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Car Seat/Booster Seat Requirements to Change in Texas per New State Law effective September 1, 2009!

As of September 1, 2009, Texas will join 34 others states and adopt current national recommendations concerning the use of child safety/booster seats for children up to eight years old. Children who are ages 4 - 8 who are over 40 pounds are required to be in belt-positioning booster seat (high-back or no-back) unless they are 4 feet 9 inches tall.

Although the law will take effect on September 1, 2009, law enforcement will issue written or verbal warnings until June 1, 2010. However, beginning on June 1, 2010, officers may arrest or issue a citation to a person committing an offense.

For more information:
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/director_staff/public_information/carseat.htm
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/director_staff/public_information/pr060209.pdf
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/director_staff/public_information/DPSBasicCPS072009.pdf

Children’s and Infants’ TYLENOL® Liquid Products Recall

September 24, 2009

You may have heard that McNeil Consumer Healthcare (the makers of TYLENOL®) is voluntarily recalling certain lots of Children’s and Infants’ TYLENOL® liquid products that were manufactured between April, 2008 and June, 2008. All products manufactured met internal specifications. However, the company is implementing this recall because during this period, an unused portion of one inactive ingredient did not meet all quality standards. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, it was decided to recall all Children’s and Infants’ TYLENOL® liquid products listed below, which were made during this time.

To read more and for a complete list of recalled product descriptions: http://www.tylenol.com/page.jhtml?id=tylenol/news/subpchildinfantnews.inc

Drowning Prevention Tips

 Tips to keep your child safe around water this summer: 

• Create layers of protection between the water and your children, such as door and window alarms, a non-climbable 5-foot fence surrounding the pool, self-closing fence gates that open outward, with latches out of the child’s reach.
• Learn CPR and proper rescue techniques
• Avoid distractions while children are near water, including talking on the phone, reading, preparing food or visiting with friends.
• Never leave your child alone near a pool, spa, bathtub or toilet.
• Assign an adult “Water Watcher” who is committed to supervising the pool area.
• Have phone access near the water area.
• Wear personal floatation devices that are Coast Guard approved.

Be Sure and Watch Children’s Know Before You Go Video on Water Safety!

FDA RECALLS Large number of Pain Relievers: Children’s Tylenol Products and Junior Strength Motrin Products

LARGE RECALL on  Medicine/Pain Relievers, including Children’s Tylenol Products and Junior Strength Motrin Products.

More about the story: http://money.cnn.com/2010/01/15/news/companies/over_the_counter_medicine_recall/

For a complete list of recalled products:
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Safety/Recalls/UCM197813.pdf

First Aid Kit Checklist

The weather is beautiful, which means more outdoor play for kids! Be prepared for those unexpected injuries by evaluating your First Aid Kit at the start of the season!

Kristen Beckworth, injury prevention specialist at Children’s Medical Center recommends that every first aid kit includes the following:

Instruments
·    bulb syringe
·    scissors
·    thermometer (oral and rectal)
·    tweezers

Bandages
·    adhesive tape
·    butterfly bandages
·    cotton swabs
·    elastic bandages
·    hypoallergenic tape
·    sling (triangular shaped cloth)
·    sterile cotton balls
·    sterile eye patches
·    sterile gauze pads (4″ x 4″)
·    stretchable gauze roll
·    waterproof tape

Medications
·    acetaminophen
·    antacid
·    antibiotic ointment
·    antihistamine
·    calamine lotion
·    hydrocortisone cream
·    ibuprofen
·    glucose solution
·    medicine for diarrhea

Miscellaneous items
·    alcohol (70 percent rubbing)
·    alcohol wipes
·    blanket
·    candles
·    chemical ice packs or ice bag
·    chemical hot packs or hot water bottle
·    disposable latex gloves
·    face mask for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
·    first-aid book
·    flashlight
·    hydrogen peroxide
·    insect repellent
·    insect sting swabs
·    matches
·    measuring spoons
·    paper and pencil
·    paper cups
·    plastic bags
·    soap
·    safety pins
·    sewing needle
·    sunscreen
·    tissues
·    tongue blades

You can also use the following everyday items in the event of an emergency:
·    disposable or cloth diapers for compresses, bandages, or padding for splints
·    dish towels for bandages or slings
·    umbrella, rolled magazine, or layered newspaper for use as a splint

In addition, it is helpful to carry the following items in your car:
·    a large blanket
·    gallon-size bottle of water
·    flashlight and extra batteries

If your child or other family member has special medical needs, be sure to carry extra medical supplies when you go on an outing or trip. Some of these items might include the following:
·    an insect allergy kit containing medications to be used by persons allergic to insect stings
·    medications, syringes, and special equipment or supplies

Be sure any member of your family who has special needs wears a Medic Alert® bracelet or necklace at all times. Applications are available in most pharmacies.

For more information about raising happy, healthy children: www.childrens.com

Focusing Too Much on One Sport Risks Injury…A mix of sports gives the body time to bounce back

Severe injuries are on the rise in young athletes, studies show, and a year-round focus on a single sport bears part of the blame.

“Intense, full-time efforts in one sport can lead to a lot of the overuse injuries in these children,” says Dr. Philip Wilson, an orthopedic specialist at Children’s and assistant professor of Orthopedic Surgery at UT Southwestern. “This is damage we used to never see until they were late in high school or even college.”

Young athletes are still growing. That means they face a higher risk of harm than adults. Research shared at the 2007 meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found sports injuries lead to two out of five emergency room visits by children ages 5 to 14.

Other findings:
~ Some students not yet in high school now hurt their shoulders so badly they need surgery once reserved for older athletes.
~ Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are now seen in younger children. The ACL links the upper and lower leg bones at the front of the knee.
~ Arm injuries are way up in young pitchers. Experts blame a poor throwing motion.

Why is year-round play at fault?
“We’re not seeing the selective stress distributed about their body like we used to see in childhood athletes, where they played baseball for fun one month and the next month was basketball and next season was football,” Dr. Wilson says.
Experts say players, parents and coaches must heed the needs of growing bodies. Training should match the child’s stage of growth.

“Stress would be placed in different areas of the child’s body, allowing time for recovery,” Dr. Wilson says. “There is widespread over-training of children.”

Having a 12-year-old doing strength training is working against the child’s natural development. That is an age for working on coordination and speed, which are best improved by a variety of activities rather than one specialized activity.

“A strict routine of training while young thwarts creativity,” Dr. Wilson says. “For the 5- to 12-year-old, free play is essential for stimulating creativity.”

For more information on raising healthy, happy kids: www.childrens.com

Influenza Links, Updates and Information: CDC, Texas Department of State Health, and Children’s Medical Center

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): General Information http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/general_info.htm

FluView: A Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report
To view the most recent report: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/

Questions & Answers: 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) and You
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm

H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Taking Care of a Sick Person in Your Home:
- Advice for Parents on Talking to Children
- Feeding your Baby: What Parents Should Know
- and More
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/parents/

Seasonal Flu: What To Do If You Get Sick
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/whattodo.htm

H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): Resources for Pregnant Women
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/pregnancy/

Texas Department of State Health Services

General Information
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/txflu/default.shtm

Flu Surveillance (updated each Tuesday) and the Latest Available DSHS Weekly Flu Surveillance Report
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/updates.shtm

Children’s Medical Center

Helpful links, videos, and related articles, including the video: “What you need to know about H1N1 flu with Dr. Jeffrey Kahn.”
http://www.childrens.com/PatientsFamilies/News/protect-your-family-from-h1n1-flu.cfm

Kids’ Eczema Relieved by Bath in Diluted Bleach

By Jillian Berman, USA Today -Though most people reserve bleach for removing stains from clothing, a study in the journal Pediatrics says it also may offer relief to children who have the skin disease eczema. The study, out last month from Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, found that giving children with moderate or severe eczema diluted bleach baths reduced the severity of the disease. View entire article: www.usatoday.com/news/health/

LiveScience: Lack of Vitamin D in Children ‘Shocking’

By LiveScience Staff (www.livescience.com)
August 3, 2009

About 70 percent of U.S. children have low levels of vitamin D, which puts them at higher risk for bone and heart disease, researchers said today.

“We expected the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency would be high, but the magnitude of the problem nationwide was shocking,” said Dr. Juhi Kumar of Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center.

Cases of rickets, a bone disease in infants caused by low vitamin D levels, have also been increasing, other research shows.

The new finding, from a nationwide study, adds to growing evidence that children as well as many adults also lack the vitamin.

“Several small studies had found a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in specific populations of children, but no one had examined this issue nationwide,” said study leader Dr. Michal L. Melamed of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University.

The cause? Poor diet and lack of sunshine, the researchers conclude today in the online version of the journal Pediatrics.

Millions of Children

The researchers analyzed data on more than 6,000 children, ages 1 to 21, collected by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004.

The researchers found that 9 percent, or 7.6 million children across the country, were vitamin D deficient and another 61 percent, or 50.8 million, were vitamin D insufficient.

Low levels were especially common in girls, African-Americans, Mexican-Americans, the obese, those who drank milk less than once a week, and those who spent more than four hours a day watching TV, playing videogames, or using computers. The deficiency was more common among the older children in the data set, too.

Lighter skin is more efficient at producing vitamin D. So darker-skinned people produce less when exposed to sunlight.

The decline in vitamin D levels in the United States was reported widely a year ago and has been underway for 20 years, Melamed said.

“Kids have more sedentary lifestyles today and are not spending as much time outdoors,” Melamed said. “The widespread use of sunscreens, which block UV-B rays, has only compounded the problem.”

The body uses UV-B sunlight to convert a form of cholesterol in the skin into vitamin D.

What to do

Melamed recommends that children should consume more foods rich in vitamin D, such as milk and fish. “But it’s very hard to get enough vitamin D from dietary sources alone,” she said.

Vitamin D supplementation can help. In the study, children who took vitamin D supplements (400 IU/day) were less likely to be deficient in the vitamin. However, only 4 percent of the study population actually used supplements.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, which recently updated its vitamin D guidelines, now recommends that infants, children, and teens should take 400 IU per day in supplement form.
Supplements are especially important for children living in northerly regions where the sun may be too weak to maintain healthy vitamin D levels. Supplements are also critical for infants who are breast-fed, the researchers said in a statement today. Breast milk contains relatively little vitamin D, while formula is fortified with the vitamin.

What else can parents do?”It would good for them to turn off the TV and send their kids outside,” Melamed said. “Just 15 to 20 minutes a day should be enough. And unless they burn easily, don’t put sunscreen on them until they’ve been out in the sun for 10 minutes, so they get the good stuff but not sun damage.”

Other experts caution that extended exposure to the sun — tanning and burning — increases the risk of deadly skin cancer.

To View This Article, Visit LiveScience.com!

Maclaren Stroller Recall Information, Hinge Cover Order Form & Frequently Asked Questions

RECALL INFORMATION:
Consistent with our unwavering commitment to child safety we are providing U.S. consumers notice of a voluntary recall of all Maclaren umbrella strollers sold in the U.S. In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, we are providing free of charge to all affected consumers and retailers a kit to cover the stroller’s hinge mechanism, which poses a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to the child when the consumer is unfolding/opening the stroller. The affected models include Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, Techno XLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller. Maclaren USA’s Umbrella Strollers meet all U.S. ASTM & JPMA compliance standards. These certifications guarantee our umbrella strollers meet the maximum safety standards available. The voluntary recall is to alert the operator when opening or closing the stroller of the possible risk of injury.  For more information: http://recall.maclaren.us/

ORDER FORM:
Maclaren has developed hinge covers which can be easily affixed to the elbow joints of the stroller. Click here for the form: http://recall.maclaren.us/order.php

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What led to this recall?
Based upon the increase in the number of finger trap incidents in the U.S. we felt it was in the interest of customer safety to quickly develop a solution to this potential problem. Safety has been a compulsory focus for our entire 42 year history. The solution was developed with cooperation from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Are Maclaren Strollers safe?
Yes, Maclaren USA’s strollers meet all U.S. ASTM & JPMA compliance standards. These certifications guarantee our strollers meet the required maximum safety standards.. The voluntary recall is to alert the operator when opening or closing the stroller of the possible risk of injury.

Maclaren umbrella strollers have served as the benchmark for quality for this category and have maintained outstanding records for safety along with durability for over 40 years. Our worldwide return rates are less than 1%.

What is the safety concern?
The elbow joint of the stroller’s hinge mechanism poses a risk to the child when the consumer is unfolding/opening or closing the stroller. When the stroller is fully opened and erect there is no risk of finger entrapment. Please check the image.

All Maclaren strollers conform to and often exceed ASTM standards. This is a voluntary recall and does not relate to a product defect nor non-compliance with U.S. or other international standards.

Maclaren’s Zero Tolerance policy of safety is built upon the provenance when you buy something for your baby excellence is the least you expect.

What model stroller does this apply to?
The voluntary recall involves all Maclaren single and double strollers. It does not relate to a specific model or year of purchase.

How do I eliminate risk of injury?
We are providing free of charge hinge covers [insert link to image of hinge mechanism and remedy]. To obtain your hinge covers please fill out the online form or call us at 1-877-688-2326. This remedy was developed in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission and will avoid possible contact with the side hinges to eliminate risk of injury.

Strollers are mechanical products not unlike bicycles or automobiles and have scissor or pinch points that cannot be eliminated. Never use your hands to open or close the stroller – they are engineered to be operated by foot. Operators should always read the operating instructions before use—don’t force the mechanisms—stop and check the instructions.

Do I need to return my stroller to the store or to Maclaren to make the repair?
No, you can request the hinge covers through this website www.maclaren.us/recall which are easily affixed by anyone operating the umbrella stroller. We have included instructions with the hinge covers. They do not require technical assistance to insure safe operation.

What does the cover kit consist of?
The kit consists of two simple covers to fit the left and right hand hinges on the sides of the stroller. Twin stroller owners will receive a set with three covers (for both side and middle hinges).

Be sure when making your request to enter the correct type of stroller on your application (single or twin stroller). Please check the demo.

Is it safe to use my stroller while I wait for the covers to arrive?
Until the kit arrives and you have fitted it, you should use extra care when folding and unfolding the strollers and be sure children’s hands are well clear of all mechanisms. Always remember that vigilant parent care is the best action to prevent injuries of this type happening to infants when strollers or any other ‘mechanical’ products are being used with children.

I have a stroller made by a different manufacturer with a similar hinge. Does the cover kit fit other similar strollers?
The Maclaren hinge covers are designed to fit Maclaren strollers only and are not available to owners of non-Maclaren strollers.

What information do I need when I apply for the hinge covers?
We will just need your contact details and your Maclaren stroller model (this includes the identification number located on the underside of your stroller if you bought it since 2007). You do not need proof of purchase.

I am planning to buy a Maclaren stroller, do I need to obtain the hinge covers?
Retailers are required to provide the hinge covers with your purchase. Within a few months all strollers will have the hinge covers already fitted.

I have two Maclaren strollers. Can I apply for more than one set of hinge covers?
You will need to fill out two applications as we can only supply one set of covers per order.

Can I get the hinge covers from my retailer?
It will be faster to request your kit while you are on this site now as we cannot ensure all retailers will have sufficient stock of kits for all of their customers.

How do I check the status of my shipment of hinge covers?
Please allow for 7 business days from date of your order for delivery, please email us at recall@maclarenbaby.com to check the status of your shipment.

For more information: http://recall.maclaren.us/faq.php

New School Vaccine Requirements in Texas: Most changes affect kindergartners through seventh-graders

July 11 | Immunizing your child against contagious diseases may be the single most important action you can take before the new school year. And this year Texas has several new immunization requirements.

Texas kindergartners must have had two doses of hepatitis A vaccine prior to the first day of school under the new requirements. These begin Aug. 1 for the 2009-2010 school year.

“Immunizations are critical to reducing the incidence of preventable infectious diseases such as whooping cough and meningococcal disease,” said Dr. Jane Siegel, a pediatric infectious diseases expert at Children’s and professor of Pediatrics at UT Southwestern. “Parents should make every effort to get their children vaccinated with a full and age-appropriate immunization profile before the start of the school year. Vaccines protect the healthy children who receive them as well as contacts who are unable to take the vaccines due to underlying medical conditions or who do not respond well to vaccines.”

The changes were made to make Texas immunization schedules match more closely those of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Most of the changes affect kindergartners through seventh-graders. However, requirements will be phased in for other age groups during the next few years. While some school entry requirements (such as the second dose of varicella vaccine) apply to specific age groups to allow a gradual phase-in, doctors will give the second dose to their patients according to CDC recommendations.

Other school-year immunization requirements for 2009-2010 are:

MMR vaccine: Kindergartners must have had two doses of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine.
Students in grades 1 through 12 must have had two doses of a measles-containing vaccine and one dose each of mumps and rubella vaccine.
Varicella vaccine: Kindergartners and seventh-graders must have had two doses of the vaccine for chicken pox (varicella).
Students in grades 1-6 and 8-12 must have had one dose of chicken pox vaccine.
TDaP vaccine: Seventh-graders must have had one dose of the Tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine. If it has been five years since their last tetanus shot, they must get a booster dose of TDaP. Students in grades 8-12 need a booster shot if it has been 10 years since their last tetanus shot.
Meningococcal vaccine: Seventh-graders must have had one dose of the vaccine.

A full list of school-age immunization requirements is available from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Information on immunizations required of pre-schoolers and those children attending day care centers is also available from the Texas state health site.

Last reviewed: July 2009http://www.regardinghealth.com/CMD/RHO/2009/07/Article.aspx?bmkEMC=52384

For more information: http://www.childrens.com/index.cfm or

PRE & POST NATAL FITNESS/NUTRITION

Article Provided By COOPER FITNESS CENTER

The childbearing years can be some of the most rewarding and daunting of any woman’s life.  There are many dramatic changes that take place in the body, not to mention the miraculous creation of new life.  But some of these changes can challenge our wellness and peace of mind, and make it easier for us to find excuses to not take care of ourselves.  It is no mystery that exercise and sound nutrition are wonderful ways to find balance, keep our health in check and set a good example for our children.  But there are numerous other benefits to maintaining a healthy program that may surprise you:

•    Improved posture and appearance
•    Relief of back pain
•    Greater control over weight gain
•    Stronger muscles in preparation for labor and support for loosened joints
•    Improved circulation
•    Increased flexibility
•    Increased/maintained aerobic endurance
•    Increased energy level and less fatigue
•    Decreased muscle tension
•    Promotion of feelings of well-being and a positive self-image

Too often, new moms find it difficult to make time for fitness.  But it is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and can dramatically change the way you view your new role.  It is important to get back to exercising as soon as possible, and whether you experience a vaginal or cesarean delivery will largely determine that timeline.  Generally 6-8 weeks is recommended before jumping back into any sort of serious exercise program.  Our postpartum bodies are completely different than they were before and require a little more TLC than usual.  This can be frustrating, particularly if you are accustomed to more intense exercise such as jogging or weight training.  But slow and steady repair of your core foundation will help:

•    Reduce post-natal depression known as the “baby blues”
•    Promote healing
•    Speed recovery back to your pre-pregnancy body
•    Increase much-needed energy
•    Release stress and allow time to focus on yourself

Without a doubt, being a mom is the most rewarding experience in my life.  It is an endless job, and I relish every moment of it.  But there were times when I questioned whether I would ever get back to feeling ‘normal’.  As frustrating as that was, it made me even more determined.  As a degreed/certified health professional, I have dedicated my life to helping others achieve wellness and peace with their bodies.  My 15 years of experience as a personal trainer and being a mother of 2 has helped me realize how immensely different each pregnancy is.  The Female Focus Pre and Post Natal Program at the Cooper Fitness Center is dedicated to you.  Each participant is treated as an individual and is monitored closely throughout.  Although childcare is available, this is not a mommy-and-me program.  It is meant to be a time when moms can take an hour out of their busy schedules to truly focus on themselves and get back in shape.

April Harris-Swales, BS, CCES, CPT
Cooper Fitness Center Professional Trainer
Female Focus Pre- and Post-Natal Program Instructor

For more specific information and to register for The Female Focus Pre- and Post-Natal Program call Colette Cole, Female Focus Director, at 972-233-4832 or visit us at http://www.cooperaerobics.com/For-Individuals/PersonalFitness/Preston-Road-Dallas/Female-Focus.aspx

Prenatal Screening: Is it for you?

During pregnancy, women have many choices to make, and one of them is whether or not to undergo prenatal screening. Dr. Michael Zaretsky is a maternal-fetal medicine specialist in the UT Southwestern Maternal-Fetal Medicine practice. He says that all women, regardless of age, should be offered both diagnostic testing as well as screening tests. Ultimately, however, it’s up to the couple to make an informed decision.

Available tests
Two types of tests are available: diagnostic and screening. Diagnostic tests are nearly 100 percent accurate but are invasive. Screening tests are non-invasive and risk-free, but they aren’t as accurate.

Diagnostic tests include Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) and Amniocentesis. CVS is performed between 10-13 weeks gestation. This test involves sampling the placenta either through the abdomen or cervix. Amniocentesis is performed anytime after 15 weeks gestation through the abdomen. Both tests evaluate all 46 chromosomes.

First trimester screening tests evaluate the risk for Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18 and 13. The first trimester ultrasound can detect many structural abnormalities such as heart defects. The screening tests performed during the second trimester evaluate the risk for spina bifida, Down syndrome and trisomy 18.

A genetic ultrasound is an important component of the evaluation for chromosomal abnormalities. This is typically performed at 18-20 weeks and provides a more comprehensive picture than a routine ultrasound.  

OB/GYN’s office versus a specialist
The screening tests can be performed by an obstetrician or a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, but Dr. Zaretsky advises women to seek out a specialist for diagnostic testing.

“When going to a specialist, informing the couple is top priority and generally more time will be spent helping them make decisions on the next steps,” Dr. Zaretsky says. “For diagnostic testing, women should only go to someone with a lot of experience in these precise procedures. Risk of complications are definitely higher when performed by someone with less experience.”

Specialists at Children’s
Dr. Zaretsky treats patients at Children’s Medical Center at Legacy where you will have access to more than 50 specialty and subspecialty programs for your baby. Whether it’s preconception counseling to prepare for pregnancy, or treatment for a high-risk pregnancy, the UT Southwestern Maternal-Fetal Medicine experts provide innovative care that will guide you every step of the way.

Ask your doctor for a referral to the only academic practice in North Texas that offers immediate coordination of care with on-site pediatric specialists. To learn more about the highly specialized services at Children’s, visit www.childrens.com/maternal or www.utsouthwestern.org/obgyn/mfm.

RECALL: Children’s Tylenol, Motrin…Important Links!

(Reuters) - U.S. firm recalls infant, children’s Tylenol, Motrin
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6401AK20100501

(Reuters) - U.S. inspectors found thick dust and contaminated ingredients at the Johnson & Johnson plant that produces Children’s Tylenol and dozens of other products that were recalled last week.
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64367Z20100505

Recall News form the Tylenol website
http://www.tylenol.com/page2.jhtml?id=tylenol/news/subp_tylenol_recall_1.inc

Safest, Most Effective Sunscreens

Does your sunscreen work? According to a study performed by Environmental Working Group (EWG, www.ewg.org) of nearly 1,000 brand-name sunscreen products, 4 out of 5 were found to contain chemicals that pose health hazards or they don’t adequately protect skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Some of the worst offenders are leading brands like Coppertone, Banana Boat, and Neutrogena.

EWG ranks sunscreens based on their hazard: 0-2 Low Hazard;  3-6 Moderate Hazard; and  7-10 High Hazard. All of the sunscreens listed below had a ranking of 0-2. To read more or to find the ranking of your sunscreen, visit: www.ewg.org

Products with Rank of 0-2:

All Terrain
- Aquasport Performance Sunscreen, SPF 30
- TerraSport Performance Sunscreen, SPF 30
- KidSport Performance Sunscreen, SPF 30

Vanicream
- Sunscreen Sport, SPF 35

To read more or to find the ranking of your sunscreen, visit: www.ewg.org

Surviving Summer: Ticks, Bee Stings, and Swimmer’s Ear!

Surviving Summer: A Guide for Parents

Ticks, Bee Stings, and Swimmer’s Ear!

 
To survive the summer months, take these tips from Dr. Ben Lee, a pediatrician on the medical staff at Children’s Medical Center.
 
Ticks
“Ticks are most active in the spring and early summer, and they tend to retreat to shaded areas during the hottest parts of the summer,” says Dr. Lee.  “Kids tend to ‘find’ ticks in wooded areas with small bushes and shrubs.  It’s helpful to apply insect repellent before playing in an area where ticks may be present, and parents should check their child’s hair and scalp when they come inside.” 
 
How to remove a tick:

~ Use tweezers to gently grasp the tick, being careful not to crush the tick. 
~ The sooner the tick is removed, the better. 
~ Thoroughly wash the area with a disinfectant afterward.
 
Bee Stings
There are unique concerns if a child is allergic to insect stings, and stings can be serious if a child gets stung in the mouth, nose or throat area.  But, for most kids, in most instances, insect stings cause only minor discomfort. 
 
How to treat a bee sting:

~ Remove the stinger by gently scraping the site with a blunt-edged object such as a credit card.
~ Wash the area well with soap and water.
~ Apply a cold compress to help reduce swelling and pain.
~ Apply a paste of baking soda and water.
~ Seek medical attention if your child shows signs of an allergic reaction (such as breathing difficulty, wheezing, difficulty swallowing or generalized swelling).
 
Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear is an inflammation of the external ear canal.  This particular ear ache presents itself when water gets trapped in the ear canal and bacteria grows.  You may suspect swimmer’s ear if the outer ear is red, itches or if it is painful to wiggle the ear lobe.  This common summertime ailment is easily cured with antibiotics.  But, there are ways to prevent swimmer’s ear.
 
How to prevent swimmer’s ear:
~ Place two to three drops of a vinegar/isopropyl alcohol/water mixture in the ear after contact with water.
~ Use ear plugs.
~ Do not aggressively clean the ear canal.

For more information about raising happy, healthy children: www.childrens.com

Tips for Healthful Cleaning

HEALTHFUL CLEANING FOR KIDS
Don’t Sweep Dirt Under the Rug

Asthma educator offers tips for cleaning house

The coat closet is a mountain of shoes, scarves and book bags.  The dust bunnies are nearly full-grown, and you haven’t been able to park the car in the garage for months.  It’s time to clean up.

This overhaul is a chore for most of us, but there’s a good chance nobody dreads cleaning more than a child with allergies or asthma.  Sharon Lemley, an asthma educator at Children’s Medical Center, says if there’s a child with allergies or asthma in the house, it’s important to take special precautions before you let the dust fly.

“Be aware that chemicals in cleaning products can trigger an allergic reaction or asthma attack,” says Lemley.  “Read labels and do your homework to find detergents that aren’t irritating.”

Lemley says it’s best to remove a child with allergies or asthma from the environment before episodes of prolonged or thorough cleaning.  However, her advice to parents with kids with allergies or asthma is to do a little bit of cleaning everyday.

~ Use a HEPA filter in the vacuum cleaner
~ Damp dust weekly, and wear a dust mask if you’re allergic to dust
~ Buy washable curtains, throws and pillow covers, and clean them often
~ Minimize clutter
~ Use dust mite-proof pillow covers
~ Cover floors with washable rugs instead of carpeting, if possible

For more information about raising healthy and happy kids, visit www.childrens.com.

TYLENOL® - Children’s Product Recalls - April through July 2010

FOR MORE INFORMATION about RECENT RECALLS: http://www.tylenol.com/

Important information about the recall of certain product lots of TYLENOL® Extra Strength, TYLENOL® PM and Children’s TYLENOL® Meltaways products - July 8, 2010

Information about the recall of certain TYLENOL® Extra Strength Rapid Release Gels – June 15, 2010

Information about the recall of certain Infants’ TYLENOL® Children’s TYLENOL® products April 30, 2010