Green Daily

In what will probably be a growing trend, an Atlanta day care has started the first "eco-early care" center in the United States. Well, the 'first' status could be disputed (there's already a green something in every industry), but this center, called FIO 360, does a lot to make sure little ones live a bit more green.

Forget dingy gym mats for nap time - here you'll find organic wool rugs and mattresses. Lunch isn't going to be served on PVC plastic and instead of some boring chicken nuggets, the kids will be eating red pepper quiche made by an in-house chef who does hormone-free, organic food.

Before you start thinking this is a kid-spa, the young-ins also learn. This includes recycling classes, starting the day with an affirmation, doing yoga, and getting massages to help them sleep. No wait, this is totally a kid-spa.
When I first came across this story, I had a mental picture of kids playing in dirt in little vegetable gardens, learning about their relationship with nature and falling asleep to Warriors of the Rainbow read by Al Gore. While this school may actually do these things, I think the focus has more to do with keeping kids safe and healthy (which I guess I can't really argue with, but still, I liked my image better).

To pay for the offspring to hang out on imported lamb wool rugs (on radiant heat-emitting floors), look to spend up to $1700 a month (which is pricey even when compared to other high-end day cares in Atlanta).

The idea is catching on. The Eco-Healthy Childcare program, put together by the Oregon Environmental Council, has endorsed 230 day care centers that do things like not buy chlorine bleach and dislike wall-to-wall carpeting.