By taking a safety tour, you will help make sure that safety concerns are being addressed.  After all, as a parent it is up to you to help keep your home happy and safe.  Here are the things you should look for in each room:

The entire house:

• Start with the fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors. Check them often to guarantee that they will work to protect your family when needed.  Keep replacement batteries on hand and replace them regularly.  A good time to replace batteries is when you change your clocks for day light savings.
• If you have small children in the home it is important to use child safety outlet covers, safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, a door top lock for non child safe rooms, as well other safety latches and locks to keep your curious little ones away from anything potentially dangerous. Think of cupboards, medications, cleaning supplies, toilets, and other places that toddlers may get into that they shouldn’t.
• Keep a list of emergency numbers near your landline phone, stored in your cell phone, and on the refrigerator. Include such numbers as Emergency 9-1-1, Poison Control 1-800-222-1222, doctor’s numbers, parent’s numbers, and other close relatives, neighbor’s, or friends.
• Make sure that there is a fist aid kit in your home and that everyone knows where it is. It should include all the basics that may be needed to immediately address minor injuries such as burns, cuts, scrapes and splinters.
• Check any cords you may have from blinds, phones, and electrical devices. Children can become tangled in them, so they should be tied up out of their reach.
• Check the home for furniture or devices that may not be stable, such as book shelves, television stands, and televisions. Children may climb on items or pull on them, easily toppling over on them. You can purchase safety straps to secure these items to the wall and avoid any accidents.

In the kitchen:

• Always read the directions before using any cleaning products. Also, it is important to keep all cleaning products out of the reach of children.
• When you’re done washing dishes, loading dishwasher, etc., close products and store in a locked cabinet.
• Keep knives and other sharp items out of a child’s reach.  Lock drawers that contain knives or other sharp kitchen tools.  Store butcher blocks of knives far from a child’s reach. Remember that children are curious and creative.  They often use chairs or other objects to climb and reach items they shouldn’t.
• Keep the dishwasher closed and locked, even when it is not in use. If you are unsure if the dishes have been done or not, pick up a magnet to denote clean or dirty.
• If you have young children and pets it is important to wisely choose where the pet food and litter box is stored. Toddlers often like to taste pet food, which can be both a choking hazard as well as a health hazard.  Door top locks with a small pet only door can help keep kids out of the room.

In the bathroom:

• Keep small electrical products such as hair dryers, curling irons, and electric razors away from a child’s reach.
• Store cleaning products, shampoos, make up and even toothpaste up high or in a locked cabinet or drawer.
• It may sound obvious, but medications are especially important to store in a locked cabinet and put away after each use.  Most accidental medication overdoses in children occur during time of illness when parents leave medications out for convenience or frequent use.
• Check your water thermostat so that it is set to no higher than 120F to prevent burns.  A child can be scalded in 2 to 3 seconds in water that is higher.
• For infants and toddlers, keep toilet bowls closed and locked. Curious young ones can be tempted.

In the laundry room:

• Dry your hands before handling detergent.
• Wash your hands if you get any laundry products on them.
• Always close the container completely, immediately after use and keep products out of reach so children can’t get to it or be tempted to see what is inside.
• Recycle empty containers and avoid reusing them.
• Make sure the washer and dryer is child-locked.
• Consider using a gate or door top lock to keep children out of the laundry room if possible.

In the garage:

• Always exercise caution when allowing a child to go into the garage. There are often items out there that they can be hurt with, including chemicals, lawn equipment, and tools. Be sure that all chemicals are properly stored and locked out of a child’s reach.
• Never allow a child near the lawnmower, especially when it is being used. While taking a lawn mower ride on dad’s lap may sound like fun, it can lead to lost limbs and horrific accidents.

In case of accidental ingestion or exposure to dangerous chemicals or cleaning products, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222 or your child’s pediatrician.  If your child is injured or you think it is a true emergency, call 9-1-1.

Taking these precautions now can do a lot to reduce the risks of potential problems later on. When you keep these items on your mind and review them from time to time you will be sure to provide your family with a happy, safe home.

You can find more tips and information on P&G’s Safe Home website.

Disclosure: I am writing on behalf of the P&G Safe Home program.

SPF

SPF 30 is standard (and minimum) protection recommended for daily use.  So what do higher numbers mean?  Not much.  There really isn’t a difference between SPF 50 and SPF 100, which is why the FDA is proposing that new labels read SPF 50+ as the maximum SPF protection available.  If you are fair, prone to skin cancer or you want added security just in case you can’t reapply as quickly (or you aren’t sure if sunscreen will be reapplied by camp counselors), choose an SPF 50+ for your kids.

UVA and UVB

Sunscreen must be labeled broad spectrum to protect your children against all the sun’s harmful rays.  UVA rays cause age spots and wrinkles and UVB rays cause sunburns, but BOTH cause cancer.

Reapply, reapply

There is no such thing as waterproof or sweat proof sunscreen, which is why the FDA has banned the use of those words on the label.  ALL sunscreen wears off after a few hours, so it’s a must that you reapply frequently—at least every 2 hours and especially after swimming or sweating.  Updated sunscreen labels will be marked as water resistant for 40 or 80 minutes to give parents a better idea of when to reapply.   It’s important to know that sunscreen is tested in perfect conditions, so it won’t last as long when you’re kids are running around, sweating and jumping in and out of the water. 

Everyday

Just one blistering sunburn in childhood more than doubles your child’s chance of getting melanoma later in life. Sunscreen should be considered an everyday skin product, not just for the beach or swimming pool.  80% of the suns harmful rays can still get through on cloudy days.  Moisturize your children every morning with a cream or lotion that contains SPF of at least 30.  Focus especially on exposed areas of skin including face, neck and back of hands.  Teach your children to reapply before recess, PE or other outdoor time whenever possible.

Use enough

Dermatologists recommend one ounce of sunscreen (a shot glass) as the amount needed to cover exposed skin for teens and adults.  This means if you are spending the entire day outside, you will use a half a tube of sunscreen!  Kids may need a little less, but you are still going to need at least one tube per child per week if you are spending all day outdoors.  Apply 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply often.

Avoid and Cover up!

Wearing sunscreen is important, but the best way to protect your kids from the sun’s harmful rays is to avoid the sun during peak hours from 10 to 4.  Since that isn’t always possible, wide brim hats, sunglasses and SPF clothing are the next best and available everywhere and at a variety of price points.  Or wash SPF into their clothing with a product like Sun Guard.  Start infants and toddlers off early with an SPF shirt as part of their swimsuit so it becomes part of their beach and pool uniform as they grow up.

Ok for Baby

The American Academy of Pediatrics says that it is ok to use sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months of age when protective clothing and shade are not available.  Choose a product labeled safe for baby or sensitive skin.  Preferably one that only has physical blocks such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.  Of course, best is to keep infants under 6 months of age out of the sun because their skin is especially sensitive and can quickly burn.  Use a stroller with a shade or attach an SPF shade to your stroller.  After all, we want to protect babies against cancer causing rays too.

Spray or cream, baby or sport?

Parents often ask me which sunscreen is best for their children.  My answer: whichever one your child lets you apply frequently!  It’s a good idea to test a little bit on a small area of skin before slathering your little one all over, just to make sure it doesn’t cause a skin reaction.  If your little one’s are especially sensitive (my younger son is) ask your dermatologist, allergist or pediatrician for a recommendation.  If you choose spray sunscreen, make sure you spray outside and not on your child’s face to avoid inhaling the fumes.

There you have it.  A little preventive care goes a long way in protecting your family’s skin.  With shade, UV protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen, you and your family can enjoy the sunny days ahead.  Have fun!

You may think that poop should be brown, but babies produce a wide variety of colors! During the first 24 hours of life, it is thick, sticky, and brownish-black in color (meconium). After the first few days of life, the stools of breastfed babies lighten in color from black to brown to green to yellow and change consistency from sticky to seedy to cottage cheese like to looser.

2.  How often should my baby poop?

In the first few weeks of life, your newborn should really poop every day (if not several to many times a day).  Although less frequent pooping can be normal, it is possible that he isn’t feeding enough to produce frequent poop.  Rarely there could be something hindering the stool from coming out, so let your pediatrician know if your newborn isn’t pooping at least once a day.

After the first few weeks of life, it is normal for a breastfed baby to stool anywhere from roughly once every 5 days to 11 times a day.  If you have any concerns about your baby’s feeding or stooling, be sure to check with your pediatrician.

3.  How can I prevent diaper rash?

In the first few weeks of life, diaper rash is often due to irritation from wetness on sensitive skin.  A think layer of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline, Aquaphor or A&D ointment) works well to prevent many common newborn diaper rashes.  Applying Vaseline after each diaper change is a favorite tip in my practice (especially with the dads), because it makes stool easier to wipe off.  This combined with frequent diaper changes and wiping with unscented, hypoallergenic wipes or simply warm water and a soft paper towel can help prevent diaper rash in your baby.

4. What are the best creams for diaper rash?

The cream you choose depends on the type of diaper rash your baby has. As mentioned above, a thin layer of Vaseline works well on newborns in preventing many diaper rashes.  If you notice a little redness on your baby’s bottom, a barrier cream with Zinc Oxide is best (such as Desitin or Triple Paste).  Liberally apply it to your baby’s bottom with every diaper change.  If your baby has a yeast rash (bright reddish pink and raised, often with little bumps surrounding) you will need a special medicine (prescription or over-the-counter). Let your doctor check the rash and let you know which type of cream you need.  Whenever your baby’s diaper rash doesn’t improve after a few days with the cream of your choice, be sure to have your pediatrician check it out.

1. Why should I breastfeed my baby? Is it going to hurt?

Breastmilk is best! Mother’s milk provides immunity against bacteria and viruses, is easy for your baby to digest, is less expensive and requires no prep time. It is demanding because of the large time commitment required, but the benefits are well documented. Studies show that breastfed babies have fewer ear, respiratory tract, and diarrheal infections. They are also at lower risk for many childhood diseases including obesity. Breastfeeding also benefits mom by decreasing your risk of cancer and helping you get back to your prepregnancy shape.

Persistent pain during breastfeeding is not normal. Although breastfeeding is natural, it’s not always easy at first. It’s ok to ask for help from your pediatrician or lactation specialist. Improper latch on and vigorous or prolonged sucking can be painful and may lead to sore, cracked nipples. In the beginning, brief pain can occur while your infant latches on. Count to 10 and if the pain continues, remove the baby and reattach him so that the baby’s mouth covers as much of the areola (the dark brown area around your nipple) as possible. If the pain occurs during a feeding, switching breasts may help. If a burning or stabbing pain is experienced later in breastfeeding, call your physician because you might have an infection that needs treatment.

Most of your milk comes down in the first 5-10 minutes, so after 15-20 minutes on one side, take your baby off. You are not a pacifier! Prolonged sucking can dry out your nipples and cause soreness. Allow your nipples to air-dry after you feed your baby or shower. Then apply a lanolin cream. Wear a cotton bra or loose fitting top and remove plastic liners from your bra. Continue breastfeeding! Your baby will appreciate you for sticking it out through any discomfort.

2. How do I know if my baby is gaining enough weight?

Babies normally lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first few days after they are born. Then they start gaining weight and by two weeks should be back at birth weight. Your pediatrician will see your baby frequently after birth to make sure the weight gain is appropriate. After that, babies usually gain ½ to 1 ounce a day. Most babies double their birth weight by six months and triple it by one year.

3. How do can I tell if my baby is hungry? How do I know if she is getting enough to eat?

During the first two weeks of life breastfed babies should feed 8-12 times a day, about 10 to 15 minutes on each breast. Don’t wait until your baby is crying and upset to feed. This is actually a late sign of hunger and it may be harder to feed the baby if both of you are frustrated. Look for earlier, more subtle clues such as stirring from sleep, putting the fist in the mouth, turning the head if the cheek is stroked lightly, or sucking movements with the mouth. During the first few days it is best to feed your baby every 2 to 4 hours, even if you have to wake them up.

To tell if your baby is getting enough in, take a look (literally) at what comes out. The first two days your baby may only have a couple of wet and dirty diapers. The next few days he should have at least three of each. For the next few weeks, your baby should have at least 6 wet and 3 dirty diapers a day (although often they will have a dirty diaper after every feed). If your baby is having less, please call your pediatrician. Don’t forget that many times a diaper has both urine and stool mixed together.

4. How do I know if my baby’s spit up is normal or worrisome?

All babies spit up—sometimes after every feed. There are two common causes: overfeeding and reflux. Reflux happens because the valve at the bottom of the esophagus (feeding tube) where it connects to the stomach is weak or relaxed. This allows the food to easily come back up. The valve tightens as the baby grows and the reflux usually resolves by about 1 year of age. As long as your baby is gaining weight and the spit up doesn’t bother him we usually don’t treat it medically. Things that do help are giving smaller, more frequent feeds as well as holding your baby upright for 15 to 20 minutes after a feed. Call your pediatrician if you notice blood in the spit up, greenish color, increase in frequency and intensity of the spit up, projectile or forceful spit up or if the baby’s belly looks swollen or feels hard.

5. My baby is yellow. My mom says it is jaundice. What does that mean?

Your mom is right. Jaundice occurs when babies have extra bilirubin in their system. Bilirubin is produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. This is often normal in newborns. The more your baby feeds and poops, the more bilirubin he will get rid off and the yellow in the skin will begin to resolve. You should let your pediatrician know if your baby begins to look yellow so the bilirubin level can be checked (a simple blood or skin test). Depending on the results your pediatrician will advise on treatment.

SPF

SPF 30 is standard (and minimum) protection recommended for daily use.  So what do higher numbers mean?  Well, the higher the number, the longer the protection.  That said, there really isn’t much of a difference between SPF 50 and SPF 100, which is why new labels will read SPF 50+ as the maximum SPF protection available.  If you are fair, prone to skin cancer or you want added security just in case you can’t reapply as quickly, it’s best to choose an SPF 50+.

Everyday

Sunscreen should be considered an everyday skin product, not just for the beach or swimming pool.  It’s important to block harmful UV rays on cloudy or rainy days too.  Moisturize your children every morning with a cream or lotion that contains SPF of at least 30.  Focus especially on exposed areas of skin including face, neck and back of hands.  Teach your children to reapply before recess, PE or other outdoor time whenever possible.

Reapply, reapply, reapply

ALL sunscreen wears off after a few hours, so it’s a must that you reapply frequently, at least every 2 hours and especially after swimming or sweating.  Even if it says sweat proof or waterproof, it is not permanent and needs to be reapplied.  The sunscreen labels will be marked as water resistant for 40 or 80 minutes to be more accurate, but that’s really the maximum amount of time it will last in perfect conditions.

Spray or cream, baby or sport?

Parents often ask me which sunscreen is best for their children.  My answer: whichever one they let you apply frequently!  It’s a good idea to test a little bit on a small area of skin before slathering your little one all over, just to make sure it doesn’t cause a skin reaction.  If your little one’s are especially sensitive (my younger son is) ask your dermatologist, allergist or pediatrician for a recommendation.  Vanicream is one of my favorites for especially sensitive skin.  If you choose spray sunscreen, make sure you spray outside and not on your child’s face to avoid inhaling the fumes.

Cover up!

SPF hats and clothing are available everywhere and at a variety of price points.  Buy hats, shirts and lightweight jackets to make it easy for your children to protect their skin.  Or wash SPF into their clothing with a product like Sun Guard.  Start infants and toddlers off with an SPF shirt as part of the swimsuit so it becomes a part of their beach and pool uniform.  And don’t forget that eyes are just as sensitive as skin and important to protect with UV sunglasses.

UVA, UVB and other Letters of the Alphabet

Look for a product that says broad spectrum to prevent against UVA and UVB rays, which cause future wrinkle, sunspots and deadly skin cancer.  Products labeled broad spectrum will cover you for both.

There you have it.  A little preventive care goes a long way in protecting your family’s skin.  With UV protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen, you and your family can enjoy the sunny days ahead.  Have fun!

The 5 T’s for Tragedy

Turn off the TV! Young children shouldn’t be exposed to world events, especially in the media. If they aren’t aware, try to shield them by keeping TV and computer off when they are home. For older children, or those who are aware, they still don’t need to see the horrific images on the news.

Talk to your children. If you have older children, if your kids may learn about it from others, or if your children have questions, talk to them. It’s better if they hear about the news from you first, rather than on the playground.

Truth matters. As parents, you are your child’s most trusted source so it’s important to always tell the truth. Keep it simple. You don’t have to share all the details, but make sure that what you do say is true.

Tell them you love them. They may already know, but it always helps to hear it again and again. Hugs and kisses help too.

Take time to spend with your children, especially if they are affected by the tragedy. Your time is the best way to reassure them that the world is still safe, and that this was a horrible, but rare event.

More info on talking to your children about tragedy at HealthyChildren.org