Six years ago I was pretty clueless about the term “environmental exposure.” My memory is that all the articles and studies about chemicals and their negative impacts on our littlest ones’ development and health started around the same time as my firstborn made her entrance into this world. Whether that’s really true or my Momma Hen earholes were just tuned in a little differently, I’m not sure. Regardless, since then, I’ve been somewhat obsessed with reducing exposure to my children. Now, I’m not perfect by any stretch (don’t even ask me about my love/hate relationship with fast food, which doesn’t get much worse) but I have tried to buy and prepare more fresh food, less canned food (damn you BPA!!), and more organic produce, dairy and protein. But then there’s all the goop that kids require to keep them clean and shiny — shampoo, conditioner (for the long-haired one), lotion, soap, diaper cream, clothes detergent, and on and on and on. And that doesn’t even include the list of things that go into preening for the Momma Hen (though that list has radically decreased. Oh, how I miss my Bumble+Bumble products…but I digress.), which I’ve become more concerned about since I have breast-fed all three hatchlings. Today’s USA Today featured a terrifying (to me) article on early onset of pubery in girls and mentioned chemical and environmental exposure as one possible explanation. This isn’t necessarily breaking news, but the scenarios described in the article are pretty alarming — a 7yo entering puberty?! There are a couple of accompanying articles that dive deeper into chemical effects on both girls and boys and again, while it’s not news to me, it reinforces my commitment to reduce exposure for my children. I know I can’t protect them from everything, and I have my own weak moments where convenience wins over prudence, but every little bit helps. For more info on this topic, the EWG has some great resources, including best lists for sunscreens and other beauty products, as well as food choices. Would love to hear how my fellow hens feel about this issue and steps you take.