Healthy Child Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener, Safer Home

by Christopher Gavigan, Meryl Streep (Foreword by)

Learn how to create a cleaner, greener, safer home with Christopher Gavigan and the trusted experts at Healthy Child Healthy World.

Healthy Child Healthy World is the essential guide for parents! All parents want a happy and healthy child in a safe home, but where do they start? It starts with the small steps to creating a healthier, less toxic, and more environmentally sound home, and this is the definitive book to get you there.

Unfortunately, tens of millions of Americans, overwhelmingly children, now face chronic disease and illnesses including cancer, autism, asthma, allergies, birth defects, ADD/ADHD, obesity/diabetes, and learning and developmental disabilities. The number gets higher each year and more parents ask WHY? Scientific evidence increasingly finds chemicals in everyday products like cleaning supplies, beauty care and cosmetics, home furnishings, plastics, food, and even toys that are contributors to these ailments.

The good news is that you can something to protect your children with a few simple changes!

Inside, you'll find practical, inexpensive, and easy lifestyle advice for every stage of parenting

*Advice on preparing a nontoxic nursery for a new baby
*What every expectant mom needs to do to have a safer pregnancy
*Clarifying which plastics and baby products to avoid and the healthier solutions
*Tips to take to the grocery store, including the most and least pesticide-laden fruits and vegetables and the best healthy kid-approved snacks
*Which beauty care / cosmetic products pose the biggest risk to health
*The best recipes for healthy snacks, low-cost and safe homemade cleaners, and non-toxic art supplies
*How to easily minimize allergens, dust, and lead
*A greener garden, yard, and outdoor spaces
*Tips to keep your pets healthy, and the unwanted pests out naturally
*Renovation ideas, naturally fresher indoor air, and safer sleeping options,
*An 27 page extensive shopper's guide to most trusted and best products every home needs

Inside is also packed with over 40 featured contributions from renowned doctors, environmental scientists, and public-health experts like Dr. Harvey Karp, Dr Philip Landrigan, and William McDonough, as well as many celebrity parents like Gwyneth Paltrow, Tobey Maguire, Sheryl Crow, Erin Brockovich and Tom Hanks. A special featured contribution from First Lady Michelle Obama on her best ways of coping with her daughter's asthma.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Green, Health

321 pages, Paperback

First published April 17, 2008

Reviews

[Raven · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has lots of good information and definitely inspires me to go greener. I got really mad in several areas thinking, "Why don't I know about this? I am a mom! I need to know these things!" However, although the author makes it a point at the beginning to say something like, "Don't panic," the statistics and stories in this book are enough to make anyone--especially a parent--scared and panicky. I had to keep reminding myself that it's okay to take things one step at a time. Another qualm is that unless you're pretty wealthy, it's going to be hard to take advantage of all the advice in this book. Some ideas are simple enough--homemade cleaning solution, airing out your home, homemade play dough. However, it's also chock full of ideas that just don't fit my budget right now. In other words, it terrified me with it's statistics, but then left me no way to change things. I can't afford organic mattresses, new hardwood floors, organic clothing, organic hair products, etc. I know the author didn't mean to do this--he probably tried hard not to. But it still happened. Even just buying organic food is a little much for my budget. So, that's where I had to say, "Baby steps are okay." Finally, I got a little tired of hearing from celebrities about how they are going green. I would rather have heard more from the doctors and green entrepreneurs who contributed pieces to the book. Just because someone is on T.V. or in a movie doesn't really impress me that much. And since they usually have plenty of dinero, the fact that they made the "sacrifice" to go green doesn't either.

Bottom line-- Lots of good ideas, but I need the Healthy Child Healthy World for Normal People: Budget Edition.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written in an accessible, sound-bite style, the book is a quick read--almost too quick. Gavigan is determined to keep readers from feeling too overwhelmed, so doesn't spend much time on the research behind the suggestions. He breaks things down into achievable steps and offers alternatives when the best practice (like buying all organic kids' clothing) will probably be too expensive for most. The separate tips that seemed to pop up on every other page were a little distracting, but usually useful. My favorites were some of the "recipes" sprinkled throughout for everything from homemade air freshener to finger paint. There are also some good checklists designed to be copied and cut out as quick references for things like natural cleaning options or which produce is best to buy organic.

Much of the information I had seen elsewhere (a lot of it at the Healthy Child website), but I appreciate having it all in one book. Having read through it once I definitely see myself coming back to certain sections as I make purchasing decisions.

The testimonials from celebrity parents are touted on the cover and I think they're supposed to engage readers, but frankly they annoyed me. They broke up the flow of the text and after awhile I realized I'd process the core content of the book better if I just skipped them. I would have much rather seen profiles of regular folks from a variety of economic backgrounds. What choices do different families living on a budget make, how do they prioritize? Also, the frequent mentions of certain brands and the shopping guide in the back--although useful for finding green products--made me wonder about possible product placement. But both that and the celebrities can be fairly easily ignored.

Don't expect an in-depth look at the research about environmental toxins, although this book does point to some websites and books where you can find that information. But if you're already convinced about the dangers and want a comprehensive look at practical steps you can take at the household level, Healthy Child Healthy World is good place to start.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I breezed right through this book in one night - very easy to read. It might not have that much new information (especially if you are already living a greener life) but I really found it to be extremely resourceful. From DIY cleaning solutions to healthy recipes to a whole chapter devoted on where to get products and services, I have it earmarked in a dozen places. I could do without the anecdotes from most of the celebrities but overall, it's worth a read and will motivate you to make easy changes in your everyday life.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

At times overwhelming despite the author's best efforts to reassure the reader against it, this book was a very good introduction for those wishing to change away from their toxic, chemical laden lives. I know I can't do everything, at least all at once, but I can be more informed about the things I bring into my home and how they might affect my kids. I borrowed this book from the library, but I think it's one I might want to own so I can continue to reference it as we aim to green our home and lives.

[Jessica Sievers · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had some interesting tips, but I wish there had been more research or expert backed info. There were a TON of celebrity blurbs I found less than helpful, so I stopped reading those parts. I love the idea of lessoning chemical exposure and making sure to provide a healthy environment for a child, but I do not believe that a case for everything being “organic” was proven in this book.

[Andi · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a quick read and very direct. I finished in in two evenings. Simple, dramatic changes in the products you use around your house and yard can make a big impact on the health of your family and the environment. I am glad to have a guide to making the quickest, most effective changes.

My favorite chapters were the ones on toys and food. After reading this book I decided to buy all organic produce on the "Dirty Dozen" list. (listed in the book on page 69) These are the ones most likely to bear high levels of dangerous chemicals; the ones most important for young children to eat organic. They include: peaches, apples, bell peppers, strawberries, cherries, lettuce, grapes (imported), pears, spinach, and potatoes.

I really appreciated the last chapter on how to "grow your impact". There is a list of things you can start doing right now to make a difference. Smart ways to make simple changes; that's exactly what I want to have at my fingertips. The back of the book has an extensive list of resources for products, services and information. The index is helpful when you have a specific question and you're in a hurry.

This book was very helpful and inspiring, and I recommend it to anyone interested in improving the health of their living environment.

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

After the initial few chapters, I was excited about this book and the possibility of learning how to integrate more eco-friendly ways of living that would benefit both my child and the planet. Unfortunately, other than the chapter on home cleaning, I found the contents of this book pretty limiting and not helpful or useful. For example, he expresses over and over about how "toxic" carpet is and that you should either have hard floors or specially made non-toxic (i.e. insanely expensive) carpeting. Yeah. I'm currently a renter and I don't have that option, so does that make me a horrible mother for allowing my child to crawl on carpet that could potentially harbor some chemicals? How about presenting some practical alternatives - like implementing a no-shoes in house policy and cleaning regularly with a good quality vacuum?

I found many similar examples of this kind of writing throughout the book. I'm inspired to do all I can as a new mom to surround our family with the healthiest and most eco-friendly products and practices, but I don't think this is the book to help me do it.

[Suzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up at the library several weeks ago and have been reading a little bit each day. I took notes as I was reading because there is so much information about living a greener life. I'm a novice when it comes to being green and I have a long way to go, but this book inspired me to do better. The book is targeted toward providing children with a safer, cleaner world to live in, but it has pertinent information for everyone.

The one change I have decided to make is to buy organic fruits and veggies when possible. There are so many hormones and pesticides put into our food that it's scary. I'll refrain from getting on my soap box.

Being green might be the current trend right now, but it certainly isn't going away any time soon. There has been an awakening regarding our earth and the environment and I think it's here to stay.

I'll be sending everyone electronic Christmas cards (as to not waste paper) from Vermont next year (where the farmers markets and recycling facilities are plentiful)!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admit I was a little nervous about this book because of all the celebrity endorsements on the front cover. But, it is actually quite good and very interesting. I have visited the Healthy Child Healthy Website several times a month for awhile now and really appreciate the current research on the environment and children's health, etc. I spend a lot of time thinking about environmental contaminates and the consequences for my children's well-being (maybe too much time!) and this book sums up nicely a lot of the current discussion in this arena. It also gives real world advice on how to keep your children healthy, which I find very helpful. Some of the celebrity essays were a little silly (Tobey Maguire and his wife's, for instance), but some of them are actually quite good. It's worth a read, especially if you haven't done a lot of research in this area before, since it's a nice summation.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you know absolutely nothing about being 'green' then this book would be a great start at learning what it's all about.

If you already know a thing or two about green living then you might be disappointed to find that this book wasn't super detailed as far as what chemicals and hormones added to foods and cleaning supplies are doing to our bodies; it's a good overview however.

The resources and ideas for changing our behaviors were very helpful. The author(s)let you know that they understand that it's not always easy to make 'green' changes, but that we can change one small step at a time. You just have to decide what you are willing to give up or change. I have started to make my own cleaning products as a result of reading it. I always loved using vinegar and water on my windows and mirrors, but I've starting making new concoctions for cleaning tubs, showers and sinks.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wish I would have had this book before I became pregnant with my son (almost three years ago). There is so much that I would have done differently. However, the wonderful thing about this book is that it keeps you looking forward with the message that changes now can still have an impact and that it's not an all-or-nothing battle. Every little step forward is progress.

It was a very easy read and the resource section is phenomenal. I borrowed the book from the library, but would definitely consider purchasing the book to have on my shelf for the reference section alone.

The quick tips and green recipes were a wonderful bonus for the book. The first thing to go in my house, harsh cleaners!

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want some good sound information on living a greener life this book goes over everything from food to beauty products to cleaning to the air we breathe and more.

It talks about raising your children in a healthy environment but, ultimately I would recommend this book to anyone parent or not. There is plenty of good info to take away from this book even if you do not have a child.

It is jam packed with definitions, precautions, tips, examples, "cut & carry" guides. It's a keeper and would be nice to have around the house to refer to when making buying decisions.

I kinda want to rip apart my house on the search for hidden toxins everywhere, but all panic aside it really is an eye opener and great information.

[Charissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book opened my eyes to so many issues that I didn't realize existed. Before reading it, I was aware that organic food is better for you, that conventional cleaning products contain scary things, and that some fertilizers can be harsh. However, Healthy Child Healthy World made me aware that we really have to think critically about everything we bring in to our home environment (and other areas that we expose ourselves to). We need to watch what we put on our skin, what we wash our hair with, we need to open windows to ventilate the house and remove bad air from chemical off-gassing, etc. There are a lot of things that I'm rethinking, as a result of reading this book, in order to make my family safer.

[Ta Ta Ta Tia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I consider myself fairly 'green', but this book gave me many more things to consider. I hadn't even given thought to things such as shampoo or candles. I agree with those who commented that it wasn't an alarmist type book and left the reader with the feeling that baby steps were acceptable and easily achieved. My only complaint was that I wished it provided the reader with more everyday, natural solutions. They seemed to be quick to offer resources to purchase chemically conscious products at 5x the cost of common products without suggesting too many diy alternatives. I understand that making such lifestyle adjustments can be more expensive, but I don't think it should be quite so cost prohibitive.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an informative book and opened my eyes to a lot of the unseen hazards in our home, but the solutions they suggested were not very easily attainable. For instance, for cleaning supplies instead of suggesting inexpensive homemade remedies they suggested a lot of companies they sell 'green' cleaning supplies. I thought they could have made a lot of inexpensive suggestions, but instead they gave lists of companies to look into. It was still interesting, I learned a lot, and I hope to slowly start to make some changes. However, I think there are more practical solutions than some of the ones they listed.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazingly the book is fairly non-alarming while pointing out the dramatic rise of childhood cancers, asthma, and autism either directly or suspected to be caused by the a parallel rise in chemicals that we use in our homes, put on our bodies, and eat and drink. I consider myself fairly "green" and don't feel that I learned a ton, but I loved how easy it was to read, as well as the suggestions and encouragement for making changes one at a time.

I would suggest this book to anyone since it is not solely focused on children, but as a 'must read' for any expecting or new parent who hasn't done much "green" reading.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent resource! Suggestions from celebrities, environmentalists, business owners (such as the president of Seventh Generation) and the author are encouraging and motivating--there is no condemning of people for the choices they make or have made--just inspiration to make changes that make sense to you and your lifestyle. Readers looking for a good starting point on how to make greener lifestyle choices will benefit from this book, as will those looking for ways to expand on their current efforts.

[Statia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish I would have had this book before my son was born. If I had known even a quarter of the stuff that I know now after endless hours of research, I would have done so many things differently.

This is a great resource for new parents or parents looking to detoxify their home and give their kids a cleaner, healthier life, however, I could do without the celebrity endorsements. That kind of turned me off a bit. Still, it's great information, even for someone who's seasoned in researching safer and greener lifestyles.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very helpful and informative book about how to keep toxins and chemicals out of your home, your kids, and yourself. While I thought some of it was a little much (I'm not going to rip out my carpets, replace the furniture, and make homemade pet food), a lot of the advice and the research backing it up is very good and easy to do, such as: eat organic food as much as you can, use non-toxic cleaning products, don't wear shoes into the house, and open your windows frequently. I did a lot of highlighting and took notes; this book will be a very good reference guide for the future.

[Lizzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, must read for any parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle....etc. I love how the book emphasizes a number of times that not everyone can do everything but everyone can do something. It is a bit overwhelming to learn how many chemicals and toxins we are exposed to in our everyday lives. While I was aware of much mentioned in the book, I did learn more about my environment and how to do simple things to reduce our use. There are a lot of do it yourself and very practical tips provided throughout the book which I found very helpful and have already implemented some in our home.

[Rosanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Practical information in one place, very straightforward. Some good ideas and examples.

The celebrity stories/insight/vignettes are supremely eye-roll worthy. Last time I checked Toby McQuire (sp?) did not have a degree in Environmental Toxicology, so I'll take his opinions with a grain of salt.

Lots of facts but not a lot of evidenced based data to back it up. Overall, nothing too offensive though, a lot stuff your grandmother did is making a comeback and is being repackaged as green and a 'new way to live'.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview of lots of issues regarding environmental and chemical hazards in our lives, regardless of whether or not you have kids. Just as previous books changed the way I think about food and what I buy, this book has made me look further into what kind of cleaning products and personal care products are in our house....and make changes. Let's just say I chucked a bunch of stuff this week, including a trip to the HHW drop-off center!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much fantastic information! A little overwhelming at times because we can't all have a 100% organic home due to cost, limitations, etc. but it does supply alternatives for becoming more "natural" and "clean". I am happy to report I was already doing some of these things but also I learned a ton of new tips/ideas. I will be implementing new practices, starting today, and work on other long term options as I can. I highly recommend this book for individuals and families.

[Meagan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone, single or with a million kids, should read this. It's not just a fruity book on the government allowing companies to be as evasive as they possibly can with their marketing (although it is proven in this book that they are) it's about living a better life for you and those who will follow after. Loved it. I am already making changes once I log off and unplug all my cords.

[Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed all of the ideas in the book on how to change your life to be more green for your children. It changed many things in my life. Some of the more major things would take a lot of money. The chapter on skin was the most transforming for me. I had not thought of all of the information before. It also has great websites and recipes for cleaning supplies.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for everyone, even if you're like me, and don't have children. It opens your eyes to what we're putting in our bodies by the products we buy, and the everyday things we use. How these things can be doing more harm to our bodies, and environment then we may even realize.

It also gives you great tips, and a lot of resources for alternative solutions.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good practical resource for parents wanting to raise their children in a more eco-friendly environment. It wasn't full of scare tactics, but instead was written in a positive way that helps you to make small (or large) changes to your daily life and your child's life without being ridden with guilt over what you aren't doing. A good balance.

[Christa Cordova · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you need a "going green" introduction, this is THE book to read. It contains lots of great advice that's easy to follow, without the hysteria that you'll find in other "green" books. I highly recommend this to green novices, but if you consider yourself an expert on green living, I'd advise you to check this out at the library and save your money to spend elsewhere.

[Kevin Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book on some safer choices we can make for childhood products, and general household products. Very insightful information, while reminding the reader that you cannot eliminate everything, you can do your best to eliminate the harmful stuff, and tips on how to limit exposure to things you cannot eliminate completely. Overall, great read!

[Anita Joseph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anyone who cares about the chemical-impact on their children should keep this book on hand. Also offers a great glossary of important numbers and addresses to several environmental organizations (i.e. water and air testing) and the best filtration systems for your home based on the type of minerals/chemicals found in your local water table.