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What do you get for the next generation of eco-heroes?

Submitted by tmeronek on Mon, 12/03/2007 - 2:19am.
The Bite:
Something that's eco, but doesn't scream "environmental science lesson." Whether the kid on your list is a mini-you, a niece or nephew, or a neighbor's newest rugrat, our gift picks for bitty Biters make choosing a green gift pure child's play.
The Benefits: 
  • Safety for all ages. Although the Consumer Product Safety Commission has requested that U.S. manufacturers remove certain hormone-disrupting chems from toys, they're not yet restricted like they are in Europe.
  • An organic playdate. Non-organic pesticides harm soil; organic farming methods keep soil fertile for future generations of little Biters.
  • Happier elves. Worker safety is one of the major principles behind the production of fair-trade gifts.
Personally Speaking: 
Jenifer's nephew Silvan declared at age four that he "didn't wanna eat aminals." Convinced that he'll become a veterinarian when he grows up, she's adopting a penguin in his name as a gift this year. 
Wanna Try: 
  • Changing the Present - adopt a penguin in your fave little Biter's name ($50).
  • Owl Kids' Backpack - fair-trade and hand-knit (and colored with veggie-based dyes) by women in a rural Kenyan collective ($58).
  • Solar Lego-Style Helicopter - toy chopper with a rotor that turns thanks to a solar panel mounted on its top ($29).
  • Bamboo Zoo - get a book and a coloring book (both made using 50% recycled paper), plus a computer program with interactive activities ($25).
  • Whiner & Diner - no kids on your list? Get a high-class bed-and-feeder for the four-legged tyke in your life ($150-$175).
  • West Paw Dog Toys - holiday-themed pet toys; fabric and filling are made from recycled plastic bottles ($13-$14).
Related Tips: 
The Last Kids' Gifts Tip

Related Blog Post: Who Needs a Truck When You Have a Wooden Spoon?

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