Spring 2013 issue of Green Child Magazine

3

rd

Annual

Baby Gear

Guide!

Gentle Discipline

For the Early Years Travel

Spring Break Safety Spring 2013

Celebrating

Earth Day! 1

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Contents 8 Eco Fab

Easter is almost here and we’re sharing a few of our favorite basket fillers!

10 Nutritional Nuggets

From picky eaters to supplements, expert Louise Goldberg has you covered!

12 Introducing Baby

Preparing the family for baby’s arrival.

15 Immunity Boosting Smoothie

This recipe is nutritious and delicious.

16 Look, Listen, Read

Our editors’ top picks in books, apps & more.

18 The More You Know Eco

Celebrating Earth Day 2013.

21 Nature Rocks!

Get a free downloadable activity guide to engage your children in some outdoor fun!

22 Cleaning for a Healthy Home

Simple tips for a healthier home, naturally.

26 Green Chid’s 3rd Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide!!!

We searched high and low for the

safest, most convenient and eco friendly baby items, so you don’t have

to. From nursing to babywearing and

diapers to bedding... we’ve got you covered.

Image by Sadi Junior Photography3

Contents 38 Guided Relaxation

82 DIY Tutorial

“Bubble Blower Magic”

40 Guide to Spring Sports

84 Community Marketplace

For the “green” mom.

42 Spring Break Safety

Travel tips for teens & young adults.

47 What’s in Season

Organic succulent garden for Earth Day!

Try out our delicious recipes featuring oranges and spinach!

A collection of artisan shops & resources for today’s green family.

86 Your Green Child

A peek into the lives of our readers.

51 Anni’s Conscious Kitchen

On The Cover

54 The 10 Easiest Veggies to Grow

3rd Annual Baby Gear Guide!

58 Fashion

Spring Break Safety p42

A fun new recipe for Spring.

From seed!

Featuring sustainable designs from Gaia Conception and Bohobo Collective.

62 Discipline for the Early Years

Ways to work with your child’s development to create natural harmony & stronger relationships.

68 Can I Breastfeed My Preemie?

p26

Gentle Discipline p62 Celebrate Earth Day! pgs.18 & 21

Information about breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact.

70 Screen Free Week

10 ideas for how to join in!

3 rd A nnual Ba

73 Ask Green Grandma

by Ge

Guide

Questions from our readers answered.

!

74 Make Fundraisers a Snap!

With eco-friendly options.

76 Bloom Where Planted

Creative spring planters.

78 Sacred Pregnancy

A Mother’s Blessing.

Gentl

e Disc ip For th e Earline ly Yea Trave rs l Spring Break Safety

Spring

Cover Photography by 4

ar

2013

LJHolloway Photography

Celeb

Earth

rating

Day!

Giving Diapers Giving Hope is a non-profit organization that provides education, support and cloth diapers to income qualified families in the continental United States with the help of donations from caring individuals and companies nationwide.

Photo by Kimberly Rosas

Learn more about this great organization and how you can help by visiting their website today!

www.givingdiapersgivinghope.org

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Publisher & Editor

Amity Hook-Sopko

Creative Director Amanda Hearn

Columnists

Mellisa Dormoy Anni Daulter Louise Goldberg, RD, CSP, LD, CNSC Hana Haatainen Caye

Ashely Allman Kelly Bartlett Sandy Kreps Jennie Lyon Lauren Taylor Jeannette Bezinque

Media & Other Inquiries

Allison Evans Lori Popkewitz Alper Claudia Looi Sara Chana Annabelle Absar

media@greenchildmagazine.com

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Image by George Lu

Contributors

from our publisher & editor On the farm behind our house is a clear, quiet lake. One late fall day when no leaves were blocking the view, my dad noticed it and said, “When I was a kid, I would have played by that lake till dark.”

I recalled a story of when he was 5 years old and fell through a frozen pond. He had been playing alone in the snow about half a mile from home. Somehow he managed to get himself out and back home where his mother put him in front of the stove to thaw his frozen clothes.

My mind raced thinking about our sons (ages 6 and 2 at the time) going off by themselves…

What if they fell in the water? What if a cow trampled them? What if a pack of coyotes came through during the day? Finally I crossed my arms and said, “Well, they can’t roam around over there. It’s not safe, and besides, it’s trespassing.”

He just looked at me and said, “Well, you went off in the woods by yourself and a coyote never carried you off. Kids need to explore.”

Thanks to Richard Louv’s book, Last Child in the Woods, and that conversation with my dad, I see how our fear as parents has changed the way our kids interact with nature.

It comes down to this… If kids are never allowed to explore and fall in love with nature first hand, they’ll never care enough to want to protect it.

This Earth Day – no matter the weather – get your kids outside. Smell the fresh breeze. Feel the sun, or the rain, on your skin. Get your hands dirty. And listen to the sound of birds singing… and your children laughing.

Amity 7

EcoFab

This Spring, fill your little ones’ baskets with gifts that are inspired by Mother Nature. Here are just a few of our favorite finds.

Honey Sticks!

These colorful beeswax crayons from Family Bedrock are hand made from New Zealand beeswax. Virtually unbreakable and no paraffin added. $16.95

Naturally Sweet

Sweeten Easter morning naturally. These raw honey packets are a fresh take on plasticpackaged Easter goodies. $11.50 for 10

Natural Egg Dying Kit

All edible Easter Egg Dyes, made with fruit and veggie powders and healthy enough to eat! $18 8

Vegan Friendly

Perfect for your vegan or non-dairy Easter basket, this little bunny is made with creamy dairy-free “milk� chocolate. $4

No Plastic Grass Here!

Who said that grass had to be trash? Grow your own basket filler! $24.99

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Nutritional Nuggets |by Louise Goldberg

Are the “whole food” supplements for sale at health stores and from salespeople safe for my family to take and are they worth it?

• Does she skip breakfast? Studies have

Whole food supplements differ from vitamins in that they are made directly from foods, specifically fruits and vegetables, without isolating individual nutrients. As a result, few labels will list the exact nutrients provided because it varies depending on the content of the original food sources. While some brands may provide a lot of research articles to back up their health benefit claims, they are considered a ‘dietary supplement’ and are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. They should not replace real fruits and vegetables in your child’s diet.

• Does she have a meal or snack every 3-4 hours? If she is overly hungry when food

It seems like my 8-year-old daughter tends to overeat at meals and snacks… sometimes as much as my husband or I would eat, and it is starting to affect her weight.

How can I talk to her about this without making her feel like she is doing something wrong?

• Are there distractions while she is eating? If she is watching TV or doing home-

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is finally presented to her, she may eat too quickly without allowing her satiety cues to kick in gear.

• Are her meals well-balanced (lean protein, whole grain, fruit, veg, dairy/dairy alternative)? If she doesn’t consume a variety of food at a meal or snack, for example just a bowl of noodles or a handful of pretzels, it will not fill her up for long.

work during meals or snacks, she may not be aware of how much she has eaten and when she is full.

If you have ruled out any physiological explanations, the next step would be to help your daughter understand more about ‘intuitive eating’, a philosophy that allows children (and adults) to have a better awareness of their body’s natural hunger and fullness cues. A Registered Dietitian can help guide you through this process.

Image by Amanda Medeiros

Jacquelyn Stern, RD of Annapolis Nutrition states there are two main reasons why people overeat: a physiological need and a psychological need.

While having an open discussion about food choices and portion sizes is not off limits, Jacquelyn suggests first ruling out any physical explanations for why your daughter is eating more.

shown that people who skip breakfast are more likely to overeat later in the day.

It seems like the only way to get my kids to eat their meals is to promise a dessert afterwards. Is this okay or should sweets off limits?

Desserts can be a normal part of life in moderation; however, receiving them should not be dependent upon finishing other food or completing a task. This assigns more value to sweets and associates food with rewards.

In general, keep the number of times sweets are offered to a minimum but once you have made the decision to serve them (e.g. Fridays are “dessert night�), let everyone enjoy it with no strings attached.

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Photography by Christy Hendrick | Simply Bliss Photography

Introducing Baby Preparing the Family for Baby’s Arrival

|by Jeannette Bezinque

Having a sibling is truly one of life’s greatest gifts. As parents, we can promote bonds between them that will last beyond our years. Depending on the age of the older child, there are several ways to involve a big brother or sister in baby’s early days.

Prepping for the Older Sibling Role

Even the youngest children recognize babies and are immediately drawn to their captivating smiles. Simple actions like pointing to a baby and then pointing to your belly while saying the word can get the message across. Other children respond well to roleplay with dolls. By showing actions like how to gently kiss a baby or put on a diaper, you can teach your child gentle ‘mothering’ skills. Little boys and girls also love babywearing, so fashion a sling out of a receiving blanket or look for a child sized version of the same carrier you will use.

The most important skills to teach older siblings in preparation for the new baby are independence, generosity, and love. Montessori lessons around the home are especially beneficial for fostering an independent spirit. A child who is eager to follow around the home and help with chores or fetch his/her own snacks is a great ally for a post-partum Mom. By teaching our children how to complete every-day tasks, we build confidence and self esteem. More importantly, we give them the skills necessary to play and learn on their own.

Simple activities like passing a ball back and forth or requesting a toy from a bin demonstrate generosity. Children enjoy the act of giving even more than receiving. Parents who sign with babies can work on please, thank you, and help around the 18-month phase. These signs facilitate communicating about needs and can be a huge asset when it comes to navigating toddler requests.

To encourage love among siblings, take time each day to talk about the members of the family. Repeat a phrase about love for each family member. Above all, use physical contact like tickles and hugs to build a wholesome connection.

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Introducing Baby

Adjusting to Mothering Two

At first, the biggest adjustment is letting go of the lead role in caring for your first child. This can be a great opportunity for your child to form a new level bond with your spouse or a grandparent. Since physical rest is necessary for at least two weeks and up to 6 weeks post-partum, the best thing to do is create a hands-on play space for your first child. Everything in the room should be ‘on-limits’ so that there is no need to get up to retrieve a curious or adventurous toddler.

In order to make nursing easier, keep an entertaining basket of quiet toys handy. By rotating the contents weekly they’ll continue to delight and engage your child. After nursing becomes routine with the new baby, invite the older sibling onto the couch and read stories together.

When this becomes a habit, your first child will look forward to the activity each day.

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Babywearing

Wearing a baby in a sling in the early days is a necessity when chasing after a toddler. Having your hands free makes it possible to play, feed, and clean up while baby enjoys a relaxing nap. In the early weeks, nurse the new baby each time he/she wakes. Wait a few minutes before changing the diaper, then envelope her back into the sling to rock her to sleep. Gradually, baby will begin to spend more time awake between each nap. However, this cycle works really well for as long as you feel comfortable wearing the baby.

Author Jeannette Bezinque is the mother of two girls under age two. She writes Eco Incognito www.ecoincognito.com about her experience parenting and going green. Her hands are full, but so is her heart.

Immunity Boosting

Smoothie

• 1 cup blueberries frozen • 1/2 cup mangoes frozen • 1 peeled fresh orange • 1 handful of spinach • 2-3 scoops of VacciShield • 1/2 cup of coconut milk Blend well and enjoy!

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Look Listen Read What Does It Mean To Be Green?

By Rana DiOrio

As a parent taking a natural approach to life, you’re already planting these seeds in your child. But it’s never too early to cultivate them with all the outside help you can get. This colorful, insightful story helps little ones view everyday tasks through an environmentallyfriendly lens. Best of all, it’s light and inspiring. $13 at Amazon

Encouraging Words for Kids

By Kelly Bartlett

Looking to raise an emotionally intelligent and secure child? Kelly Bartlett has written a concise, helpful book to help you do just that.

Intuitive parenting guides a child to trust her instincts and find her way with love and compassion. Bartlett honors the child’s growing sense of self and helps parents instill feelings of love and respect for themselves. $2.99 Digital Copy at Amazon

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Mommy! Mommy!

By Taro Gomi

A delightful addition to an Easter basket!

Taro Gomi’s newest board book follows two chicks on a quest to track down their mommy. But appearances can be deceiving, and the chicks stumble across several lookalikes before finally finding their mother hen. Parents and young readers will appreciate this book’s sweet, reassuring message. $6 at Amazon

Ranger Rick’s Treehouse App Bring every child’s favorite wildlife magazine to life with a visit inside Ranger Rick’s Treehouse. Filled with animal adventures, games, jokes, and nature crafts, your child can read indoors or enjoy outside as they explore nature. Get ready for all the remarkable wildlife articles your child loves... with clickable facts and animations. $20 for a year subscription (app download is free) 17

the

More you Know

eco: Earth Day |by Ashley Allman

Forget the Apps… Get OUTSIDE! In today’s high-tech world, many kids are learning more about nature from computer screens than from experiencing it with all of their senses. If this new generation and those after it are going to learn how to preserve our Earth, first and foremost, they need to fall in love with it.

In honor of celebrating Earth Day, plan an activity that will stimulate your child’s mind, body and soul through nature. By helping our children appreciate the smell of fresh air, sound of wind rustling through trees and the sight of a breathtaking mountain vista, we are instilling the desire to conserve and preserve.

Here are 10 ideas for celebrating Earth Day with your family.

1. Watch the sunrise: Earth day lands on a Monday this year, so you have to get up for school and work anyway. Set the alarm a bit earlier and take your kids to see the sunrise and enjoy a moment of silence and reflection in honor of Mother Nature.

2. Visit an animal sanctuary: Wild animal 18

sanctuaries provide an environmentally responsible and educational way for children to see wildlife up close in their natural habitats.

3. Organize a group outing to an ‘outdoor museum’: According to the National Park Service, the U.S. is home to nearly 400 national parks, and the service is present in almost every county across the country, meaning a vibrant park is within driving distance, offering opportunities to bird-watch and learn about wildlife.

4. Take an urban hike: Hop on your bikes and head to a nearby greenbelt area. Kids love to explore trails, and many cities have greenbelt areas that feel miles away from the city noise.

Listen to the birds and trickling streams and consider how your everyday actions impact the green spaces closest to your home.

5. Plant a garden: Visit the nursery and let your kids help plan this year’s vegetable garden. Pick up your organic seeds and compost and let the planting begin! Be sure to teach your kids about composting and discuss the global impact of organic farming.

6. Plan a camping trip: Roughing it is one of the best ways to fall in love with nature. Spring

temperatures are often too cold for a night under the stars, so hit the bookstore or library to begin planning a summer camping trip; or visit a nearby Forest Service office to learn about camping responsibly.

7. Document a journey: Get out of the city and equip your family with a camera to photograph the changing landscape and air quality from urban to rural to forested areas. Encourage your children to take pictures of specific things that need preserving and talk about ways to take action.

8. Hit the slopes: Stand at the summit and discuss the flora and fauna that covers the landscape, and the importance of protecting them.

Be sure to think green for your day of skiing, sledding or riding - carpool with friends, bring a reusable water bottle and pack an organic lunch.

9. Scavenger hunt: Give your kids a list of items they must find in a park, such as a pinecone, feather, something a deer could eat, a piece of trash, etc. Once they have collected everything, talk about how each item represents the importance of preserving green spaces.

10. Make it a workday: Vow to turn off the technology and spend time working for the Earth. Focus on your own home to set up rain barrels, or create a compost bin; or join a neighborhood work party to pick up trash and plant trees.

Ashley Allman is co-founder of online natural products boutique, Ash & Alys Babes, www. ashandalysbabes.com. She spends most of her time playing house with her two spirited sons, husband and two dogs, all of whom she uses for inspiration in every aspect of life.

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Photography by Cali Frey

Photography by Glenn Scofield Williams

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Image by Nancy Hugo

Cleaning

for a Healthy Home

|by Allison Evans

Let’s face it: we live in a less than pure world.

And despite our best efforts, it’s nearly impossible to keep our kids from exposures to things like pesticides, car exhaust, second-hand smoke and mold.

The good news - We do have control over what the EPA has deemed should be our top concern: the air in our homes.

Up to ten times more toxic than outdoors, the space inside our four walls could be slowly chipping away at our family’s health. And, ironically, the main culprits may be the very things we use to keep our homes free of dirt, germs, and bugs.

Even green alternatives and non-toxic methods can grant us a false sense of security when it comes to providing a truly healthy home for our families. Let’s look at some areas where even us “green gurus” may be able to improve:

“I use all green, natural cleaners!”

Ahh, wouldn’t it be nice if we could judge a cleaning product by its label? The reality is that claims like “non-toxic” and “all-natural” are unregulated, often used for marketing purposes only. Also, because manufacturers of household cleaners aren’t required to disclose the ingre-

dients, it’s almost impossible for us to know if they’re really safe.

So what if we broke our long-entrenched cleaning habits and got back to basics? From laundry to floors, kitchen to bathroom, virtually every cleaning job can be tackled with pure soap, baking soda, water, and a microfiber cloth.

Look for quality soap concentrates like Dr. Bronner’s and Branch Basics that can be diluted for home and body uses. Beyond lowering the toxins in our homes, this change could save on time and money wasted by purchasing several products.

“We use sanitizers, but they’re eco-friendly and alcohol-free!”

You’re probably familiar with the antibioticresistant “superbugs” the harsh ingredient Triclosan can lead to, as well as its ability to destroy crucial good bacteria in the gut.

But did you know that in order for ANY product to say “sanitizes”, “antimicrobial” or “kills germs” on its label, it must contain either an EPA-registered pesticide and/or at least 62% alcohol? Even in small doses, neither of these active ingredients is safe, with the exception of high quality “thymus vulgaris oil”, which is derived from Thyme.

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Cleaning for a Healthy Home Again, pure soap is your best bet. Under neither the EPA or FDA jurisdiction, “soap” is in a category all on its own and has been used for eons to keep our hands free of bacteria, viruses, mold, and the like with no negative side effects.

“We’re fragrance-free around here!”

The one ingredient “fragrance” or “parfum” can actually be a complex mixture of dozens of chemicals, so striving to use unscented products is usually a safe bet. But this area is also a bit hazy due to the addition of masking agents used to “cover” the offensive smell with yet more chemicals.

And if a fragrance is desired, simply add a few drops of your favorite, organic essential oil. If a product has a smell, be sure you can trace it back to a naturally-derived oil on its ingredient list.

“The toxic stuff is safely towed away, for use only if really needed.”

Imagine walking down the cleaning aisle of a grocery store. Pretty strong smell, right? Even with tightly sealed, never-opened lids, chemicals are seeping out. While your home may only contain a few conventional products, you can bet noxious odors are leaching out in the parts-per-million level, creating a low-level chemical soup over time. The truth is, you don’t really need them.

Pure soap mixed with a natural scouring agent like baking soda or Bon Ami will effectively clean the tougher items like ovens, tubs, tiles and toilets. Soap also contains natural antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-mold properties.

Even the EPA recommends ridding bacteria on surfaces by “washing with soapy water”.

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“We use safe pest control.”

As research connects pesticides to adverse health effects on the unborn fetus and developing children, eco-friendly pest control companies have gained attention. They tout their use of “organic” pesticides; however, according to Clemson University, “Some organic pesticides are as toxic, or even more toxic, than many synthetic chemical pesticides.”

Others are advertised as plant-derived, when they are actually synthetic derivatives of the real thing. Pyrethroids, for instance, originate from the chrysanthemum flower, but are classified by the EPA as “Likely to be Carcinogenic to Humans”.

Instead, use natural alternatives that kill pests by mechanical - not chemical - action. A powerful roach bait, for example, can be made from equal parts powdered sugar, corn meal and Boric Acid placed in small caps in out-of-reach areas.

Reaping Benefits Year Round This type of “Spring Cleaning” has the power to go beyond organizing and de-cluttering to reaping lifelong health benefits. We’ve heard it time and again: Our children are especially vulnerable to lurking toxins, pound-for-pound breathing 2.5 times more than adults. It’s crucial we start looking beyond labels and stop settling with just “doing better”. We should have full confidence in what we’re spritzing and spraying in our homes.

For more information on healthy living and other cleaning tips, see branchbasics.com’s “Healthy Living Library”.

“Pregnancy is such an amazing time in a woman’s life and should be honored and valued. Sacred Pregnancy helps empower women and encourages them to personally reflect on their internal process before having children. This is a beautiful gift to all pregnant women!”

-Ricki Lake, actress + Abby Epstein, filmmaker The Business of Being Born Go to the website to order the book today!

www.sacredpregnancy.com

discover the book : the magazine : the community :

Travel with Fallen Rock on his journey across the country to earn his place as the next Chief of his village.

The Journey of Fallen Rock is about family, natural resources and the responsibility to protect and preserve them.

From the Atlantic to the Pacific, Fallen Rock crosses paths with members of the Protectors of Our Land who will help him on his path.

“Environmental consciousness is woven into the fast paced, suspenseful story-line.”

- Susy Koontz ow!

Buy N

JourneyOfFallenRock.com

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3

rd

Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

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Couture Clip

This luxury line of binkie & toy holders is handmade in US with organic cotton and upcycled cashmere. Each clip features handstitched details and a lead free clasp with protective coating. Couture is functional yet luxuriously stylish! $20

OnyaBaby Carrier

Among other things, this comfy carrier features an air mesh lining that wicks away moisture, leaving baby and wearer feeling cooler!

AppleCheeks Storage Sacs These zippered wet bags will come in handy for everything from holding dirty diapers to pool parties to food-explosions! $15.50 28

3rd Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide The Quib by Lille

We admit that bibs aren’t our favorite things, but this is no bib, it’s a Quib! This genius design won’t scratch your baby’s neck and after they dirty one side, you can flip it over for a fresh start!

Chewbeads

This modernly styled, 100% silicone teething ring is sure to be a favorite for any little one!

2 Red Hens

These fabulous diaper bags are one of a kind and made using reclaimed fabrics and once your baby days are over, they double as a fashionable messenger bag or overnight bag! $225

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Easy Steps for a Healthy & Safe Nursery

This free ebook is an interactive guide to help parents create a safer nursery. It includes chemicals to avoid, quick and easy steps for safer shopping, budget friendly tips, and expert advice.

Free!

Oeuf

Simple, sleek, non-toxic and made from sustainably sourced wood to promote a healthy sleep environment. It even has the option of a super stylish toddler bed conversion! $499

Finn + Emma

We simply adore this 100% organic cotton scooter print from Finn + Emma! Pick up this sweet blanket for $45 or grab the crib bedding set, with blue accents, for just $190!

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3rd Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress

SafePaint

This rich paint from the Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co. is organic and has been especially formulated for walls.

Available in pint, quart & gallon sizes.

This affordable crib mattress is organic, hypoallergenic & features a sleek waterproof design with strong edge support. $259

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bumGenius Elemental

Completely redesigned, this organic cotton cloth diaper features a one-size design that will fit most babies weighing from 7 to 35 pounds. This “all-in-one� style is simple to use and comes in a wide range of fun colors! $24.95

Nuna Leaf

This trendy new baby seat is unlike any other. It features an elegant design that will leave baby swaying blissfully - no motor required!

It also includes a 100% organic cotton insert to keep baby comfy cozy - and this piece lasts too!

With a solid base, it transitions into a seat for children (and beyond) up to 130 lbs! $219 (at Magic Beans) 32

3rd Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide The Zoli Buzz B

The Zoli Buzz B is a battery operated nail trimmer safely trims nails with a gentle yet effective oscillating action. The cushioned pads are specially designed for baby’s nails and won’t harm surrounding skin. $34.95

BabyComfyNose

10 times the suction power of bulb and battery aspirators because YOU generate the suction.

Designed to use household tissue as a filter, so there’s nothing else to buy! It also features a soft nose tip & mouth piece. $14.95

Bébé au Lait Gift Set

The Kensington gift set features a sophisticated design perfect for spring! Includes a nursing cover and three stylish burp cloths. $50

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Boon Pulp

Mesh feeders are useful but make an awful mess, this silicone take by Boon is all that and then some! Oh and it’s cute too! $5.99

Innobaby Bus Platter

This tot-friendly plate makes mealtimes fun and super easy to clean up! This adorable plate is fully dishwasher safe and completely non-toxic. $17.99

San Diego Bebe

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The San Diego Bebe Eco-Nursing Pillow is made of a baby-safe, patented eco-fiber that is hypo-allergenic, non-toxic, nonflammable (no fire-retardant chemical additives) odor-free, glue-free, foam-free, lead-free and Phthalate-free. $59

3rd Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide Novela

This beautiful design in pink and green is elegant and eye catching. It features 100% pure organic cotton in a sophisticated damask print.

This set includes a bumper, fitted crib sheet and crib skirt. $325

Lela by Lassig

Made from 100% natural rubber, Lela awakens baby’s senses, helps with teething and fine motor skills. Look for her to be available this May!

Chicco 360 Hook-On

While an unconventional product pick for GCM, we just love this sleek, baby-friendly, space saving design from Chicco. Baby can sit comfortably & securely at a table or counter top at home or on the go! $74.99

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Eco Nuts Organic Laundry Soap

A gentle laundry detergent is important to help protect baby’s delicate skin from the fragrances and toxins found in typical detergents.

Eco Nuts soap berries are hypoallergenic and virtually scent free, making them ideal for baby! $9.95

Hot Tot Detangler

This gentle detangler is made in the USA, features natural ingredients, no harsh chemicals and is cruelty free! $12.75

Spectrum Coconut Oil This jar of goodness is one-stop shopping for everything from skin moisturizing to healing diaper rashes! Available in most grocery stores or online. $11.99 36

3rd Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide Noodle & Boo Shampoo

Free from harmful chemicals, this gentle shampoo gently cleans and hydrates the scalp and hair, leaving it healthy and shiny. $12

Mama Nature Baby Wash

This botanical based head-to-toe baby wash is gentle for baby and comes in both unscented and scented (with essential oils) versions. $13.75

Jack n’ Jill Calendula Toothpaste

These unique natural toothpastes are free from fluoride, sugar, colorants, SLS & preservatives. They feature fun organic flavors like blueberry, banana, strawberry and more! $6.99

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guided relaxation

“Bubble Blower Magic”

Bedtime relaxations are a fantastic way to introduce the power of relaxation and meditation into your child’s life. Starting as young as age three, you can read a guided relaxation adventure to your child before bed. In doing so, you will help your child begin to use the mental tools readily available to each one of us.

These tools help us deal with anxieties, manage stress and keep self-esteem vibrant. Through regular practice, your child will begin to understand that how we perceive things outwardly is simply a manifestation of our inner thought processes.

Children easily learn to shift focus to achieve a desired result – a skill many of us wish we had learned sooner.

Equally important, children will find calm and inner peace as we guide them to look within. This leads to a natural yearning to revisit often and explore their inner world through the wonderful gift of meditation.

This month we will use a magical bubble blower to blow away any childhood worries. Read the following script to your child in a gentle, loving voice at a slow pace. Take time to really savor each sentence.

Close your eyes and take in a very deep breath.

Pretend your tummy is a balloon and as you inhale, make that balloon as big as you can. Now, exhale it all out. Let’s do that again now… inhale fully and make the balloon any color you want.

Now as you do this, allow your arms and legs to get as floppy as a rag doll. Just let them get heavy and loose… all limp and relaxed. They feel so 38

with Mellisa Dormoy of Shambala Kids

heavy it’s as if you don’t even want to move them because they are just so very relaxed! Just allow your body to continue relaxing while we use our imaginations to imagine something wonderful!

In your mind, pretend you are pulling, a big magical bubble blower out of your pocket. It looks like any bubble blower but this one has real magic in it. It has been small in your pocket, but as you pull it out, you realize it becomes enormous! It’s a lot bigger than any bubble blower you’ve ever seen.

Now, in your other hand, imagine you have a big bottle of magic bubble soap. Put the blower into the thick magic bubble liquid…. and get it nice and wet. Now you can start to blow through the bubble blower to make your gigantic bubble. As you do this, I want you to put ANY WORRY or fear you have about anything… into that bubble… just put it all in there! Then continue blowing the bubble until you think it’s big enough. Nod your head when you’ve done that (wait for nod).

Now, as you finish watch how a very strong friendly wind comes along and carries your worry bubble far, far away…. it carries it so far away that you will never have to worry about that again. It’s leaving now. Watch as it goes. You can blow up as many bubbles as you need to with your magical bubble blower. Put anything in there that is bothering you and watch as the wind carries the bubbles far, far away.

You can use this magic bubble blower whenever you need to… just by imagining it in your mind.

I’ll be quiet now so you can finish. Tell me when you’re done and we can talk about it.

For more meditations and guided relaxation audios, visit Shambala Kids online.

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The Green Mom’s

Guide to Spring Sports |by Lori Alper

Choose Healthy Snacks

Opening day for Major League Baseball kicks off the spring season… along with opening day for spring sports in many families.

During this busy time of year, it’s important to stay true to your green path and not fall victim to convenience (aka fast food and easy outs).

Here are a few tips to keep you on your green track while enjoying baseball, softball, soccer and other fun spring sports with your family.

Find/Organize an Equipment Swap

Most of us know that playing sports can be an expensive endeavor. All the equipment can add up quickly in cost. If you’re anything like our family, you probably have a pile of cleats, baseball mitts, pants and other sporting equipment your kids have outgrown or no longer use. An equipment swap or exchange is a great way to get rid of some of that equipment while at the same time finding what you need at a lower cost.

• Organize your own swap. Join together with friends, teammates, or your whole league to hold a gear trade once a year.

• SwapMeSports is a fantastic site that allows you and your neighbors, family and friends to buy, sell, donate or find sports equipment without listing, shipping and selling fees.

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Snacking on the wrong foods can add unwanted calories and make you even hungrier when mealtime rolls around. Long term, unhealthy snacks can also lead to obesity in children and obesityrelated chronic diseases as adults. Before you head out to the ball field, make sure to give your children healthy foods to energize them during their game.

If parents take turns bringing snacks for the team, be the first to volunteer so you can start the season off on a healthy note.

Snack Facts

• Take the time to read the ingredient list before purchasing. You might be surprised by what you find.

• Fruits and vegetables are always the best choice.

• Nuts are healthy, protein-packed snacks. Be sure to ask about allergies.

• Just because it is sold at a health food store doesn’t make it healthy.

Switch to Reusable Water Bottles

Break the disposable bottled water habit and switch to a reusables for spring sports. You’ll reduce the use of fossil fuels and toxic greenhouse gases that come from manufacturing plastic bottles. By using a reusable water bottle, you are also helping reduce the number of plastic bottles that end up in landfills, sitting for years while they try unsuccessfully to decompose. There are a lot of reusable water bottle choices out there. The best choice for a non-toxic reusable water bottle is a stainless steel water bottle like Klean Kanteen.

Carpool

During the spring sports season, there are generally friends and neighbors headed to the same field. Creating a carpool is a simple way to reduce the number of cars needed at a specific location. According to the EPA, burning 1 gallon of gasoline releases 20 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Cars produce air pollution through their release of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. By carpooling and reducing the number of cars on the road there is a direct impact on the environment and your pocketbook.

Safer Stain Removal

Does your kid slide into every base? Rather than using a stain remover with harsh toxicchemicals, why not switch to a non-toxic alternative? Always treat grass and mud stains immediately… don’t let the stain set.

Wet the stain and then as soon as possible treat by soaking in white vinegar. For tough grass or mud stains, soak the area in a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. In a bowl, mix vinegar into the baking soda a bit at a time until you have a spreadable paste (the consistency of toothpaste). Spread the mixture onto the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Rinse the paste away and if the stain is gone wash the clothing as normal. If the stain is still visible, repeat the baking soda and vinegar treatment again.

Share these tips with your child’s coach and you’ll help score a home run for the planet!

Author Lori Popkewitz Alper is the founder & editor-in-chief of Groovy Green Livin, a site dedicated to sharing simple green living tips and current information on sustainable living.

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Spring Break Safety Travel Tips for Teens

& Young Adults |by Claudia Looi

Whether your teen or college student is planning to travel for Spring Break without supervision, or you’re ready to give them some independent time during your family vacation, it’s important to discuss safety before leaving home.

Get familiar with the destination

Research online and read guidebooks about your destination. It is important to understand the culture, food, and business practices. For example, if you are going to Argentina, traditionally, businesses are open from 8am to noon.

They take a siesta for three to four hours before opening their doors again.

So if you are unfamiliar and happen to be in a town where all doors are closed for lunch, you will be disappointed. What if you need local currency and all the banks and money exchange bureaus are closed, and your bus is leaving for the next town?

Learn the language

Although most service providers in the world speak English, knowing the local language can give a teen a slight edge when it comes to safety.

Imagine if your son or daughter could understand the conversation between two locals and their intentions.

Dress modestly

I’ve always reminded my teen daughter the importance of modest swimwear and casual clothing at the pool or beach. It is safer to dress modestly while on vacation.

Don’t go to deserted areas

Walking in a quiet alley or swimming in the ocean alone are not wise choices even if you want to get away from it all. We always believed in the ‘buddy system’ for our teens, even when they go to a mall.

Keep all expensive belongings at home

Travel light and keep it simple. Leave all your expensive designer bags, shoes and clothes at home. Wear simple but stylish without attracting attention. You have fewer things to take care of when you travel light.

Make copies of your passport and important documents Always bring a copy of your passport, important documents and passport-sized photos for the just in case you lose it or misplace your documents.

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Spring Break Safety

In-room safe deposit and money belt

Do not leave valuables unattended or place all your money and passport in your bag. Keep your belongings in a safe deposit at the hotel and wear a money belt. It is safer to place important documents, credit cards and cash in the money belt.

Don’t get drunk

In Germany, legal drinking age is 16. For countries like Spain, Belgium and Austria, 16 year olds are allowed to purchase alcohol. Most countries’ legal drinking age is 18. If your teen is 18, they are at a legal age to drink in almost all the countries in Europe, Caribbean Islands, Central and South America.

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Traveling gives young people the mental break they need to rest, study, and work more efficiently. A family trip abroad can help re-energize your children while you make sure they’re safe.

Emergency Kit

Teens need to take care of their health even when they travel. Pack an emergency kit with multivitamins, essential oils for nausea, motion sickness, diarrhea, headache, sores, aches, insect bites and more. We bring fever reducing overthe-counter medication too.

Claudia Looi is a mother of two teens, an online copywriter, and travel & web content writer. She and her family have sold almost everything they own and are traveling around the world for 18 months.

“If you want to be a great mother,

surround yourself with great mothers

Greatness is contagious.”

“

- Bishop TD Jakes

Image by Amanda Medeiros

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What’s In Season |by Louise Goldberg RD CSP LD CNSC

As the ground starts to thaw, gardens are in transition with the end of Winter’s hearty produce and the beginning of delicate Spring fruits and vegetables. The good news is that even if you live in an area where the thaw hasn’t started yet, you still have access to a wide variety of crops that are in season from somewhere within our great country.

Oranges Eating oranges are a great way to tell your tastebuds Spring has arrived. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C and fiber.

While winter is known as prime citrus season, different varieties of oranges peak at different times and the navel orange is actually sweetest in March and April. Their juicy fresh flavor is delicious in a simple fruit salad or even mixed into smoothies.

Spinach This green leafy vegetable is in season during the cold months through early Spring. It is very high in vitamins and phytonutrients - the special compounds in food that protect your eyes, fight cancer and decrease inflammation in your body. Toss raw leaves with fresh berries, almond slices, feta cheese and raspberry vinaigrette for a quick meal or sauté and pack into a crustless quiche.

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What’s In Season

Creamy Orange Banana Smoothie

Ingredients: • 5 navel oranges, peeled and segmented • 2 ripe bananas • 3 cups ice • 1 cup vanilla yogurt (can be Greek or regular) • 2 tbs maple syrup Directions: Segment the oranges by slicing off the outside peel with a knife. Hold the orange in your palm and cut out each section. Puree orange segments and bananas in blender until smooth. Add ice 1 cup at a time until crushed. Then add remaining ingredients and blend well. Serve immediately.

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Crustless Spinach Quiche Squares

Ingredients: • 1 tbs oil • 12 cups fresh spinach (8 oz.)

• 1 med. onion, chopped • 1 tsp ground Italian season-

ings • ½ teaspoon salt • 6 eggs • 1 cup 2% milk • 1 cup grated or shredded Sharp cheddar cheese

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9 x 13 pan or 8 x 8 square pan if thicker squares desired. Sauté onion and spinach in pan with oil and salt until spinach shrinks to half or less its original size.

Add Italian Seasoning and stir (if you can’t get ground, okay to use dried). Set spinach mixture aside to cool. In separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

Then add spinach to eggs and mix together. Pour into cooking pan, sprinkle top with grated or shredded cheese and bake in oven for 45 minutes until top is brown (If using 8 x 8 pan, may need to let center cook longer). Let cool slightly, 10-15 minutes. Then cut into squares and serve! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch or even dinner!

You can vary this recipe by adding sautéed chopped and seeded tomatoes or your other favorite veggies. Feel free to change out the cheese for one with an even more unique flavor, like Gruyere, Jalapeno Cheddar or Dill Havarti.

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In Anni’s Conscious Kitchen with Conscious Family Living Lifestyle Expert, Anni Daulter

Anni is a C onscious Fam ily Living lifestyle expert, professional c ook, advocate of sustainable li ving and auth or of 6 books an d the new on line community, S acred Pregnan cy.

The

beauty of Spring is...

Forest faeries fluttering about the riverbanks…

Worms crawling around the freshly tilled garden…Girls giggling while whispering secrets and picking wildflowers…Boys making mud pies and digging in the earth just for the pure joy of getting dirty…

The sun peaking through the clouds with the promise of endless hours of play…

These are what make Springtime

special!

In Anni’s Conscious Kitchen

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Flowerpot Cheese Breads • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

3 cups warm water 2 teaspoons yeast cup mozzarella cheese cup ricotta cheese cup feta cheese handful of thyme 4 cups baking flour 2 teaspoons salt 2 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon honey 6 small terra cotta pots parchment paper olive oil to rub the inside of the pot fresh herbs for decoration

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In a large bowl combine the warm water and yeast and let sit for 5 minutes.

While yeast is sitting, mix together all three cheeses and thyme in a separate bowl.

To the bowl with the yeast, stir in the first two cups of flour, salt, and butter. Stir in the next two cups of flour, add honey, and mix into a dough.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes. Put dough in an olive oiled bowl, covered with a damp towel, and let sit until it has doubled in size, about an hour.

Remove the dough from the bowl, press out the excess gas in the dough, and knead for another 5 minutes on a floured surface. Cut the dough into 6 pieces, each piece the size needed to fill about half a small pot. Test dough pieces for size, but don’t yet put each into pots.

Roll out the dough pieces and place cheese and herb mixture in the center of each. Press together the seams with a little water to make a small package.

Coat each pot with a little olive oil, then line with parchment paper. Place each dough ball in a pot, put pots on a cookie sheet and drizzle dough tops with olive oil. Squirt each bread ball with water from a spray bottle, and lay herbs on top.

Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve with your favorite jam!

Recipe makes 6 breads.

happy spring!

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In Anni’s Conscious Kitchen

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10

The

Easiest

Vegetables

to Grow from Seeds

Growing your own food is the most gratifying and rewarding act on the planet. Plus, starting food from seeds is easy, inexpensive and fun.

But planning a garden can be daunting and many gardeners do not know where to start.

conditions for bountiful beets include soil at around 60 degrees F, plenty of water, and all the sun they can get.

“Planning a garden starts with choosing what you love to eat,” says Farmer John Fendley of the Sustainable Seed Company. “Your garden is the ultimate grocery store because it’s convenient and tailored to your taste. But there are a multitude of other benefits to gardening such as saving money, eating healthier foods and burning calories.”

Radishes are a great choice because they grow quickly and easily in both the spring and fall.

They can be ready to eat in less than a month from the time you plant seeds.

Farmer John suggests starting with these 10 simple seeds for beginners to have success in the garden:

1. Beets

Beets are cool weather crops that do best after the harsh winter cold and before the mid-summer heat. They can also be grown when planted in the late summer for a fall harvest. Perfect 54

2. Radishes

3. Peas

“Nothing beats peas for growing with kids” says Farmer John. Both shorter and taller varieties like to climb. Plant peas early in the season in well-draining soil on both sides of a trellis, by the time it gets warm, you’ll be shelling away.

4. Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is rich with vitamins and minerals and is a low-maintenance green. It is more frost and heat tolerant than other greens. Sow the seeds directly into well-composted manure, add water and watch them grow.

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10

The

Easiest

Vegetables

to Grow from Seeds

5. Beans

Like peas, most beans like to grow up. They can do well when seeds are planted directly into warm soil with something to climb. Beans are for beginners because most varieties produce for weeks and weeks if they are picked. Give them full sun and plenty of water at the root.

6. Lettuce

Lettuce comes in so many varieties that you’re sure to find one that meets your growing and eating needs. When it’s very hot, most lettuce needs shade. Since they grow close to the ground, they’re perfect to plant in the shade cast by taller plants like tomatoes and beans.

7. Spinach

Spinach grows well in cool weather. If you want a lot, you have to plant a lot. Harvest it like lettuce, either by picking the largest leaves or by cutting all the leaves back to about one inch.

If you choose the latter method, spinach will grow back several times throughout the season.

8. Tomatoes

Start tomatoes indoors in February or March.

Once they’re in the ground in a spot with full sun, many varieties will be extremely prolific.

For a strong root system, plant the starters deeply, burying the stem up to the lowest leaves as the roots need to develop a strong foundation. As the plant grows, water regularly and expose it to plenty of sunshine. Trim and remove weak leaves and fruit as it grows to allow for ripened fruit and leaves to flourish.

9. Cucumber

Cucumbers are flexible in their growing environments and can grow in containers, raised beds, rows, or hills. As long as there is warm weather, ample sunshine (6-8 hours per day), and lots of water, a cucumber will grow. One plant grows an abundance of cucumbers since they grow as bushes. Be sure to space the plants over two and a half feet apart if growing several plants in a row.

10. Basil

Farmer John thinks herbs are some of the easiest plants to grow from seed, but the most versatile, basil. It can be grown both indoors and out. Ensure that it gets plenty of light, at least 6 hours, natural or artificial, per day. Basil thrives in properly drained, nutrient packed soil and needs thinning maintenance at the early stages to ensure strong plant growth.

The selection available online for unique and delicious heirloom vegetables far surpasses anything found in supermarkets. And when you begin to harvest and enjoy nature’s bounty, you’ll be well pleased at the money you save, and the amazing food you grew from seed. So check out the estimated last spring frost in your area, and start your seeds...you’ll be very happy you did.

The Sustainable Seed Company uses sustainable, water conserving, and environmentally responsible farming techniques. They grow more than 50% of the seeds on their certified organic farm that is sustainably powered. All seeds are grown without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

What do you enjoy growing in your garden? Do you have any growing tips?

Share with us on our Facebook page or Google+ community!

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Natural Discipline For The Early Years |by Kelly Bartlett

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Ways to work with your child’s development to create natural harmony and stronger relationships.

When it comes to children’s difficult behavior, a parent’s first question is usually, “What should I do?” We tend to want to eliminate it, fix it, or get it under control. But it’s important to understand that the behaviors we see in our children are merely the tip of the iceberg; the bulk of behavior issues stem from below the surface.

to stop, remember your words, think through the options, and decide not to act. It’s not that babies don’t listen, it’s that they lack sufficient brain development to acknowledge, comprehend, and think logically about a “No.”

What we see is just a natural extension of the development occurring underneath. Rather than fight against it, parents will find more success in working with a child’s development to teach behavior. Take a look at these four examples of the earliest stages of child development to understand a “working with” approach rather than a “doing to” approach to discipline.

• Try working with your baby’s natural inclination to explore and learn by being proactive. Create a “yes” environment.

Baby-proof, block, pad, and lock away all of the no’s so you’re left only with yesses.

Yes, you can climb on this furniture. Yes, you can explore these cabinets. Yes, you can throw any of these soft balls. Yes, you can touch anything in this room. Support her learning while keeping her safe.

Age 1:

My baby doesn’t listen to “No!” Development

Image by energy2024

From birth to age two is a child’s sensorimotor stage of development. During this age, children are hard-wired to explore their environment using all of their senses. This means they will touch, pick-up, grab, bite, pinch, throw, smear, and put absolutely everything they can into their mouths in an effort to understand the world around them.

This exploration may mean that someone gets hurt, property is destroyed, or the child’s own safety is compromised. It’s not purposeful, and it’s not malicious. It’s simply a baby’s underdeveloped instinct to learn.

It’s tempting to think that the more often or more firmly you tell a young child no, the more she will remember it and behave differently next time. But a one-year-old child does not have mature enough brain development to stop herself from adhering to a no. So, no matter how many times you tell her, she simply does not have the neural connection

“Working With” Tips

• There will be times when keeping your young child in a yes environment is not possible. In those cases, stay close to her to physically prevent her unsafe behavior.

Knowing that she cannot logically understand why she shouldn’t throw a rock, ensure that you are close enough to step in and physically remove the rock from her hand. Gently undo her grip from her sister’s hair. Move her to another area to prevent her from touching Grandma’s knick-knacks.

• Be available to redirect her energy when necessary. If she’s focused on throwing, give her something safe to throw. If she really wants to clang glass figurines together, substitute something noisy and unbreakable in her hands. If she is inclined to reach out and swat, pinch, or grab whoever is nearby, give her a small toy she can manipulate with her hands. Rather than stand firm and assert, “No!” take that same energy she has for using her senses, and refocus it on something that is safe and appropriate. Turn a no into a yes.

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Age 2:

My toddler is constantly throwing fits!

Development

As children enter the twos, so begins the age of autonomy. Toddlers become self-assured in their increasing mobility, and they are able to accomplish many more tasks for themselves. They are developing confidence in themselves and a sense of awareness in their bodies. They are becoming capable. Along with this newfound sense of independence comes a natural increase of limits; toddlers are not able to make logical decisions, so we help them by setting limits around health and safety. Still, our well-intentioned limits don’t always agree with what our little ones have in mind. The difference between a toddler’s priorities of, “I want to do it!” and our priorities of, “No, you may not,” combines with his burgeoning sense of autonomy to create the perfect recipe for a tantrum.

During the twos, the midbrain (the emotional brain) and the prefrontal cortex (the logical brain) have poor connection and communication. So while a child’s emotional brain is capable of experiencing strong feelings, his logical brain is not capable of appropriately acting on those feelings. The resulting behavior is a “flipped lid,” or emotional meltdown in which he expresses his feelings in the only way his brain is capable: yelling, crying, and carrying on.

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“Working With” Tips: • Remember that while it is unpleasant, a tantrum is normal and very appropriate for a two-year-old; so do your best to stay calm. A child’s brain has mirror neurons that pick up on the emotional state of his environment. In other words, calm begets calm. It’s OK to step away from the fit for a few minutes to collect yourself and refocus.

• Allow for tears. It is important to teach children that their feelings are always OK and are not something to suppress, hide, or be ashamed of. Trying to stop a toddler’s tantrums resists his natural development and only causes more friction in your relationship. Instead of punishing a child for having a tantrum, accept the feelings you’re hearing, and let him know that it’s OK to cry. This is the first step for him to learn the skills to handle such feelings.

• Teach your child the language for the feelings he is having by empathizing with him. You are mad…It’s OK to feel sad right now…You really wanted this and you’re angry you can’t have it. You don’t have to change the limit you set (meaning: give the child what he wanted). You are only acknowledging his feelings and being emotionally available to support him through them as his brain chemistry restores. Your empathy teaches emotional intelligence as your toddler outgrows a tumultuous age.

Natural Discipline For The Early Years

Age 3-4:

My preschooler hits!

Development

Though the age of frequent tantrums may be over, life’s frustrations are not. And what once may have triggered cries and tears of epic proportions may manifest differently in an older child: aggression. Aggressive behavior is rooted in frustration. When a child encounters frustration in her life—from small problems like not getting the dessert she wants, to larger issues such as an extended absence of a parent—her feelings will inevitably surface.

Parents often want to address occurrences of aggression with a “doing to” approach; a consequence. They adopt a “you hit, you sit” approach with timeouts, punishments, or other imposed consequences intended to teach the lesson that hitting is unacceptable. True, hitting is not OK. It’s also not the problem to be addressed. Hitting is the manifestation of unresolved feelings of anger, fear, and frustration. It is due to an immature prefrontal cortex and poor communication between the logical brain and the midbrain. Most importantly, it stems from a child’s inability to adapt to futility. The key to finding a solution to hitting, then, becomes about addressing the child’s adaptive process, not the behavior itself.

“Working With” Tips: • Be close with her often to help prevent her hitting. If you see your child is getting frustrated, quickly move closer to help.

Realize she has an immature brain and is physically unable to control her aggression when her emotions are running strong. Get between her and the other person and let her know, “I won’t let you hit.”

• Empathize with her to draw out tears instead of aggression. I can tell you are really frustrated right now….You’re very angry that your friend knocked over your tower….It is so sad to lose a game, isn’t it?

Let her cry. Encourage her to cry. Tears facilitate the adaptive process by providing an emotional outlet. The brain is able to adapt to adversity without moving to aggression.

• Once you’ve addressed her feelings, address her needs. You were feeling hurt; you need to be included with your friends.

You felt annoyed; you need to be able to make your own choices. Identifying valid needs is the first step for a child to be able to understand how to solve problems.

From there, you can pose the question, “OK, what can we do about that?” and brainstorm alternate solutions to hitting.

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Natural Discipline For The Early Years

Age 5-7:

My child argues about everything!

Development

You say, “Yes,” he says, “No.” You say, “Please pick up your toys,” he says, “I don’t want to.”

You say, “Time to get ready for bed,” he says, “You can’t make me!” It seems that whatever you say, your child says and does the opposite. Life has become a battle of power. Power struggles are an expression of a need to be heard and regarded. Growing children experience a phase of initiative and individuality; that is, they are autonomous, they have a voice, and they need to use it. There are things you can do to help strengthen your relationship with your child so that he’ll be less argumentative and more cooperative.

“Working With” Tips: • Regularly ask your child questions. Make sure they are not just yes-or-no questions, but open-ended questions that encourage him to share his thoughts. What do you think about this? How did you make a decision? What are your ideas? Show your child that you are interested in hearing his perspective. Then, the other half of this step is to actively listen to the answers. Show that you understand by echoing back what you hear and paraphrasing his thoughts. Oh, so you decided to…That must have been difficult…You felt…This communicates that you value his thoughts and take him seriously.

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• Enlist your child’s help to create routines and habits. Routines are conducive to cooperation because of their predictability.

And power struggles are less likely to occur when your child has had a say in how those routines are created. Regular family meetings are perfect opportunities to elicit input from children on the functions of the household. Ask for a child’s input and incorporate some of his ideas so that he will have a stronger sense of significance and belonging in the family.

• Carve out regular, special time to connect.

Make sure your relationship stays strong.

Schedule regular time together in which your child is “the boss.” He chooses the activity, he directs the playtime, and he leads the topics of conversation. Even just 15 minutes a day, this type of interaction adds incredible closeness to a relationship and greatly diminishes the amount of daily power struggles.

Teaching children behavior is much more effective with a natural approach. By working with a child’s development, parents can bypass much of the resistance encountered with traditional discipline methods. Consistently responding to children in a proactive, connective way creates an environment of acceptance. It is this acceptance that allows for a child’s healthy social and emotional development.

Author Kelly Bartlett is the author of “Encouraging Words For Kids.” She is a Certified Positive Discipline Educator and freelance writer with a focus on child development, family relationships and discipline.

Get A Little ‘Me Time’

Sustainable Living with a Modern Twist

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preemie?

Can I Breastfeed My

|by Sara Chana,

IBCLC, RH (AHG)

“I just brought my preemie home from the hospital. Nursing is just not the same as it was with our first. She sleeps a lot, slips off the breast and is so small. I nursed my first child perfectly, now I feel lost.”

Giving birth to a premature baby is different than giving birth to a full-term baby, but you can breastfeed… even if your baby spent time in the NICU or was fed via bottles or tubes.

Without a full nine months of gestation, the baby’s internal organs did not have as much time to form. The nutrients in breastmilk will help the internal organs develop to their fullest potential.

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Skin-to-skin contact is an important part of nursing your preemie. Researcher, Dr. Schanberg from Duke university found with is extensive research with animals that, “when mother

rats licked their babies, the action produced a cascade of much needed compounds, in fact, the growth hormones that produce normal body development.” He shares that this need for touch also transfers to humans, and especially with premature babies stating encouraging the mother to touch and hold her baby this, “led to better health and shorter hospital stays.”

Skin-to-skin contact also helps baby to “nurse on demand” which has been proven to help increase nutrient intake & improve growth rates.

Ashley Montagu states in Touching: The Human Significance of the Skin that, “gestation in the human being continues for as long outside the womb as it does inside the womb.” He also says, “touching and coddling a baby is needed all the time to help build the child’s immune system and emotional health.”

It may take some time for you and your baby to master the skill of breastfeeding, but with some patience and proper guidance, you can be successful.

• Get a secure latch. Premature babies tend to have smaller mouths, so it can be more difficult to latch on deeply. Try using the football hold for the first few weeks to encourage a stronger, deeper latch.

• Preemies can fall asleep very easily on the breast. Watch carefully and listen for swallowing. If baby appears to be drifting off, take her off the breast and wake her up gently to finish the feeding.

• Use breast compression. Think of your breast as a clock with the 12 on the top and the 6 on the bottom. Place your thumb on the 12 and your other four fingers over the 6. As your baby nurses, compress the breast gently but firmly for five counts and release for five count. This tells your body to let down more milk and helps the baby keep up a rhythm which allows the milk to transfer easier from the breast to the baby.

R I G H T F R O M T H E S TA R T Cut through the information overload & create your plan for a well & green first year.

• If baby has nipple confusion from bottles in the NICU, try finger feeding for a few days to help ease the confusion.

• If your baby is taking the breast but is not putting on enough weight, try nursing for 20 minutes then follow up with 20 minutes of finger feeding.

As long as Mom has plenty of support, this early arrival should be nursing beautifully in no time!

Sara Chana, IBCLC RH (AHG) is an international board certified lactation consultant, classical homeopath, registered herbalist and a mother of 7 children. She has helped over 10,000 babies breastfeed.

Online Parenting Plan Course & Virtual Support Group for Expectant and New Parents

GATHERWELL.COM CODE 1 0 % OF F ENTER GreenCHILD Limited Scholarships also available. Apply now.

Gatherwell’s mission is to help people live well & green.

Online courses and community project funding. 69

10 ways to join! |by Sandy Kreps

April 29-May 5 It’s time to rediscover everything you’re missing when you’re connected to your screens.

Screen-Free Week (formerly known as TV-Turnoff Week) is an annual celebration where families and communities turn off screens (TV, video games, computers, handheld electronics) and enjoy real life instead.

Preschoolers spend an average of 32 hours per week with screens – and older children spend even more time. That’s an astonishing amount, especially since excessive screen time has been linked to poor school performance, childhood obesity and attention problems. Even “educational” programming can be harmful to kids who spend too much time in front of a screen and not enough time playing outdoors or immersed in creative play.

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Here are some ideas for how you can spend Screen-Free Week (April 29-May 5) reconnecting with your family.

1. Plant a garden – an herb or veggie garden allows kids to see how some of their food grows, and it can cut down on your grocery bill. A flower garden or butterfly garden can also enchant even the most die-hard screen addicts.

2. Visit some parks in your area that you may not have explored before. Whether you hit a different playground or explore a new hiking trail, the exercise and fresh air will be a welcome change from sitting in front of a screen.

3. Learn some new recipes – get the kids involved in cooking or baking. They’ll learn a valuable life skill, and they’ll be proud to serve the spaghetti/cookies/bread that they made.

4. Do some cleaning and decluttering.

Screen-Free Week is the perfect opportunity to hit your spring cleaning. Purge some unused possessions, dust out all the cobwebs, and organize a few trouble spots.

5. Explore the local library – pick up some new books or music, and take turns reading to each other. Kids love being read to, and having the kids read to you and younger siblings is a fantastic way to practice reading skills. Mix it up with silly voices or dramatic sound effects.

6. Create some art. You don’t have to get fancy. Grab a canvas or some big sheets of paper and some paint and get creative.

You can use brushes if you want… or you can see how creative those kids are with fingers, toes, stamps and any other items you can think of.

7. Break out some games. You can dust off those old board games, teach the kids some classics like chess or checkers, or grab a pencil and paper for tic-tac-toe, crosswords or hangman. A handful of dice or a deck of cards make great additions to your family game closet as well.

8. Puzzle time! Clear off a table or a big stretch of floor and put together a jigsaw puzzle together. Puzzles are a terrific way for kids to practice visual, memory and problem solving skills.

9. Visit with friends and family – when was the last time you got together with your closest friends and loved ones and spent time talking, eating, playing or reminiscing without a smart phone involved?

10. Take in a ball game. If your kids are used to watching sports on TV with you, take them to see a game in person. It doesn’t have to be a pro game – taking kids to see high school athletics can be an inspiration for them to take up a sport of their own.

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Ask Hana Haatainen Caye

Danielle writes: I have a question about dry cleaning. I don’t want to take my husband’s nice suits to a toxic dry cleaner, but I am afraid to ruin them if I wash them... They were too expensive for me to just “test it out.” Any advice?

GG: It’s certainly a quandary for many of us, Danielle. The most common toxic fluid used in dry cleaning is perc (perchloroethylene), which the EPA calls a “probable human carcinogen,” with esophageal, lymphoma, bladder and cervical cancer topping the list. Plus, eye, nose and throat irritation, along with headaches and a loss of coordination have been linked to acute exposure.

Try looking for one of the new “green” cleaning services. If you can’t find one near you, ask your local dry cleaner if they offer CO2 (liquid carbon dioxide) cleaning or “wet” cleaning.

Neither method involves toxins, meaning they are safe for humans and the environment.

However, even if a cleaner advertises itself as “green” or “environmentally-friendly,” you still may have homework to do. Be sure to avoid…

Hydrocarbon - this petroleum-based solvent contributes to greenhouse gases and is a VOC (volatile organic compound).

“GreenEarth” - This process uses chlorine and siloxane or D-5, a silicone-based solvent. While no actual chemicals mix with the clothing during the cleaning process, studies show an increased risk of uterine cancer in rats exposed

to D-5. Additionally, Drysolv - or N-propyl bromide (1-bromopropane) - can cause sterility and damage to fetuses in animals.

For a list of wet cleaners in your area, visit No Dry Clean.

Carly writes: I’ve heard you mention using vinegar instead of bleach to disinfect, but I’m not sure why. People have been using bleach for decades. Why is it a problem?

GG: Great question, Carly. The fact is, chlorine bleach can be harmful to people and pets in that it can cause or exacerbate • • • •

Burns to the skin Respiratory problems Allergies Damage to the nervous system

Additionally, when mixed with other products, such as ammonia, vinegar, dish soap, and even urine, it can release toxic gases into the air, which can be fatal. When chlorine bleach, which is not toxic on its own, mixes with organic material (such as blood, dirt, pet feces, etc.), the chemical reaction can produce carcinogenic toxins.

One more word of caution – the numbers continue to rise with chlorine bleach-related illnesses and deaths in children. Keeping bleach out of your home is another form of babyproofing.

Hana Haatainen Caye, aka Green Grandma, www.greengrandma.org is a wife, mother and grandmother who shares her passion for common sense greener and healthier living. Based on the most popular feature of her blog, Hana wrote her first book, Vinegar Fridays.

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Make Spring Fundraisers a Snap

with Eco - Friendly Options |by Lauren Taylor

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Schools, youth groups, and spring sports… there are plenty of organizations looking to raise funds this season. Take this opportunity to teach kids the value of raising money while instilling the importance of helping the environment at the same time. These companies offer the perfect way to do both.

Good Search

Who knew searching for healthy recipes or looking up directions to a new park could raise money? By using Good Search, you can raise a penny for each search you enter. You can raise money for existing charities like the Sierra Club or ASPCA or even add your child’s school to the search engine so others can search and earn with you!

GoEco! The Ultimate Eco-Fundraiser

Your child can see how garbage can be made into something useful by joining GoEco!. Any school or a non-profit can sign up and use its unique code to earn 15% from each purchase of an upcycled TerraCycle product. When you use your GoEco! code you will also get 5% off all products purchased on DwellSmart, which carries a variety of eco-friendly items.

Nature’s Vision

Kids love animals, and you can help raise money for them by being a green consumer. Buying eco-friendly products such as organic apparel, solar garden lights, and canvas tote bags, among many others can help raise money for charities like Animal Planet’s Project ROAR, The Humane Society of the United States, and the World Wildlife Fund.

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TerraCycle

Show your child the benefit of recycling by sending your waste to TerraCycle! For each piece of packaging collected, you can raise $0.02 for your child’s school or favorite charity.

More than 50 different waste streams are collected, including organic baby food and kid brands Ella’s Kitchen, GoGo Squeez and Honest Kids. The collected waste is turned into new products through recycling and upcycling, thus fostering the importance of keeping items out of the landfill.

Lunchskins

Cut down on the amount of plastic baggies thrown away in the lunchroom and earn money at the same time. Lunchskins makes colorful reusable snack bags that you can sell to earn money for a school. You can buy Lunchskins at a discount and sell them at your own price or you can co-brand the bags with your own logo, purchase the product at a discount and then sell it at your own price. This can represent up to 50% back to the school.

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BloomWhere Planted

Creative Spring Planters |by Annabelle Absar

Bring out your gardening gloves... spring is just around the corner! This season is the perfect time for unconventional gardening, growing, and greenery. These unique growing methods will make your home or garden something truly extraordinary.

Use kitchen containers and dishes for a delicious display.

• Teapots & teacups are great for succulents & small flowers.

• Colanders are perfect for hanging & growing flowers or lettuce.

• Lunch boxes are fun, portable, & great for green gifts.

• Recycle broken crockery to grow new life.

Old furniture and fixtures create a focal pieces that grab attention.

• Remove the seats from chairs or sofas for flower beds.

• Sinks and bathtubs can house flowers or salad gardens.

• Go further & use old cars, bicycles, & wagons.

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Recycled items are good for your garden and the environment.

• Cans, containers, & jars are perfect for starting seeds & small plants.

• Milk jugs are great for hanging plants like tomatoes.

• Soda bottles display plants indoors with flair.

Go natural.

• Egg shells are often wasted, but can be used as seed starters & tiny vases.

• Grow directly inside pumpkins! Just add soil & water to grow a new crop.

• Citrus peels are natural pots that keep your home smelling fresh.

Whether it’s old or new, unusual items are appearing in gardens more and more. Find what speaks to you and create a garden that is truly one-of-a-kind!

Author Annabelle Absar is a Belmont University senior who writes for Family Focus Blog, a blog on parenting, eco tips and giveaways.

Image by Ingrid Kaser

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excerpt from

SACRED pregnancy the magazine

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Sacred Pregnancy is an independently published quarterly magazine packed with cutting edge soulful information on pregnancy, birth, mothering, and everything in between.

A collection of stories, articles and wisdom offered up by empowered women within the birthing + mothering communities, this quarterly magazine offers information anywhere from body-image and mindful eating, to sexuality, food, herbs, DIY ideas, book reviews and sisterhood.

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Mother’s Blessing |by Tnah Louise & Paige Wilder

photography : Madeline Label for Bella Faccia Foto

With the fast pace of life today, most of us stay busy caring for our families and honoring everyday commitments. Caught in our routines, we can feel uncertain when change is upon us, making it difficult to take time for ourselves, to be present and to recognize the transitions that occur in our lives and within nature. Yet, our basic human nature yearns for this remembrance.

Like the Changing Woman of Navajo tradition, who represent the inner form of the earth through its seasonal transformations, each of us experience nature’s changes within ourselves through life’s phases of coming of age, love, birth, old age and death. Taking time to honor these changes through a quiet moment of recognition or actual celebrations brings a rich and meaningful acknowledgment that can assist to our life journey.

Creating sacred celebrations reintroduces the act of ceremony into everyday life. They naturally make way for rites of passages to be marked and honored and force us to slow down in order to really connect with each other and mother nature. Much like the ancient cook-fire, a sacred passage provides a meeting place where we come together to nurture one another, not just

physically, through food and drink, but spiritually, through meaningful connection. This is where we support each other, as well as express gratitude for the people and moments we often take for granted in our busy lives.

Creating rich soulful ceremonies often involve rituals taken from cross cultural and universal traditions that helps awaken our spirit with intention to various special times in our lives. One such very important ceremony is the honoring of the passage from maiden to motherhood, also known as a Mother Blessing.

A Mother Blessing seeks to help us remember our woman’s wisdom, while honoring this transition in her life through creating a safe environment and weaving a web of support among those women she respects, admires and values.

Here a woman can explore the challenges and joys that lie before her on her journey into motherhood and release any fears and blockages she may be feeling about the birth process.

This celebration is different from a baby shower, which provides the couple with items that are needed to care for the newborn, in that its primary focus is on nurturing the mother to be, honoring her changing body, filling her with confidence, and empowering her as she prepares for birth.

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There are many ways in which to honor the expectant mother through this transition including cleansing, intention setting, pampering, and feasting. Smudging or cleansing with rose water releases cares and worries, clearing the way to focus a positive intention on opening the guest of honor up to this unknown experience. Intention setting includes processing and releasing fears through burning or ripping rituals, moving through to joy and acceptance by sharing birthing stories, poems and putting affirmations on prayer flags. Herbs and essential oils brought by guests can be placed in a salt bowl and used later to endulge the mother-to-be. Pampering includes simple, but delicious acts of brushing a mother-tobe’s hair, giving her a massage, a foot bath or crowning her with a flower wreath to mark her as a sacred vessel. Pampering can also be more involved by creating a belly cast or adorning her stomach with henna art. The last phase of the ceremony, feasting, is where each participant is invited to bring a nourishing dish that will ground everyone as they move back into daily life.

Through a Mother Blessing ceremony, a web is woven, cut and worn to keep everyone connected beyond the day of the event. The mother-to-be may be given a nurture box filled with items she can use to create her own sacred space during birth. Each person is given a candle to light upon receiving the news that the day of birth has come. Those attending the Mother Blessing, leave with a feeling of gratitude and happiness for being involved in this intimate celebration, and are rewarded by coming together in communal unity.

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A Sacred Passage was created by Tnah Louise, a Life Cycle Celebrant, and Paige Wilder because of their love of life’s cycles and womanhood; and their desire to promote the use of ceremony to mark the milestones and transitions in the lives of individuals, families, and their community. For more information visit ASacredPassage.weebly.com 81

DIY Tutorial

Earth Day Activity DIY Organic Succulent Garden Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can’t go wrong with succulents.

They’re low maintenance, and they come in quirky shapes and sizes. Kids are naturally drawn to their unexpected colors and textures.

|by Jennie Lyon

On or before Earth Day, plan a trip to your local nursery and let the kids select their favorite succulents. Use gardening supplies you already have and grab a few small toys from the toy box to help your child create her own succulent garden.

Materials:

• succulent plants (organic if possible) • recycled container for potting (your local thrift store is a great source) • organic cactus potting soil • small toys (we used dinosaurs) • non-toxic paint • rocks • spray bottle

Instructions:

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1. Get Planting Start by adding a layer of rocks to the bottom of your container, keeping your layers as even as possible. Follow by adding the organic cactus potting soil on top of the rocks. Then, arrange and add the plants to the container, leaving enough space for the plants to spread out as they grow.

2. Paint and Add the Dinosaurs Using eco-friendly craft paints, your child can add a little more color to the small toys.

Sponge a little color on them to give them a little pop of color – leaving some of the original color underneath. Once dry, add to the terrarium.

3. Display and Enjoy the Terrarium Place the finished terrarium in a sunny spot in your child’s room. He or she will enjoy rearranging the toys, showing it to friends and family, and sharing the thoughts that it evokes.

That’s what creative gardening is really about.

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GCM Community Marketplace

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Wool Dryer Balls!

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Our felted wool balls create friction in the dryer to help reduce drying time and naturally soften your laundry.

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Your Green Child

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Community - Get advice from other parents on attachment

parenting and raising eco-conscious children Go Green - Learn how to get your kids involved in causes they care about Activities - Have a ball with games, crafts, and more Giveaways - Win eco-stylish and fun green gear for families Learn - Articles by experts in health and green living Get Involved - Let us know what you like

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