Recent studies have reinforced the need to protect children from exposure to flame retardants, such as in polyurethane foam (furniture foam).
As you know, the Eco-Healthy Child Care® checklist advises: “Ensure that furniture is in good condition so that foam or inside stuffing is not exposed. Stuffed animals, matting pillows and other foam items are also intact.”
A new scientific study underscores the importance of following this practice. The study found that both prenatal 
and childhood exposures to brominated flame retardants were associated with impaired attention at ages 5 and 7, poorer fine motor coordination, and with lower IQ at age 7 years. These associations remained unchanged even after birth weight, gestational age, or maternal thyroid hormone levels were taken into consideration.
In related news, several public interest organizations tested children’s nap mats and found that they often contain flame retardants. After testing 22 nap mats made from polyurethane foam, the Center for Environmental Health in California found harmful flame retardant chemicals in 20 of the samples.
Furniture foam and nap mats can release these chemicals into the air and into household dust. Children are exposed when they breathe in the particles, or when they touch or ingest dust particles. Frequent vacuuming, dusting and hand washing can help minimize exposures.
The California researchers recommend that child care providers avoid polyurethane foam. Alternatives such as polyester fiberfill, cotton, and wool are less likely to contain flame retardants.
Manufacturers are working to stop using these chemicals by the end of this year. Unfortunately, the phase-out is voluntary and the chemicals are being replaced with alternatives that have not been thoroughly tested for safety.
This year, eight states are considering laws that would ban flame retardants in children’s products and require that replacements be tested for safety. Nationally, the Toxic Substances Control Act does little to protect children from harmful chemicals. So another action to take is to share your concerns with your state and Federal legislators, urging them to reform our laws so that they protect children from chemicals of concern such as these.
