Protect Children’s Health Where They Live, Learn and Play

Protect Children’s Health Where They Live, Learn and Play

Children’s Health Month Week 2: Healthy Spaces!

This week, we are focusing on the ways in which we can ensure the spaces where children spend their time are built and improved with their health in mind.

People spend about 90 percent of their time inside, which makes addressing indoor health hazards an important component of raising a healthy child. Improvements in the health of school environments result in reduced absenteeism, increased student productivity, as well as overall improved child health outcomes. Health benefits are also seen from similar improvements in the home and in child care spaces.

Some indoor environmental health hazards include: Mold Asbestos Radon Lead-based paint Water quality issues Poor indoor air quality Pests Irritating cleaning chemicals Although children spend most of their time inside, time outdoors is also a crucial part of their development. Additional hazards that children may be exposed to while playing outside include: Air pollution UV radiation Vector borne disease from insect bites Lawn and garden chemical exposures Addressing potential hazards in and around homes, schools and childcare spaces keeps children safe.

Resource Spotlight

• Healthy School Environments
• Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
• IAQ Tools for Schools
• Healthy Child Care & Early Learning Facilities Self-Assessment
• What You Can Do to Protect Children
• Prescriptions for Prevention | PEHSUs

Safer Choice

Using products with the Safer Choice label helps consumers identify products with safer chemical ingredients, without sacrificing quality or performance. Search Products that Meet the Safer Choice Standard

Upcoming Events Spotlight

Children's Environmental Health Day, Oct. 10th EPA is partnering with the Children's Environmental Health Network this Children's Environmental Health Day to raise awareness and take action for the health of our future generations. We encourage everyone to spend some time on the 10th thinking about how to contribute to a healthier environment for kids.

Spanish Webinar on the Impact of Lead on Indoor Air and Children's Health (El impacto del plomo en el aire interior y en la salud de los niños)

• October 22, from 1-2:00 p.m. ET
• Register now.

Lead Exposures in Children's Environmental Health Webinar

• October 23, from 3-4:30 p.m. ET
• Register now.

   

Learn more about Children's Health and Healthy School Environments.