Figuring out how the best way to raise a child in a world where more and more kids face chronic diseases such as autism, asthma and allergies, as well as learning and developmental disabilities can be daunting. The everyday threats kids are exposed to don't help the situation much either. The chemicals found in cosmetics, skin care products, cleaning solutions, plastic and foods may make you feel like you should be erecting a bubble around the smallest members of your family to protect them.

Thankfully that shouldn't be necessary because believe it or not, other people are facing the same struggles and decisions as you are. Last month, author Christopher Gavigan released his book "Healthy Child Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener, Safer Home" for all those questioning how to navigate this whole conundrum of keeping kids as safe as possible. Gavigan enlisted advice and tips for health experts such as Dr. Phil (not that Dr. Phil) Landrigan, Dr. Harvey Karp and Dr. Alan Greene. If that weren't enough, Hollywood's greenest parents also weighed in. Gwyneth Paltrow, Tobey Maguire, Tom Hanks and Brooke Shields and the aforementioned doctors offer ideas for safe, earth-friendly practices such as cleaning, choosing healthier food, pet and garden care, as well as advice on how to conserve energy in the home.

Gavigan created the non-profit organization Healthy Child Healthy World to increase awareness on issues such as the environmental exposure of children, as well as to educate and advocate on the subject. He seems pretty qualified to offer advice. It's not entirely clear why celebrities are are smarter about raising green families, or at least smart enough to be quoted in a book. Then again if we're all honest, we can probably admit we'd rather hear Spiderman and Forrest Gump give advice as opposed to an unknown Joe/Josephine Blow.

Visit Amazon to learn more about the book and order your copy.

» Amazon