IDEM's Five Star Enviromental Recognition Program; Better Beginnings Child Care

For immediate release: Jan 28, 2011
Posted by: [IDEM]
Contact: Allison Fore
Phone: (317) 232-8500
Email: afore@idem.IN.gov
Danville child care facility kicks off new year by improving environmental safety

The only Hendricks County child care facility admitted into the Indiana Department of Environmental Management's (IDEM's) Five Star Environmental Recognition Program for Child Care Providers has increased its efforts to protect children from environmental threats.

Better Beginnings Child Care, LLC in Danville has been going above and beyond requirements since 2010 to ensure the building is maintained in an environmentally-friendly manner. This includes never storing pesticides in the building to minimize harmful chemical exposure for the children. Recently, Better Beginnings checked radon and lead levels, and designated its building as tobacco-free to further protect the health of the young children who spend many hours there.

"This is an excellent start to the new year for children and families living in Hendricks County," said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. "Children under the age of six are our most vulnerable population, and Better Beginnings deserves recognition for exceeding expectations to minimize children's exposure to harmful contaminants. Any family considering their child care options should definitely look at facilities like Better Beginnings that exceed minimum requirements in search of environmental excellence."

To participate in the program, child care facilities conduct assessments and take steps to minimize children's exposure to pests, second-hand smoke, asbestos, lead, polychlorinated biphenyls, exposure to hazardous chemicals, vehicle exhaust and allergens. IDEM assists facilities in implementing environmental plans and conducts site visits before granting membership.

Better Beginnings owner Carrie Ryland recognizes the value received by participating in IDEM's Five Star program. "I've learned so much through the program," Ryland said. "We've had our facility checked for lead and radon, and we've reduced vehicle idling, encouraged recycling and worked to reduce asthma triggers around the home."

There are currently over 80 child care providers participating in the Five Star program making their facilities safer for 4,000 Hoosier children. Better Beginnings is the only Five Star program in Hendricks County.

Additional information about the IDEM Five Star Child Care program can be obtained by calling Karen Teliha, Community Environmental Health & Education coordinator, at (800) 988-7901, or by visiting www.idem.IN.gov/4180.htm.

About IDEM
IDEM (www.idem.IN.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids businesses and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment.