Still, I know I can’t shield my son from other lifestyle choices I find obnoxious. The best I can hope for is to establish, as early as possible, healthful and responsible — both personally and environmentally — habits that will set him on the right course over his lifetime. That, and finely-honed critical-thinking skills, will, I hope, guide him well over the years to come.

I try not to be overbearing about it, though. There are other parents, though, who insist their children follow a strictly vegan diet, no matter where they’re visiting or with whom they’re socializing. Other Moms and Dads prohibit gun toys, french fries, ice cream or any TV. I also remember once reading about a couple who kept the whole family, young children included, on a severely fat-restricted diet … which many experts say is a dangerous experiment on developing minds and bodies.

So how much is too much when it comes to teaching children habits for healthy, green living? I’m interested to know what others, especially parents with children of different ages from mine, have to say.