It is better if you get the lead pipe replaced.I had a lead pipe and it was replaced by brothers plumbing.Lead is very harmful especially for children. The lead actually gets into the drinking water when the lead pipes corrode. The most common problem is with the brass/chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures with the lead solder from which significant amount of lead can enter the water especially if it?s hot water. Young children and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead because the the physical and behavioral effects of lead occur at lower exposure levels in children than adults.A dose of lead that would have little effect on an adult can have a significant effect on a child. In children the low level of exposure can lead to damage in the central and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities and impaired formation and function of blood cells.Here is an article that briefs about the ill effects of using lead http://www.brothersplumbing.ca/services/water-services/lead-pipe-replacement/ If you are planning to replace the pipe on your own then I would suggest that you use Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride(CPVC) . This material is best for people who replace the pipes on their own.Otherwise you could look for materials like copper.
