Green Child Magazine Back-to-School 2012 | Page 63
Ask
Hana Haatainen Caye
Rachael asks: My oldest child is starting
kindergarten this year and I’m really
concerned about the soap he’ll be using
in the school’s restrooms. I spoke with the
principal about it, and she just dismissed my
concern, stating the soap was antibacterial
and perfectly safe. It was pointless arguing
with her. But what can I do to protect my son
from the toxins that are in the liquid bacterial
soaps?
But what do you do? You will probably have
to speak with the principal again or at least
your son’s teacher, and explain your dilemma.
I recommend printing out some articles for
them, to back up your concerns. Let them
know that your son will be bringing his own
soap to school and will need it every time he
goes to the restroom. Of course, you’ll have to
convince your son to follow through with this
as well.
GG: Wow, Rachael. I’m sorry the principal
did not take your concern seriously. But
good for you for caring! You’re right to
be concerned about the toxic content of
antibacterial soap, particularly triclocarban
and triclosan, which is known to have
hormone-mimicking endocrine-disrupting
compounds (EDCs). Research indicates
possible damage to reproductive organs and
thyroid, which is enough reason to keep your
little one away from it! There is also the issue
of food coloring in liquid soap. Artificial food
coloring has been linked to behavioral issues
with children, which can lead to misdiagnosis
of ADHD and other problems. There are also
warnings on many antibacterial soaps that
they can stain carpets. So, what are they doing
to our skin?! It’s a frightening thought.
I recommend small bars of soap (homemade,
organic, vegan, etc.) that he could carry in a
small container or bag, or a bottle of kid-safe
soap, such as Earth Mama Angel Baby Hand
to Toe Wash in the convenient 1.67 oz. size.
Will it be a bit inconvenient for your son?
Unfortunately, yes. But it’s the best option all
the way around in the current situation. Try
to recruit some other parents to do the same
thing, and then, if you’re really ambitious, go
to a school board meeting and present the
facts about the effects of toxins in the soaps
they’re using. Just maybe, you’ll be the Erin
Brockovich of your community! Then you
could sit back and think about which actress
would be best suited to play you in the movie!
Hana Haatainen Caye is a wife, mother and grandmother who shares her passion for common
sense greener and healthier living. Based on the most popular feature of her blog, Hana’s first
book, Vinegar Fridays, is now available. Have a question for Green Grandma? Ask here!
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