Like it or not there are toxins everywhere, even in our own back yards. And while we’re all trying to do what’s best for our kids, that becomes challenging if we don’t know which products are dangerous and need to be avoided.
Here are some common backyard toxins and safe alternatives.
- Glyphosate (aka Roundup): Glyphosate is a common ingredient in lawn care and weed control products.
- Safe alternative: The best alternative to glyphosate is good old manual labor. We pay our kids five cents for every weed they pull which is a great way to share the work and keep a well-maintained yard.
- Safe alternative: The best alternative to glyphosate is good old manual labor. We pay our kids five cents for every weed they pull which is a great way to share the work and keep a well-maintained yard.
- Sunscreen: In the summer we’re putting sunscreen on our kids nearly every day. It’s important to make sure whatever we’re putting on our kids’ skin is nontoxic because it will get partially absorbed.
- Safe alternative: Try a mineral based sunscreen with zinc. Zinc-based sunscreen creates a physical barrier against the sun, not a chemical barrier. I also like to use cream instead of spray so you don’t have to worry about your child inhaling toxic particles. For the face, sunscreen sticks are a great option.
Some of my favorite brands are ThinkSport, Jason, and Alba Botanica. Check out EWG’s Guide to Sunscreen for even more non-toxic options.
- Safe alternative: Try a mineral based sunscreen with zinc. Zinc-based sunscreen creates a physical barrier against the sun, not a chemical barrier. I also like to use cream instead of spray so you don’t have to worry about your child inhaling toxic particles. For the face, sunscreen sticks are a great option.
- Bug Spray: Mosquitos and ticks are two common pests many of us encounter in our backyards but common bug sprays are full of toxins.
- Safe alternative: Greenerway Organics, Now Brand, and certain essential oils will protect your child from bug bites without all the harmful chemicals.. Check out EWG’s What’s the Best Bug Spray to Buy for My Kids?.
- Safe alternative: Greenerway Organics, Now Brand, and certain essential oils will protect your child from bug bites without all the harmful chemicals.. Check out EWG’s What’s the Best Bug Spray to Buy for My Kids?.
- Insecticides: Using insecticides to deter unwanted insects like ants or wasps can have devastating effects on our children. The chemicals in these products are especially toxic and dangerous for autistic kids with oral issues who put toys or their hands in their mouth more than neurotypical children.
- Safe alternative: Diatomaceous Earth is powder that can be purchased online that can help with insect control. While this powder is safe to ingest you do need to be careful not to inhale the dust too much.
With a little bit of knowledge and research you can make your backyard a toxin free environment for you children and your family to enjoy year round.
Be gentle with yourself. You’re doing a great job.
I hope this information has been helpful to you as part of creating Your Autism Game Plan.
Do you have a topic you’d like to learn more about? Email me at joya@yourautismgameplan.com
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