How does one go about doing this after being entrenched in plastic toys and toxic materials? Small steps. We began with art supplies. We became more mindful of using natural and non-toxic brands, most of which are so well worth the extra money in in quality and durability. Right now we’re in the throes of revamping our toy situation. But that’s the subject for a whole new blog post or two or three or four . . .

For now though, check out Hip Mountain Mama’s inspiring blog – perfect for those of us who are incorporating more natural ways into our lives. Post a comment on her blog by the end of the month and be entered to win a bunch of cool, natural art products! Oh, and Hip Mountain Mama also has a shop by the same name.

Yes, yes and a thousand times YES!

Children, particularly young children, need to feel fully integrated into their families and/or their surroundings first before any learning can take place. Does taking them away from the family unit and placing them in schooling institutions serve that purpose? Maybe. But more often than not, schools are structured in such a way that achieving holism is nearly impossible.

I look forward to the day when our public schools will embrace this idea and start implementing one or two integrating strategies, rather than dis-integrating strategies into their focus and awareness.

What would I start with if I could change the system? I have a laundry list, but I’ll give two examples of something that can be done TODAY inside schools that will help children feel more whole, more integrated, more confident, happier, and therefore, help them become better learners.

1. I’d get rid of any/all shaming, punitive or otherwise damaging “punishments”. Sending a child to a separate part of the classroom, another classroom or office only causes a separation inside himself.

2. I’d eliminate all refined sugars wheat-based products and dairy products from the school cafeteria. I’d remove all processed foods and would not allow them on campus in brown bags or lunch boxes. Oh, you say, this is impossible! No! It really isn’t.

There are many studies on the link between ADHD and food allergies (most often allergies to either wheat products, products containing gluten, or dairy products.) Same goes for asthma.

When we begin to see our children as whole human beings living a life to their highest potential, then things like feeding them colas and foods that change color with the sprinkle of a toxin or two at lunch time, only to have them go to the school nurse an hour later for their pharmaceutical pill to help them calm down, may begin to make you as frustrated as it does me!

Ah. Suddenly this has turned into somewhat of a rant. I won’t apologize. Think about it. Educate your friends and family. Those who don’t yet have this information on their radar screens yet. Maybe you’ll help a child’s present and future. Perhaps we, as citizens and mothers/fathers/caregivers of our children can begin to demand some changes.