Eco-Giveaway: The Coolest Green Toy!!

We rated the Recycle Truck from Green Toys the coolest green truck in the market, and a great concept!

Become Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by December 12, 2009 and be entered to win this fantastic Christmas gift!

Made in the US from 100% recycled milk jugs, your little one will learn recycling basics with this eco truck. It has a movable recycling bed and open/shut rear door.

Good Luck!

Food Intolerance versus Allergies - Part I

Leanne Cooper, a nutritionist from Organic Bubs, released a useful guide for parents about food intolerance and allergies. Kids are very sensitive to new ingredients, and understanding the differences between intolerance and allergy may be very helpful.

Below is the first part of the report. Stay tuned for the second and third parts tomorrow and Wednesday!

Food Intolerance versus Allergies - Part I

"Often the term "allergy" & "intolerance" are used interchangeably. Be aware that self-diagnosing can be risky, as not all reactions to food are what they seem. In fact, "allergy" & "intolerance" are different.

A food allergy involves an immune response to a food protein or similar large molecule. A good example is cows' milk protein allergy or peanut allergy.

Definitions of food intolerance are a little less clear. Generally, it is easier to think of it as a non-immune response where the body is unable to deal with a food compound. One of the best known examples is lactose intolerance where a baby may not have sufficient lactose (a digestive enzyme) to digest milk sugars. Food intolerance is much more common than food allergies.

While kids' immune system is still developing reactions to some foods may occur even in infants who do not have a family history. Foods that commonly cause reactions include: gluten/wheat, dairy products, soy, eggs, fish & shell fish, tree nuts, citrus fruit and tomatoes.


If there is a history of food allergies, eczema or asthma in the family (particularly in a breastfeeding mother) it is recommended that a health professional be consulted. We don’t recommend restricting a child’s diet unless under professional supervision so that nutrients lost from the restricted food is gained elsewhere. Babies are growing at such a phenomenal rate that it is essential they get all the nutrition possible."

Eco-Giveaway Winner!

Congratulations KIM SWINTON GROBASKI! You are the winner of our Eco-Giveaway, a beautiful $70 Patemm Pad.
Please contact us at EcoLogicalMom@ymail.com to redeem your prize.

Wheely Fun

What a cutie! Awarded multiple times in Australia as best toy for kids, the Wheely Bug is a fun ride. And it helps the little ones develop their motor skills.
Made of plywood, aluminum and polyurethane leather, it comes in 2 sizes and different shapes: bee, cow, mouse and tiger.

Final Days to Participate in our EcoGiveaway!

Become a Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by November 28, 2009 and be entered to win a $70 Patemm Pad, a great solution for diaper bags.

Click now to become a fan!

Flu Chart

We saw this cool Flu Chart, released by Stroller Traffic, and thought our readers would find it useful! It is a very straight forward comparison symptoms of colds, seasonal flu and h1n1. Definitely worth checking.

Click here to access the chart.

Drop Side Crib Alert

Another recall was issued today for drop side cribs. This time the recall is from Stork Craft Cribs. Four babies have died and 31 others have been entrapped or injured in one of the 2.1 million Stork Craft cribs recalled today.

The Consumer Reports organization has been warning about the dangers of drop-side cribs, and has urged industry to eliminate this design in favor of safer, fixed side models.

If you have any drop side crib, we urge you to check the model number and consult the manufacturer's website for recalls.

For details on the Stork Craft recall, please logon to US Consumer Product Safety Commission

Kids Watching Hours of TV at Home-Based Daycare

A recent study published today about home-based day care reported that about 70% of the programs use television daily. The study found that among preschool-aged children, those in home-based day cares watched TV for 2.4 hours per day on average, compared to 24 minutes in larger childcare centers. Toddlers watched an average of 1.6 hours in home care and about 6 minutes in centers. That is certainly not what many parents have signed up for!

The figures come from a telephone survey of licensed child care programs in Michigan, Washington, Florida and Massachusetts.

For more information about the study, logon to msnbc.com.

How Much Tuna Can You Eat Safely?

If you have tuna lovers at home, check this Tuna Calculator. Based on your weight and gender, it calculates safe quantities to be consumed, within acceptable mercury levels.
Source: ewg.org

Wooden Blocks, a Classic for Christmas

Get 100 brightly colored blocks in a variety of versatile shapes with this set from Melissa & Doug. Wooden blocks provide an opportunity for a child to build towers, castles, or dollhouses, practicing their fine motor skills. And it is very affordable, under $20 at Amazon.com

Eco Giveaway Reminder: a $70 Patemm Pad!

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to participate in our Eco Giveaway! Become a Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by November 28, 2009 and be entered to win a $70 Patemm Pad, a smart and practical solution for diaper bags.

Its round design allows you to place your little one in any direction. You can store diapers, wipes, and even a set of clothes in the pockets. The Mare print is one of Patemm's top sellers, made of 100% regular cotton and machine-washable.

Click now to become a fan!

Quinoa: Nutritious and Delicious

Quinoa is a delicious seed and an excellent alternative for rice. It is very rich in protein, contains all essential amino acids, iron, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, copper and fiber. It is just as versatile and easy to cook as rice.
Here is a great recipe, tested and absolutely approved by demanding kids!

Baked Quinoa with Spinach and Cheese
Based on recipe by Martha Rose Shulman
Serves 4 to 6 people

- 16oz bag organic baby spinach.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
- 1 medium onion, chopped.
- 2 garlic cloves.
- 4 cups of cooked quinoa* (1 cup uncooked).
- 2 large organic eggs.
- 3/4 cup gruyere cheese, grated.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated.
- Salt and pepper.

Preheat the oven to 400F. Oil a 2 quart gratin or baking dish.
Heat a medium frying pan. Wash the spinach, add to the pan, and wilt in the liquid left on leaves after washing. As soon as the spinach wilts, remove from the heat and let it cool. Squeeze and chop (use the water, rich in vitamins, to cook the quinoa).

Wipe the pan dry, and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and garlic for about 5 minutes, until onion is tender. Stir in the spinach and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Beat the eggs and add 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Stir in the cooked quinoa*, the spinach, the cheese and the sage. Stir and scrape into the gratin or baking dish. Sprinkle the parmesan over the top, add the rest of the olive oil. Place it in the oven and bake it for about 25 minutes.

* To cook quinoa in advance, boil 2 1/2 cups of water with 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Add 1 cup of uncooked quinoa. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-17 minutes. Remove from the cook top. Let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes to finish cooking.

Bowling Buddies

We found this adorable bowling set, made from 100% certified organic cotton.
The cute pins are like giving your little one a gift of half-dozen new friends!

By MiYim, sold through Amazon.

Toy Hazard Recall List

As we approach the holidays, toy shopping may be a big part of your Christmas preparation.
Before diving into the stores, take a look at the list of Toy Hazard Recall, compiled by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Lead paint and choking hazard should be taken very seriously!

Source: cpsc.gov

Eco Giveaway! Win a Stylish Patemm Pad

In October we posted a review for Patemm, a smart and practical solution for diaper bags. Our editors and readers loved it so much that we decided to give one away! The lucky winner will receive a Mare pad, a US$70 prize!

Its round design allows you to place your little one in any direction. You can store diapers, wipes, and even a set of clothes in the pockets. The Mare print is one of Patemm's top sellers, made of 100% regular cotton and machine-washable.

Become a Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by November 28, 2009, and be entered to WIN this stylish pad!!
Don't miss this incredible opportunity!

Roasted Pumpkin Soup... Delish!

Most of us in the US are stuck with many pounds of pumpkins after Halloween festivities. Not a problem! We came up with this great recipe for pumpkin soup. The whole family is going to love it!

Roasted Pumpkin Soup
6 servings

- 1 medium pumpkin (about 4 pounds).
- 1 tablespoon of butter.
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped.
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped.
- 6 cups of chicken stock.
- 3/4 cup of heavy cream.
- 1/4 cup of orange juice.
- Freshly grated nutmeg.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 3 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
- 2 tablespoons salted sunflower seeds.

Cut the pumpkin in slices from top to bottom, and place the pieces on an oiled baking sheet. Bake them for about 45 minutes, or until they can be easily skewered.
Remove the seeds with a spoon and discard. Scrape the pulp and reserve. Discard the skin.

Melt butter in a soup pot, add the onion and garlic, stirring occasionally until the onion is soft. Don't let it burn. Add the pumpkin and the stock, and simmer it until the pumpkin falls apart, about 30 minutes. Let it cool.

Puree the soup in batches, using a blender for 2 or 3 minutes, until very smooth. Place it back in the pot, add the orange juice, the cream and the nutmeg. Season it with salt and pepper. Correct the consistency with additional stock or water.

After serving, sprinkle the bowls with chopped parsley and the sunflower seeds.

Pumpkin is a good source of Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol), Thiamin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Iron, Magnesium and Phosphorus, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Riboflavin, Potassium, Copper and Manganese.

Pumpkin

ECO GIVEAWAY WINNER!

Congratulations, AMANDA BECHTEL EHST!

You are the winner of our Eco Giveaway. Please e-mail us at EcoLogicalMom@ymail.com to redeem your prize, an organic cotton t-shirt of your choice from the Idbids collection.

Recycling Truck Toy

Check out this cool recycling truck for kids!

Made in the US from 100% recycled milk jugs, your little one will learn recycling basics with this eco truck. It has a movable recycling bed and open/shut rear door. From Green Toys.

Last Day to Participate!!!

Become a Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by November 14, 2009, and be entered to WIN a gorgeous Idbids Organic T-shirt of your choice. Don't miss it this time, it is a no-brainer!!

Click now to become a fan!

Lead Hazard

Exposure to lead is very dangerous to kids and adults, resulting in permanent brain damage, heart problems, behavioral and developmental problems.

Unfortunately millions of children are still experiencing lead poisoning from lead paint in older homes and low quality toys, and contaminated soil and drinking water. Kids tend to put objects and toys in their mouths, and not wash their hands as frequently.

Children should be tested for lead levels by pediatricians at ages 1 and 2. Protect your family by checking potential sources of lead at home and day care. Also, ensure they are receiving good nutrition with recommended levels of iron, vitamin C and calcium to help reduce lead absorption.

Source: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Sweet Cream of Avocado

Continuing on our campaign for a healthy end-of-year diet, we tested this Cream of Avocado recipe for a dessert or snack, and the result was outstanding. Yes, avocado for dessert! And kids love it.

Many countries in Latin America eat avocado with honey, or sugar, and it is absolutely delicious! Avocado is a powerful source of vitamins and essential oils.
Here is our yammy and incredibly healthy recipe of the day!

Cream of Avocado

- 1 ripe avocado
- 4 to 6 oz of milk (depending on size of avocado)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey (depending on size of avocado)

Mix all ingredients using a hand mixer or a blender. The consistency should be creamy and velvety. Serve cold.

Yet More on BPA

The US Center of Disease Control (CDC) released results of a study concluding that more than 92% of Americans have BPA (Bisphenol A) in their urine. Wow!

BPA is an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of clear plastic bottles and food-can liners. These chemicals have been restricted in Canada and some U.S. states and municipalities because of potential health effects. Some studies have linked it to reproductive abnormalities and a heightened risk of breast and prostate cancers, diabetes, and heart disease.

Unfortunately, developing fetuses and babies are the most vulnerable to BPA's toxic effects. So, the very first step is replacing the old baby bottles and sippy cups to BPA-free ones. Also, be aware that BPA contaminates liquid baby formula sold in metal cans. Choosing powdered versions is a much safer option.

As a rule of thumb, avoid canned foods, and don't use polycarbonate plastics for warm food and drinks.

MacLaren's Major Safety Recall

A MacLaren recall involving at least one million umbrella strollers has just been announced. MacLaren is providing free of charge to all affected consumers and retailers a kit to cover the stroller's hinge mechanism, which poses a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to the child when the consumer is unfolding/opening the stroller.

The affected models include Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, Techno XLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller.
Consumers should stop using the strollers immediately and contact Maclaren via its website or by calling toll-free at (877) 688-2326, the company said.

Five More Days to Participate in our Eco Giveaway

Become a Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by November 14, 2009, and be entered to WIN a gorgeous Idbids Organic T-shirt of your choice. Don't miss it this time, it is a no-brainer!!

Click now to become a fan!

Loads of Fun and Entertainment

We found this cute do-it-yourself puppet kit, and thought it would be a great Christmas gift idea for kids ages 3+. We loved how they got entertained for hours, while developing creative skills.

The kit includes 3 super-soft sock puppets and dozens of peel and stick shapes, fur, pom poms and wiggly eyes. Just let their imagination flow, but be careful with potential choking hazard!

From Creativity For Kids

Cleaning Hazards

Some home cleaning products may contain airborne substances known to cause asthma to kids and adults. Unfortunately kids are very vulnerable!
The Environmental Working Group came up with a few easy tips to consider when cleaning the house (and schools!):

1. Dilute cleaning supplies. Less is usually more!
2. Clean with windows and doors open so air pollution is not trapped inside your home.
3. Wear gloves. Cleaning chemicals may harm or penetrate skin and eyes.
4. Keep kids away from cleaning products.
5. Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar and other acids. They can produce deadly gases.
6. Try to find certified Green products. They tend to be a lot less toxic.
7. Skip the biggest hazards. Avoid air fresheners, use a baking soda and water paste to clean the oven and tackle stains, and use a mechanical snake to unclog the drain.


For more tips, visit ewg.org

A Frog in the Bathtub?

Bath time is supposed to be fun for kids. Having toys around can definitely entertain them while receiving a scrub from momma!

We found this very cute drainable scoop for collecting and rinsing toys. It attaches semi-permanently to the bathtub wall with adhesive strips that can be removed without harming tile or wall surfaces. It can also be screw-mounted. What kid wouldn't enjoy a frog in the bathtub?

Frog Pod from Boon Inc.

Get these Superfoods into Their Systems

Getting kids used to a diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains is very important. It can prevent diseases, and provides all nutrients necessary for a healthy development.

Try adding these superfoods to their meals, as suggested by nutritionist Leanne Cooper, from Organic Bubs. It may take a few attempts before they get used to the taste, but it is definitely worth it!

1. Veggies with vivid colors such as sweet potato, pumpkin, carrot, broccoli and corn, provide loads of vitamins.
2. Berries and cherries are great anti-oxidants.
3. Other super-fruits are pomegranate, mango, banana, apple, apricot and white grapes.
4. Super-grains such as quinoa are loaded with proteins, carbs, vitamins, minerals and fiber.
5. Flaxseed meal mixed with fruits and yogurt is also a great snack. Make sure the flaxseed is crushed to a powder.
6. Avocado is very rich in oil and vitamins. The creamy consistency makes it easy and pleasant to eat.
7. Fish such as salmon is rich in omega-e oils.
8. Organic yogurt provides healthy bacteria for the little tummies.

Hearty Tomatoes

The temperature is getting low outside. It is that time of the year when we start feeling a lot hungrier for carbs and other hearty foods. Making an effort to keep a healthy diet will definitely pay off after the holidays!

During the next couple of months we'll bring a few family recipes to help you keep it healthy and delicious!

Starting with the basics, try this easy-to-make organic tomato sauce, perfect for pasta, dipping, poultry, meat balls, etc. This recipe has been created by an Italian mom, and approved by a big demanding crowd.

Italian Tomato Sauce

- 7 to 10 organic diced tomatoes, or a 28oz. can of organic dices tomatoes.
- 1 diced yellow onion.
- 5 diced garlic cloves.
- 1 tblspoon of dry oregano.
- 1 tblspoon of dry parsley or basil (optional).
- 1 tblspoon of capers.
- Salt and black pepper.
- 1/2 tablespoon of Honey, or sugar (to eliminate the bitterness of the tomato).
- 2 tbspoon of canola oil

In a saucepan, combine the onions, garlic and oil. Cook it until the onions are transparent, usually about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, capers, honey, salt, pepper and herbs. Stir, and let it cook for 5 minutes.

Add water as you see necessary, the quantity may vary depending on the size of the tomatoes. If you are cooking pasta, boil it in unsalted water, and use that same water in the sauce instead. It's thicker, and will add some pasta flavor to the sauce. Let it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Pasta tip: cook the pasta al dente, then finish cooking the pasta in the sauce. It will absorb the sauce flavors, and the result will be delicious!

Haba Haba

We came across Haba, a German toy manufacturer, and completely fell in love with their products.
The toys are educational, and so well designed!
Haba toys are available in limited locations in the US. We did a quick search on Google and fortunately came up with multiple options to buy them online.
For details, logon to haba.de

Another ECO GIVEAWAY. Act Now!!

Due to the success of our first Eco Giveaway, we are announcing another one!
Become a Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by November 14, 2009, and be entered to WIN a gorgeous Idbids Organic T-shirt of your choice. Don't miss it this time, it is a no-brainer!!

Click now to become a fan!

ECO GIVEAWAY WINNER!

Congratulations, KARI BURNS ANDERSON!

You are the winner of our Eco Giveaway. Please e-mail us at EcoLogicalMom@ymail.com to redeem your prize, an organic cotton t-shirt of your choice from the Idbids collection.