More and more, society is expecting local businesses to go green. In the off chance you are unfamiliar with what that means, it simply means changes are made to be more eco-friendly.  Parents who have become eco-friendly at home often desire for the same values to be used at their children's child care centers or preschools. Going green does not have to be overly expensive; in fact, the desired result is to save money.

Many centers are choosing endorsement from Eco-Healthy Child Care, a free, voluntary program available to child care centers. Licensed and non-licensed centers or family based child care centers are welcome to participate. The goal of EHCC is to educate and empower child care providers to reduce toxins in their facilities. Two steps that are mandatory for this endorsement include: using non-toxic pest control methods inside and outside; and forbidding people to smoke anywhere on the grounds or in sight of children.

Other steps which are considered to be eco-friendly include:

1. Use biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning and disinfecting products. These products have become readily available in grocery stores, discount stores, and online in recent years. You can also go online and find home recipes for making these products.

2. Use only low-VOC paints. You should also refrain from painting while children are on the premises.

3. Use only digital thermometers. The mercury in old thermometers is toxic.

4. Avoid toys made of soft plastic vinyl. Plastic vinyl, or PVC, contains toxins that can be dangerous to children, especially small children who will place toys in their mouths.

5. Recycle paper, glass, aluminum, and plastic. Most communities have recycle centers where these can be taken, if they don't provide curbside pick-up.

6. Guard against leaks and other conditions that contribute to growth of mold and mildew. Keeping the structure and equipment in good working order should be sufficient.

7. Open windows when possible to allow fresh air into the room. One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is to let the fresh air and sunshine in the room.

8. Provide eco-friendly, green areas outside for play and spend as much time as possible outside. Learning centers located outside are good, as well as learning about nature, in nature.

Resources, trainers, experts, and products which will aid in the success of your child care facility or preschool becoming eco-friendly are readily available on the Internet.