I’ve been sitting in front of the computer for quite some time today reading web sites and blogs about the environment, being green, the effects of toxins on our children. There is so much information out there and lots of very good and valuable information. We all know that the Internet is a marvelous thing when we want to learn more about something – all you have to do is Google it and thousands, oftentimes millions, of pages of content appear within seconds.
As the founder of a company whose mission it is to create a movement of mass awareness about toxins, specifically as they relate to the personal care industry for children, it is my job and responsibility to immerse myself as much information as I can. Also, as a mom of two young children, I feel that I have a personal responsibility to do everything I can to protect my children. Part of that means being mindful of the products that we use and consume in the home – everything from cleaning products to toys to personal care products.
Here’s the rub: I am already inclined to seek out this information. I’m not the mom going to the Toys R Us website looking for the latest, greatest gift for my kid or for a baby shower or birthday present. I’m seeking out smaller, independent companies who focus on healthy, green products for children – my children, my niece or my friends’ children. So, my mantra holds: You don’t know what you don’t know.
The green movement is spreading and there is definitely a conversation going on, but it’s not a mainstream one. I often ask myself why. (or is it why not?) Why is it that I when I tell some moms what I do for a living and about the dearth of healthy products for our girls, I oftentimes get a smile or a nod instead of a “wow, I had no idea. Tell me more.”? It’s usually the green moms who are all over me for more information.
During the past few hours (wow, I really should get off the computer…it is Saturday, after all!), I’ve found an amazing documentary on the effects of toxins on our children, amazing green blogs and green mom blogs, and some really informative web sites. I have to say, if you’re not immersed in this, it can really be overwhelming and at times pretty frightening.
We at JOON don’t want to overwhelm, nor do we want to frighten you. Our goal is to make all of this palatable. We want to put valuable information out there for EVERYONE – every mom, every girl, every dad, every grandparent – and allow them to make decisions that are best for them. Meanwhile, we want to offer up a healthy and affordable alternative. Girls aren’t going to stop taking showers (though they should take shorter ones!), so you should be aware of what they’re using in the shower. And, girls will always want to experiment with new products – that’s what being a girl and growing up is all about, discovery of herself and the world around her. We want to provide her with healthy products to experiment with.
We support the everyday mom. The mom who may not have the time to check out all the sites and blogs on our blog roll or spend hours on Saturday afternoon googling about green stuff. We will continue to educate you and provide you with advice that you can easily incorporate into your life in an affordable way.
