How to Green a Daycare
Green daycares are sprouting up all over the country, and for good reason. Children are particularly susceptible to environmental toxins, so it's critical to green up the places where they spend the majority of their time. With a few simple changes, you can turn your daycare green and make everyone's day a little healthier.
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Instructions
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Decorate with eco-friendly materials. Painting the walls with low-VOC paints and using solid wood furniture instead of particle board are just two ways you can help clean up the air that kids breathe every day. Natural flooring like wood or bamboo may not be practical for young children, but there are many types of eco-friendly carpet that are free of chemicals and other toxins, so look for those instead.
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Replace your bulbs with green compact fluorescents. These energy-efficient light bulbs help reduce your energy consumption and save you money on your bills. Install dimmers or automatic light switches in bathrooms and hallways, so that they only use power when someone is in the area.
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Be smart about the cleaners you use. Daycares are usually crawling with germs, and as a daycare provider, it's your job to keep the illness to a minimum. Disinfect toys and surfaces with eco-friendly cleaning products such as vinegar and citrus juices instead of harsh chemicals that leave a residue.
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Pick the right toys. When greening your daycare, it's important to look at the types of toys you have for children's use. Plastic toys could contain PVC, so stick with wood-based toys that are certified to be lead-free. They may cost more in the beginning, but wooden toys last longer and keep your kids healthy.
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