Green is the New Black, presented by Tonya Sakowicz at the INA Conference in Cancun, was a big hit with the Newborn Care Specialist attendees! Tonya, the owner of Baby Go Green, Inc. gave a well-informed presentation on what exactly “going green” is and why it matters to each of us.
A very powerful video was shown, www.ewg.org -10 Americans, which explained the importance of being environmentally conscious. The main focus of her talk focused around our bodies and health concerns, which would help the families we work for, the NCS, and us. Brain development of babies was a major focus point, as so much brain growth occurs in the first few months. Knowledge of toxins and how they affect those growing brains is valuable!!
Discussion developed around the many ways to help our clients. We received a list of items for which we should all be on the lookout. In addition, we discussed how to be pro-active in the home while taking into consideration our client’s views and our responsibility to the infant and the environment.
The presentation went on to further discuss the green playroom, the green nursery, and how we can suggest and use green products in these areas. Greening the kitchen was an enlightening conversation about organic foods and if they really matter. (Yes – they do!!) We talked about how to educate and provide support on these issues with our clients, while also remaining sensitive to their views.
The presentation moved on to other areas such as a green bathroom, green laundry room, and going green in the car and at school. Much discussion was on the subject of the green body. The skin is the largest organ on the body, so anything applied topically is absorbed rapidly into tissues and organs. It is important to use natural products and to avoid perfumes and fragrances. My favorite take-away from Tonya was “If you wouldn’t put it in your mouth, don’t use it!”
For more information on Green is the New Black, Tonya Sakowicz can be reached at www.newborncaresolutions.com.