This is fourth in a series of posts about Camping in the Backyard with Kids.
Whenever we go camping, I am always concerned about the amount of waste we create and whether all our camping equipment is healthy for us to use and safe for the environemt. In the past, I bought whatever I needed at the local big box store without much thought to whether the plastic contained BPA, whether the dinnerware was compostable or whether our bug spray was healthy for children's sensitive skin. But, then again, back in the day 1) I didn't have two children to worry about 2) no one thought about being "green" - that was a song about a Muppet named Kermit (though I followed the mantra pack in, pack out) 3) there weren't many green or eco-friendly products on the market and 4) I only had to worry about myself!
So, in my ever evolving quest to find products that make backyard camping fun, easy and healthy for my family and the environment, I have come across several that sure make me feel like one smart mommy! I hope my recommendations help you too. PS - Once you test them in the backyard, they can become a staple on your packing list for when you turn hard-core and venture beyond the yard to a state or national park!
Dinnerware:
I recommend using products made by Leafware. It’s extremely lightweight – perfect for camping – yet can hold up to 10 lbs.! You don’t have to worry about waste because it is a truly sustainable (and beautiful). You can now ditch those plastic plates, trays, bowls and the flatware too! Leafware is made from two things: 1) fallen palm leaves and 2) water, so there are also no worries about chemicals. If you are like me and are concerned about waste when you use regular paper or plastic plates, your problem is solved now! All in all, Leafware
is convenient, lightweight and I don’t get a guilty conscience about using it because it is Earth-friendly, renewable, sustainable and compostable. As an added benefit, it is heat and liquid safe for soups and stews.Insect repellent:
We use All Terrain
insect repellent. I was always leery of using repellent with DEET on my young children, especially when they were babies. But we live in an area where deer ticks and Lyme disease are prevalent, so I have to take the proper precautions. I stumbled upon All-Terrain Herbal Armor all natural insect repellent in a natural food store four years ago. Now it’s the only brand we ever use. My kids don’t mind having it sprayed on them because it smells good, and I know they are safe from chemicals and bugs too! Plus, it’s extremely effective for several hours and doesn’t bother my son’s sensitive skin. See my recommendation as part of an entire article about green camping at Examiner.com.
insect repellent. I was always leery of using repellent with DEET on my young children, especially when they were babies. But we live in an area where deer ticks and Lyme disease are prevalent, so I have to take the proper precautions. I stumbled upon All-Terrain Herbal Armor all natural insect repellent in a natural food store four years ago. Now it’s the only brand we ever use. My kids don’t mind having it sprayed on them because it smells good, and I know they are safe from chemicals and bugs too! Plus, it’s extremely effective for several hours and doesn’t bother my son’s sensitive skin. See my recommendation as part of an entire article about green camping at Examiner.com.Drinking Bottle:
There are a plethora of drinking bottles on the market, many of which are famous brand names. However, I discovered a little gem when I found water bottles made by Crocodile Creek
. You can read my full review at here.
. You can read my full review at here. And that's a wrap on my series about backyard camping with children. If you want to catch up on what your missed, be sure to check out my posts on the essential gear checklist, backyard camping safety and easing kids fears of night time noises while camping.
As a mother, these are really wonderful tips. I want my kid to experience nature first-hand. In a way, I also use our trips to educate him about nature and how to take care of it.
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