Enjoying the Day When Charges Are Sick

            Seasonal colds are at a high during the winter months. Caring for a sick charge does not mean the day can’t be entertaining, it just means that the plans must be altered to fit the mood of the day. Upon arriving to the home, be sure to discuss the details of the child’s illness with the parents. Understand all expectations in terms of medication boundaries, sleep schedules, and routine check-ins. Before the parent leaves the home, be sure to ask about the child’s mood and where have they been in terms of activity level. Do they have an appetite? Are they sleeping more than usual? Once established, plan the day accordingly.

            Being indoors with a stuffy nose, slight fever, and tickled cough does not mean playtime won’t happen, just plan on a “gentle play” kind of day. Some great sick day activities include:

• Story time
• Eye Spy
• Coloring books 
• Soothing music 
• Creating a stuffed animal doctor’s office
• Board games for older children

A day full of calm play and relaxation may be just what your charge needs to get back on their feet. Be sure to monitor their symptoms throughout the day to ensure that they do not overexert themselves. If capable, try some of these fun, but calm, suggestions to take their mind off of being sick because laughter truly is the best medicine!

Holiday Tips For Household Employees!

Almost everyone is in high gear for holiday cheer and celebration.  It's a fun time of year and with a little planning, stress levels can be calmly maintained.  We want to offer a few ideas to consider that are particularly important this time of year.  While a nanny feels at home in her work place, each family may approach the holidays a little differently in their home.
 

• Families travel, and schedules change.  With everyone so busy, parents may forget to tell an employee about a change or a travel plan.  It is advisable to be proactive.  Ask your employer about their holiday travel plans and ask if there will be any change in schedule that you can help accommodate. This will serve two purposes. It will help your employer focus on these items.  And, you will minimize the chance of being blindsided by the "Oh, I forgot to tell you but tomorrow...." 

• Over the holidays, many families have an influx of guests from out of town.  This could be relatives, step children, or friends.  Be proactive and ask if there are any plans for guests and ask if there is anything you can do to help prepare for their arrival. It could mean anything from picking up a few additional groceries, to help wrap a few extra gifts. 

• Each home celebrates the holidays unique to their family "culture".  Check in with the parents about how they want you to emulate their practices.   Ask about their traditions, activities, and if there are any boundaries on decor or craft projects.  Some parents may love that you want to take the kids to have a picture with Santa, while others may not.  It's better to ask and get a clear idea of how you can align your activities with the family's traditions.  

• Help to minimize stress and keep the household running smoothly.  Ask if there are any special holiday clothes for the kids that you can help prepare by making sure they are cleaned and pressed. If it's a "hand-me-down" from an older sibling, does it need any mending?  Ask about assisting in gift wrapping or home decorating.  A less stressed employer makes for a less stressed employee! 

Be proactive! Thinking ahead will always be a mark of your quintessential professionalism!Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year!

Know the Facts and Fight the Flu

One in 6 people in the United States will catch the flu this season. While the timing of the flu is unpredictable, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminds citizens that the seasonal flu can begin as early as October and tends to peak between December and February. Those at higher risk for flu complications include young children, pregnant women, elderly, and those suffering from medical conditions such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or chronic lung disease.

According to the CDC, the most important step in protecting yourself against the flu is to get vaccinated. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get vaccinated as soon as flu vaccines become available. While children under 6 months of age are too young to be vaccinated, it is strongly encouraged that the people who care for them should be vaccinated instead. Aside from being vaccinated, other ways to help reduce the spread of influenza include:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that could host germs (especially children's toys and cell phones)
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth as germs quickly spread this way

Symptoms of the flu start 1 to 4 days after the virus enters the body. Unlike the common cold, symptoms of the flu come on suddenly. They may include fevers, chills, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, fatigue, muscle and body aches. Additionally,  irregular vomiting and diarrhea is more common in kids than adults. If you suspect that you, or the children in your life, have flu-like symptoms, contact a medical physician. By knowing the facts you can fight the flu!

Organic Versus Conventional: The New Age Debate

Organic food used to be a term heard only in health food stores. Today, organic fruits and vegetables are filling the bins at local farmer’s markets and large supermarket chains.  Now that consumers have the option of organic, or non-organic, while grocery shopping, which is better?

            Organic growing is designed to encourage soil and water conservation while reducing pollution and the use of pesticides. In the US, consumers can choose 100% organic food, meaning that the product must be completely organic. Look for the “100% organic” seal. Alternatively, packages marked organic without the 100% organic seal means that the product must be at least 95% organic.

 Buying organic is a great choice when it comes to healthier options but it can also break the budget. There are also times when, depending on the season, buying organic may not be a feasible option. Edible Philly, a local magazine, just released the 2014 “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen,” a great guide to help consumers differentiate between which foods are best to buy organic and on which you can save money.

Dirty Dozen: Apples, celery, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, grapes, nectarines, peaches, potatoes, snap peas, spinach, strawberries, and sweet peppers are best to buy organic. When grown conventionally, these produce items tend to have high concentrations of pesticides. Best to buy organic!

Clean Fifteen: Asparagus, avocados, cabbage, cantaloupe, cauliflower, eggplant, grapefruit, kiwi, mangoes, onions, papayas, pineapples, sweet corn, sweet peas, and sweet potatoes tend to be easier to grow so there is less need for protective pesticides and insecticides. These produce items can be purchased as conventionally grown.

            Organic foods are the new wave of healthy eating. While the organic seal is great to ensure freshness and pesticide-free eating, remember that shopping locally is also a great idea. By shopping locally, the consumer has the opportunity to get to know their farmer’s crops, growing habits, and chemical use. Keep in mind that just because a local farmer is not certified organic, that doesn’t mean that they don’t grow organic!

Excerpt from: edible Philly

Kids’ Sodium Intake On The Rise

New government research shows that more than 90 percent of kids in the US, ages 6-18 years old, eat more sodium than recommended and it’s not coming from the salt shaker. This influx in sodium is coming from everyday foods such as pizza, bread, sandwiches, cold cuts, chicken nuggets and patties, Mexican dishes, pasta dishes, and soups. The concern is that this increase in sodium in young kids will lead to high blood pressure and heart disease in the future.

            According to CDC standards, kids should consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. Currently, numbers show that kids are digesting about 3,300 mg of sodium per day. Prior to asking for a salt packet or reaching for the salt shaker, sodium is already found in many foods. Based on government research, 65 percent of sodium comes from store foods, 13 percent comes from fast food, and 9 percent comes from the school cafeteria. Here are a few tips to reduce sodium intake:

• Introduce fresh fruits and vegetables.
• When cooking, substitute salt with garlic, onion powder, citrus juice, or other salt-free seasonings.
• Prepare foods from their most natural state, dry or fresh.
• When buying meals, look for those with less than 600mg of sodium per meal.
• Ask for no salt to be added when eating out at restaurants or fast food establishments.

Similar to adults, kids consume majority of their sodium from processed foods and meals prepared outside of the home. While the occasional treat is understandable and well deserved, try to keep kids’ sodium intake under 2,300 mg per day. A healthy child foreshadows a healthy adult!

Excerpt from: Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Protect Your Charge From A Poorly Packed Lunch

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], about one in six Americans suffers from food poisoning each year. On average, this can result in about 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 fatalities. Because many of these illnesses occur when food is poorly packaged and maintained, parents and caregivers are urged to pay close attention when preparing lunch for kids.

            If packing a lunch that contains perishable items [lunch meats, eggs, yogurts, refrigerated puddings, etc.], be sure to use freezer packs. This will allow the food to remain cool, disabling the spread of bacteria on food. Another alternative to freezer packs could be frozen juice boxes. By freezing the juice boxes the night before, they become solid enough to keep the food cool and they will have defrosted by lunchtime.

            Aside from using different “cooling” options, be sure that lunches are packed in insulated lunch boxes. This will help maintain the original temperature for a longer duration. While paper lunch bags are common, perishable food items could be dangerous to eat by lunchtime when packed in a non-insulated bag. If packing hot foods, use an insulated container to maintain the temperature. To achieve better results, allow boiling water to sit in the container for a few minutes prior to filling it with food. Don’t forget to remind kids to leave all lids on food until lunchtime to ensure that no outside germs or bacteria sneak into the containers.

            After enjoying a great lunch, remind kids to throw away all leftover food, including plastic bags and disposable containers. Do not reuse any packaging aside from tupperware that will be cleaned when kids arrive home. Bacteria or other foodborne illnesses could linger from the time kids eat lunch to the time their lunchbox gets unpacked. After ensuring that proper protocols are met for a safe lunch, remember to make sure the lunch is healthy for growing kids!

Idea from: HealthDay

Caring For Kids In A Gluten-Free Environment

Celiac disease is a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for healthy living. The damage is caused by a reaction to eating gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, rye, possibly oats, and hidden in foods that you wouldn’t have even guessed. While the disease can begin at any age, it usually appears during early childhood. In the midst of kids being picky eaters, restricting their diet further can make meal planning more difficult. Below are a few tips to help care for a child with celiac disease.

      1.      Monitor junk food. There are now gluten-free Oreos, s’mores, cake mixes, and donuts. Just because these foods do not have wheat in them, that doesn’t mean they are healthy choices. They are compatible for a gluten free diet and give opportunity to have a treat.

      2.      Monitor iron intake. Kids on gluten-free diets are at elevated risk for iron deficiency because a great source of iron is usually found in wheat flour. Newly diagnosed people suffer from iron deficiency because of intestinal damage. Red meat, dark meat poultry, beans, baked potatoes, and shrimp are good iron-enriched foods to try.

      3.      Stock the pantry with gluten-free essentials. A quick lunch or easy dinner can always be prepared by keeping gluten-free pasta, soy sauces, and a bag of chickpea flour for breading chicken or fish in the cabinets.

      4.      Plan for playdates and birthday parties. Kids with celiac disease can’t enjoy a standard slice of pizza or piece of cake. Before outings, contact the host and ask what kinds of food will be served. If possible, volunteer to bring a dish so that there will be something gluten-free on the menu.

      5.      Make sure the school has a 504 plan. 504 plans are written agreements between families and the school to ensure that appropriate accommodations are made to suit the student’s nutritional needs. Sample plans are available online.

Excerpt from: US News

A Hot Car Is No Place For Kids

Think about the last time you had a hectic day. You were probably changing plans, adjusting schedules, and you may have forgotten a thing or two. Believe it or not, these are some of the distractions that have caused people to forget children in the back seat of the car. In some cases though, an adult left a child in the car purposefully while running into a store for a quick errand. Since the early 2000’s, more than 600 child heat related fatalities have occurred. Tragically, we have seen seemingly competent parents have a chaotic day and forget a child in the back of the car or miscalculate the time needed to “quickly” run into the store. Is this a risk when being pulled in so many directions?

            It only takes 10 minutes for a car to heat up 20 degrees. While some assume that cracking a window helps, partial ventilation does little to keep a car cool. With temperatures even in the 60s, the car can reach well above 110 degrees quicker than one thinks. Unfortunately, a child’s body temperature can rise up to five times faster than an adult’s and once a child’s temperature reaches 107 degrees, heat-related death may result. Heatstroke can happen when the temperature outside is as low as 57 degrees.

            The legal consequences for leaving a child in the car vary state by state. Each state has a law for the duration of time a child can be alone in a car depending on their age. In PA, “A person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle may not permit a child under six years of age to remain unattended in the vehicle when the motor vehicle is out of the person’s sight.” If a child is harmed while left alone in a car, punishments include, but not limited to, a $500 fine, or imprisonment.

            Some helpful tips to help remember a child is in the back seat include, placing a stuff animal in the front seat, leaving your purse or cell phone in the back seat next to the child, or keep a musical toy playing in the back seat to maintain awareness. Even if you think your errand will be a quick transaction, it is never a good policy to leave kids of any age unattended in a car.

Drowning: A Summertime Danger

Drowning is a summertime liability, especially for kids. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the second most common cause of death in children and ranks fifth overall for unintentional injuries in the US. Uninformed bystanders assume that someone who is drowning will draw attention to themselves; however, drowning can be eerily quiet. When children are in water, they tend to make noise. A quiet child, therefore, should be the focus of attention. Here are some signs of what drowning could look like

•  A drowning person’s mouth bobs below the surface, with little time to come up for air 
•   A drowning person won’t speak because breathing is the priority
• When drowning, the arms are pushing down against water, making it hard to wave 
•  Drowning struggles happen in 20-60 second intervals, before going back under

The second form of drowning that is rarely discussed is called dry drowning. People with asthma or breathing problems are more at risk. Dry drowning occurs after a problematic incident where water has been forced into the lungs. Severe cases can result in death within 1 to 24 hours. Here are some signs of what dry drowning could look like:

• Continued coughing for many hours after the water incident
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
•   Chest pains
• Extreme fatigue or tiredness
• Paleness of face

Dry drowning can occur when someone has been knocked down by a wave or jumped into the water with their mouth open. If diagnosed early, the treatment involves supplying oxygen to the lungs and jump starting the breathing process.

Effective ways to avoid drowning accidents include teaching proper swim techniques such has holding the nose when jumping into a body of water, the importance of arm and leg coordination, and breathing styles. The most effective way to avoid a drowning accident is to never take your eyes off the kids, especially when they are in water. That also means, no texting while with children near, or in, water.

Excerpt from: msnnews.com

Keep Summertime Professional

Summertime is a very relaxed time of the year. With warm weather plans filling nanny and family schedules, people tend to become more informal. In order to remain orderly during the more “casual” months, try implementing these professional habits into your daily routine:

Keep off hour activities private.

Employers are proactive when researching their employees to gain further insight. This includes Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Check all privacy settings to insure no one has access to private content. Any unprofessional sightings can result in negative consequences.

Be productive during downtime.

When charges are napping, it’s easy for a caregiver to become relaxed and neglect other job duties. When the opportunity for downtime arises, try walking around the house to tidy common areas, prep for upcoming mealtimes, or throw in a load of laundry.

Avoid unnecessary accidents.

Caregiver belongings have become a new danger in the home. Beach bags and pocketbooks contain pill bottles, electronics, sharp grooming items, and harmful chemicals such as sunscreen, nail polish, or makeup. Keep all personal belongings up and out of reach of charges.

Schedule action packed activities.

Research local events and consider creating a weekly calendar for charges. Being outdoors and visiting local attractions help make the most out of the summer months. Try taking a trip to the zoo, aquarium, amusement park, local museum, and maybe a day trip down to the beach.

Art Therapy for Kids

Art therapy helps children easily express themselves in a more artistic, and creative, way. When children are younger, they tend to have a difficult time expressing themselves verbally. As a result, they sometimes act out or become frustrated. Using pictures and art allows for kids to create an alternative means of communication.

            In everyday life, art therapy is used to help kids with mental health, learning disabilities, emotional problems, or illness. It also helps kids deal with loss or grief. While they may not fully understand the scope of a situation, art will allow them to express what they do understand, opening the door for conversation.

            Art therapy can also be used to help children achieve self-awareness. They have the opportunity to express their feeling and perceptions about the world. Through art therapy, kids can help get a better understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, interests, or concerns.

Next time a charge appears frustrated, or is having a difficult time expressing emotions, try using pictures or figures that resemble feelings. Studies show that art therapy is helpful for children of all ages and races.

Playground Precautions

The warm months have arrived, which means it’s time for fun-filled days on the playground. While the playground is full of laughs, giggles, and friendly conversations, it is also the scene of many summertime injuries. Every year, hundreds of thousands of kids are injured on the playground while parents and caregivers are just feet away. Here are a few helpful tips to make trips to the playground fun times to remember:

Check for deep mulch. Mulch and wood chips are packed on playgrounds for a reason. If kids fall, the soft texture will reduce the risk of injuries.

Check anchors. Ensure that swings and monkey bars are stable in the ground.

Check clothing. Be sure all shoe strings are tied. Tangled strings cause many kids to fall while playing.

Touch before playing. The sun can cause playground equipment to become very hot, which could lead to burns on kids’ sensitive skin.

Now that the ground is prepped, the equipment is secure, and temperatures are just right to play, go out and enjoy the summer months. Enjoy the next three months of long days playing in the park, before you know, fall will be knocking on the door!

Should You Be CPR Certified?

CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is an emergency procedure used to preserve brain function when someone exhibits abnormal or unresponsive breathing. CPR instructors advise everyone, especially those caring for children, to become certified. When children stop breathing, the risk of brain damage is heightened and chances of survival are lowered. Parents and caregivers can choose a convenient location close to their home and become certified in a day. For those who have already gone through the CPR training class, certification renewal can be done through an online class.

            Certification is important for many reasons, the most primary being that it can save a life. When a CPR necessitated event occurs, people tend to get nervous and panic. If someone is CPR certified, she is prepared to react quickly and calmly. Attempting CPR when not certified can result in injury. Many common mistakes include chest bruising, inadequate breathing, and incorrect timing between breaths and chest pumping. If there is an emergency, call 911, then administer CPR. For those unfamiliar with CPR, finding someone who can perform the procedure or relay the process step by step is the best choice.

            According to CPR training administrators, effective CPR can triple the survival rate of someone in danger. The human body is only made to survive four to six minutes after the heart stops beating. That usually does not give emergency responders time to reach the injured party, which is why effective CPR training is important. For small children whose body organs are not as developed as those of an adult, the response time needs to be expedited. Doctors should advise parents to get certified, followed by parents suggesting caregivers to do the same. A few hours of training could be worth a life.

Spring Has Arrived & Brought Allergies Along For the Trip

Did the polar vortex intensify pollen counts? The answer is yes! Now that winter is over, adults and children are trading in winter coats for tissue boxes because allergy season is in full force. Unfortunately, since this record setting winter was brutally cold, allergy season has arrived earlier and more severe. When trees undergo a wet winter, mold develops causing them to release high amounts of pollen. With high pollen counts in the air throughout the country, and flowers blooming, allergy sufferers are urged to prepare for a rough couple of weeks, and worse, possibly months.

Allergy sufferers begin to notice watery eyes, congestion, runny noses, sinus headaches, and sneezing. Common combat solutions?

             ·         Place air purifiers in the home

             ·         When pollen counts are high, use the air conditioners, keep windows closed

             ·         Shower before bed, remove access pollen off of the body

             ·         Use neti-pots to clear nasal passageways

In addition to using home remedies to fight allergy symptoms, don’t forget to check expiration dates on allergy medication and nasal sprays, and keep a ready stock. There is also a new allergy medication, Oraiair, made up of freeze-dried grass that helps with allergies (ask doctor before use). If over the counter medications don’t work, visit the doctor and let them prescribe a medication based on specific symptoms.

Let Imagination Flow!

Imagination and childhood go hand and hand. Imaginary play allows children to invent creative problem solving techniques, while giving them the ability to venture away from daily structure and expand thinking. Imagination thrives when encouraged by parents and caregivers. Here are a few tips that boost this form of “fun thinking:”

Set limits. Kids have to be taught the difference between imaginary and reality. It’s okay to allow them to use a blanket and pretend they are superheroes saving the word, but they have to understand that the superhero belongs at home or at the playground, not in the aisle of the supermarket.

Embrace imaginary friends. Psychologists suggest that imaginary friends are normal and exhibit a creative, social child. Most kids grow out of this phase as they get older. The only time parents and caregivers should be suspicious of an imaginary friend is when kids start to blame their “friend” for bad behavior. If this occurs, explain to children that they are responsible for their own decision-making behaviors.

Grab a book. While reading is essential to intellectual development, it also adds fuel to the part of the brain that encourages imagination. The vibrant colors, various characters, and enticing adventures take kids away on a magical journey. Next time you’re reading a book to your charge, try reenacting the story.

Limit screen time. The easiest thing to do with energetic kids is to sit them down in front of the TV or tablet screen, but that actually stifles imaginary growth. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests no TV for children under two years old, and only 30 minutes per day for toddlers. As long as kids are sitting in front of a screen, they are being fed information instead of exploring the topic using their imagination.

Allowing kids to step out of the box and entertain themselves is great for child development. A free imagination opens the door for a more creative child to emerge!

Idea from: babycenter.com

Rid Your Car Of Winter!

As one of the top three snowiest winters in recorded history, the harsh weather has consistently impacted commutes over the past couple of months. Slush, salt, sand, grime, and frigid temperatures have impacted vehicles from the tires to wiper blades. With the hope that winter is on its way out and spring on its way in, it's time for your car to have a once-over and undo what winter has done.

• A good detail will do the trick. Salt, sand, and grime can cause corrosion underneath cars. Visit the local detail shop and get the undercarriage thoroughly cleansed. While there, ask them to clean all carpets, window slots, vents, and interior seating to remove all winter debris. It's also a good idea to pop the hood and remove any leaves or frozen elements.

• Replace wiper blades. Between the rain, sleet, snow, and hail, windshield wipers have done their fair share of work. They have frozen and defrosted numerous times. With the spring showers approaching, it is recommended that drivers change their wiper blades to ensure safe travel.

• Keep your tires turning. Cold weather can cause tires to be under-inflated and the upcoming warm weather can cause them to become overinflated. Visit your local tire shop and have them inflate, or deflate, all four tires to the appropriate tire pressure standards. Before leaving, have the mechanic inspect tire treads to ensure proper traction support for the upcoming rain season. If the treads have worn down, it is time to replace the tires.

• Time to align. Once your tires are ready for spring, have your local mechanic perform an alignment. This will reinstate the balance in your car that has been impacted by the  numerous potholes. A typical alignment will average $80, though well worth it.  Proper alignment can catch tire and suspension issues before they become major repairs!

• Top off all fluids. The extra power needed to make it through the winter elements can pollute oil quicker than usual. While aligning and checking your tires, have the mechanic change your oil. Even if your mileage indicates that it is not time for a change, you want to make sure the oil is clean. Also check all break, transmission, and windshield wiper fluids.

Now that you're ready to hit the road in warmer weather, don't forget to make sure all insurance premiums, inspections, and registration renewals are up to date!

Is the House Charge-Proof?

Children like to explore. They aspire to see what goes on in the world around them by touching, grabbing, feeling, and seeing. While discovery is key to growth and development, everyday objects, and places, around the home can be dangerous. Have you taken a moment to ask yourself; is this house charge-proof? Below are just a few places that can start you on the way to safe playing inside the home:

 

     1. Be cautious in the kitchen. Kitchens usually contain hazardous materials such as knives, candles, cabinet knobs, and cleaning supplies. If left unattended for just a second, children can be exposed and seriously harmed.

     2.  Furniture is sharp and heavy. Look out for sharp points on the end of bookshelves, TV stands, dressers, and tables. Not only can these objects cause bodily harm if a child were to run into the corner and cut themselves on an edge, these pieces could also fall over onto the child.

     3. Outlets are everywhere. Each home has multiple electrical outlets. When crawling, children may become curious and stick their fingers, which are usually wet, into the outlet which could cause an electrical shock. Make sure that there are covers on all outlets within reach of children.

     4. The bathroom can be tricky. By adjusting the water heater, the risk for hot water burns can be reduced. When children are in the tub, be sure to use anti-slip mats to reduce the chance of falling. Also, remember to lock the toilet clips when the bathroom is not occupied.

     5.  Be careful when heading outdoors. Balconies and decks also cause concern when it comes to childproofing homes. Help kids down the stairs, as railing are usually wide and children could slip through. Also, be sure to watch kids when sitting on patio furniture to be sure they do not fall off and hurt themselves.

Inside their homes should always be the safest place for kids.  It is up to the adults in the home to monitor curiosity and make sure that discovering the world is fun, yet safe!

Idea from: mommy.com

Naptime Should Be Happy Not Horrible?

We all agree that little ones need plenty of rest, but what really happens when naptime approaches? Is there a struggle up the stairs to the bedroom?  When your charge gets to the bedroom, do they stay put? Many kids associate naptime with dread and many parents and caregivers can relate. Without a game plan, getting kids to go, and stay, in bed can be a challenge.

            The best way to handle naptime is to keep it consistent. If parents do not have a set schedule, begin by taking notice of what time tiredness starts to set in each day. By sticking with the same time, kids know what to expect so there is no shock factor when you give a naptime warning. Prior to heading into the bedroom, make a bathroom trip, engage in a soothing activity such as story time, and turn off all electronics that could cause a distraction. Remind your charge that it is time for a nap and let them know what fun activities they can look forward to once they wake up. The sooner they fall asleep, the sooner the fun begins. Once they wake up, praise them for having a good naptime.

            If naptime does not go as planned because your charge won’t stay asleep, there are always a few tips and solutions. Kids of walking age will quickly refuse a nap by hopping out of bed to find their parent or caregiver. If this occurs, immediately return the child to their room. Giving them time to adjust to another room will only make it harder to get them back to bed. Another way kids try to bypass naptime is by crying or calling for someone. When this occurs, be hesitant before walking into the room. Assure them that everything is okay and leave so they can attempt to fall asleep. If your charge continues to cry and call out, wait a little longer each time before you go check in. By waiting longer, they may eventually fall off to sleep. Remind them that it is naptime and once they fall asleep, you will check on them. Again, once they wake up, praise them for having a good naptime and let them know what you expect the next day in regards to napping.

            While naptime may not be the easiest time of the day, it is essential. Remember to ease into naptime with soothing activities, a regular routine, and try not to engage a charge that refuses to sleep. Once naptime is over, the fun begins again!

           

Technology vs. Sleep

Technology has enhanced communication and entertainment, but is it also a cause for a decline in sleep? New studies in Sleep Medicine Journal suggest that having technology in the bedroom serves as a distraction when people are trying to fall asleep, especially young children and preteens.

                The average preteen should get 10-11 consecutive hours of sleep each night to promote their growing bodies. Kids with access to computers, televisions, cell phones, and video games in their rooms, prior to going to sleep tend to get about nine hours of sleep, one to two hours less than those without the devices. Sleep Medicine reported that kids who frequently viewed TV before bed were four times more likely to report waking up several times during the night, than non-viewers, and frequent social networkers were three times more likely to wake up a lot. Kids who regularly played video games or listened to music at bedtime had significantly more difficulty falling asleep.

Children need boundaries for technology use. Medical experts suggest to remove these devices from the bedroom, and to withdraw from all interaction with technology at least an hour before going to sleep. When devices, such as cell phones, beep in the middle of the night, people are more inclined to get up and reply. While technology is helpful, the addiction to instantaneous information and the impulse to reply immediately is stronger than ever before.

Sleep needs to be held up to the same standards as eating healthy, too much indulgence in food is bad for the body, just as too much technology before bed is bad for sleep. Begin by limiting the amount of time kids spend with technology, especially during the later hours of the day. Try leaving all cell phones in the kitchen, turning the computer off after dinner or after homework, and keeping televisions in the common areas. Letting technology rest will allow for a better night’s sleep and more productive start to the next day. 

Combat the Cold

The United States has had its fair share of cold weather since 2014 touched down. While the country is currently experiencing temporary relief, the winter has just begun and it’s time to brace for the next round of artic air that is bound to happen. When the temperatures fall into the single digits and below, everyone is urged to take precautions.

     The best advice during extreme cold, especially for small children and the elderly, is to stay indoors. Exposure to the elements has many risks, but if you must go out, dress in layers. Before leaving the house, be sure to cover your head, hands, and ears. If going outdoors for more than five to ten minutes, be sure your mouth is covered. Failure to cover your mouth leaves lungs vulnerable to cold air, which could be dangerous and painful. Eating a hearty meal can help stay warm.  Keep in mind drinking caffeinated beverages can cause the body to loose heat more rapidly.

     Failure to prep for the cold could lead to the following:

HYPOTHERMIA – Occurs when the body temperature drops low enough that it begins to affect the brain, making it difficult to think or move. People often don’t realize it’s happening because the symptoms of shivering and exhaustion can be mistaken for something else. The symptoms are most noticeable in children and the elderly.

FROSTBITE – Occurs when the skin is exposed to the frigid temperatures.  Symptoms of frostbite include numbness and skin that’s red, white, painful, firm or waxy.

HEART PROBLEMS - Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart, causing the body to work harder to stay warm.  As a result, any exertion can be dangerous for people with heart disease. When the body starts to shiver, that is an indication that the heart has already begun working harder to keep the body warm.

 

     The winter can be a time of building snowmen, drinking hot cocoa, and ice skating at the rink, but when the temperature takes a drastic dive, take all necessary safety precautions. Do not attempt to brave the cold for long periods of time, especially with children. Remember, spring is just around the corner, but until then, bundle up and stay warm!