle/#comments Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:40:36 +0000 Susie Kim http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/09/04/have-a-haba-and-play-time-is-endless-with-baby-bear-ankle-and-wrist-rattle/

  We really love our Haba Toys. They are safe, fun, and out of the ordinary. The brainchild from Germany creates the most delightful and engaging toys for infants and children. I can tell we are going to have a long love affair with Haba. After our resounding success with the Haba Stroller Chain; we decided to purchase another Haba Toy. We bought this little delightful Haba Baby Bear Ankle and Wrist Rattler. It attaches like a bracelet so you won’t lose it and it won’t fall to the dirty ground. The rattle makes a pleasant noise, and not jarring; the problem I had with toys nowadays. It’s plush which is great for teething. The smiling bear seems to incite a smile even from the fussiest baby. We love rattling it ourselves when our little one won’t settle down. It seems to work, because she stops fussing and starts laughing.

  This infant toy is appropriate toy for newborn but is probably best when babies can reach and grab on his or her own. According to Oompa Toy; The Baby Bear Ben rattling bracelet nurtures
  these developments

  • Creative Expression
  • Early Motor
  • Sensory
  • Social/Emotional
  • Independent Play

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