Spring 2015 Issue of Green Child Magazine

Spring 2015

A health & family focused digital magazine & community.

5 Annual th

Eco Baby Gear Guide Life Lessons From Earth Day Spring Fashion Fun Helping Your Child Develop Critical Thinking Skills Delicious, Seasonal

Recipes

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Contents 8 EcoFab

A few of our favorite finds, inspired by nature & health

10 Activism Alert: GMO Apple

What you need to know about the new genetically modified non-browning apple

12 Capturing Great Images of Your Child Pro photographer Jacqie Mason shares her top tips for getting great photos of your child

14 In Your Loving Hands

The benefits of infant massage

18 One Room at a Time

How to green your cleaning closet

20 The More You Know Eco Life Lessons from Earth Day

24 Nutritional Nuggets

From breastfeeding sensitivities to fab diets, expert Christina Towle answers your questions

26 Think it Through

Helping your child develop critical thinking skills

30 Raising Young Yogis

Using yoga to increase overall wellness in kids

34 The Buy Nothing New Challenge

It’s easier than you might think to live simply (and save lots of money) for a month

38 Safer Spring Cleaning

What to avoid in cleaning products and DIY recipes for the safest, most effective options 3

Contents 40 5th Annual Eco-Baby Gear Guide 93 Ask Green Grandma We searched for the safest, most convenient, eco-friendly baby items, so you won’t have to. From feeding to diaper- ing, and babywearing to bedding... we’ve got you covered!

52 Sage Spoonfuls

Liza Huber shares her recipes for Apple Cinnamon Bars, Carrot-Pineapple Smoothie, and Sweet Potato, Spinach, & Chickpea baby food

58 Conscious Kitchen

Our favorite guacamole recipe

60 Green Child Talks with Serena Dyer

Author & expecting mother Serena Dyer talks about growing up with spiritual parents and following her dharma in life

64 Look Listen Read

Questions from our readers answered

94 The Illusion of Balance

How to connect with yourself first so everything else will fall into place

96 Community Marketplace

Eco-friendly products & services from our collection of artisan shops & resources

98 Your Green Child

A peek into the families of our readers

102 Little Artists

Sharing the talents of our youngest community members.

Spring 2015

A health & fam

ily focused dig ital magazine

Our editors’ top picks in books, apps & more

& community .

66 Letting Go of Mommy Guilt

Don’t sweat the small stuff... or the baby book

68 Let’s Get Hoppy

Celebrate a healthy, happy, and green Easter

70 DIY Craft

Eco Easter: Utensil Holders from Burlap

72 Spring Fashion Fun

Spring into eco-friendly fashions from sustainable style-makers for kids

87 Guided Relaxation

A beautiful meditation for your child on building memory skills

88 Working from Home

Erin Ely shares how you can make working at home work for you

93 Ask Green Grandma 4

5 th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guid

e

Life Lesson From Earth s Day Spring Fas

hion Fun

Helping Yo Develop C ur Child Thinking Sk ritical ills Delicious,

Seasonal

Recipes

Summer 2

014

Natural Dis

For the Old

cipline

er Child

Farm Fresh

Recipes

GCM talks Earth Mam to founder Ma Angel Baby elinda Olso n

Cover Photography by

Christin Lewin Photography Orlando, FL & beyond

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Publisher & Editor Amity Hook-Sopko

Creative Director Amanda Hearn

Advertising Director Tracy Carter

Copy Editor

Megan McCoy Dellecese

Columnists

Liza Huber Mellisa Dormoy Megan McCoy Dellecese Christina Towle Hana Haatainen Caye

Contributors

Suzanne Bertani Jacqie Mason Venetia Moore Allison Mundy Kelly Bartlett Anne Rendaci Johnson Megan McCoy Dellecese Jonathan Carter Sandy Kreps Scarlet Paolicchi Debbie Ader Hunt Erin Ely Christy Whitman

Media & Other Inquiries

media@greenchildmagazine.com

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from our publisher & editor

“Your children will see what you’re all about by what you live rather than what you say.” ~ Dr. Wayne Dyer Quite the contrast from, “Do as I say, not as I do,” isn’t it?

Looking back on your childhood, you might remember situations where you consciously decided you wouldn’t act the same way as your parents. But can you remember all the times you let their example influence how you would act?

So much of how we interact with others and what we believe comes from the early examples we observed. Some children are able to discern easily which thinking and behavior patterns serve them and which ones to reject, while other children soak up and operate from everything that’s handed to them. From this perspective, I was fascinated by Serena Dyer’s book about growing up in a “spiritually attached” home.

Having read dozens of books on spirituality (my favorites are Wayne Dyer, Louise Hay, Deepak Chopra, and Marianne Williamson), I often found myself wishing there was a book on raising children this way. I would read and think of how to not only fit these principles into my own life, but how to impart this wisdom in the

form of example to our young son and his baby brother.

Then I discovered conscious parenting authors like Shefali Tsabary and Jane Bartlett, and I read Jean Liedloff ’s The Continuum Concept. These books helped bridge my spiritual journey with my parenting adventure, and I keep them top of mind as we cultivate topics to cover for you, our readers.

So what a delight it was to meet Serena, a woman who was raised by a mother dedicated to attachment parenting and a father who is one of the most respected spiritual teachers of our time.

She described their home as loving, fun, compassionate, kind, and full – what else could it be with eight children? Her mother was a gentle spirit and a constant source of support and inspiration. Her father embraced the individuality of each of his kids and encouraged them to question everything… even their parents.

Her passion for life and wide open heart will inspire you. Her first child is due in just a couple of weeks, and just wait till you see her glowing pregnancy photo!

-Amity 7

EcoFab

Pamper yourself with our editors’ list of must-haves for Spring

Mantra Bands What you focus on expands, so why not give yourself a daily reminder to “Choose Joy” or “Live in the Moment”?

These bracelets were made to inspire, plus a portion of purchases supports Girls For A Change. $25 and up at Mantra Band

Sandals for Good Simple and comfortable, this accented sandal is perfect for stepping out and standing out.

A natural burlap upper goes with denim or a bright dress, but knowing your purchase helps provide shoes for a child in need is the best accessory. $59 at TOMS 8

Delicious, Handmade Soaps Recommended for oily skin, the Le Noir Activated Bamboo Charcoal soap is skillfully blended to achieve the perfect balance between a clarifying wash and a moisturizing lather. $12 at Brosily

Indulgent Teas Treat yourself with these indulgent, organic teas. Available in Chocolate Earl Grey, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Rooibos, and Chocolate Spice. $7 at Numi Organic Tea

Natural Pump Toothpaste Conventional toothpaste makes your mouth feel clean because it contains soap! Taylor’s Pure and Natural leaves your teeth fresh and healthy without the use of foaming agents, sweetners, or fluoride. We also love the glass pump bottle. Available in five refreshing flavors. $7 at Taylor’s Pure & Natural 9

do we need a non-browning apple ? |by Suzanne Bertani

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Last month it was announced that the USDA approved an apple that doesn’t brown. Is this simply a hybrid version of our children’s favorite fruit? What’s the big deal about an apple that doesn’t brown? We asked Suzanne from Mommy Footprint to break down the concerns activists and parents have about this genetically modified fruit.

been genetically engineered so that it won’t brown if bruised or for 15-18 days after being cut. To ‘silence/stop’ the browning gene, they insert two different bacteria, a plant virus with some genetic material from an apple into the apple cells. If you translate what ‘non-browning’ means for consumers – you are eating a GM apple without knowing how old it is.

What is a GM (Genetically Modified) Apple?

Why We Don’t Trust It

Genetically modified food is created by science, not nature. The non-browning apple has

In a landscape of consumers marching against GMOs concerned for the depleted number of

bees and insects and the rise in so many diseases linked to pesticides, the timing of this apple doesn’t make sense. This apple, called the arctic apple, non-browning apple, or GM apple, is another modified food that has been approved without animal or long-term studies.

of GMOs, so any product that contains apples could potentially contain GM apples. Just think of how many products contain apples.

Thoughts from a Mom

As a North American mom, it is embarrassing to know Canada and the US jointly have proWe also know that every cell of the GM apduced the only 2 genetically modified fruits ple tree will have the transgene and once the worldwide. The first was the papaya from growers start production of these apples, it Hawaii and now we have the non-browning will cross contaminate soil, water, insects, and apple. The company that created the nonany organism (including humans) that eats browning (GE) apple also has the technology it. Apple trees are open pollinated and so the ready to go for cherries, pears, and peaches. action of growing non-browning apples in This Pandora’s box of untested food will enter orchards are like opening a Pandora’s box of the food system and cause contamination becontamination before proper testing is comfore we are able to control it. pleted.

And with so many growers, consumers and brands quesOnce the growers start How Do We Stop It? tioning GMOs, it’s simply production of these apples, unclear who drove the need it will cross contaminate Have you seen the bumpfor an apple to be produced soil, water, insects, and er sticker, “If You Are that doesn’t brown. Mcany organism (including Not Outraged Then You Donald’s and Gerber have humans) that eats it.

Haven’t Been Paying Atpublically stated they don’t tention”? Big agriculture is support the genetically messing with the fruit doctors have humormodified apple. ously subscribed families eat once per day. An outcry from consumers is what grocery chains The only clear way to continue to avoid and neighborhood stores need to hear. Go to GMOs is to shop organic and watch for Nonyour grocery store and talk to the produce or GMO verification on food packaging. Constore manager. Tell them you don’t want them stant engagement is required to learn about to sell these apples when they are available for where our produce, meat and dairy are prodistribution. Other foods have been approved duced. We are fighting to protect our food and never made it to market because of consystem for the next generation and this stage sumer and food companies’ resistance to it. is crucial. For up-to-date information on the The US Government might have approved GM apple, follow GE Free BC on Facebook, this apple, but we want orchards, stores, and and join the conversation about stopping this brands to hear loud and clear “we do not want fruit from appearing on store shelves. this apple!” There is no mandatory labeling 11

tips for getting

great images of your child |by Jacqie Mason

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Jacqie Q Photography

Have you ever tried to take photos of your kids only to have them come out too blurry, too dark, or otherwise lackluster?

curtains to soften the light. You want the light to hit your baby’s face and either be to your side or behind you.

Did you spend hours debating outfits and fix2. Timing. This might be common sense, but ing your kid’s crazy cowlick for this?! Wonder make sure your baby has been fed and had a how your friend’s children have such great nap. Cranky babies make cranky mommies and smiles all over your social media not so great photos. To snag your little one’s feed? While professional photos attention make all the are treasured heirlooms for your funny faces and ridicuToo blurry? children and grandchildren, the lous noises you need to. day-to-day moments are the My secret weapon is a ones your children will look harmonica. I can hold it back on to tell the story of their in my mouth and shoot childhood. And be sure you get at the same time. Music in those photos, too! gets their attention and most times they crack a For the everyday moments smile.

Too dark? you want to capture, here are a few photography secrets: 3. Let It Go. You can’t dictate what mood your 1. Lighting. All good phokiddo will be in nor what tographers and hobbyist expressions he will give. photographers know it’s all If your baby is not having about the light. If you can’t it, try again another time. seem to get non-blurry imOr, document those snotty, ages of your kids, fix your pouty faces. It is part of his light! Getting nice lighting childhood, and the person outdoors is relatively simhe is at that moment. Those moments are treasures, ple. Avoid harsh sun by too! Toddlers tend to be the seeking shade, and shoot hardest to shoot because when the sun is lower in Ju st ri ght! they don’t care that you’re the sky. I mostly shoot trying to take their picture during the Golden Hour – and love to run away. Make it the hour after the sun rises a game. Capture those smiles and the hour before it sets. When you can’t get outside, you can still take great picduring a game of chase. This is easiest outside because you’re less likely to get blurry photos. tures. The first thing I do when I enter a room to take photos is to turn off the lights. From Lastly, have fun. If you aren’t enjoying the sesfluorescent to can lights to incandescent bulbs, sion, neither is your little one. Capturing those artificial lighting often causes ugly color casts and weird lighting patterns. Instead, move your moments is not as important as living those moments. Savor the time that they are little. baby toward a window, preferably with sheer

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In Your Loving Hands

the benefits of infant massage |by Venetia Moore

Touch is a baby’s most powerful sense; the skin is the first organ to develop, and even in the womb there is a sense of touch. For a crying baby, there’s no greater comfort than to be lovingly touched and held. Touch is like food for babies – they need it! Baby massage is an ancient art, rooted deeply in Indian, Tibetan, Malaysian, Chinese and African cultures. In the animal kingdom, this expression of love can surely not be missed: almost all species touch in some way to communicate, bond, form groups and colonies, and to help to promote natural growth and well-being.

When babies cry, when you give your we intuitively hold baby a massage them; when children hurt themselves, we it’s a wonderful The skin is the human body’s largest organ, say “Let’s kiss or rub opportunity to containing millions of receptors that send it better.” If we hurt nurture and nourish messages through nerve fibers to the brain. ourselves, we imyour baby Studies have shown that loving touch helps to mediately put our increase brain levels of endorphins, a natural hand to the injured painkiller, and oxytocin, a powerful bonding site. It’s a natural reaction to stroke it, and by ‘feel good, in love’ hormone. These help to doing this we’re encouraging the natural repair lower a person’s heart rate and blood pressure process. Blood and oxygen is quickly brought and greatly help to reduce stress levels. So to the damaged area, the body produces its we all have this powerful tool literally at our own corticosteroids and endorphins, and pain, fingertips. swelling and inflammation are greatly reduced.

We all hold the innate gift of a healing touch.

Throughout history, from ancient to modern times, there are references to this most natural ability. With kind touch, we’re able to deeply connect to others, to comfort, to calm, to heal and to give and to receive love. With our loving hands and bodies, we’re able to communicate in a profound way, especially at times when words fall short. Often when wanting to help, we may instinctively use this natural gift: just without a thought, we hug, touch or hold.

Studies from the University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute have shown that touch is an essential part of human health and wellbeing.

Touch helps us to feel nurtured and nourished in our lives, and a cuddle can comfort and help to lift our spirits.

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In Your Loving Hands

the benefits of infant massage When you give your baby a massage it’s a wonderful opportunity to nurture and nourish your baby, getting to know him or her better on all levels, while feeling good yourself. There’s no hard and fast rule about when you can start to massage your baby. Initially, it may be more beneficial for your newborn baby to experience a gentle, nurturing touch, rather than doing too many massage techniques, as this might be a bit too overwhelming at first. However, you’re the best judge of this. Your baby loves spending time close to you; so lots of cuddles, or being carried around in a sling or a papoose would give them the loving closeness and touch they so need to thrive in the early days.

The ‘Warm Hands’ technique from Surviving Baby Colic is excellent for when your baby is feeling slightly fretful and in need of some comfort and calming. This soothing technique enables you to quickly make a warm and loving connection with your baby.

WARM HANDS MASSAGE • Take a relaxing breath, and then rub your hands together to generate some heat in them.

• Next, place your hands side by side on your baby’s abdomen and rest them there for a while.

Baby massage can help to: • Empower you by helping you to understand your baby better • Improve the general functioning of your baby’s immune system • Regulate and strengthen the digestive system (which may reduce the discomfort of colic, wind and constipation) • Promote relaxation and improve quality of sleep • Reduce pain through increasing endorphins, a natural painkiller • Reduce levels of cortisol (stress hormone) • Alleviate wind and constipation • Strengthen the bond between you and your baby • Balance the nervous system • Boost the respiratory system • Release the relaxing ‘feel good’ hormone oxytocin • Help your baby to grow and flourish.

WHERE TO START

Why not start by trying some small, gentle massage on your baby’s legs and feet? This can be very relaxing and soothing and it could be just what they need. In the womb they randomly move and kick, as I’m sure you’ve experienced, and in doing so, their legs and feet get used to a certain amount of touch; this means they’re more receptive to massage in Baby massage is wonderful for so many reasons. Here are just some of the benefits: these areas.

• Send calm, loving thoughts through your hands and enjoy the loving connection between you both. You may be surprised how comforted and relaxed your baby can become by your doing something so simple.

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DRY MASSAGE

This doesn’t involve using massage oil so it tends to be done over clothes. Just working intuitively, use your palms and fingers to gently stroke and massage their legs, feet and toes. This can be extremely soothing, relaxing and comforting. If you accompany your massage with some loving words or song, even better. It wouldn’t work well to massage on the skin for too long without some massage oil or lotion, as you could eventually cause friction and discomfort.

MASSAGE WITH OIL

Some good oils to use are almond oil, fractionated coconut oil, grapeseed oil or sunflower oil. These oils are food for the skin, are safe to be absorbed, and are preferable to a mineral- based oil. It’s always good to do a skin patch allergy test for before a massage.

• Make sure you’re both warm and comfortable.

• Remove any clothing from the legs and feet • Ask your baby if they are ready for a massage; their body language will soon let you know if they’re not • Put a small amount of oil in the palm of your hand and with both hands gently warm it • Apply some oil to one leg and foot and, using gently stroking movements, work up and down the leg and all over the foot including the toes. They’ll relax faster into the massage if you chat away with some comforting words or song.

• If they’re still enjoying the massage repeat on the other leg and foot.

• Finish with a cuddle.

Consider joining a baby massage course; you’ll then get to learn several interesting massage techniques and routines for the whole body. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of having a full body massage yourself, you will understand just how therapeutic and wonderful that feels. Don’t be afraid to discover what comes naturally to you, as you will be very ‘tuned in’ to your baby and are likely to know intuitively what is best for them. Why not invite other members of the family to try some baby massage? It’s wonderful coming from mums, dads, siblings (supervised), and other family members, too!

If your baby is suffering from colic then massage could be extremely helpful to ease and relieve painful symptoms. You will find in my book, Surviving Baby Colic, illustrations of colic massage routines, techniques and exercises. I know myself how empowering it can be to do something positive for your baby at this time.

The benefits from baby massage are definitely two-way: as you give, so you receive. By giving with your loving hands, you’ll find that the connection between you both is deeply strengthened, allowing love and good feeling to flow freely between you.

Having experienced baby colic with her own children, author Venetia Moore understands the many ups and downs of it all. Her experiences steered her, 24 years ago, to become a complementary health therapist and she runs baby clinics and classes. To combine her personal and professional knowledge together to help others she has recently released, ‘Surviving Baby Colic’ which is available from Amazon.

Feeling strongly that parents need empowering information and support at this time and as ‘The Baby Colic Coach’, she now offers a new online service to help do just that.

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gre en

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One Room @ a Time

cleaning closet

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Tips to g your lif reen e... one room a t a tim e!

Natural Oxygen Whitener Who needs bleach when a natural whitener works this well? With sodium percarbonate and other earth-derived ingredients, Molly’s Suds Oxygen Whitener breaks down the hard water minerals that can dull your whites. Excellent as a booster for every load of laundry and phenomenal for soaking away stains, Molly’s chlorine-free whitener will be your laundry room’s new best friend. $9 at Molly’s Suds

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Bubble Up Brush Small but mighty, this springloaded ceramic despenser will have you cleaning in style. The brush is made from organic bamboo and recycled plastic. $17 at Amazon

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Boon Clutch Wash and sterilize toys or small items easily in the dishwasher. $10 at Amazon

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Old T-Shirts Who needs those pricey cloths that collect hair and dust? Recycle your old t-shirts for the ultimate green cleaning rag.

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Refillable Cleaning Supplies From stains to pet messes to countertops, Branch Basics is truly a safe, all-inone cleaner. $29 starter kit will last a year or more, from Branch Basics

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Vaska Dish Tabs No shrink wrap on these laundry tablets means no toxic solvents and no sticky messes. Coming soon from Vaska

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the

More you Know

eco: Life Lessons from Earth Day

|by Allison Mundy

Families who strive to live green on a daily basis may be tempted to pass on celebrating Earth Day. Kids are still recovering from months of cabin fever. Parents have finally stowed away (or recycled) the last of the Valentine’s Day crafts and are bracing themselves for the onslaught of end-of-school year events. Is another holiday celebration really necessary? After all, isn’t living a green lifestyle every day the best way to celebrate Earth Day? How does a family who is already living green make Earth Day different from every other day?

Earth Day is a celebration! Treat it as one because celebrations bring families together.

Set aside time to do something different.

Have fun together. And remember the incredible life lessons that Earth Day and living green will teach your children:

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Gratitude. Celebrating Earth Day lends itself to a posture of gratitude. If you do only one thing on Earth Day, go outside! Take a hike, have a picnic, watch a sunrise or sunset,

and absorb the beauty that surrounds you.

Encourage your children to see the brilliant colors, feel the design on a tree’s bark, squish mud between their fingers, listen to birds serenading them, and smell the air. The secret to gratitude is opening your eyes to the many small and large gifts that are placed in your path. There will be days or whole seasons in life where it is difficult to see any beauty, goodness, or fairness. But if our children are trained to be observant and respectful of the beauty in nature, they will be able to find things to be grateful for, even during the darkest days to come. When you celebrate Earth Day, you are expressing gratitude for all the beauty in our world and in life.

Empathy and Courage. Parents want to raise children who have the empathy and courage to stand up for injustice and speak for the vulnerable. In an age where bullying extends from the playground to the relentless presence of the Internet, children have infinite opportunities to stand up for others. Earth Day is a day to speak for the vulnerable plants

and animals that are endangered because of mankind’s behavior. Children will find their voice when they speak out to bring awareness to the plight of polar bears in the arctic or trees in the rainforest. Through this practice, they will gain confidence for when it’s time to stand up for a classmate or fight a societal injustice later in life.

Balance. A most fortunate challenge in our society is maintaining balance in the face of excess. Compared with most of the world, we are extravagantly wealthy and have more than what we need. Contrary to that, living green sometimes means choosing not to do or have something, even if you can. It means sacrificing convenience or your desires for a greater good. It means making decisions with the amount of consumption, waste, and excess in mind. Living green, with simplicity and discipline, shows children moderation and balance in life.

Responsibility. Earth Day is a day to recognize and accept personal responsibility for

this enormous, diverse planet. Part of this responsibility is understanding that your actions have a ripple effect across the globe and into the future. When parents show concern for animals that do not live in your backyard, care about the well-being of people you have not met, or worry about future generations, children learn that they exist in a much larger world than what they experience daily in their lives. There is an entire planet teeming with life—different species of plants and animals, and people whom they will never meet. Yet, all those species and people are affected by our choices, and we are affected by theirs.

Celebrating Earth Day opens a child’s mind and perspective to see her connection to other living beings around the world.

Green parents, you do small and large things every day to preserve and respect our planet and all this magnificent creation. You work hard to set an example for your children that will impact generations to come. Your actions teach your children life lessons that will make them better people. Come, celebrate Earth Day! You are part of the celebration!

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Easy, Kid-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Earth Day Join someone else’s celebration.

Check out the Earth Day events your local park districts and gardening centers are offering, and join in the fun!

Get outside! Take a walk, explore someplace new, or lay down a blanket and take a nap. Celebrating Earth Day means loving and enjoying the Earth.

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Make repurposed art. Dumpster dive in your recycling bin and raid your junk drawers to find materials and create something together. Think robots, mobiles, picture frames, wind chimes, and model airplanes. The options are endless!

Shower derby. Set a timer to see who can take the quickest shower, conserving the most water.

Pick up trash in your neighborhood or favorite park. Children who have never voluntarily picked up their bedrooms will love picking up someone else’s trash. It’s an Earth Day miracle!

Go on an endangered species scavenger hunt. Hide pictures of endangered species around your home or yard. Research something new about each species together.

5.

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|by Allison Mundy

Visit a farmers’ market. More fun for the family than the typical grocery run. Plus, you will be supporting local farmers and conserving fuel. Everyone wins!

Decorate a recycling bin (even a cardboard box) to keep in your home. Children will be more likely to use something they made.

Document a sunrise (or sunset, if mornings make you ill). Bring the family outside, armed with paper, crayons, markers, pastels, or chalk. Share the moment by everyone drawing the beautiful colors they see.

10.

Read a favorite book about Earth Day. Here are some of ours: “The Lorax” by Dr. Suess, “Sheila Says We’re Weird” by Ruth Ann Smalley, “50 Ways to Save the Earth” by Anne Jankeliowitch, and “The Earth Book” by Todd Parr.

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Nutritional Nuggets Expert Christina Towle answers your questions!

Question: I am exclusively nursing my 8 week old baby. She has been very gassy almost from the start. I eat a lot of salad and veggies most days. The other day I didn’t eat any vegetables at all and we noticed that my daughter was barely gassy and wasn’t writhing around in pain like she usually does. I don’t want to stop eating vegetables. Any ideas on keeping good nutrition for both of us, but keeping her comfortable? Thanks so much!

It’s wonderful that you are so aware of your diet and your baby’s reaction to feedings.

There are certainly differences of opinion on whether a mother’s diet affects her baby, especially in regards to gas, but I typically trust a mother’s intuition and if you feel there’s a connection, then why not see if some diet tweaks can help remedy.

Let’s begin with the good news. Veggies might not be the culprit here! More people react to milk [lactose]; fruit [sorbitol] and carbohydrates/beans than veggies. So you can experiment by easing up on these food groups to see if in fact veggies are to blame.

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If you still feel that veggies are the grounds for gas, you still have options. When choosing the types of veggies you’ll consume, favor those with soluble fiber vs. insoluble, which tend to be easier to digest and better for the gut, resulting in less gas. Carrots, Squash, Sweet potatoes, parsnips and beets are solu-

ble solutions and easy on the tummy while veggies you may want to avoid for now are peas, corn, peppers, eggplant, onions, broccoli, and cauliflower.

A few other tips: 1. Steamed/cooked veggies are easy to digest than raw 2. Stick to one or 2 varieties of veggies in a day rather than a stir-fry or mixed veggie dish which is more complex to digest 3. Blend veggies into tummy-taming soups, smoothies, or purees

Also, fermented vegetables high in natural probiotics will benefit both you and your baby - sauerkraut, pickles, and kim chi are all tasty treats that aid digestion.

Also remember that relaxation is key to preventing gas for both mother and child. Try to take deep breaths when you eat and feed your baby. Massage, cuddles, and relaxing music will soothe both stomachs and souls!

The Truth Behind the Trend Question: I’ve heard a lot of people talking about “The Baby Food Diet”…an eating plan that is supposed to help people, especially new parents, lose weight. Should I eat like a baby? Is this just trendy or is there some truth to it?

I’ve heard about this diet too. Any plan that restricts or directs you to a limited type of food and/or way of eating is not a longstanding nutritional plan I recommend.

However, there is truth to the health benefit of eating a very simple diet that resembles the recommendations for how best to feed your baby - home-made, chemical-free, all-natural and abundant in veggies, fruit, and lean, quality protein. Eating this way is a win-win for the entire family!

To make this way of eating as easy to follow for a 4 year old as for a 40 year old, below is an easy way to remember, with the word BRATS Traditionally, doctors used the BRAT diet to make it simple for parents to follow while supporting their child through tummy issues.

Typically: B for Banana R for Rice A for Apple/Apple-sauce T for Toast I’ve spiced this up a little to make it a longstanding nutritional recommendation: B for Beets. Grass-fed Beef, Blueberries R for Root & Raw veggies, and Raw nuts A for Avocado, Avoid Alcohol, Apples T for Tea, Toast, Tumeric, S for Salad, Smoothie, Stevia

There you go...a child-like simplicity towards eating that it healthy; easy to remember and much healthier than living just on baby food to lose weight. The truth behind the trend!

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Think It Through

Helping Your Child Develop Critical Thinking Skills |by Kelly Bartlett

Being able to think critically about any given problem is a skill most parents want their children to have. Creative problem solving is a coveted skill not only in all lines of work, but life in general. It starts with being able to be curious, flexible, and open-minded. And while many kids learn problem solving and thinking skills in school, there are ways you can also help them at home.

Here are some ways you can support your child’s education and encourage their development of critical thinking skills:

Don’t…

Micromanage. Hovering close by your children at all times, ready to jump in and fix things, or demonstrate the “right” way to do something stifles any opportunity they might have to develop pathways in the brain by thinking problems through for themselves.

Do…

Step back and entrust children to find ways through their struggles. Every time they have to think for themselves, a new connection is formed in the brain. The more times they get to experience a problem, try out solutions, and find a successful outcome, the more efficient those pathways become.

Don’t…

Solve. The answers to your child’s problems seem obvious. After all, you’ve been alive longer, have more experience, and can easily think of answers to your child’s dilemmas, right? The thing is, your child is just as capable as you are.

Do…

Empathize. Instead of responding with a solution when your child voices a complaint, commiserate first. The part of the brain that processes logic and reasoning becomes overshadowed when emotions run strong. When your child is able to unload the emotional component of his problem (anger, confusion, frustration, etc.), his brain is then able to access its “rational” part and work through the logistics of the problem—to find a solution.

So listen first, not with the intent of providing an answer, but with the intent of simply trying to understand. He will be able to find his own answers.

Don’t…

Tell. Kids tune out long explanations for why they need to do things, why their methods won’t work, or why your explanation is true.

You may indeed be right, but speeches don’t do anything for your child’s brain development.

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Think It Through

Helping Your Child Develop Critical Thinking Skills

Do…

Ask. Get kids to think through their choices and actions related to the problem by asking them questions about what’s happening.

• What do you think?

• What would happen if…?

• What makes you say that?

• What would you do?

• What are your ideas?

• What makes the most sense to you?

• How would you fix this?

• Would you do anything differently?

• Is there another way that would work?

• The neural pathways involved in thinking critically become stronger when kids talk through a problem and explain how they arrived at a solution.

Here are a few more Do’s to help your child develop critical thinking skills: Give kids opportunities for taking on responsibility. It is important for children to step outside of their comfort zone and take on tasks that are typically done for them. The only way for kids to be able to answer the question, “How am I going to solve this problem?” is to be in situations in which they need to solve problems. So let them make their own lunches or do their own laundry; they will soon experience the dilemma of a low-stocked pantry or empty underwear drawer. Let them get stumped over the responsibilities of life and encourage them to think through the next best course of action.

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Allow kids to do things their own way, even if it seems inefficient to you. Different doesn’t mean wrong, and it sometimes leads to surprising outcomes (as well as improved thinking skills).

Accept mistakes. In order to learn how to be successful, children need to experience failure.

As a parent, mistakes can be hard to watch, but they are a necessary precursor to a child getting up and trying again. Mistakes are opportunities for thinking differently and for leaning.

Process your child’s decisions together.

Ask follow-up questions to help her talk through her thought process. What did you decide to do? What was the hardest part? Did anything surprise you? Would you do it again this way? Once again, this reinforces the neural connections in the part of the brain that processes problem solving.

Ensure plenty of time for free play.

Unstructured time at home allows children to play and learn in an environment that is unrestricted by any set outcome. This alone encourages the development of new neural pathways as children navigate their own experimentation and learning. Open-ended play offers countless ways for children to think about the world and make their own decisions.

Try different kinds of puzzle games.

Next time you know you’ll be waiting at a restaurant, try bringing a book of riddles, an ageappropriate Brain Quest flip book, or even a book of Mad Libs to keep your family occupied.

Puzzles like word games, math games, brainteasers, riddles, or IQ-style questions are fun ways to pass the time and give kids wonderful opportunities to exercise their critical thinking muscles.

With a few small changes to your routine, you can find plenty of ways to get kids to think through solutions to problems great and small.

You’ll find your child growing into an independent, well-rounded thinker!

www.attachmentparenting.org

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30

Growing Young Yogis

The Power to Increase Overall Wellness in Kids

|by Anne Rendaci Johnson

From the moment they are born, children emit a bright and beautiful light. We strive to strengthen that inner light with each interaction, establish both a firm sense of self and the ability to meet challenges in their lives with strength and grace. Introducing a mindfulness practice such as yoga can benefit children of all ages, establishing a foundation of wellbeing that will support them throughout their lives.

Taking Root and Bearing Fruit

Yoga provides different growth opportunities as children mature. For toddlers, yoga plants a seed, building confidence, body awareness, and a focus on the breath as a tool for centering. They begin to understand that it feels good to breath, stretch, and play. Props such as a Hoberman Sphere can help youngsters link their breath with simple movements, such as opening the sphere on an inhalation and closing it on an exhalation.

For school-age children, yoga nurtures their growth, improving balance, focus, self-acceptance and acceptance of others. Kids at this age are able to teach a pose to their peers in class - reaffirming the noncompetitive nature of yoga. For pre-teens and teens, yoga encourages open hearts, minds, and bodies to

build self-esteem, confidence, and cooperation. They delight in “challenge poses” - like half moon and handstand - and will tap into their lessons on the mat during challenging times at school or sports.

More than just Peace & OM

There are benefits to a child practicing yoga beyond positive social growth. Pediatric physical and occupational therapists apply yoga in their practices because it provides a motivating way to increase a child’s strength and flexibility and develop motor skills.

“Yoga can improve bilateral integration (using both sides of the body together), midline awareness, and concentration. It teaches children to use their breath while performing postures, engaging more of their core musculature,” states Sarah Raybourn, MS, OTR/L. “Instead of routine exercises, yoga poses that mimic animals or ideas familiar to children are fun yet provide just the right challenge.”

A Practice to Share

Messages to children are quite relevant in our adult lives. Practice the following sequence with your children, sharing the beauty and balance of yoga.

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Growing Yogis

Yoga for Kids Doesn’t Have to Be Serious A child’s job is to move, and many studies now are revealing the developmental benefits of play. Jessica Rosenberg, a 500 RYT yoga instructor located in Minneapolis, created The Adventures of Super Stretch Program — a vibrant kids’ yoga fitness program - to give parents, educators, and health practitioners a way to help kids achieve optimal wellness. The program speaks to children visually through an inviting mix of characters and animals, led by yoga superhero, Super Stretch.

To make the program even more accessible to children, Jes has created flashcards and a FREE Super Stretch yoga app that was named a Best App for Kids by Appolicious. Footage of real children demonstrating the postures is included within the app and pictured on the flashcards. Yoga isn’t about perfecting poses.

Super Stretch encourages us to be brave, breathe through rough patches, and explore balance in our bodies.

To learn more about The Adventures of Super Stretch and to download the free app, visit:

adventuresofsuperstretch.com 32

Begin in a comfortable seated position (like crisscross applesauce). Take a deep breath in. As you breathe out, make the sound “Om” (or A-U-M) to steady your mind, signal the beginning of your practice, and acknowledge your connection to everything in our vast universe.

Roll onto hands and knees, in tabletop position.

Press the floor away and hug your belly toward your spine, arching your back into cat pose. Give your best “Meow.” Then drop your belly, lift your heart and “Moo” with delight, taking the shape of cow pose. Alternating between cat and cow pose creates a simple vinyasa, linking breath and movement and warming up your spine. Cat / Cow is a balanced flow, pairing flexion (exhale to arch) and extension (inhale as your belly drops).

Stand and take three mini Sun Salues to energize your whole body. Inhale, stretch your arms up like the sun’s rays. Exhale, fold forward and touch your toes, wiggling your fingers like falling raindrops as you dive down. Inhale, lift your chest and gaze past your toes to lengthen your spine. Exhale and fold forward again. As you inhale, rise up to stand, reaching your arms wide overhead. Exhale your hands to your heart. That’s one sun salute. Repeat two more, moving with your breath. (For little ones, I love to incorporate Elizabeth Mitchell’s “Sunny Day” song within our sun salutes) Return to sit with the soles of your feet touching and knees out, becoming a butterfly. Lift and lower your knees to flap them like wings. Make two antennas with your fingers above your ears.

Butterfly pose stretches our inner thighs, reminds us sit up straight and tall, and keeps our joints and tummy organs healthy and strong. Butterflies remind us of the beauty of change.

Through the practice of yoga, you will realize that your breath will help you handle changes in your life with grace.

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The Buy Nothing New Challenge It’s easier than you think to live simply (and save lots of money) for a month!

|by Megan McCoy Dellecese Earth Day gives us a great excuse to do a little self evaluating. What are we doing to really help make the earth a better place? We realize that every little bit helps, but what’s something new to add to our arsenal that we haven’t already tried? It’s great to go through a checklist of ways to conserve, waste less, get in touch with nature, and create sustainable habits.

There are obviously some necessities that will need to be purchased “new” - namely, groceries (unless you preserve your own foods). Otherwise, it’s a great chance to discuss with your family the items that you consume and use as a family that are brandnew, and whether they should be or not.

After deciding what your “new necessities” will be, try some of these tips to keep the rest of your purchases old, used, or otherwise non-new:

Well, here’s a fun suggestion to add to your checklist this year: buy nothing new. As described by BuyNothingNew.org, this is all about considering and • You don’t have to cutting down on your spend nothing. While This is all about considering consumption and, at you can totally make this and cutting down on your times, the overabundance challenge about making no consumption and, at times, of “stuff ” in our lives. purchases (beyond grocerthe overabundance of Excess consumption of ies), it doesn’t have to be “stuff” in our lives. goods creates a wasteful about spending no money mindset towards Earth’s on anything. It’s more about valuable resources. avoiding the purchase of unnecessary goods and putting deeper thought into Taking part in a project like this helps to what you buy. Ultimately, when a person educate your family about this matter and buys brand new goods made irresponcan be done during the entire week of Earth sibly, it’s negatively impacting the earth Day, the month of April as an “Earth Month” and its resources. celebration, or you can take it to the max and try 6 (or even 12) months. The sky’s the • Purge what you have. This is a great limit as far as your family’s comfort level. way to kickstart your “buy nothing new” 35

The Buy Nothing New Challenge adventures. Give each family member a project (go through their toys or clothes) and discuss why you could do with less stuff and how there’s a connection between owning less, buying less, and wanting less. And be sure to give your castoffs to a reputable organization, friends or families who could use them, or sell them in a yard sale. (Anything, as long as they don’t end up in the trash!)

• Use resources wisely. Look at your family waste, in general. Are you using reusable totes and lunch containers, or are you creating your own glut of daily trash? Are you recycling everything that can be recycled? Pay attention to your family’s use of all resources: water, electricity, heat/cooling, plastic, paper - the list goes on and on.

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Watch one of the many great old DVDs in your stash rather than buying the latest. Start a “game night” tradition using one of the many board games collecting dust in your closet. You may find that a simple life is far more enjoyable.

• Buy services and experiences. If your family agrees upon this type of “spending”, consider fun trips to local museums, parks, concerts, movies, art shows and more. The value of these types of experiences far outweighs the cost of admission, and the memories will last forever.

If you truly find yourself in need of something, consider these options: • Fix what’s broken. Before thinking, “that’s broken, I need a new one,” consider fixing it first. Instead of buying a new bicycle, for instance, look up tutorials online for fixing your old one up. You may find that you enjoy using it all the more knowing that you fixed it with your own two hands.

• Consume less food. Since groceries are in the “okay to buy new” area, it doesn’t mean that you have to continue to purchase the same way that you always do. By creating a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly meal plan will help you buy only what your family needs for meals and snacks with far less wasted products and money. Also consider your portion sizes. The average restaurant meal is actually double the size of what we should be eating; make sure your meals at home are just the right size (although leftovers for lunches are a wonderful thing).

• It’s okay to buy used. If you find that you truly are in need (vs. want) of something, try finding it used. Whether through Craigslist, a thrift shop, or a garage sale, you’ll be finding what you need, but more importantly will be saving that item from a fate in a landfill.

• Enjoy the new simplicity. Try not to dread this challenge. Take it as an opportunity to enjoy the free things in life more. Take walks with your family. Find a free nature trail in your area to discover.

• There’s nothing wrong with freebies.

If you’re looking for a particular good, let your friends and family know. You’re not going out of your way to be a mooch, though. Put it politely; perhaps if someone

isn’t using, say, toddler clothes, baby gear, or even a piece of furniture, you’d be super appreciative to take it off their hands. You may be surprised at how willing people are to help you out while purging something they no longer need.

• Bring back bartering. If you’re not comfortable asking for a free item, consider a trade instead! While you go through your purge, see if there’s anything that you think a friend, neighbor, or family member would appreciate use get good use out of. Then brainstorm anything that you may be in need of. Get creative! Some things that you could consider bartering include unopened/unused foods, clothes in excellent condition, furniture, exercise equipment, pet supplies, and even services.

Community Get advice from other parents, influencers, and experts in the industr y.

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 fun green gear for families + more!

Learn Articles by experts in health and green living.

Get Involved Let us know what you like!

• Make old new. How much fun would it be to buy an old, used piece of furniture and make it into a family project to refurbish? That chair would then not only hold more meaning in your house, but it would help your children see that something they might initially have seen as pretty gross-looking can be turned into something beautiful; ie beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

Ultimately, remember that the goal isn’t necessarily to acquire more stuff (unless it’s absolutely needed) or to force your family into a super minimalistic existence, but to find enjoyment in focusing on your needs vs. wants and ways that you can enjoy the experience together.

Connect With Us /GreenChildMagazine @GreenChildMag

We want to hear from you!

editor@greenchildmagazine.com

Media & Other

media@greenchildmagazine.com Image by Andreas Krappweis

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Safer Spring Cleaning |by Jonathan Carter

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Every day people spray, wipe, and clean with products that contain impossible-to-pronounce ingredients and impossible-to-identify chemicals. These cleaning products do the job they were designed for, but what about potential health and environmental impacts?

Is a smudge-free window worth a wheezing toddler? Does a fresh smelling living room outweigh a potential outbreak of hives? The following concoctions are not only more affordable alternatives to several of the most commonly used commercial cleaners, but they are also much safer options.

Air Fresheners

Your guests arrive in an hour but the house smells of the dog who hasn’t been washed in months. The kneejerk reaction is to douse everything in sight with a can of Glade or Febreze. This might solve the problem of a stinky house, but these products can coat nasal passages with an oil film or even deaden nerves in the nose. Chemicals like Acetaldehyde (carcinogen) and Propylene Glycol (allergen) cover up odors through brute strength rather than a more subtle approach to odor control.

make it yourself

For a deodorizer that is as gentle as it is effective, fill a spray bottle (thoroughly rinsed out if it has been used previously) with 1 tablespoon baking soda, 2 cups distilled water, and 10 drops of your favorite essential oil. Tea tree smells great and has natural disinfectant properties. This mixture can be used on surfaces ranging from carpets to couches and is 100% chemical free.

Drain Cleaner

When you think of drain cleaner like Drano, the image of a corrosive vat of bubbling liquid probably flashes before your eyes. Typical

drain cleaners contain some of the most egregious chemicals – lye, hydrochloric acid, and trichloroethane. Product liability specialists report that some of the most common cases of infant poisoning are a result of youngsters rooting around under the sink and ingesting even a small amount of drain cleaner. You don’t need harsh chemicals to unclog stubborn drains, you just need a few ingredients to loosen things up and allow gravity and water to do the rest.

make it yourself

A safer drain cleaners contains 3 to 4 cups of boiled water mixed with one cup each of baking soda and white vinegar. Pour this down the drain, give it time to bubble, then rinse with boiling water. A little elbow grease or unfurled wire coat hanger might also be needed to remove solid remnants.

Window & Glass Cleaner Whether they come from dog slobber or sticky little fingers, window streaks can make an otherwise clean household look unkempt.

Windex is the age-old answer to these problems, but according to several well-versed insurance specialists, this product contains ammonia which can irritate the eyes and lungs, and isopropanol, which can induce drowsiness. Products like this are overkill, especially when crystal clear windows are attainable with only a few household ingredients.

make it yourself

Start with 1 cup of infused vinegar (distilled white vinegar canned with citrus peel and pine sprigs) combined with ½ cup rubbing alcohol, and 2 cups water. Mix in a clean spray bottle, spritz on window grime, and wipe away with a microfiber cloth. Your windows will be so clean you’ll have to double check that the glass is still there.

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TushMate Cloth Diapers

With high-quality products like the Newborn All-In-One diaper, winner of the National Parenting Center’s Seal of Approval, or the Globe print cover, winner of Change-Diapers.com’s Best New Cloth Diaper Print award, TushMate’s practical and easy-to-use cloth diapers are all you need to diaper your little one in sustainable style. $16-$19 at TushMate

Baby Bidet

Keep little bottoms squeaky clean with the baby bidet. This portable washer uses water and is a gentle alternative to wipes for potty training toddlers who have difficulty wiping. $15 at FridaBaby

Eco Nuts Baby Detergent

Eco Nuts has taken the learning curve out of soap nuts. Experience all the benefits of these natural berries (excellent for kids & adults with allergies and sensitivies) and the convenience of a certified organic liquid, with an easy-to-use pump top, or concentrated powder made with plant and mineral ingredients. Eco Nuts Baby is gentle enough for the softest layette, yet tough on stains. Cloth diaper safe, too! $14 and up at Eco Nuts 40

5th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

Cloth Wipes

Made from 100% unbleached cotton flannel, Bummis are our top pic in reusable wipes. $11 at Amazon

Baby Bottom Balm

This little jar of pure goodness is just as useful in your family’s first aid kit as the diaper bag. Angel Baby Bottom Balm is a safe, effective, herbal diaper cream that safely battles existing diaper rash and protects against flare ups. $13 at Earth Mama Angel Baby

Spray Pal

The cloth diapering must-have companion for your toilet sprayer. Use full water pressure to get diapers really clean, with no mess to clean up around your bathroom. Made in the USA. $25 at Spray Pal 41

Nursing Pillow

Finally, a nursing pillow to complement your decor. The Bébé au Lait Nursing Pillow featues dual-firmness sides, storage pockets, and a machine washable slip cover. $55 at Bébé au Lait

Milkin’ Cookies Lactaion Cookies As if we need an excuse to enjoy a cookie! Milkin’ Cookies contain yummy, all natural ingredients to support a healthy milk supply. $22 for a 14 day supply at Amazon

Cake Nursing Bra

Who says nursing bras have to be bland and shapeless? Cake is challenging the nursing bra with their daring and sexy designs. $65 at Cake Maternity

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5th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

Cloth Nursing Pads

Ultra-affordable and hand made to feel great against tender skin, these nursing pads come in your choice of designs!

Grab five pairs for just $20 at My Sunshine Designs

S’well Insulated Bottle

Hydration is important for nursing moms, and the s’well’s insulated design keeps water cool in a trendy design and a seemingly endless selection of colors and styles. $25 at S’well

Breastfeeding Supplements

Breastfeeding mamas trust Motherlove. And we’re delighted to introduce two new certified organic herbal extracts to their family of breastfeeding supplements: Malunggay and Shatavari. For centuries, Eastern Medicine has produced some of the most effective herbal remedies. These two new extracts are nutrient-dense herbs found to help increase breast milk production and balance the female hormonal system. $26 at Motherlove

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Tumblewalla

Navy Elephants Babies Organic One-Piece $22 at Tumblewalla

PACT Baby

Zimzala Snapster Bodysuit $19 at PACT Baby

Zutano

Vroom Newborn Receiving Gown $25 at Zutano 44

5th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

Little Heart Pants

Organic Cotton Dusty Pink Heart Pants $23 at Sapling Child

Simply Chickie Tee

This organic cotton cheeky onesie tells it like it is. Babies are full of rainbows, world peace, and dog hair. $25 at Simply Chickie

Nature Baby

Organic Cotton Stretch & Grow $30 at Nature Baby 45

SmartNOVA Baby Monitor Unlike most wireless monitors, which use pulsing microwave EMF radiation, the Smart Nova baby monitor protects your family with 97% less radiation.

Lightweight design, 100% privacy, extra long battery life, and safer technology make this the first baby monitor we’ve ever recommended. $149 at Belly Armor

Muslin Swaddlers & Teethers

Only A + A brings you the softest, stretchiest for swaddling, organic cotton in ideal nursery color palettes. And now, soothe baby’s teething gums naturally with a maple wood teether featuring a swatch of their iconic blanket. $25 / $55 at Aden +Anais 46

5th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

Nursery Art

Bring sweet comfort or creative flair to your baby’s room with frame-worthy nursery art posters from Zazzle. $10 at Zazzle

2-Stage Naturepedic Crib Mattress

Naturepedic makes one of the less glamorous aspects of parenting a little more tolerable. You will change the sheets in the middle of the night, and you will appreciate having a lightweight, easy to handle mattress in the process. The durable design of their Two Stage Crib Mattress provides firm, comfortable support with safety for infants and comfort for toddlers. Seamless design makes this mattress waterproof and provides a dust mite and bed bug barrier. Free of polyurethane foam, vinyl, phthalates, PFCs and known allergenic materials such as latex or wool. $289 at Naturepedic 47

Bandana Bibs

Made with US certified organic cotton, the stretchy knit allows for easy on and off access without untying. $25 at Vonbon

Sage Steamer

Avoid the pricey plastic steaming machines to cook food for your baby. The Sage Baby EcoSteamer is completely non-toxic, affordable, and cooks baby’s food in minutes. Dishwasher safe stainless steel. $13 at Sage Spoonfuls

Snack Cubes

Wean Green glass storage containers are perfect for storing baby food and so much more. $22 at Wean Green

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5th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

Reusable Snack Sacks

There’s need to waste money on disposalbe snack bags or mess with flimsy reusables.

Spgang snack bags are genrously sized and pop easily into the dishwasher for stress-free cleaning. $10 at spbang

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair

Baby doesn’t have to be stranded on High Chair Island... bring him right up to the table for family meal time with Stokke’s adjustable, ergonomic chair.

Sustainable wooden design with water-based, non-toxic paint, this high chair can be passed down to your grandchildren. $249 at Stokke

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Tula Wrap

Your baby shower registry (or Mother’s Day list) isn’t complete without a Tula.

Soft, versatile, and supportive allowing front, back, and hip position carries... this woven wrap is our favorite way to wear baby this spring. $170 at Tula

Stroller Organizer

A handy place for everything you need. This caddy stretches to hold bottles and coffee cups securely, while providing easy access to items you need to keep handy. $20 at Skip Hop

Britax Advocate

A consumer favorite known for superior safey and quality, the Britax Advocate offers the highest level of side impact protection and combines advanced safety features with a user-friendly design to keep your child safe and comfortable in the car. Plush cover comes with matching comfort pads and an infant positioning pillow. $330 at Amazon 50

5th Annual

Eco Baby Gear Guide

Snack Stack

Available in every color of the rainbow, Snack Stacks are made from recycled milk jugs, are dishwasher safe, and BPA-free. Their durability and stackbility makes them perfect for on-the-go snacks, full meals, small toys, and more. $6 at Re-Play

G-Lite - Uppa Baby

Juggling kids, the groceries and your car keys?

You can pick up the lightweight G-LITE with one hand using its convenient carry strap. It features a breathable mesh sling seat for and UV core. $180 at UPPAbaby 51

Photography by Liza Huber

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|by Liza Huber CEO & Founder of Sage Spoonfulstm

Whole Grain Apple Cinnamon Bars My children love any kind of fruit or cereal bar and eat them just about every day. Even though I would buy organic cereal bars, it's still processed food. Plus, buying box after box gets expensive. I wanted to find a homemade option. My recipe for Apple Cinnamon Bars is full of healthy whole grains and fresh fruit. The kids love them and I'm so happy! I hope your family will agree!

Ingredients • • • •

2 cups organic whole wheat flour 1 cup organic old-fashioned rolled oats 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup agave - can also use honey, cane sugar or coconut palm sugar

• 3/4 cup organic coconut oil • 2 organic apples - washed, peeled, cored and chopped into small 1/4” chunks • 1 teaspoon

Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 5. Add the agave, coconut oil and apples. Mix 9” x 13” baking dish with butter and a little the dough until all ingredients are evenly flour or non-stick cooking spray. incorporated.

2. In a small bowl, toss the apples with the cinnamon so they’re coated evenly and set aside.

3. Place the oatmeal into a blender or food processor and pulse for a few seconds until oatmeal becomes powdery.

4. Put the oatmeal, flour and salt into a large mixing bowl and sift with a fork to make sure ingredients are evenly distributed.

6. Place the dough into the baking dish and spread evenly.

7. Place the baking dish into the oven on the middle rack and bake for about 40 minutes, until golden brown.

8. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge.

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Sweet Potato, Spinach & Chickpeas A sweet tasting, healthy and easy-to-prepare meal for your Stage 2 eater! Sweet Potato, Chickpea and Spinach is full of vitamins, protein and antioxidants. A great super charged meal for your little one.

This recipe is suitable for babies 7-9 months and up, toddlers, big kids and adults. Always make sure the consistency of your baby’s food is one she can handle and before combining food, make sure she has tried each one individually first.

Ingredients a brand that doesn’t contain BPA in their • 1 organic sweet potato - washed and cut in cans, we like Eden Organic. half lengthwise • 2 cups organic fresh baby spinach • 1 can organic chickpeas - rinsed well in a strainer under cold running water. Use

Directions 1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and line a baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper. Put the sweet potato cut side down on the baking sheet.

2. Place the baking sheet into the oven on the middle rack and roast for 35-45 minutes, depending on how large your sweet potato is. It is cooked through when the potato can easily be pierced all the way through with a fork.

3. While the sweet potato is cooking, pour water into a pot until it is about 1” deep and bring to a boil over high heat.

4. Place the spinach into a steamer basket and place the steamer basket into the pot. Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket. Cover with a tight fitting lid and steam for about 5 minutes.

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5. Once fully cooked, remove the sweet potato from the oven and let sit for about 10 minutes to cool. Once cool, you should be able to just peel the skin off. Alternatively, you can scoop the sweet potato out of the skin with a spoon.

6. Place the sweet potato, chickpeas and spinach into your food processor and pulse until smooth and just a little chunky (soft chunks). You can also place it into a large mixing bowl and blend with an immersion blender until desired consistency is achieved.

7. This puree can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Photography by Liza Huber

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1 in 3 families struggles to afford cloth diapers.

We can help.

Visit our website to see if your family qualifies.

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www.givingdiapersgivinghope.org

Carrot & Pineapple Smoothie A healthy and delicious way to start the day! Carrots are rich in fiber, vitamin K, potassium, folate, manganese, phosphorous, magnesium, vitamin E and zinc. And pineapples are loaded with thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, manganese and potassium. Two of the most powerful sources of beta carotene, this combination gives your body an amazing dose of anti-inflammatory enzymes.

Suitable for babies 10-12 months and up, toddlers, big kids and adults.

Ingredients • 5 organic carrots – washed, peeled and chopped • ½ large, ripe organic pineapple – peeled, cored and chopped • 1 cup cold water • 1 handful of ice

Directions 1. Place ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth and enjoy!

Photography by Liza Huber

Juice Tip!

rtly after it’s o h s t s e b is Juice e nzymes in th made. The e ve for the ti c a t s o m juice are an’t tes. If you c u in m 0 3 t firs e it to your iv g r (o it k drin a ay, store in w a t h ig r ) y famil 24 hours. glass jar for 57

Conscious Kitchen Best Ever Guacamole Ingredients & Supplies • • • •

2 ripe avocados juice of 1/2 a small lime 1/2 small red onion - finely chopped cilantro - finely chopped

Directions 1. Finely chop your onion and cilantro. (A handful of cilantro is good, but you can do it to suit your taste.)

2. Cut, pit and peel your avocados.

(Reserve the pit to put in the guacamole, if any makes it to storage!)

3. Add salt and pepper to taste.

(We like approx. 1/4 tsp of each.)

4. Juice your lime. (Rinse, cut an end off, grab a fork, poke around a little and squeeze over your dish. You’ll want just half of the lime for this recipe.)

5. Add eight “shakes” of Tabasco Green Pepper Sauce.

6. Mash & then dish it up!

(Fold in tomoatoes before dishing if you choose to add them.)

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• • • •

salt pepper Tabasco Green Pepper Sauce optional: fold in diced tomatoes

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Green Child Magazine Talks with

Serena Dyer

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Natural parenting doesn’t always come… naturally. Some of us are still working through less than ideal habits and patterns that were handed to us by our own parents. And even for those of us with a healthy upbringing, it can be challenging to tune in and access our intuition in this noisy world.

loud, our children can’t hear what we’re saying.

They didn’t tell me to follow my passion while ignoring their own. They didn’t say, “Go after your dreams, but my dreams aren’t worth it.”

Never. By watching them follow their dreams, I was given conscious and subconscious permission to do the same.

Imagine if you got to skip much of the learning curve, having been raised with the principals of attachment parenting by compassionate, spiritually conscious parents.

While attachment parenting seems to be the natural step for a spiritually conscious family, you write that for you, showing early signs of autism at a young age, it was life altering.

That’s just the perspective Serena Dyer brings to life (and soon to motherhood) as she awaits the birth of her first child this spring. Her book, Don’t Die With Your Music Still In You, co-authored with her father, Dr. Wayne Dyer, is an enlightening look at her experience growing up in a spiritual environment. Our editor, Amity Hook-Sopko spoke with Serena about the book and how finding her own music has prepared her for this new chapter in her life.

“Don’t die with your music still in you” is a beautifully poignant motto. What was it like growing up with that inspiration and challenge?

Photography by Tutti Bambini

Serena: It really was both inspiring and chal-

lenging. My parents believe that each child comes here with his or her own life purpose that is unique to them, and the best thing we can do is step back and let that music play - let that dharma unfold - rather than try to mold or shape it to what we think it should be.

That’s really what the book is all about. I think my parents not only did that for my siblings and me, but they really did that for themselves.

You know, sometimes what we’re doing is so

Serena:

Yes. I was the most troubled as a baby and young child of all of my seven siblings. As a baby, I would cry and scream in terror with my fists balled up as children often do when they’re experiencing stress or fear, but this was a constant state for me. By age two, I was rocking back and forth for hours, very sensitive to touch, and terrified of loud noises.

My parents maintained the idea that they would be committed to me no matter what.

My mother wore me in a sling around the clock. No matter what type of behavior I was exhibiting, my family was taught to honor it and comfort me, rather than force me to “get over it.” They were just committed to me being loved 24/7.

I think my mom’s commitment to me in particular – wearing me, feeding me, holding me and maintaining that physical contact was life saving.

There are so many parents out there who just want what’s best for their child, and there are so many experts. Everyone has an opinion. I think what’s different with my parents is that rather 61

Green Child Magazine Talks with Serena Dyer

than go to any expert to get their opinion, they just trusted themselves and the only thing they knew worked was letting their child know she was loved, because what is more supportive than that?

You’re so ahead of the game to already realize it’s nice to have the books for confirmation, but deep down, you already know what’s best.

What are some other life lessons that have stayed with you?

Serena: My parents were consistently kind to

strangers in front of us, and that became a habit for all of us. Sometimes when I hear a friend make a comment about how somebody looks, it strikes me as a little feeling of pain. I just never heard my family speak ill of other people.

I really hope I can maintain that level of sincerity my parents had toward other human beings.

If we were in the car and there was someone who was homeless or asking for money, my parents never said anything bad about their situation, or how they should get a job. It was more like, “Let’s take a moment and send that person love.”

I always knew my parents were going to be kind. There’s a safe feeling you experience as a child when you know your parent is someone who makes a kind choice. Some kids always see the “I’m not gonna get ripped off ” choice or the” using every situation to their advantage choice,” and I think a little compassion can be extremely influential at those impressionable ages.

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In the book, you use a phrase I heard your father say, “You don’t attract in life what you want – you attract what you are.” Those words instantly shifted my

life… like a quantum moment. It put so many things into perspective – why certain things have always gone well for me and why other challenges kept appearing.

This is a principle you try to live by, too?

Serena:

I have to remind myself of that all the time. Some people really like that statement because it feels like freedom or free will; I have the power or ability to be in charge of my life.

I can change who I am; and therefore, my life will change. And other people really don’t like it. (Laughs) Some people go through life as though it’s just happening to them, not responding to them. I personally prefer to know that life is responding to me. I’ve been asked what are the challenges of being raised by spiritual parents. I’m not sure this is a downside, but it’s certainly different. If something bad happened to me, my parents didn’t take the approach that it was merely accidental. They didn’t blame me, but they would ask me to look at how I might be aligning with whatever the situation was. So it’s both a blessing and a challenge; I’ve grown up knowing that I’m very much a creator in my own life, but the challenge part is that some days I just wanted to say, “I got the flu because it’s flu season!”

So many people will complain about how they’re stuck or struggling in life. And it’s so obvious to see their thinking patterns have created it. But if you aren’t willing to consider another way, and if that’s the case, what can anyone do to help you? It doesn’t matter if you get a raise, or a divorce, or find the perfect man; if your thoughts are self-sabotaging, or keeping you angry and resentful, or feeling like life is out to get you, the doors are going to remain closed for you.

Wouldn’t the world be a peaceful place if we were all raised not to blame or judge others? Speaking of judgment, everyone has an opinion when you’re pregnant or a new mom. How are you handling this new stage in your life?

present. I learned to treasure my own magnificence, and that I am very much a piece of God’s perfection. As my dad once said to my mom: “I thank you like the earth thanks the sun. Everything I am is because of your unconditional love. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Serena: Everyone has been incredibly sup-

portive. I only encountered one person I didn’t feel that way with, and I simply switched them.

It wasn’t a big drama.

When it comes to judging other people, it’s really always about our own insecurity. If you don’t want to spend your life feeling judged, then maybe you should withhold the judgment of others. Because just like we said before… you get in life what you are. So if you are someone who is constantly offering criticism and condemnation of others, you’ll probably find yourself in the position where that’s happening to you. Why do you want to be there? There’s such a better place to be, and that place is… free.

I mention in the book that my dad used to say, “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.” And that really comes back to compassion. The compassion they’re not able to offer other people is usually a reflection of the compassion they’re not able to offer themselves, and typically those are the people who need the most love.

What would you say your parents each uniquely taught you?

Serena: My mother so beautifully modeled

for me the benefit of embracing silence, and my father taught me to give up my personal history so I could experience the glory of living in the

Internationally renowned author (and Serena’s father), Dr. Wayne Dyer, contributes his own perspective to each chapter of their book. Here is the fundamental axiom he and his wife practiced in the raising of their children: “Parents are not for leaning upon, but rather exist to make leaning unnecessary. We wanted our children to value themselves, to become risk takers, to be self-reliant, to be free from stress and anxiety, and to be able to celebrate their present moments, to experience a lifetime of wellness, to fulfill their own spiritual calling, to be creative, and most significantly to live with a sense of inner peace, regardless of any and all external circumstances.”

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Plastic Purge

by Michael SanClements A non-fiction read for teens and parents, this educates about the toxins of using plastic, how to use less of it, and its effect on our health and sea life, in particular.

Full of humorous-yet-honest information and realistic tips for lessening your dependence on plastic, this is a valuable read. $13 at Amazon

150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids

by Asia Citro

Gorgeously published and expertly written (by a mom and former science teacher), you’re sure to find tons of great ideas for any time of the year to try with your family, let alone “Screen Free Week”!

Many of the activities include recycled items and scientific or artistic themes, and are all labeled according to age appropriateness (from babies all the way to older children) and even allergy sensitivity. $14 at Amazon 64

Earth Remembers When

by Dawn Wyne, illust. by Gloria Pineiro A serious yet thought-provoking picture book, this title discusses the major impact that humans have on nature. Along with somber visuals of the negative impacts (along with the positive ones we could have) are tips for how children can help improve the environment.

One hundred trees were even planted with the publication of the book.

Moment App (for iOs devices)

At this screen-free centric time of the year, it’s great to think about how present we are in our daily lives. For a snapshot of how much you really use your phone, this free app will allow you to track your iPhone and iPad usage, your family’s usage, and even set daily limits.

Free

Spud the Couch Potato

by Sean Jackson

A sweet, simple story with a great message, this book is a perfect partner resource for “Screen Free Week.” Spud had become quite the couch potato until, one day, the TV went black. After his first experience enjoying the fun he could have outdoors, he learned that he could always save TVwatching for another time. $7 at Amazon

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Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

...or the baby book

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|by Sandy Kreps

As with much of motherhood, keeping track of baby’s milestones is one of those tasks that can bring about overwhelming feelings of inadequacy. Even seasoned moms can feel buried under all the things they’re not doing but think they should be.

• Jot down milestones and important events on a wall calendar you can use later to make your baby book. It takes only seconds to jot down that lost tooth or the trip to the zoo.

Case in point:

• Don’t forget social media. Do you often post Instagram photos of your little ones or update your Facebook status when Junior does something awesome? Those posts can be part of your baby book, too! I quit worrying so much about taking copious notes on our achievements when I realized that it’s all right there on Facebook, including the photos and congratulatory comments from the grandparents. I can just print it out and put them in the scrapbook.

The Baby Book.

Every mom I know, still in the glowing anticipation of pregnancy, bought that shiny padded book adorned with giraffes or monkeys or cherub-faced angels. And every mom I know vowed to complete every single line of it.

How many of those moms actually completed said baby book?

Not one.

My own little bundles of joy are now 9 and 7.

Our firstborn’s book, after many sleepless nights, is about half finished. Our younger child’s book is maybe 1/5 done. And I’ve finally realized it’s OK. I’m just not one of those moms who loves scrapbooking or even making photo albums.

Frankly, I’m good to get my digital photos organized within a year of when they were taken.

Saving the Special Moments

Without the Stress If you love documenting every milestone of babyhood, then by all means, do it! But if you’re not inclined, don’t stress about it. Here are some ways to capture those special moments with ease. If you want to add them to a baby book or scrapbook later, you’ll know where to find them.

• Try an app. Apps and online programs such as Kid Capsule, Moment Garden, Sprout Baby, and Sweet Baby combine the best of online convenience with growth tracking, milestones and photo uploads.

• Keep it all in perspective. When life gets crazy, keep in mind there’s no deadline. I do plan to create a respectable book for each of my kids before, say, high school graduation.

• Don’t try to be Supermom. Trying to do everything is just going to wear you out, stress you out, and most likely, burn you out. That’s not good for you or your children. Let it go, and don’t feel guilty. The laundry and the dishes will still be there. So will the baby book.

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let's get

hoppy

The fun of hunting for “treasure” has turned into baskets full of temporary items. Do our kids really need more single use toys or piles of candy and sugar coated marshmallow shaped treats?

Easter comes around each year (so these things can add up). As parents, we just need to look beyond fake plastic grass and think outside of the candy aisle.

Baskets: Use something you have on hand. Make it festive by running colorful junk mail through a paper shredder (much greener than the fake stuff!) or filling with a pastel blanket or cloth napkins. If you must have a new basket, choose something that can be used to store toys all year round.

Treats: Let the kids enjoy momapproved fun by choosing options without artificial sweeteners and colorings by opting for natural elements like dried berries, nuts, and seeds. Or instead of candy, add a book, deck or cards, or puzzle to their basket.

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D C

Sweeter Treats Treats are fun, but they don’t have to be completely awful for you too. In moderation, these sweet treats are a better choice. A) Somersault Sunflower Seed Snacks B) Suft Sweets Organic Jelly Beans C) Element Dard Chocolate Rice Cakes D) The Perfect Bar, Almond Butter. Prices vary.

JJ Rabbit Cuppies When it’s time to transition to a cup, plant-based CUPPIES® are safe and fun. With a hidden animal at the bottom, your little one will finish every time to see his favorite friend. Available in Rabbit, Penguin, Piglet, and Frog. $9 at JJ Rabbit

Mess Eaters Bin No need to buy a single-function basket.

Mess Eaters bins are both functional and cute for any age. Use to gift in and then transition it into a fun storage bin!

$20 at P’kolino

Croquet Set Encourage outdoor play with this nature inspired croquet set. Each set comes with two mallets, four adorable animal balls, four selfstanding wickets, and a storage bag.

$34 at Land of Nod

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Baby Shower Craft

DIY : Utensil Holders

by| Scarlet Paolicchi

These Easter utensil holders add extra color and décor to our dinner table. They are easy and inexpensive to make and we think they are adorable!

Materials: • Burlap – each utensil holder will need about 5” x 15” • Paint – your choice of color and white • Small foam paint brush • Ribbon or burlap ribbon • Sewing machine, thread, scissors

Instructions: 1. Begin by cutting the burlap into pieces about 5” wide and 15” long.

2. Measure and cut pieces of ribbon approximately 1” narrower than your burlap strips.

3. Sew the ribbon to one end of the burlap strip (1/2” in from the edges of the burlap on 3 sides).

Sew through the center of the ribbon.

4. When ribbon is attached, fold that end of the burlap up to create what will become the utensil pocket. Fold should be at about 1/3 of the piece.

5. Add a stitch (1/2” in from the edges) around the sides and top of the holder to secure the fold and prevent the burlap from fraying beyond the stitch line.

6. Pull out all loose strands of burlap to fray the edges. Be sure to fray along the ribbon as well.

7. Using non-toxic paint, add the bunny to the front of the utensil holder. Create two angled lines for ears, followed by a small circle for the head, and then a larger circle for the body. When dry, add a small white circle of paint to create the bunny tail.

8. Dab a small amount of paint to the frayed edges of the holder for an extra pop of color.

9. Let the paint dry completely.

10. Fill your Easter Utensil Holders with your utensils and place at each place setting.

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Inspired Designs

for Spring & Summer Photography by Debbie Ader Hunt Treefrog Photography

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Tumblewalla, Little Spice Paprika Organic One-Piece $19 74

KateBaby, Footie in Chevron $38 75

KateBaby, Woods & Chevrong (2pack) $64

Blossoms $34 76

Under the Nile, Hot Air Balloons Dress with Capri Pants $32 77

Under the Nile, Beach Dress $24 78

ThredUP, GAP Baby Floral Dress ThredUP, GAP Baby Jean Jacket 79

Garnet Hill Kids Ruched Knit Tank $18 Fanfare Circle Skirt $22 Chooze Shoes Move In Swirl Sneakers $48 Polarn O Pyret Early Spring Hoodie $46 Organic Eco T $23 ThredUP, Cargo Shorts Sanuk Upcycled Flips $24 Garnet Hill Kids Ruched Knit Tank $18 Tippy Green Scooter $36 KEEN Rose Sandal $50 Shanticake Owl Tee Polarn O Pyret Soft Stretch Slim Jeans $45 Cienta USA, Verano Boys 80

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Garnet Hill Kids Layered Tulle Skirt $42 ThredUp Girl’s Bohemian Top Denim Capris 82

Polarn O Pyret Check Button Down $48 Urban Chinos $49 Cienta USA Verano Boys 83

Garnet Hill Kids Sidekick Knit Dress $38 Shanticake Owl Tee Polarn O Pyret Soft Stretch Slim Jeans $45 84

Garnet Hill Kids Cap-Sleeve Art Tee $28 Fanfare Circle Skirt $22 Chooze Shoes Jump in Wonderful Mary Janes $48 85

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guided relaxation

“Remember Easily ”

We may think of meditation and guided imagery for relaxation. The truth is, both can be used to achieve goals working with the subconscious mind to produce the desired results.

You can use guided imagery to help your child recall all she’s learned both in school and in life.

Practice this often and use positive affirmations as well to reinforce these ideas, such as “Your mind is like a library” and “You already have all the information inside of you.”

Use a calming voice to lead the imagery and relax into the moment with your child.

“I’m going to tell you a little story. Close your eyes and breathe. And just imagine everything I’m saying.

Take in a nice, deep breath, like you’re about to blow out birthday candles. Inhale slowly, and then blow it out slowly and gently. Now breathe in, and then breathe out. Very good!

Let’s pretend now that we’re in a castle. It’s made of stone, and you see a big tower over in the corner. We go to the tower and find a door. It’s a huge, heavy door made of rough wood. When you step into the tower, you’re at the top of a long spiral staircase made of stone, and you see torches on the wall to light the way. The tower feels cool. Walk slowly down the staircase, knowing wonderful things are right here ready for you to explore.

Now that you’re at the bottom of the staircase, you see that there are several rooms hidden

with Mellisa Dormoy of Shambala Kids

beneath this tower. In front of you is a hallway, with doors on each side that lead to individual rooms. Go down the hallway and open the first door on your right. Inside, you see a small room filled from floor to ceiling with books. It’s an entire library with a desk in the center of the room.

This room contains just a little bit of the information that you hold in your head. This room is a part of you, so everything you’ve ever learned or been taught can be found here. Each room contains a different subject, and as you continue to learn, these libraries will continue to grow and grow with more and more books. Why don’t you pull a book off the shelf and look through it?

These libraries are a part of you, and you can get all the information in these libraries even when you’re wide awake! You’ve learned a lot more than you probably realized!

This is a place you can return to any time you want, even in the middle of a school day, or when taking a quiz or test. You can simply remember how you have everything already stored within you. You simply remember to magically open the right book and you’ll remember so easily!

Put your books away now, knowing that you can access them any time you need to.

Walk back up the stairs and step out into the sunshine! You can open your eyes and wiggle your fingers and toes. And you can go back to your library any time you need to in your imagination!

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

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Does Working from Home Work for You?

|by Erin Ely

Everything changed when I had my first child.

I was an older parent with a college degree and an established career. During my pregnancy, I just knew I would go right back to work in six weeks.

But what actually happened was the complete opposite. Once I had my son, I realized there was no way I could go back to working outside the home.

I’d always had my own income and independence over how I spent money. Much of that changed when I left my job. After my second child and doing volunteer work for several years, I realized I really wanted two things: to add to our family’s income to have something for myself while staying home to raise our children.

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At the time, I was becoming more aware of what I was putting on my body, and through this process, I found a network marketing company selling something that was very interesting to me. I had never purchased a direct sales

product in my life, and up until then, I’d never seen one I would purchase. Now, not only did I see a perfect fit with the product, but I also learned of the ability to work for the company.

So I jumped in full force. Wouldn’t everyone want to buy this product like I did? I was sure I knew plenty of people who needed it.

I soon learned there was nothing further from the truth.

No product sells itself. And not everyone wants to buy something just because you do.

This was quite an awakening for me. It took me several years of trial and error, reading, and experimenting to create a part-time income from my network marketing business.

So, how do you find the right work-from-home opportunity?

There are several considerations: your financial goals, your time availability, the age (and independence level) of your children, and your own interests and personality.

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Does Working from Home

Work for You?

Do you want to be self-employed or do you want to work for someone else? I know I didn’t want to be obligated to work for anyone else, which is why I choose network marketing/direct sales. This type of work provides you the ultimate in flexibility in regards to when and how you work. At the same time, this could be a negative factor if you aren’t self-motivated or an effective time manager.

The reality is -- not very many people make an astounding income from their network marketing businesses. These business models are geared around a lot of people buying small amounts of product. Generally you earn commissions from 20% to 35% and most have a tiered payout based on how much product you sell and/or how many people are part of your business. This means to create a significant income, you will need to build a large business with customers as well as your own team.

Creating a lucrative business requires a great deal of effort. Expect a learning curve and the possibility that you may go through a few companies before finding the right fit. One way to know if it’s right is to ask yourself, “Would I buy this product even if I weren’t selling it?”

Network marketing is not for you if…

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contractor, or customer service or sales representative. Also, you should never have to pay for information on how to find out about these jobs.

Red Flags in the Direct Sales Industry Beware of sales pitches claiming you won’t have to sell anything or host parties, etc. If you join a company that sells products and you plan on earning an income, you’re going to have to sell. My personal opinion is that if a business is legitimate, the focus should be on selling the products, while “recruiting” others into the company should be secondary. Of course, you will need to do both to be successful in any network marketing business, but if you don’t have products to sell then you are selling an “opportunity,” and that’s often a red flag.

Next, you’ll have to find the people who want what you have. This is sales, and you’ll need to find your target market. Ideally, you won’t hound your friends and family. This can put a strain on relationships, and it’s not worth the short-term benefit to your business if you drive away all of your friends.

It’s helpful to work with a company with marketing and training tools and live support or It’s not easy being self-employed. If your family calls to help you and keep you motivated. It’s needs immediate income, direct sales isn’t the also wise to do some investigating and find a answer. If you lack motivation or time mantop producer in the company to enroll with. agement skills, you may be better served with a Working with someone who is already successmore traditional job with a manager and speci- ful can really help with the learning curve. In fied duties. the end, it will be up to you to do the work and take the action needed to build your business.

The virtual job market is expanding all the time. There are many positions available such How to use social media to build your as a virtual assistant, call agent, transcripbusiness (without driving your friends crazy) tionist, marketing professional, social media

Our gift to you...

Social media can help you reach out beyond your immediate circle of friends, but be careful not to bombard your friends and family with your product or opportunity.

There’s a balance between being informative and being annoying. Experts say a good ratio is four regular posts to one post about your business.

Home organization, to-do lists, meal planning, budgeting, & more Available in two design!

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• The Work At Home Woman’s annual list of telecommuting jobs • Money Talks News • Entrepreneur

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If you’re interested in a particular company, get to know their representatives and ask about the pros and cons. Or if you’re looking to be hired for a work-from-home position, research the business and ask if they can put you in touch with other virtual employees. Make sure it’s the right fit for you, and it works for your family.

Kitchen Co

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Be sure to share information that is useful to keep your followers interested and engaged. If you just post about selling, you will lose your connections very quickly.

Many network marketing companies now host virtual home parties through Facebook. Your guests can learn / shop from home, and you have the ultimate flexibility when setting up your party date and time.

Prospects can pop in and out, and they don’t necessarily have to be present during the time of the party to take advantage of the special offers.

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Ask Hana Haatainen Caye

Judy writes: I was wondering if there are any natural products that would be safe to use as a carpet cleaner? I don’t want to use anything that makes the carpet wet as I am paranoid of mold growth, so something dry? And I’m reluctant to buy conventional dry cleaning powder since my little one is constantly on the carpet and I don’t want her playing on chemicals. Do you think I’m overreacting?

GG: Overreacting? Not at all, Judy. I feel the exact same way. Cleaning carpets is something all of us who are green-minded and concerned about chemical exposure wonder about. Do you remember when John Travolta and Kelly Preston’s two-year old son ended up in the hospital after inhaling fumes from carpet cleaner? Not good.

There are a few options available that won’t send your child to the ER: • Try to find a green carpet cleaning company in your area. Google “green carpet cleaning” and if you find a company, call and ask questions. Find out exactly what they use and if they won’t tell you, move on to another option.

• Buy a Green Seal Certified carpet cleaner

that is free of harsh chemicals and toxins.

One good example is HOST Dry Carpet Cleaner.

• Steam clean them with a home steamer.

I’ve done this on my braided rugs and I love the results. The colors are more vibrant once all the nastiness is steamed away.

• Generously sprinkle your carpets with baking soda and let it sit overnight. In the morning, give the carpeting a thorough vacuuming.

• If you have spots, make a paste by adding baking soda to vinegar (50/50 mix). Using a soft brush, scrub the stains away.

• For whole carpet cleaning, add vinegar to a spray bottle and spritz it liberally on the carpet. Don’t worry about mold – the vinegar will kill it. Let it set for about 15 minutes and then, using color-fast towels, blot it up. After it dries, repeat the baking soda and vacuuming step above.

I hope these tips help you to feel better about your little one playing on the carpet. Thanks for caring about making your home a safe place for your family.

Hana Haatainen Caye, is a wife, mother, grandmother, and author of the book Vinegar Fridays, who shares her passion for common sense greener and healthier living.

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The Illusion of Balance

connect with yourself first and everything else will fall into place |by Christy Whitman Ahh, balance‌the elusive goal that virtually every working mother strives every day to achieve!

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The problem with having balance as a goal is that the way we approach it makes it almost impossible to achieve. Most of us view our lives like a big pie, and each aspect of it is a

piece that we dish out to others either as a generous helping or merely a sliver. We see things as limited and finite: there are only so many hours in the day, and only so much energy we can afford to give to any one pursuit. In fact, the majority of working mothers I’ve coached are often in a state of overwhelm and routinely feel as though they are being pulled in different

directions. It’s no wonder the phrase “spread too thin” is almost universal among women – and especially among working moms.

Unfortunately, the only solution that many of us know to we spread ourselves even apply ends up making thinner, hoping that by the probbecoming more organized lem worse: or efficient at taking care we spread of the needs of others, ourselves there will be something even thinleft for us at the end ner, hoping that by becoming more organized or efficient at taking care of the needs of others, there will be something left for us at the end. But when our mindset is one of constantly checking items off our daily to-do list, the elusive finish line where we finally get to be happy never arrives. Unless we make it our first priority to connect with ourselves, our lives become about continually striving and rarely enjoying.

Ironically, it’s when we take our focus off of meeting other people’s needs and reinvest that energy and attention back into ourselves – into feeling grounded, connected, and happy within ourselves – that we begin to shift our paradigm from one of lack and struggle to one of abundance and ease. And the great news is, as mothers, we have already honed these skills.

Where did we get them, you ask? Simple! We gained them in the course of being awesome mamas!

In the same way we all make it a point to connect – and reconnect – with our children many times throughout the day, all that is required to live in a state of abundance vs. lack is to simply make a similar commitment to connect and reconnect with ourselves. A woman who has

taken the time to connect with herself – her feelings, needs, desires and intentions – is far more productive at work than a woman who neglects herself in favor of others.

Think about all the things you do each day for the sole purpose of enhancing and supporting your children’s well-being. In addition to making sure they are clothed and fed, you are also sensitive to their mental and emotional state; you let them know they matter.

Both verbally and non-verbally you ask them:

●● How are you feeling? ●● What do you need? ●● What could I do that would leave you feeling really loved? ●● What would make you happy?

A child who is attended to in this way knows in her bones that the universe we live in is abundant – not just of material things but of love, attention, affection, laughter. And you know what? Those experiences absolutely exist in abundance! There is literally no shortage of any experience that brings us joy.

So the next time you catch yourself having the thought that you’re “spreading yourself too thin,” make a commitment to intentionally “gather” yourself back up. Literally ask yourself these four questions – How am I feeling? What do I need? What could I do that would leave me feeling really loved? What would make me happy? – and then take one action that supports your answer to each of these.

Put your connection with yourself first, and everything around you will fall more easily – and abundantly – into place.

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Written by Hana Haatainen Cay, Vinegar Fridays offers tips on how to use vinegar for cleaning, pet care, diet, healthcare, car care, beauty and more.

The perfect guide for greener & healthier living!

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Disposable menstrual products often contain harmful toxins. Reusable products made from more natural & less processed materials can provide women with safe options & deep savings!

The Parenting Cards offer gentle suggestions for parenting with love & delight. Each card features a unique reminder about compassionate parenting, with a full-color logo on the opposite side.

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Your Green Child

Avery, 2 mos

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Oliver, Wyatt & Liam, 5 mos, @nakers86 Skye, 3 mos Matthew, 1 wk @gracietan1111 Marilyn, 21 mos

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Your Green Child

Jack, 3 mos @jahogan

Channer, 23 mos @craftpocalypse_

Ezra, 12 m

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Kiah, 18 mos

Malachi

mos, @msmcclurg

i, 6 mos

Chloe. 8 mos

Zoe & Sarah, 5 mos, @faydre1

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Manuel Gonzalez age 9, El Paso, TX

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