image courtesy of livepermaculture.com
A large part of Beyond Montessori School’s education includes outdoor activities with the kids.
Here, they discover the natural world: how seeds germinate, how plants grow, and how our obligation to take care of the earth is crucial.
We also want to encourage our kids and parents to be informed about the quality of foods we consume. While the ethics of raising and consuming both agriculture and livestock can be a lengthy discussion, there are simple considerations that can have positive long-term impact. Organic, pesticide-free produce is a significant one.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) put out an excellent “Dirty Dozen” list in 2011 (pdf so you can print it out), highlighting those fruits and vegetables best sought organic and those you can feel a bit more relaxed about. You might be surprised by what you find:
- Celery, spinach, sweet bell peppers, potatoes, lettuce and greens (kale and collards) are most likely to retain pesticides. BUY ORGANIC.
- Top 5 high pesticide fruits or veg: apples, celery, strawberries, peaches, and spinach.
- Top 5 Clean fruits or veg: onions, sweet corn, pineapples, avocado, asparagus.
The site also explains its methodology, provides a summary of its findings, and outlines the Clean Fifteen Low Pesticide fruits and vegetables as well.
At the end of the day, we want our children to discover the importance of emphasizing health and environment. All too often our world promotes an emphasis on material wealth, with little to be said for our own personal well-being. Maintaining health becomes reactionary rather than preemptive. Why not start out on the right foot?
We hope the guide proves useful as you plan all your summer meals and snacks.
