How to Protect Your Child with Eczema from Toxins at School and Daycare
As we send our children off to school and daycare, many of us feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. For families like ours, where children have overcome significant health challenges like eczema and celiac disease, the thought of reintroducing them to environments that could potentially trigger a relapse is nerve-wracking.
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Why Avoiding Toxins Matters for Kids with Eczema
Children with eczema or autoimmune conditions are particularly vulnerable to harsh chemicals. These substances, commonly found in schools and daycares, can trigger flare-ups or even contribute to the development of asthma, creating a challenging environment for our children. Understanding the connection between eczema, asthma, and allergies—the “atopic triad”—highlights why it’s crucial to protect our kids from these everyday exposures.
“The small steps we take to reduce toxins in our kids’ environments can make a world of difference, especially for children with eczema and autoimmune conditions. It’s not just about avoiding a relapse—it’s about empowering ourselves to create the healthiest possible future for our children.”
-Andra McHugh
Steps to Implement Safer Cleaning Practices at School and Daycare
Contact Your School’s Environmental Health Specialist:
The first step in making a change is finding the right person to talk to. This is usually the Environmental Health Specialist in your district, who oversees health and safety protocols in schools. I’ve found that being polite but persistent is key. You can ask the director of your school or daycare for the contact details of this individual.
Understand the Levels of Cleaning:
It’s essential to know the difference between cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing. Here’s a quick overview:
- Cleaning: Removes dirt, germs, and impurities from surfaces. Soap and water physically remove germs but don’t necessarily kill them.
- Disinfecting: Uses chemicals to kill germs on surfaces but doesn’t clean dirty surfaces.
- Sanitizing: Lowers the number of germs to a safe level as judged by public health standards. This can be done by either cleaning or disinfecting.
Sterilization is a more rigorous process used in medical settings, but it’s not feasible in schools or daycares.
Propose Non-Toxic Alternatives:
After researching and testing various products, I found that EnviroCleanse A meets the strict requirements set by the Board of Health for disinfecting and sanitizing without the harmful side effects of traditional chemicals. EnviroCleanse is effective, non-toxic, and doesn’t require a final rinse, making it easy for schools to implement. I also recommend Branch Basics for regular cleaning. It’s a non-toxic concentrate that can be used in classrooms to clean surfaces safely.
Provide the Products:
In many cases, schools may not have the budget to purchase these safer products, so you may need to supply them yourself. I sent labeled spray bottles of EnviroCleanse and Branch Basics to my children’s classrooms, along with instructions for use. This ensured that the teachers had what they needed to keep the environment clean without compromising my children’s health.
Supply Non-Toxic Hand Soap and Sanitizer:
Hand washing is crucial, especially in the post-COVID world, but many hand soaps and sanitizers contain harsh chemicals. I send my children with their own labeled bottles of Branch Basics hand soap and a non-toxic hand sanitizer. This way, they avoid exposure to antibacterial soaps that can harm their skin and disrupt their hormonal balance.
Communicate Clearly with Teachers:
It’s important to explain your preferences to your child’s teachers. Let them know why you’re providing specific products and ensure they understand the importance of using them as directed. Also, explain these new protocols to your children, especially if they’re used to different products at school. My kids keep their bottles of soap in the bathroom.
Why Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products in Schools and Daycares?
Switching to greener cleaning practices not only protects our children but also benefits the entire school community. Reducing exposure to toxic chemicals improves indoor air quality, decreases the incidence of asthma attacks and eczema flares. Any effort in this arena creates a safer environment for everyone.
I understand that this process can feel overwhelming. But by taking these steps, you’re making a significant impact on your child’s health and setting them up for success in a safe and supportive environment. If you need more guidance, the Natural Eczema Solutions Course at Eczema Kids offers a step-by-step plan to get your home and school or daycare environments eczema-trigger free. This includes a sample email template to get you started with the environmental health specialist in your school or daycare’s district.
Creating an Eczema-Safe Environment At School and Daycare
As parents, we have the power to advocate for our children and create healthier environments for them to thrive. While it may require effort and persistence, the rewards are well worth it. By taking these proactive steps, you’re not just addressing the symptoms of eczema but setting the foundation for long-term health and well-being.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our children and countless others. Visit Eczema Kids for more tools, tips, and support as you navigate the challenges of raising a child with eczema.
Enjoy this back-to-school season knowing you’ve done everything you can to protect your child’s health. If you’re looking for more ways to create chemical-safe environments for your kiddo with eczema, check out Safe and Non-Toxic Home Materials for Kids, Are Your Child’s Favorite Toys Full Of Hidden Dangers? and Eczema Triggers and Irritants. You’ve got this!
FAQ
Why is it important to use non-toxic cleaning products in schools and daycares?
Children, especially those with eczema or autoimmune conditions, are more vulnerable to the harsh chemicals found in many cleaning products. These chemicals can trigger skin flare-ups, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Non-toxic cleaning products reduce the risk of exposure to harmful substances, promoting a healthier environment for all children and staff.
2. What are some recommended non-toxic cleaning products for schools and daycares?
Branch Basics is a versatile, non-toxic cleaner that is effective for everyday cleaning tasks. For sanitizing and disinfecting, EnviroCleanse-A is recommended as it meets public health standards without the use of harmful chemicals like bleach.
