In 2012 the American Academy of Pediatrics reported that “pesticide exposures in early life were related to "pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems. Children have unique susceptibilities to pesticide residues potential toxicity." 

Organophosphate and your child’s brain

In the 1990s research studies demonstrated that the exposure levels of  organophosphate insecticides were damaging to children's brains and nervous systems.   It was found that the use of low dose organophosphates is detrimental to a child’s brain development.  The federal Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 mandated that the Environmental Protection Agency tighten regulation of pesticides and reduce the risks of pesticide exposure for children. This act prompted the EPA to restrict the use of many toxic pesticides and proven potent neurotoxins such as organophosphate. Since the 1996 organophosphates have been withdrawn from household pesticides, yet are still applied to certain crops.

A 2012 study from British Columbia's Children's Hospital, noticed decreased birth weight and shorter pregnancies  among those mothers exposed to organophosphates.

Pesticides and the effect on Children

In 2012 the American Academy of Pediatrics reported that pesticide exposures in early life were related to "pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems." children have "unique susceptibilities to [pesticide residues'] potential toxicity." 

This organization urges the Pediatric doctors to inform parents about the danger of pesticides  by provide information about the “pesticide content of various fruits and vegetables." The Environmental Working Groups Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce and the Dirty Dozen are such materials cited. 

What happens after you switch to organic? 

A 2015 study from University of Washington found that consumers that reported that they "often or always" buy organic, had measurably less organophosphate insecticides in their urine. 

So parents it important to purchase and only serve organic produce to your kids, for their developing nervous systems and for their developing brains and IQ.

Links: Is Eating Salad Safe?