Environmental health and childcare: Examining practices and improving the environment

Children are increasingly cared for in childcare centers. Nationally, almost two-thirds of children routinely are cared for in non-parental childcare. In Philadelphia, more than half of the families report enrollment in childcare. We conducted two small pilot studies to examine the environmental issues within these facilities. A qualitative study was conducted interviewing dyads of childcare administrators and teachers to assess their use of cleaning products and pest control within their facilities. All of the interviewees reported using bleach regularly to clean surfaces and toys, and regular (i.e. monthly) pest control by an outside vendor. One site with a roach problem reported, “bombing” the facility themselves. No mention of integrated pest management or evidence of any green cleaning was reported. The second study tested the feasibility of an education program through a total of twelve environmental education sessions at six selected childcare centers in Philadelphia. Two training sessions were offered per facility, one for childcare provides, the other for parents and caregivers, each with a similarly developed curriculum. 101 staff and 75 parents attended these sessions. Each session lasted approximately 90 minutes and covered indoor air toxins, integrated pest management, and various methods for “greening” both indoors and around the building or home. Pre- and posttests were given, but not all participants completed both tests. Results: the post-tests showed an increase in knowledge about greening practices. These results from our small studies have implications for both practice and policy decisions, since many childcare facilities are influenced by policy regulations.