Chemical Free Kids

Genesis of Chemical Free Kids

Our Children will ask…What were our parents thinking? Why did they produce toxic chemicals and then allow them to get in to our bodies? Were they so arrogant to think that our bodies would not be affected?

Chemical Free Kids was established in 2008 and in partnership with my then colleague Dr Edward Kachab. Edward has a background and training in advanced organic chemistry and declares himself a ‘reformed and conscious chemist’, passionate about preventing toxic chemicals from entering and impacting the human body, especially children and young people. He says in the foreword of the book:

‘I find it ironic that as chemists we are entrusted with the job of inventing new materials and products, and whilst we’ve come up with substances with wonderful applications, the application of these substances is all that we’ve mostly considered. We are often clumsy and deal crudely with all other surrounding issues. For example, we don’t consider that developing a chemical that is good for crops might also get in the waterways, our food, our growing babies and children’ (Lantz, 2009:15)

The conception of Chemical Free Kids emerged out of a growing international concern from parents (particularly my own) that our children’s health is being compromised by environmental chemical threats. Research reveals that many parents are concerned about children’s pesticide exposures, food quality and additives, ingredients in personal care products, water, and air quality (Huang, 1996; Haglund, Johansson, Bergland, & Dahlstedt, 1999; Harper & Makatouni, 1995; Needham et al. 2005).

What do we do?

In short, Chemical Free Kids do things that make it easier for parents to safeguard their family’s health and reduce the burden of disease stemming from contaminants:

• undertake empirical research;
• develop partnerships;
• identify and addresses gaps in current legislation and policies;
• review products, news reports, and provide information that will help parens and carers of children and young people make healthier consumer choices for their kids, families, and our environment;
• provide updates about the latest research and developments in the area of chemicals, kids and natural, conscious parenting;
• identify toxic chemicals to look out for and their impact on the human body;
• provide tips for living more naturally in a toxic world;
• undertake workshops and events across Australia;
• speak at conferences;
• talk to the media.

Who are Chemical Free Kids?

Chemical Free Kids consists of a group of health professionals, parents and carers of babies, children and young people. We are chemists, environmental health researchers, public health workers, psychologists, policy advisors and natural health workers.

Partners

Chemical Free Kids currently partners with The University of Queensland, National Toxic Network, Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital Foundation and its network of researchers, Family Day Care Australia, The Step-Up Foundation, C & K Early Childcare Centres, Griffith University, Youth Affairs Network of Queensland, Kindred Magazine and Miessence.