Posts from — March 2010

My job includes frequent traveling to different green festivals across the country. On a recent visit to New York, I had the pleasure of meeting Brian Yanish, the creator of Scrap Kins, an eco-creativity program for kids based on the adventures of a group of monsters living in a recycle center (creative, isn’t it?).  Itcher, Digger, Chomper, Stacker, Swooper, and Wrecks come straight from Yanish’s imaginative childhood drawings, and their cozy recycle center is built with materials humans throw away everyday. The Scrap Kins’ mission: to promote eco-awareness and encourage kids to create stories, recycled art, and even re-purpose fashion using old-fashioned imagination.

In addition to helping kids get their creative juices flowing, the Scrap Kins are hard at work spreading their green message all across the country. In 2009, they developed a line of paper portfolios and theme books for RiteAid and Albertsons stores featuring art project ideas and eco tips. This year saw the launch of a sticker activity calendar (printed on 90% recycled material, no less), boasting  12 months of eco-creative activities, crafts, and games just for kids.

Want to learn more? Check out scrapkins.com for news, upcoming events, plus free recyclable art projects for children of all ages; or become a fan on Facebook or follower on Twitter. And be sure to check back next week when we give away 5 Scrap Kins calendars!

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

As a mom of two young children, I need my hands free now more than ever:  Baby number 1 is 3 years old and always on the move.  Baby number 2 is my “Velcro Baby” and is not happy unless she’s in my arms or right next to me.  So it’s probably no surprise that babywearing has been my saving grace!
It’s also probably no surprise, then, that the newly-issued baby sling warnings had many of my friends and family members contacting me in a state of panic over the last few weeks with warnings of impending doom.  And while I certainly appreciate their concern, I remain unshaken. As a proud and educated babywearer, I know there are many safe and comfortable ways to wear my baby.
I’ve experimented with a range of baby carriers including ring slings, pouch slings, wraps, mei tais, and soft structured carriers (my personal favorite).  One of the many things I learned during the process? Most anything I purchased from large retailers felt unsafe or uncomfortable. Though less expensive and more readily available, these carriers are not made with ergonomics or baby safety in mind.
How can you wear your baby safely? First, make sure that she is near the center of your gravity to ensure she has proper support and even weight distribution. And if you choose to wear a sling, make sure that it is a pouch or a ring sling (as opposed to a “bag sling”) that’s sized correctly for your body (slings are one instance where one size does not fit all!).
Opting instead for a two-shouldered carrier like a wrap, mei tai, or soft structured carrier? Wear your baby in the front-facing in position or on your back.  Front-facing holds your baby in a natural, seated position and and distributes her weight comfortably across her bottom.  (Babies who face outwards are essentially dangling from their crotches and are not given the proper support necessary for their developing hips and spines.)  Carrying your baby on your back (as long as she has good head control) is another great option, since it allows you to have your hands free and a full range of motion.
As a mom who’s worn two babies successfully, I believe the benefits of the practice (lower risk of SIDS, less crying, higher intelligence, better muscle tone, to name a few) far outweigh the potential risks. If you’re considering wearing your baby, I urge you research the subject, and not to let a poorly-made product deter you. Additionally, I welcome your babywearing questions or concerns via e-mail at  amber@heavenlyhold.com.

Amber Stevens is the founder of Heavenly Hold, an online retailer of baby carriers, slings, and wraps. She also blogs at Babywearing Buzz.

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• A great read that’s just for grown-ups: The Tranquil Parent talks about the importance of fighting fairly with your partner.
• Moms weigh in when the Green Baby Guide asks, “Why did you go green with baby?”.
• Trying to minimize waste at home? Green SAHM shares tips for using less plastic in the kitchen.
• Make and Take’s adorable Easter craft will turn your kid’s face into a funny bunny.
• A simple way to keep your home healthier? Take off your shoes, says Mom Goes Green.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

I’m excited to introduce you to KIWI’s new pediatrician columnist (check out his first column in our April/May issue, out next week), Dr. Larry Rosen. He’s also going to blog for us, so keep an eye out every month for The Whole Child blog from Dr. Rosen. I think you’ll all love where he’s coming from. But don’t just take my word for it–learn more about him right here, right now! 

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Hi.  I am Dr. Larry Rosen, Kiwi’s new health contributing editor.  I am pretty excited about this opportunity to bring my passion for holistic children’s health care to this forum – it’s a perfect fit.  I am a Kiwi parent – one interested in the optimal health of our children through an increasingly popular blend of natural and conventional care called integrative medicine.  It’s the way I live my life and the way I run my primary care pediatric practice, The Whole Child Center.  But what is this “whole child” philosophy and what does it have to do with integrative medicine and being environmentally responsible?

I have been called a “green” pediatrician.  I take this as a great compliment and a serious responsibility.  Look, “green” is hot.  Everywhere you look, we’re encouraged to “go green.”  The term ‘green’ these days reflects doing what is best for our planet.  Green products are considered safe for the environment and healthier for people who use them. Are green doctors the same? I think so.

The central tenet of green medicine is mindfulness about the effect the environment has on health and wellness, and about the effect health care has on the environment.  I specifically designed my practice as an environmentally responsible healthcare facility and operation.  We built our space using ecologically sustainable materials, use nontoxic cleaners and are virtually paperless, using a state-of-the-art electronic medical record system.   I wanted the space I work in to reflect the type of care we deliver.  Furthermore, we discuss at every visit, starting with prenatal consultations and going all through adolescence into young adulthood, the important environmental factors in creating optimal health.  Organic foods and mattresses, nontoxic toys, growing and making your own food, how to avoid air and water pollution – these are just some of the issues we discuss in everyday conversations.  And these are the same issues that I know are important to you as Kiwi readers.

But to be a green doctor, I think, also means adopting holistic, “whole child” philosophies with a key focus on promoting and supporting wellness.  In health care parlance, this is known as integrative medicine.  Integrative medicine – and by association, integrative pediatrics – is in part about using complementary therapies, like acupuncture or yoga, along with conventional remedies when appropriate.  We do value natural solutions when safe and effective – but we also deeply believe in a philosophy of health care that is more than about acute disease treatment.  It’s about prevention and creating wellness and understanding the importance of mind-body-spirit connection in helping kids be as healthy as they can be.  True health is considered not just the absence of disease, but the presence of optimal functioning.  Additionally, we value individuality and understand that one size does not fit all. Each and every child responds uniquely to each and every therapy, each and every time.  And most importantly, we recognize the connection between doctor and patient (and in pediatrics, doctor and family) as crucial to health and healing.

“Integrative Medicine is the practice of medicine that reaffirms the importance of the relationship between practitioner and patient, focuses on the whole person, is informed by evidence, and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, healthcare professionals and disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing.”

-Developed and Adopted by the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine

Integrative medicine, therefore, is relationship-centered. The bond and communication between pediatrician, child and family is crucial both diagnostically and therapeutically. Furthermore, the interaction of each child with his or her environment (local, global, natural and artificial) is key.  The community aspect of integrative health care is so important.  We do not exist in isolation, and we have an obligation to work together for our kids.

I look forward to developing this partnership with you, as I have with my own patients and families over the years.  And together, we will advocate for our children and help them create a better, healthier world, for they are indeed our most precious natural resource.

A new study by Princeton University confirms what many health-conscious eaters believed all along: high-fructose corn syrup is unhealthier than table sugar. The sweetener was found to cause significant weight gain in rats, and linked long-term consumption to abnormal increases in abdominal fat and a rise in triglyceride levels.

“When rats are drinking high-fructose corn syrup at levels well below those in soda pop, they’re becoming obese—every single one, across the board,” says Princeton psychology professor Bart Hoebel, who specializes in the neuroscience of appetite, weight, and sugar addiction. In other words, it’s not necessary to guzzle sugary drinks and snack on candy every day for the body to feel high-fructose corn syrup’s harmful effects. Smaller amounts of the sweetener can be found in everything from tomato sauce to bread to yogurt, and are now seen to play an equally crucial role in weight gain.

We want to know what you think about these findings. Did you know HFCS was bad stuff all along? If you were previously on the fence, do you now plan to avoid foods containing HFCS?

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Last spring, nearly one billion people in 4,100 cities worldwide supported the fight against global warming by going dark for Earth Hour. The annual event, which asks people to turn off their lights (and TVs, and computers, and cell phone, etc!) for one hour, takes place again tomorrow, March 27th at 8:30 pm local time. Mega landmarks across the globe like the pyramids of Giza, Golden Gate Bridge, Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, Las Vegas Strip, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City (just to name a few) are all participating—so join in on the planet-friendly fun! Pledge your participation and learn more at earthhour.org.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Yesterday, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada announced a recall of nearly 1 million baby slings in the United States, 15,000 in Canada, and 14,000 in Europe. The recall is for the Infantino “Sling Rider” and “Wendy Bellissimo,” pictured above. The CPSC is advising parents to stop using these products for children four months and younger. The warning is posted here.

Three deaths occurred in these slings in 2009. Additionally, the CPSC has been investigating 13 deaths that have taken place over the past 20 years, also allegedly due to babywearing.

This particular recall is due to a risk of suffocation. The Infantino “Sling Rider” and “Wendy Bellissimo” sold at national retailers (Walmart, Burlington Coat Factory, Target, Babies R Us, BJ’s Wholesale) and Amazon.com between January 2003 and March 2010 are included in the recall. Infantino is offering a replacement item and a baby rattle.

The risks included:

• Fabric pressing against the baby’s nose and mouth, causing suffocation within minutes
• The curled shape that results in a chin-to-chest position for the baby, restricting airflow

CPSC is also in the process of creating a mandatory standard for sling carriers. They want to hear if you’ve had any incidents or problems with this particular product. Check here for more information.

Now, I don’t think all slings should be avoided, as babywearing has proven to be beneficial for babies and parents. Babywearing International Inc. shares a great point made by pediatrician Lois Balster, “Using a sling incorrectly is like using an infant car seat without proper installation, infant positioning, and restraints. It’s always important to position your baby safely in any carrier or infant-carrying device.”

Research has shown that babywearing or keeping babies close by caregivers lessens crying, calms babies, and helps them sleep. Babywearing International, Inc. also shares some positioning guidelines:

• Act as if you were holding the baby—be aware of your surroundings, avoid hazardous situations
• Make sure the baby’s back and torso are supported
• Make sure you can get two fingers between the baby’s chin and chest

How many of you are babywearers? Have you used the “Sling Rider” or “Wendy Bellissimo”? Or had any problems with your slings?

-Nicole McGovern

We’ve all been there: You’ve barely cut the tags out of your kids’ clothes and they’ve already outgrown them! Instead of heading to the mall, try thredUP Kids, a new site where parents can exchange boxes of (like-new) children’s clothing in bulk. It’s super-easy, too. Browse the boxes of clothes listed by other parents and choose one you like (or tell thredUP your preferences and they’ll look for you!), box up your little one’s old clothing, and pay shipping for your new items. It’ll save time, money, and the valuable resources needed to make new duds. Interested? So are lots of other parents–but KIWI readers get to bypass the membership wait list! To join, click here.

-Nicole McGovern

Sometimes it’s hard to believe, but I’ve reached the point in my life where a lot of my friends are starting to settle down and have kids! The result? More baby showers than you can imagine!  Even though I always check out the mommy-to-be’s registry, I like to use my knowledge of all things baby (courtesy from my job at KIWI!) to find cool, eco-friendly items my friends might not know about. One site I really love: My Green Baby, whose green baby inventory isn’t only adorable—it’s affordable, too.

Eco-conscious mom Megan Szczepanski founded the site after she was unable to find a place nearby that sold cloth diapers for her newborn. Sure, she could’ve ordered online, but Szczepanski wanted to be able to try the diaper out to see if it worked for her (and fit her baby’s bum). So in addition to offering adorable cloth diapers at My Green Baby in a variety of colors and prints, she gives moms the option to meet with her in person to see if the diapers are the right buy for them. Interesting idea, right? Check it out for your next baby shower—or your baby!

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

The next time you and your kid  head outside, be sure to bring a pencil and notebook to keep track of the plants and animals you spot. Then send your findings to Wild Watch, a national nature watching program for people of all ages. In addition to learning more about your local environment (and having fun doing it!) you’ll help the National Wildlife Federation track the health and behavior of wildlife and plant species nationwide. Ready to get started? Check out nwf.org to start sharing what you see!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Today is World Water Day, and while we here in the U.S. have the luxury of choosing tap over bottled, that’s not the case in much of the world. Nearly 1.5 billion people don’t have access to safe drinking water, and when water is polluted, people are more likely to be affected by waterborne diseases. 

Here are a few simple ways to recognize World Water Day with your family:

• Check out the kids’ page on Water Use it Wisely. There are some fun educational games you and your kids can explore together, to learn ways to conserve at home.
• Support an organization that provides clean water. Some major corporations sponsor these (like P&G and Johnson’s), but we especially like the nonprofit charity: water, which today is launching a focused initiative to help people in Haiti.
• Be aware of your own water use. Sure, it’s not like we can ship our water over to people in need, but by making simple changes, like only running the dishwasher when it’s full, we can teach kids that we don’t take our good fortune for granted. And here’s one idea some kids might really get behind: Let your child skip his bath tonight!

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Confessions of a Mean Mommy weighs in on a new study citing the negative effects of helicopter parenting.
• Why do we blog? My Baby Naturally explores the motivating factors behind keeping an online journal.
• Most parents are experts at giving, but knowing how to receive is equally important, says the Uncommon Voice.
• Fresh off the heels of our babywearing post, Just Ask Baby answers whether to sling or not to sling.
• Got some old newspaper lying around? Make Music Making Momma‘s musical shakers.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

A recent study by the University of Minnesota found that consumers are more likely to choose green products over conventional when others might be watching. In other words, people are buying green to look good. According to lead researcher Vladas Griskevicius, consumers would rather forego comfort and luxury in an attempt to appear altruistic by purchasing eco-friendly products—even when said products are “inferior in quality”. These are interesting findings to be sure, and ones that open a whole host of questions.

First, I’m wondering about the claim that many green products are inferior to their conventional counterparts. In his study, Griskevicius uses the Toyota Prius as an example. Whether it saves gas or not, the Prius is a nice car—just as nice as many other similarly-priced vehicles. And while there may be a few eco-friendly products that don’t stack up performance-wise to conventional ones, (mascara comes to mind) even those cases offer huge advantages regarding the environment and people’s health. With benefits like that, I’m not sure calling said product inferior is really fair. A bigger issue with the claim? Most green products do work well, and don’t require people to sacrifice “luxury and comfort”. Want to buy an organic set of bedsheets? They’re chemical-free and are just as soft (if not softer) than a regular set. Plant-based cleaners? Most fight grime just as well as conventional (don’t believe it? Check out the reader-tested green cleaner piece in our upcoming April/May issue). I could go on, but I’m sure you get the point.

Another thing: Maybe some people do choose green products just to appear altruistic—so what? Whether your reason for buying a coffee table with FSC-certified wood is because you love the rainforest or because you love showing off to your dinner guests is irrelevant. Either way, consumer dollars are going towards a green product instead of a conventional one. The planet gets the same benefits, people get the same benefits, and companies and manufacturers get the message that consumers want more eco-friendly options.

I’m curious to hear what readers think about the issues brought up by this study. Are green products really inferior to conventional ones—and do you feel like you’re giving up on luxury or comfort when you buy them? And does it really matter why people are choosing eco-friendly options—so long as they are, in fact, being chosen?

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

My mom always stressed the importance of everyone eating dinner together as a family–as often as possible. As much as I hate to admit it, she was right (and there’s scientific proof to back her!). A new study shows that regular family dinners can actually improve asthmatic children’s lung functions.

The study found that asthma is directly related to separation anxiety. So, eating together as a family can provide little ones with a sense of security and regularity, therefore reducing their separation anxiety symptoms.

Family interaction and dinner conversation is super-important too, so keep the bickering to a minimum! Let everyone take turns discussing their day or what they’ve got planned for the week ahead. It’s also a great time to casually check up on your children’s asthma: ensure they’ve been taking their meds and always have their inhaler handy. Kids will feel protected just knowing that there is an adult looking out for them.

So this Sunday, take a look at everyone’s schedule and try to plan at least four nights where you can all sit down to dinner. And of course, feel free to try some of KIWI’s delicious (and healthy!) recipes.

-Nicole McGovern

As a long-time vegetarian, my list of reasons for loving tofu goes on forever (did you know you, for instance, that you can use a block to make a delicious coconut cream pie that’s egg- and dairy-free?). However, I’m aware that not everyone shares my enthusiasm—in fact, I’ve met a lot of people (kids and grown-ups) who think the stuff is downright gross.

Don’t worry, tofu-haters: I hear you. The first time I tried bean curd, I wasn’t a fan either. Why? ‘Cause I tried to eat it raw, straight out of the plastic container. Um, not too tasty. But after a few kitchen experiments, I came to find that tofu is yummy stuff—as long as it’s prepared right. What’s more, I’m convinced that once someone else gets a taste of tofu that’s been treated with culinary care, they’ll enjoy it, too.

This recipe for tofu balls (originally from the Post Punk Kitchen) might sound weird (peanut butter?) but it’s spot-on, and really is delicious over a plate of spaghetti and marinara sauce (or placed in a toasty roll and smothered with said sauce for a delightfully messy sandwich). Even better, it can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, and is super kid-friendly. Go ahead, try it (please!).

Tofu Balls
1 lb. extra firm tofu, drained
1 small onion, chopped fine
3 tbsp. soy sauce
3 tbsp. all-natural peanut butter (I like crunchy)
1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
Pinch dried basil and oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Canola oil, to pan-fry

1. Place tofu in a large mixing bowl and crumble into small pieces with clean hands or a fork.
2. Add remaining ingredients and mix to combine.
3. Roll into 1 1/2-inch balls and drop into a pre-heated skillet. Cook until medium brown on all sides. Serve hot.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Last week, my eight-year-old cousin asked if I have any good yoga postures for her and her girlfriends to try out. But while I try to get my down-dog on once a week to keep my body limber and reduce stress, a yoga expert I am not. In an effort to help her out, I turned to The ABCs of Yoga for Kids by Teresa Anne Power and Kathleen Rietz. Am I glad I did! Power, a   certified yoga instructor, helps kids 3-8 shape up and de-stress while encouraging imaginative thinking with  cleverly-named postures like frog pose, shark pose, and swan pose.  What’s more, Rietz’s illustrations help little yogis follow each asana to a tee. For more, check out abcyogaforkids.com.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

For a lot of people, Christmas or Hanukkah (or maybe Halloween) are the holidays they remember being most excited about as kids. But me? I just loved Easter. I loved searching for plastic eggs filled with quarters (or scratch-off lottery tickets, which my dad hid for us one year. A little unorthodox, maybe, but totally awesome to an eight-year-old), going to my aunt’s house to eat shrimp cocktail (Easter always meant shrimp cocktail), and eating tons of candy. Oh, and dyeing the eggs! I loved watching those color pellets dissolve in the water, and can still remember the smell of the vinegar bath that would lock in the pretty pastel hues.

Nowadays, I shy away from conventional egg-dyeing kits, since they’re usually filled with artificial ingredients that aren’t the healthiest. So imagine my excitement upon finding out that Eco-Kids USA has an all-natural Easter egg coloring kit made with ingredients like purple sweet potato, paprika, red cabbage, and blueberries. Best of all, they’ve offered to give a kit to one of our Facebook fans. Want to win? Head over to our Facebook page and check it out!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Zoe on the Erin Go Bragh II

I don’t know about your kids, but nothing gets mine going like a long swim on a hot day. Just watching them splash and giggle and point at the fish in the ocean makes me pretty excited, too.

A swimming outing might seem easy enough . . . except that we live in Philadelphia, a city socked with more snow than Everest this winter. Our solution? A few weeks ago, my daughters and I headed to Puerto Rico with my best friend for an all-girl, all-sunshine vacation.  And the highlight of our week on the island was a day sail on a 50-foot wooden sailboat, the Erin Go Bragh II.

We set sail in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, about an hour or so outside of San Juan. Once on board, Ingrid, the earth scientist-turned-sailor who owns the boat, started right in with teaching my kids about ocean life. Once they were secure in their life jackets, she took them out on the bow to look for turtles, dolphins, and other sea creatures (while I relaxed with a cold drink in the stern). And when we were an hour or so offshore, she got them snorkeling with the best of them, right over one of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean. For an entire day, my children did not once ask about watching TV or playing online. And the longer term result?  Since our return home, they have checked about a million ocean books out of the library, and they’ve started a penny collection to save the dolphins.

While our sail was about eight hours long, Ingrid offers overnight trips of up to a week – an amazing opportunity for a family who wants to learn about the sea and all its creatures firsthand.

Zoe and Abby

—Lisa McElroy, travel writer and guest blogger

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• We talk a lot about greening your home—but what about your workplace? The Green Phone Booth shares a collection of tips and ideas.
• Just in time for spring! Mom Go Green reports that bike-friendly routes are now available on Google Maps.
• Green Talk shares an easy, all-natural way to keep your garden healthy (and it’s not compost!).
• Good news for kids (and adults) with peanut allergies: Oral treatment may soon be available, AllergyMoms reports.
• Tech Savvy Mama talks up SciGirls, a new TV show that aims to get more girls interested in math, science, and engineering.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here at KIWI, we’re big fans of healthy, delicious food–especially when it’s made by kids. And since research has shown that home-cooked meals are usually better for our bodies than restaurant fare, we think it’s more important than ever for kids to feel confident in the kitchen (that way, they won’t subsist on ramen and pb&j after moving out on their own!). To encourage kids to keep (or start) cooking, we’re giving away a copy of Bake It Up by Rose Dunnington. To enter, become a fan of KIWI on Facebook and let us know what your kid’s favorite kitchen creation is.

Oh, and if your kid loves to cook, be sure to enter a video or picture of him making his favorite original recipe in our 2nd Annual Next Great Young Chef contest! Hurry, you’ve only got ’til May 31st!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Are you a babywearing mom or dad? If so, you may want to take note of a new baby sling warning that’s about to be issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Concerns about first cropped up two years ago after nearly two dozen babies sustained injuries from falling out of soft slings over the passed 20 years.  Now, the commission is responding to claims of infant suffocation caused by improperly-worn slings.

The benefits of babywearing abound: It fosters bonding and helps babies regulate heart rate and breathing. Studies have even shown that babies who are carried in a sling tend to cry less than their non-sling counterparts. The danger occurs when infants are cradled in a “C-like” or curved position. Since very young babies have little to no control over their head and neck movement, this chin-to-chest posture can restrict airflow and result in asphyxiation.

There’s no word yet on whether or not the warning will single out specific sling models or brands. However, most experts still agree that babywearing is a safe—when done properly. The recommended method? Keep baby sitting upright and facing tummy-to-tummy with the babywearer.

We want to know what you think. Is the warning enough to scare you away from babywearing, or will you continue to use slings?

-Nicole McGovern

Although Spring is still another week away, Daylight Savings Time begins this weekend. So even though we lose an hour of sleep, we gain an hour of sunlight! Encourage your kids to get outside!

Did you know that kids spend nearly 7.5 hours per day on their computers, listening to their iPods, watching television, and talking on the phone? What’s worse is that they cram 10 hours of information into that time. They’ve got Smartphones that allow them to surf the web, listen to music, and text their friends all at once. Multitask much?

How many of your kids spend more time tending to their Farmville crops on Facebook than they do outside in a real garden?

-Nicole McGovern

I’m willing to bet that many of you are like me when it comes to shopping—it’s my therapy!  I love finding the perfect staple piece, like a hanging gold charm necklace, chic handbag, or versatile black sweater that’ll last forever. But while timeless items are great, they’ve got to have that little something to make them unique (that can’t usually be found at malls or department stores!). While doing some online window shopping, I recently came across The Kiwi Lounge. First, I had to laugh at the fact that it’s called “The KIWI Lounge.” (Meant to be I guess!) There, I found an awesome collection of dresses, handbags, jewelry, and the $10 bin— incredible.  Some of my favorites ? Bohemian cat dresses, artsy necklaces, a pink hoodie, and embellished earrings. Check it out for yourself at thekiwillounge.com.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

Whether your kid receives money in the form of a birthday gift from Grandma, a reward for good grades, or a weekly allowance, the time is always right to help him learn how to budget. Some tips:

• Give him a reason. If your child has been eyeing a new video game or soccer ball, help him find incremental ways he can save up for it (by earning $2 for each night he helps fold laundry, for instance). Show him his progress by drawing a poster with a thermometer that “fills up” as he gets closer to his goal, suggests Mackey McNeill, a personal finance specialist.
• Match savings. Big-ticket items might require a long-term savings plan, which can be hard for younger kids to grasp. If it would take more than a few months for your child to save up for something on her own, try matching her savings to keep her motivated, suggest Bryan Link, CEO of the financial planning group SimpliFi.
• Be a role model. Tell your child about the financial goals you’re working toward, like a backyard pool or family vacation, Link says. If you share your savings plan with her and track your progress together, she’ll be more likely to save money for her own goals.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Planning a family movie night? Keep your kids entertained and teach them them a thing or two about caring for the planet at the same time with these green-themed flicks:

• March of the Peguins. Adorable, tuxedo-clad birds walk (and walk, and walk, and walk) to raise their babies and find food.
• Wall-E. Seven hundred years in the future, Earth has become uninhabitable. Leave it to this small but mighty robot to make the planet healthy enough for humans again.
• Bee Movie. Barry B. Benson wants to do more with his life than just make honey. His plan? To venture out of the hive and get a bee’s-eye view of the human world.
• Ferngully: The Last Rainforest. An oldy but a goodie: Fairies (and a hilarious bat voiced by Robin Williams) try to save their rain forest home from human destruction.

Does your family have a favorite eco-flick? Let us know!

Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Ever wish there were more answers about what causes asthma or autism? Ever wonder when someone’s going to really try to answer these questions?

The National Children’s Study is aiming to do just that. It’s a huge government-funded long-term study that’s going to examine environmental influences on children’s health and development by following babies until they turn 21 (that’s seriously long-term!). The researchers are enrolling families now, so if you’re pregnant or have a new baby, find out if you might qualify. You and your baby could be a part of major breakthroughs in what we know about children’s health today.

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

One week closer to spring! Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cookies for breakfast? You bet. Hip Mountain Mama makes hers with whole wheat flour, raisins, almonds, and flaxseeds.
• File under: Funny. Check out “10 Things I’ve Learned Since Becoming a mom” from The Healthy Moms.
• TheSmartMama explains why mold can be harmful—plus how to keep it from growing in your home (ick!).
• Too many catalogs are bad for the environment and an (organized) living space. Big Green Purse helps you cut the clutter.
• On our must-see list? Eco documentary, Addicted to Plastic, thanks to Nature Moms‘ review.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Ever wonder where your dairy products come from? If you said cows—you’re right, smartypants, but I’m talking about the location: City, state, and even processing center. Next time you pull open a container of yogurt (or ice cream, or cottage cheese, or even soymilk!), look for the code above the sell-by date. Then, enter it at whereismymilkfrom.com.

Why bother? For one, it’s just interesting. But it’ll also help you to make more educated purchasing choices (did you know that lots of different dairy brands come from the same processing center—and even the same cows?) to save money and choose products that are made closer to home. It’s pretty simple, so give it a try!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

When I was in grammar school (and high school, for that matter), I’d do anything to get out of gym class. I’d fake cramps, go to the nurse, “forget” my gym clothes. Now, I was a fairly active kid–I took dance classes three nights a week for almost 15 years–but contact sports and working out weren’t my thing. And when it came time for the physical fitness test, forget it! I’d practically make myself sick at the thought of struggling to do pull-ups while the entire class watched. Why am I getting graded in gym class, I’d wonder? What does it matter if I run a 5- or 15-minute mile?

But apparently, it does matter. According to a recent study from West Virginia University, kids who are more physically fit do better academically. The study looked at standardized test scores (in science, math, reading, and social studies) along with the fitness levels of about 700 5th grade students over a two year period. The results:

• Highest test scores: students who were fit at both the start and end of the study
• Second highest: students who were not fit in 5th grade, but increased their fitness level over two years
• Third highest: students who were fit in 5th grade, but their fitness level dropped over two years
• Lowest scores: students who were not fit at the start or end of the study

Coincidentally, another study by the Agricultural Research Service demonstrated that kids lose more weight when following an instructor-led program rather than working on it alone. This six month study was focused on 57 overweight children. Half of them did a self-taught program: they studied weight management books several times a week. The other half spent that time outdoors with an instructor along with a once-a-week indoor session learning about nutrition. The children working with the instructor lost more weight and had a major decrease in their body mass index (BMI) nearly two years later.

So, if physically fit kids do better in school, and instructor-led programs produce a greater effect on kids, should schools implement more physical education classes per week? What do you think?

-Nicole McGovern

I enjoy doing a thorough cleaning of my house at least once a week (no really, I do!).  However, with younger siblings with allergies and asthma, plus pets, I always worry about the negative effects of the toxic fumes emitted by conventional cleaners.  Biokleen to the rescue! These green household and professional cleaning products employ natural enzymes to kill dirt and bacteria, without the use of artificial fragrances, colors or preservatives. Best of all, they have a cleaner for just about everything—laundry, odoor eliminators, dishwashing detergent—you name it, and they probably have it (and chances are it works better than any other cleaner around!).

Recently, I tried out some of Biokleen’s odor eliminators, which boast Bac-Out technology that traps and “digests” nasty smells. My faves?  The Lemon Thyme Bac-Out Fresh Natural Fabric Refresher (kind of like Febreeze, but way healthier!) and Foaming Action Bac-Out Stain & Odor Eliminator.  I always like my fabrics to smell fresh but am not a fan of strong or overwhelming scents.  The Lemon Thyme Bac-Out smells light and refreshing and manages to release in a  a fine mist spray so that doesn’t soak your clothes, bedding, or curtains. The Stain & Odor Eliminator attacks stains, waste, and odors until they are gone—leaving behind no negative effects on your home, pets, or the environment.  Want to learn more for yourself? Check out biokleenhome.com.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

Chips during halftime at the soccer game. Brownies at the cub scout meeting. According to new research from the University of North Carolina, kids are snacking more than ever. After following the eating trends of over 30,000 children and adolescents from 1977 to 2006, the study found that kids today consume an average of 168 more snack calories (about 600 calories per day) than they did 30 years ago.

While the increase in calorie intake is at least partly responsible for the childhood obesity epidemic, the problem with excess snacking doesn’t stop there. Instead of being hungry for healthier foods at meal time, their tummies are usually full from frequent grazing on less nutritious snack fare like cookies, candy, soda, or juice. The outcome? Kids are eating more calories than they need—and getting fewer important vitamins and minerals in the process.

According to the study, kids snack an average of 4 times per day. Is this too much? Should parents aim to feed their kids fewer snacks and focus instead on filling, nutritious meals? Should unlimited healthy snacks still be allowed? Tell us what you think!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

It probably won’t be long before your baby’s ever-growing feet need a new pair of sneaks. But maybe you can avoid a trip to the store this time: Become a fan of KIWI on Facebook and enter our Stride Rite giveaway. You could win a pair of organic sneakers from their eco-friendly collection for babies 0-2!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Sad as I am to say this, winter’s icy winds and snowy skies aren’t over yet—and that means neither is cold and flu season. The  thing I hate the most about getting sick? Having an irritated throat and chest congestion. My younger sister would always catch the worst colds (and, to add insult to injury, has asthma) and until recently, she could never find relief from a natural cough medicine. That is, ’til she found Boiron’s Children’s Chestal cough syrup.

What makes Boiron’s better? It combines homeopathic medicines with a honey-based syrup that coat the inside of the throat to soothe and ease pain plus loosen chest congestion. Plus, since it’s sweetened with honey (instead of artificial flavors) Children’s Chestal is naturally tasty—meaning your kid won’t purse his lips when you bring a spoonful to his mouth. Best of all? Boiron makes natural cough syrup for adults, too. So the next time my sister passes her cough on to me, I’ll be ready! For more, visit boiron.com.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• SouleMama takes a moment on Fridays to snap a photo of whatever’s happening in the present moment—and appreciate it!
• It might be March, but Waldorf Mama knows winter isn’t over yet. That’s why she knitted a pair of amazing pink mittens for her daughter.
• The Tranquil Parent reviews a book that teaches kids as young as three about chores and allowance. Check it out!
• Looking for ways to conserve water? Mom Goes Green has ideas for reusing your gray water.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer