Regarding Christmas

A note to family members who may be getting Christmas gifts for Ian . . .

Since it is now November (and I know Christmas shopping starts early for some of you), let me make a few suggestions regarding presents for Ian:

1) Ian is currently wearing 9 and 12 month clothes, and a few 18 month outfits. I would recommend getting clothes for him that are 18 months, 24 months, or larger. He does not currently have any pajamas bigger than 9-12 months, so a few 18m+ of these would be particularly useful (please just check that the label does not say "flame resistant" -- we don't want to expose Ian to the flame retardant chemicals that are added to some baby sleepwear -- we feel confident that he will not spontaneously combust).

2) As you have probably noticed, we have tried to go "organic" when possible with stuff for Ian, especially stuff he is likely to put in his mouth. There have been several major studies out this year demonstrating the possible dangers of chemicals used in plastics for babies. An article was just on our local news warning that toy manufacturers may flood the market with phthalate-containing toys for the holidays, because they will be banned in February. There have also been studies showing that toxins in the bloodstreams of children are now at astronomical levels. We are trying to stick to non-plastic toys as much as possible, particularly during this period where he will be putting everything in his mouth. Nice, reasonably priced, non-toxic wooden and fabric toys are available in several places. Plastic toys are probably cheaper, but we'd rather he have fewer good quality toys than lots of plastic stuff. Some sources I've found for good toys:
- anything from the Melissa and Doug brand (available on online or in lots of baby boutiques)
- similarly, anything from the Haba brand
- anything from the Michael Olaf catalogue (used for Montessori schools)

Sorry to be the annoying mom, but we want to keep him safe!