It’s time for the kids to head back to school. Here are some simple tips to encourage healthy habits and get them off to a great start!
As children head back to school, it’s important to remember that the environment around them—at home and in the classroom—plays a significant role in shaping their health and development. From the supplies they use to the clothes they wear and the food they eat, small choices can significantly reduce harmful exposures.
Below are practical, research-informed tips from Mount Sinai’s experts to help families protect their children’s health throughout the school year.
Choose Non-Toxic Supplies
Purchasing non-toxic and eco-friendly supplies is safer for your child and great for the environment.
- Choose backpacks and binders that are not made with PVC or vinyl.
- Avoid scented markers, erasers, and other supplies.
- Avoid products labeled “antimicrobial” or “antibacterial”.
Pack a Safe and Nutritious Lunch
Good nutrition supports learning in the classroom.
- Choose lunch containers that are free of lead, BPA, PVC, and antimicrobials.
- Pack water in a stainless steel or BPA-free bottle. Skip the extra sugar in juice and soda.
- Avoid processed foods. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables and shop organic when
possible. - Avoid containers with the recycling symbols #3, #6 and #7, which can contain harmful
chemicals. - Encourage your school to adopt a healthy lunch plan.
Shop Smart for Clothes
Kids outgrow clothing quickly. If you shop for new clothes, stick to natural fibers such as
cotton or wool.
- Shop second-hand and consignment stores or choose hand-me-downs when possible.
- Avoid clothes with stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, or odor-fighting features.
- Avoid sandals, shoes, boots, or rain gear made with PVC or vinyl.
A Healthier Commute
Help reduce air pollution, a major contributor to childhood asthma.
- Walk or bike to school if possible.
- If walking or biking isn’t an option, set up a carpool or use public transportation.
- To avoid idling, turn off your car.
A Healthier School
- Implement the EPA Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Action Kit to improve air quality.
- Start an anti-idling campaign to reduce vehicle emissions.
- Advocate for safer cleaning policies to reduce the use of harmful chemicals.
- Take steps to become zero waste by reducing use of plastics or composting food.
- Bring Mount Sinai youth educational resources to your classroom.
Watch a Webinar on Supporting Healthier Schools
Through case examples, Maida Galvez, MD, MPH, and Sarah Evans, PhD, MPH, share common concerns in the school environment and discuss steps that schools and families can take to ensure optimal environments for learning.
