Green Options

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Who wouldn’t want eco-safe threads and accessories for their babe? It is exciting to see new green companies targeting family needs growing on the Internet.

One such new company is NewBornMom, which features many cute, eco-friendly goods, as well as 100% eco-friendly gift wrap! Plus, they are offering our readers 10% off all purchases until March 31, 2008 (promo code: ecoplay).

NewBornMom was founded by Aliette Fenton-Sharp and Fernanda Pinzon, both new moms. After having difficulty finding elegant, trendy and environmentally safe essentials for their newborn daughters, they founded the store. This online store features goods meticulously selected by Aliette and Fernanda that they would use with their own babies.

The company supports Fair Labor Trade regulations, and every item offered is made in proper working environments. NewBornMom uses only recycled office, shipping and gift-wrap supplies; “we pride-ourselves in being a relatively paper-free company as most of our business is conducted via e-mail”, states Aliette.

Six years ago, when my daughter was a baby, there was very little available in organic, affordable clothing for children. Thankfully, that has changed. A new company called Happy Green Bee is offering organic, fair trade, sustainably produced cotton clothing for infants and toddlers. The company was founded by mother, conservationist, and Burt’s Bees founder Roxanne Quimby.

Happy Green Bee clothing comes in bright, colorful patterns. Not only is their clothing line cheerful, comfortable, and playful, but it is also ecologically responsible. Founder Roxanne Quimby explains,

We created Happy Green Bee so that a child can be a child, first and foremost. By using organic cotton, a comfortable and practical fabric, and simple bee-striped patterns, children feel as comfortable as they look, while their parents take a small step in making a big difference in the environment their children will live in.

Magic Cabin offers this delightful version of an old-fashioned folk toy for about $17.00. The Mushroom Maypole moves when wound up, spinning back and forth, while it bounces up and down. I am truly fascinated with the movement, as are both of my children. The Mushroom Maypole is rated for children three years and older, but I have found that babies enjoy staring at it and are likewise fascinated by [...]

When a baby is born, it is so pure and natural, yet will soon be exposed to all of the harsh chemicals of the modern world. It is true that babies are exposed to some toxins in utero and through breastmilk, but this exposure is limited and mostly out of the control of parents. What is in the control of new parents are the kind of products they use on their baby, and of course, [...]

The benefit of breastfeeding for children and their mothers is common knowledge, but is breastfeeding better for the environment? I was recently asked this question in response to Bill Maher’s criticism of public breastfeeding and Facebook’s refusal to post pictures of breastfeeding mothers. In honor of today’s Breast Fest, hosted by the League of Maternal Justice, I will explore the issues of breastfeeding and the environment.

According to EcoMall, “Breastfeeding is probably [...]

You may have noticed a new affiliate in our side bar: Tea Collection. Tea Collection offers unique fashions “for the little citizens of the world”. This inspiring San Francisco company is founded on the belief that,

“There is no better name for our brand than Tea. Tea, the drink, is shared in nearly every culture around the world—offering inspiration, warmth and mindfulness…We want [...]

Bamboo has been touted by the eco community for its sustainability, and I was excited to stumble upon Shirts of Bamboo. I contacted the company, as I have yet to venture into bamboo textiles for my family, and Shirts of Bamboo was gracious to send us two compressed bamboo towelettes. The towelettes are a very interesting, green product that may be useful for families.

Bamboo is a [...]

The Carrot Seed has just celebrated its 60th anniversary! This simple, almost Zen-like story tells of a young boy’s determination to grow a carrot, despite his family’s doubts and opposition. The little boy tends the seed, ever patient, keeping his expectations high. In the end, he is rewarded with a carrot so large, it has to be hauled with a wheelbarrow. Not only does this book teach [...]

Every parent’s worse nightmare is to find their infant dead after putting them to sleep, and often, cosleeping is portrayed by the media as dangerous practice. While watching the news at my father’s house, such a tragic death was discussed, and cosleeping was blamed. A child became trapped between the adult bed and the wall, and he lost his young life. The crying parents were featured on the news begging parents not to [...]

Yesterday, Cathy posted a comment and question that deserved its own post;
“Now that I have my baby, can you suggest any Mommy&Me DVDs? It’s the only way I’d be able to get some yoga into my day! Thanks in advance!”

Although I do not have any experience with DVDs or classes on the subject, I do have some personal experience. After taking a two week break from labor, [...]

Ebay can be a great place to buy wooden, handmade, vintage, or discount natural toys. Everything from blocks to trains to puzzles is available on Ebay. Some toys are used and some toys are new in their boxes. Ebay is also a great source for handmade Waldorf dolls.

If you are interested in learning how to save money while doing the laundry, please visit Green Options Tip o’ [...]