“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be
judged by the way its animals are treated.”
—Mahatma Gandhi
by Sarah Lane
Now that school’s out and we’re heading down the front steps of summer, our children will rekindle their complicated relationships with insects and arachnids, frequently picking up and trapping, occasionally screaming at and running away from, and too often stomping and squishing them. But there are many good reasons to model a different way of interacting, helping our kids observe closely, admire and appreciate, and tread lightly when in …

by Sarah Lane
Gush. The other day we at PK Reader received a box of samples from O’Bon, a maker of eco-friendly school and stationery supplies. I am often unimpressed by new green products and see many examples of either (1) green products that aren’t that great or (2) decent products that aren’t that green. But O’Bon is the real deal and has both areas covered. Plus, O’Bon understands good design, and its products have sacrificed nothing in terms of attractiveness, which is exciting to someone who, having been in the …

What follows are resources to help you provide a healthier (toxin-free), zero-waste lunch for your child. If you’re just beginning this process, don’t get discouraged. Even by changing a few things you do, you are taking worthwhile steps. As Voltaire says, don’t allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good!

Specifically, you want to avoid the following:

1. Toxins
For the health of your family

Lead. Lead affects the brain and behavior and is especially dangerous to young children still in early developmental stages. Read about lead in children’s …