How Safe Is Your Child's School?

Be a Safety Detective! Many learning problems stem from environmental issues right in the schools! Learn how to help your child with these tips.

5 Tips on Being PROACTIVE in schools!
1) Be friendly with the principal and teachers. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
2) Visit the school while in session.
3) Ask to see what types of cleaning products are used in the classroom. Ask if the children handle these products.
4) Come early to pick up your child from school. Where are the busses parked and are they running for long periods of time?
5) Check out your child's classroom. Do the windows open? Is the room carpeted? Is it clean? Is it at a comfortable temperature? An 80 degree room does not make for the best learning environment.
What to LOOK for at your child's school?
1) Cleaning Products --
Be a Safety Detective! Cleaning Products in schools are some of the most toxic on the market. If the words, WARNING, DANGER, or CAUTION appear on a cleaning product then it has poisonous ingredients in it. (The 'skull & crossbones' logo was removed years ago since chemical companies felt it was hurting sales.) Do children have access to the cleaning products? If the room is cleaned & mopped with heavily scented chemicals, do they just disappear with time? (No...chemicals stay in the air & on surfaces until someone breathes them or touches them!)
2) Pesticide Use --
Are pesticides sprayed in the halls and classrooms while students are still present? Are the playgrounds sprayed with any chemicals? Are pesticides sprayed in the halls and classrooms while students are still present? Are the playgrounds sprayed with any chemicals?
3) Bus Safety --
Are busses left idling next to the school building before the end of the day? Fumes will enter the building and will fill up within the bus causing a toxic environment. Diesel fumes have been proven to cause headaches, nausea, and depression.
4) Food Allergies --
If your child has any food allergies, this should be brought to the school's attention. If any child in the school has a severe food allergy then steps should be taken to protect that child. How does your school handle students with severe food allergies? Are lunch tables washed immediately after use? Are parents aware not to bring certain foods to school?

Your child spends 6 hours or more a day at school. Shouldn't you feel comfortable that your child is safe from harm while there? Be proactive. Visit the school several times. Take note when your child comes home not feeling well. Ask questions. It is your right as a parent to know what is going on with your child's school and their health.