Tips for a Healthier New Year

As we enter the New Year, filled with hopes and dreams, there’s nothing higher on our wish list than the wellbeing of our children. A Mom, after reading a classic parenting advice book, filled with theory, strategies, and algorithms, confided that she was overwhelmed. “Aren’t there any simple steps that I can follow to be a better Mom?” In fact, there are. Although the formula for good health is not easy (and good luck can never be overestimated), there are a number of basic, simple tasks which may go a long way! I propose five easy steps for your children to follow for a healthier and happier year:

1. Wash Your Hands.

Not long along, impetigo (little sores under the nose) was the worry of the nursery school crowd. The last two years certainly frightened us with stories of “flesh-eating bacteria” and community acquired MRSA. Colds, flu, upper respiratory, and nasty stomach viruses—just to name a few contagious germs—spread by the hand to mouth route. For the most part, these kinds of illnesses are preventable by simple hand washing. It is by far the most important method that can be used to prevent transmission of infectious agents. Liquid soap in pump dispensers is fine, although environmentally, I recommend a basic, non-scented (non-scented = less skin allergies) bar soap. Don’t use “antibacterial” soaps—not only are they not any more effective than “regular” soap, but they may risk the creation of “super-bugs.” Advise your children to use warm water and rub hands together making a lather for twenty seconds. Sing “Happy Birthday” twice to make it fun.

Remember: If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based gel to clean hands, but be mindful to not let children access the gel alone as it can be dangerous. See: Danger with Sanitizer Gel Use.

2. Don’t Talk to Strangers.

Preventing child abduction and exposure to violence is a critical responsibility. But it’s a tricky dance to teach children about personal safety without causing unwarranted fear. Here are a few simple rules:

• Children should know their name, address, and phone number (with area code) so, if lost, they can be reunited with their family. Older children should know parents’ work numbers.