There's no symbol of childhood more enduring than the playground. Put a sandbox next to a swing set, add a slide and some kids, and what emerges is a portrait of pure joy. Indeed, whether they're in our backyards, at the park, or behind the school, playgrounds are a vital refuge from the world outside. Yet sometimes there can be less safety in these havens than meets the eye.

There are more than 80,000 synthetic, human-made chemicals on the market. Yet, the Environmental Protection Agency has required safety testing on only 200 of them. Seventh Generation talks about toxins in the home with Dr. Alan Greene, practicing pediatrician and renowned authority on family health issues. Q: Why should we worry about chemicals in our homes?

The news from the front lines of childhood nutrition isn't good these days. Junk food prevails, and fat, sugar, and salt are the mainstay ingredients in the meals kids prefer. What's coming out of the nation's pantry isn't a happy meal at all but an unprecedented pediatric obesity epidemic rivaled only by skyrocketing rates of childhood diabetes.

Expecting a baby or have a brand new child at home? Chances are your nesting instincts have kicked into overdrive. While that means different things to different people, one thing it should mean to every mom and dad is creating a home that’s clean, green, and environmentally safe. Your growing baby is exposed to the air you breathe, and you want your surroundings to be as healthy as possible. Keeping your home toxin-free is an easy thing to do, and one of the most important gifts you can give to your little ones.