Outings Archives - Parenting Journals

6 Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe and Healthy This Winter

Danica Hoppe — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:00:10 +0000

By Jamell Andrews I know it’s early in the summer season but when winter brings with it the allure of freshly fallen snow and all kinds of fun cold-weather activities that children love. Unfortunately, it can also be a time of viruses and bacteria that lead to colds and flu. Use these tips to help keep your kids safe and healthy this winter, not to mention warm! Keep Germs Away Teaching your child to wash their hands and cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing can go a long way in warding off a cold or flu and other bugs that are easily passed during play in school and at home. Bundle Up and Limit Exposure to Cold Temperatures Children are notorious for letting their excitement get the better of them, which can lead to rushing out of the house without bundling up properly or losing track of time when playing out in the cold. Unfortunately, this can have some serious consequences for a child, including frost bite. Always make sure your child is dressed warmly and in layers when heading out into the cold, with their hands, feet and ears properly protected. Keeping them warm and dry is key to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Get Them Out of the House Cold temperatures and crummy winter weather can keep kids indoors more than their used to the rest of the year. Not getting enough sunlight can impact mood and lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that stems from less sunlight during the winter months. Even just getting your child outside for 15 minutes during daylight hours can help beat the winter blahs and SAD. Keep Them Hydrated Proper hydration is just as important in the colder months and getting enough fluids can actually lower their risk of cold and flu. Teach Them the Importance of Safety You can help your child avoid winter activity-related injuries by teaching them the importance of safety. Wearing a helmet and steering clear of cars and other dangers when skating, snowboarding or tobogganing are musts when it comes to playing safe this winter. Feed Them a Healthy Diet Curling up on the couch on cold winter nights and days spent playing in the crisp winter air can make it easy for your child to forget to eat or reach for all the wrong things. Eating a well-balanced can help keep their immune system strong. Orange slices and carrot sticks are high in vitamins and antioxidant and make great snacks and a warm bowl of oatmeal is great source of fiber. Having fruits and vegetables cut up and on hand will make it easier for them to eat well. Have a safe and happy summer, winter is on the way!

The post 6 Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe and Healthy This Winter appeared first on Parenting Journals.

6 Fun Fall Activities for Families

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 25 Oct 2016 16:52:01 +0000

By Jamell Andrews Summer may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t have to mean making life all about school and work. The season of falling leaves and all things pumpkin-spice offers a whole slew of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are 6 fun things to do as a family this fall. 1. Playing in—and Raking—the Leaves Raking leaves may seem like a chore, but it actually provides you an opportunity to spend some quality time as a family. Get your kids in on the action by letting them help with raking and bagging. Kid-sized rakes are a fun way to keep younger children entertained while you tackle your fall cleanup. Make it an event by having some hot apple cider and of course, jumping in the piles of leaves before you bag them. You can also have the kids collect leaves, pinecones, and acorns to make fall crafts with. 2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch A visit to the pumpkin patch is about so much more than picking out a pumpkin these days! Many farms offer a true fall experience with everything from hayrides to petting zoos. Enjoy walking through the pumpkin patch on a sunny fall afternoon as family and choosing a pumpkin together to carve, decorate with, or even to make pumpkin pie and roasted pumpkin seeds together. 3. Go Apple Picking This quintessential fall activity is fun for the whole family, as well as healthy. Pick apples together and enjoy the cool crisp air and fall sun as you stroll through a local orchard together. The fun continues at home when you let the kids help you in the kitchen as you prep apples and bake fall favorites, like homemade apple pie or apple crumble. You get exercise and healthy, delicious treats all in one fun day as a family! 4. Go on a Family Hike Fall is the most scenic time of the year thanks to crisp, clear skies and vibrant leaves. A family hike along a trail offers up a great way to spend time together while also getting exercise and enjoying all of the beauty that this season has to offer. 5. Visit Spooky Sights With fall also comes Halloween, which brings with it all kinds of family fun with a spooky slant! Amusement parks, community centers, and farms offer child-friendly spooky events, such as “haunted” houses and rides, corn mazes, and other spooky-themed activities. Take the fun to a whole other level by dressing up in costumes. 6. Visit a Fall Fair Fall fairs and festivals are a great way to spend a fall day or evening. Fall fairs offer something for the whole family, from games and rides to tractor pulls and petting zoos. Check your local community guide for fall fairs in your area or find one in another town and make it a family road trip. Live in a bustling city? Then head to a fall festival which offers up just as much family-friendly fun as a fair. There’s nothing like the smell of candy apples in the air and the sights and sounds of a fall fair or festival to help you kick off the season together! There’s no need to be sad that summer’s over with so many fun things to do as a family in the fall.

The post 6 Fun Fall Activities for Families appeared first on Parenting Journals.

5 Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe at Amusement Parks

Danica Hoppe — Wed, 10 Aug 2016 21:41:49 +0000

By Lisa Pecos Nothing says summer fun like a day at an amusement park. From the rides to the games, amusement parks have all kinds of fun things to do for the whole family. With all of this fun, though, there are also a few risks for children, from getting separated from family to getting injured. The following 5 tips can help keep your kids safe so that you can all enjoy this quintessential summertime experience. 1. Follow the Rules Amusement parks have rules in place to keep you safe, yet many don’t give a second thought to the signs posted. Take the time to read the signs posted at the gate and in front of each ride and explain them to your children. Following the rules can help keep your children safe, from making sure they don’t get on rides that they’re not tall enough or old enough for to keeping them out of harm’s way when walking around. Some rides are also not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Saferparks, a non-profit organization committed to preventing amusement park ride accidents, stresses that ignoring the rules or trying to work around them can put a life in jeopardy. 2. Show Your Child Safe Places to go for Help As soon as you arrive at the amusement park, take your children to the information kiosk or security office so that they have a safe place to go for help should they become separated from you. Even young children should be told where to go or who to reach out to, such as police officers or park security, in case they get lost or need help. To make sure you hammer the message home; point out these places and people rather than just telling them. 3. Bring Healthy Snacks and Water Keeping your child properly hydrated and nourished is always important and is especially so when spending an exciting and tiring day at an amusement park. Bring along water and healthy snacks to help keep them feeling their best throughout the day. This doesn’t mean that your child can enjoy some of the yummy carnival treats that the park has to offer, of course. The key is to keep sugary and high-fat treats to a minimum and to take some time to rest before getting back on rides to avoid an upset tummy and potentially messy ride. 4. Don’t Just Leave Ride Safety Up to the Employees Though a park employee will come around and check that bars and latches are in place before a ride starts moving, you can do your part to keep you and your child safe by checking bars, seatbelts and latches yourself. Always ensure that you and your children are properly secured in your seat and call the attendant over right away if something doesn’t seem right. Also, be sure to tell your kids to keep body parts inside and to remain seated until the ride comes to a complete stop in order to avoid injury. 5. Give them Your Contact Number Make sure that your child has your cell phone number on them before you head to the park in case you get separated. Be sure to write it on something that they can’t lose, such as on a tag inside their shirt, on a secure armband or bracelet, or even on their arm using an ink marker. The key is to make it easy to read and nearly impossible for your child to lose or take off. A little diligence can go a long way in ensuring that your kids have a safe and fun day at the amusement park this summer.

The post 5 Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe at Amusement Parks appeared first on Parenting Journals.

How to Get the Most Out of Family Time

Danica Hoppe — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 17:41:44 +0000

By Jamell Andrews Between school and work, extracurricular activities, and household chores, it’s easy to see why family time is at a premium these days. If you, like may parent’s, are finding that you don’t have nearly as much time to spend together as a family as you’d like, then these tips can help you make the most of what time you do have for more meaningful family time. Eat dinner together. A 2011 study found that more dinners together has a positive impact on teens and lowers the alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. Teens also reported having better relationships with their mothers, fathers, and siblings when they had more family dinners. Turn off the television and all devices. This can be a tough one for adults and kids alike in this overly-plugged in world, but doing so allows you to really connect with each other. Make it a rule to have all electronics and gadgets off during meal time so that you can spend your dinner or breakfast time speaking face to face about what’s going on at school, with friends, or about anything else that matters to each of you. Have a regular family game night. Playing a board game together lets you all enjoy some good old fashioned fun together as a family. It’s a fun and exciting way to interact with the children and to get them interacting with each other. Make it about them. Your kids have their own interests just as you do. Make the effort to spend some time doing the things that they enjoy too. If time is limited, let them know that once each month you will spend some time doing an activity that your child/children enjoy, whether that is a baseball game or a day at the mall. Focus on each family member’s unique interests every now and again as a way to share your interests with each other. Walk together. While some of the best conversations with your loved ones may happen in the car between racing from activity to activity; walk when you can. It may take a few extra minutes to get to the school or to the soccer field, but walking together forces you all to slow down and take in the scenery around you. Walking is relaxing, can help ease stress and anxiety, and is good for your physical health too. Listen. It seems simple enough, yet often times we get so wrapped up in work and all the things going on around us that we don’t really listen to what others are saying. No matter what you are doing with your family, make the effort to be present and listen. Pay attention to their words as well as their tone and their actions when they speak to really understand what is going on in their lives. Being heard is important to children and adults. Knowing that they’re being heard can make it easier for your family to open up to you. A Few Extra Ways to Maximize Family Time Use the following pointers to help you get more family time and make the most of the time you spend together: Use all of your resources. Finding extra time not only to spend time together but also make the most of every second is easier if you use the resources that are available to you. Ask a friend to babysit so that you can spend some time with your older children doing things they enjoy or hire a service or enlist the help of friends and family to help you tackle big chores that can take away from your weekends with the family. Don’t feel bad asking for help or leaning on others when you need to. Stop wasting time. Take an honest look at your day and try to eliminate any time wasters. This can mean not mindlessly scrolling your Facebook newsfeed for an hour every evening to packing the next day’s lunches as you wait for dinner to finish cooking so that you can instead spend that extra time relaxing with your family. Stop trying to do it all. Mothers often feel like they need to do it all and this doesn’t just take away actual time spent with family, but it can also be exhausting and make it harder for you to be relaxed and happy around your family. Think about your priorities and what really matters most at the end of the day and choose your activities accordingly. That laundry can wait an extra day or two so that you can go to your child’s game instead of dropping them off and running home to turn on the drier. These days, family time has to be about quality or quantity for many. The time you spend together can enhance your bond and improve communication.

The post How to Get the Most Out of Family Time appeared first on Parenting Journals.

12 Fun Family-Friendly Summer Activities

Danica Hoppe — Mon, 23 May 2016 18:42:11 +0000

By Vanesa Sallego Summer’s on its way, which means hot and sunny days and your children home from school for some summer vacation. To help make the most of this time of year and keep your children from getting bored, we’ve come up with a list of 12 fun summer activities that are fun for the whole family and affordable. 1. Family road trip You don’t need to get on a plane or travel far to find something new and exciting to do. Besides, half the fun is getting there! Pick a destination an hour or two from home to explore and get the car games and iPod playlists ready for some quality family time in the car. 2. Be tourists in your own town Check your town or city’s official website for attractions and other things to do that local folk tend to take for granted. Head out for a day of enjoying what your town has to offer. Don’t forget to look into summer festivals, too! 3. Have a beach day This quintessential summer activity can be enjoyed at an ocean or a lake. Find the nearest beach, pack up some sand toys and sunscreen, and spend a day enjoying the sun and sand with your favorite people. 4. Go stargazing There’s nothing like sitting under the stars on a clear summer night and checking out the beauty that the skies have to offer. You don’t even need a telescope! Astronomy sites and even weather sites tell you how to pick the best spots for stargazing. Choose a place and head out with a big blanket and your family for a night of stargazing. 5. An afternoon of plane-spotting Sitting under a flight path close to an airport offers an exhilarating bird’s eye view of airlines taking off and landing. Look for a parking lot or grassy area near your local airport, bring along some snacks, and enjoy the exciting sights and sounds of airplanes whizzing overhead. 6. Go camping Whether at the nearest campground or in your own backyard; pitching a tent, roasting marshmallows on an open fire, and sleeping under the stars is always a fun time for the whole family and young and old alike! 7. Plan a family reunion Get the entire family together for a big afternoon barbecue complete with backyard games like a potato sack race or horseshoes. Make it a potluck for easy, stress-free hosting. 8. Go on a family hike Hit your local trail for a family nature walk or hike. You can make it especially fun for kids by bringing along a little container for collecting bugs or a disposable camera to take pictures along the way. 9. Take them out to the ballpark Whether for an MLS game or supporting your local minor league; baseball games are fun for the whole family. No teams playing close by? Invite some friends along and play your own softball or even T-ball game. 10. Visit an amusement park It doesn’t matter if it’s a major theme park or a weekend carnival set up in a local lot—kids love rides, cotton candy, and games! 11. Go to the drive-in Catching a family-friendly movie at the local drive-in is an affordable way to enjoy a film and a beautiful summer night. If there aren’t any drive-ins in your area, consider renting a projector from the library and having an outdoor movie night in your backyard by projecting onto a white sheet hanging from trees or a wall. 12. Have a picnic Pack up your family’s favorite summer fare and head to a state park for a picnic. Be sure to pack water guns and bubble wands for some inexpensive hot weather fun for the whole family! Family fun doesn’t need to be expensive or involve elaborate plans. Keep it simple and focus on enjoying quality time together and making memories this summer.

The post 12 Fun Family-Friendly Summer Activities appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Ten Tips for Having a Fun and Safe Family Camping Trip

Danica Hoppe — Mon, 26 Aug 2013 21:28:21 +0000

Taking your family on a camping trip could be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences you will share. It’s a great opportunity to get away from the noise and congestion, and get in touch with the beauty and serenity of nature. A few precautions will help make the trip educational for your children, and an experience that will leave all your family members with fond, lasting memories. Get to Know Your Chosen Camping Grounds The first thing you need to do is familiarize yourself with the camp grounds. Get information about the site and weather conditions from park rangers. You can also check weather forecasts online. But keep in mind that weather can change dramatically from one day to the next, or even from one moment to the next, so, plan accordingly. Instruct your family members to be on the lookout for poisonous plants, like poison ivy and poison oak. It would be a good idea to show your family pictures of what these plants look like, so they’ll know what to look for. Always know where your children are; some parents outfit their children with whistles for added security, in case children become lost. A whistle can be heard from a distance better than a human’s voice. Drink Plenty of Water! To avoid potentially dangerous and common conditions like heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration, make sure everyone drinks plenty of water, especially before, during and after rigorous physical activity. If the weather is hot, stay in the shade. Instruct your kids to always drink water, even before they become thirsty, as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can sneak up on a person during physical exertion or in hot weather. Once the symptoms start to take hold, chances are you will not be able to quickly cool off and hydrate by simply drinking water; the body needs a little bit of time to absorb the water and cool its temperature. So, the key is to stay cool and hydrated before symptoms develop. Teach your children not to drink any natural water they encounter, including water they swim in, as it may be contaminated. Instead, take a plentiful supply of bottled water with you for all the members of your family. If water should run out, iodine tablets will purify it, or you can boil water and drink it. Take an insulated cooler with you, to help keep water and perishable foods cold. Avoid sodas, as they don’t quench thirst, and dilute natural fruit juices with lots of water for better hydration. Planning Your Attire Plan to dress in multi-layers, which will make it easier to take off or add clothes, according to the weather. Cotton is best in the summer and wool in the winter, as they are natural fibers that allow the skin to breathe. Include waterproof jackets and pants, if there’s a chance that it may rain (this will help prevent hypothermia — sudden loss of body heat). Plan Your Family’s Activities You will need to give thought to the activities your family will engage in, to pack and plan accordingly. Some safe activities include: hiking, swimming, bike-riding. Always take protective gear such as helmets for cycling, and pack shoes that can handle a little rough terrain. Instruct your children never to swim alone, and always shower before and after swimming. Miscellaneous Items to Include Always take a first-aid kit, plus a bottle of hydrogen peroxide, in case you need to treat small cuts or scrapes. Other items you may want to take: a map of the area a flashlight with extra batteries pocket knife and scissors matches a candle or fire starter tweezers and needles (to remove splinters) The Foods You’ll Take Avoid cross-contamination between ready-to-eat foods or foods that stay fresh on their own, and foods that need to be cooked, like meats, or that perish, like dairy. Put different foods in tightly closed plastic containers or plastic bags that close. Take plenty of ready-to-eat, nutritious foods that will tide you over and give you energy, such as: raw nuts, trail mixes, granola bars, fruits, whole-grain crackers, tortilla chips and peanut butter. Avoid Carbon Monoxide Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by never using fuel-burning equipment, such as gas stoves or lanterns, in a tent or other enclosed space. Anything that burns should only be used outdoors. To stay warm, and as an alternative to fuel-burning heaters, take insulated sleeping bags or additional warm bedding and warm clothing (if there’s a chance that the weather will cool off at night). Stay Away from Wild Animals! Teach your children about avoiding wild animals, as these can be dangerous and carry diseases. Always keep your food tightly covered, so as to not attract bigger animals, but this will also help guard against ants and mosquitoes. Never bring food into your tent; pack it in your automobile, instead. Avoid Insect Bites If mosquitoes or ticks may be a problem during your trip, prepare yourself by taking a mosquito and tick repellent. Citronella-based repellents are favored by some, because the active ingredient is natural, lemon grass oil. Others prefer repellents containing DEET, as they protect longer. Long-sleeved shirts and pants will help protect against mosquitoes and ticks naturally. Protect Eyes and Skin from the Sun You have three options, to keep your skin from being harmed by overexposure to the Sun’s ultraviolet rays: Limit the time you spend in the Sun when not wearing protective clothing. Also, remember that UV rays can reach your skin even on a cloudy day Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and floppy hats Apply broad-spectrum-protection sunscreen — one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a product with natural ingredients, which won’t harm your skin and health in the long run. Sunscreen should have zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the Sun protection ingredient To protect your eyes from the Sun, wear sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection. (And yes, children need to protect their eyes from excessive Sun,

The post Ten Tips for Having a Fun and Safe Family Camping Trip appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Safety Facts About Insect Repellents – and Choosing the Best Brands

Danica Hoppe — Wed, 10 Jul 2013 18:50:02 +0000

As millions of American children head off to summer camps or outdoor family get-togethers, many parents may wonder how to protect their youngsters from the varieties of insects that might be found at camping grounds and parks. These days, we all have even more reason to worry about bugs than normally, as infestations from the potentially deadly West Nile virus continue to occur in different parts of the country. A good insect repellent can protect you and your family from diseases carried by mosquitoes and ticks. Mosquitoes can carry the West Nile virus, and ticks can transmit serious illnesses like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that consumers choose insect repellents with active ingredients that have been registered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA advises that the following registered ingredients offer longer-lasting protection: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and para-menthane-diol. An ingredient that is registered with the EPA is not expected to produce harmful effects to human health or to the environment when used as the product label indicates. The following are recommendations offered by the EPA, to help you use insect repellent sprays safely and effectively: Follow directions on product label Apply repellent only to exposed skin and/or clothing; do not apply repellent under clothing Avoid spraying over cuts, wounds or irritated skin Do not spray on eyes or mouth, and spray only lightly around earlobes Do not allow young children to spray themselves. Spray child, avoiding child’s hands, as children may put hands in their eyes and mouth Do not spray directly on face. Spray on hands, then apply to face Applying spray heavily does not provide better protection; use only enough spray to cover exposed skin and clothing Do not spray in enclosed areas Do not spray near food Reapply spray when mosquitoes start to bite Once you go indoors, wash exposed skin with soap and water, or shower If a rash or allergic reaction occurs from the spray, stop use, wash off with soap and water, and call a poison control center Do not use repellents on pets or other animals, unless label states that product is safe for animals Store repellents out of reach of children Most repellents are safe to use on children; however, products with oil of lemon eucalyptus are not recommended for children under 3 years of age. Also, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that products with DEET not be used in infants younger than two months. Repellents are safe for pregnant and nursing women. The following are tips on minimizing your chances of getting bitten. For ticks, avoid tick habitats by: Reducing time spent in possible tick-infested areas, such as tall grass and shrubs Remove dead leaves and mow tall grass or brush Walk in center of trails, avoiding nearby bushes Avoid tick bites by doing these: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and high boots Tuck shirts inside pants and pant legs into socks, to prevent ticks from getting in Wear light-colored clothes, so you can see ticks more easily Check your entire body and your child’s body for ticks; remove any that may attach to you without squeezing them For mosquitoes, avoid bites by removing habitats: Remove standing water in or on objects that mosquitoes could use to breed At least once a week, empty and change water in wading pools, fountains, and potted plant trays Drain or fill temporary pools of water with dirt Swimming pool water should be treated and should circulate Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks. Tuck shirts inside pants, and pants legs into socks to cover gaps. Mosquitoes are most active at sunrise, sunset and in the early evening; stay indoors during those times if mosquitoes are a problem. Keep mosquitoes out of indoors by covering gaps in walls, doors and windows. Use screens. For babies, cover baby carriers and beds with netting. In case of mosquito bites, avoid scratching area, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to relieve itching. With respect to ticks, check yourself and your children thoroughly, including underarms, navels, ears and hair. Next, check your pets, as well as your belongings; ticks can get into sports equipment and into clothes in suitcases, if suitcases are left open. Always inspect clothes before putting them back in suitcase. In the event of a tick bite, quickly remove whole tick without crushing it, then wash your hands and bite area with soap and water. See doctor if unexpected symptoms develop, such as a rash, fever, stiff neck, muscle aches or swollen lymph nodes. Call 911 if person bitten develops: a severe headache, difficulty breathing, paralysis, chest pain or palpitations. By Jamell Andrews

The post Safety Facts About Insect Repellents – and Choosing the Best Brands appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Teaching Kids to Love Nature

Alex — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:27:03 +0000

In an age of growing disconnection between people and nature, many parents find it challenging to instill in their children a sense of appreciation for all that the earth has to offer. In many cases, nature is remote and not easily accessible, while electronics and media are immediately available, and many busy parents understandably go the easier route. But there are numerous benefits to helping your child appreciate the wonders of the great outdoors, and it is even worth the extra time and effort. Even if you cannot make it an everyday thing, exposing your children to nature regularly will have great short- and long-term benefits. Why raise nature lovers? When it comes to raising children who appreciate nature, there are too many benefits to name, so here are just a few of the most important and obvious ones: Being outdoors means exercise: It is a very simple formula. When your child is indoors, he or she is likely to be engaged in sedentary activities. Outdoors, one is much more likely to walk, run, and play, activities which of course contribute to good health. Nature is educational: Even if you do not make a conscious effort to teach your child things about the outdoors, he or she will inevitably learn things simply by being out there and seeing new things. It is all about broadening your child’s horizons Family bonding: Time spent together in nature is much more nurturing to your family connection than being indoors engaged in isolated activities. When you are on a hike, for instance, you might not talk continuously the whole way, but it will be quality together time that allows you and your family to stay connected and get to know each other in new ways It is good for the world: With the looming threats of global climate change and resource depletion, our children may grow up to face greater natural challenges than any preceding generation, and those who are well-versed in all nature has to offer are better equipped to face these challenges knowing what is at stake. By instilling in your child a sense of appreciation for nature, you are doing a favor for future generations Bridging the gap Many children are more than willing to get outdoors and engage in new activities, but it is not always as easy as we might wish. If you are not sure how to make it happen, here are some of the most valuable tips. Make it a routine: During seasons of pleasant weather, go on an extensive daylong nature outing with the whole family at least once a month, and do less ambitious outdoor activities even more often Be satisfied with small outings: When things are hectic in the household, you do not have to add to the stress and the chaos by planning some long, involved nature outing that takes everyone away from their responsibilities for extensive periods. Do not be afraid to settle for a trip to the local park if that is what it takes to get your family outdoors. Try to be ambitious, but do not beat yourself up if life makes it hard Be an expert: Make sure that you yourself are well-versed not just in the many benefits of nature, but also in the specific activities that are available in your area. Know what national and state parks and forests are in your area, know your city parks, and be aware of all the hiking options that are nearby Teaching – Involve others: When it comes to outdoor fun, the more is usually the merrier. Make it known that your children are permitted to bring along friends on your nature trips, and if you live near relatives, make extended-family outings regularly By Marc Courtiol

The post Teaching Kids to Love Nature appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Sibling Rivalry: What Can Parents Do?

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:25:35 +0000

Sibling rivalry can take many forms over the years. When the second child is first born, it can take the form of acting out, regression, and fussiness on the part of the older child. And as the kids grow up, it can turn into arguing, physical fighting, and deep feelings of jealousy and resentment. Most sibling rivalry is more of an annoyance than a serious problem, but it can become emotionally taxing to parents who had hoped their children would get along and love each other. There are a few points to keep in mind that might help you cope emotionally with your children’s rivalry. First, a little fighting does not mean your children do not love each other. Second, remember that a little competition is natural, and that it may actually help build certain skills in your children. Third, keep in mind that children who fight often go on to be best of friends when they get older. And fourth, you are not alone. Virtually every multi-child family must deal with sibling rivalry at one time or another. What causes sibling rivalry? In most cases, the causes of sibling rivalry actually are not so deep. It is just a competition for parental love and attention. At any given time, one child may feel that the other is getting more, and this may lead to bad feelings, even if the feelings are unconscious. At different times in a child’s development, these feelings may be more intense than at others. Meanwhile, some kids are just temperamentally more combative than others. Perhaps one of your children is continually picking fights with another, who usually does not start the conflict. In such cases, it is the parents’ job to moderate the rivalry without seeming to favor the gentler child over the more combative one. Also, it has been shown that kids who live in conflict-ridden households are more likely to fight with their siblings. When parents frequently fight openly within earshot of their kids, for this behavior to rub off on the children is only natural. That is one reason why parents who want to avoid sibling rivalry should argue privately if they must argue at all. What should parents do? Parenting experts recommend that mom and dad stay uninvolved in sibling arguments for as long as possible. By getting involved, you teach the children that they can always turn to you when they have an argument, and you risk being perceived as taking sides or protecting one child over the other. If you feel you must get involved, start by merely trying to guide the kids to their own resolution, warning them in the process not to call names or be abusive to one another. In short, it is best for everyone if the kids can learn how to solve their disagreements without parental intervention. And when you decide to intervene, the goal should be to deflate the situation so everyone has time to calm down and the disagreement can de-escalate. Often, kids just need a little time apart to get over their feelings. And in the meantime, try not to place blame on anyone. Here are a few other tips that can help parents deal with sibling rivalries: Discourage kids from talking about what is or is not “fair.” Let them know that things are not always equal, and that they both need different things at different times. Make sure each child gets plenty of one-on-one attention, and encourage each individually to pursue his or her interests and be who he or she wants to be. Make sure the children get time apart from each other. Make it clear that they need to love each other even though they fight. Banish words like “hate” and other extreme terms. If the kids commonly fight over certain items or activities, set a schedule for when each child gets a turn. If it becomes too much for you to handle, consider seeing a family counselor. By Lisa Pecos

The post Sibling Rivalry: What Can Parents Do? appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Amber Alerts – What to Do in Case Your Child Goes Missing

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:52:10 +0000

It is one of every parent’s worse nightmares. You take your eye off your child for a minute only to find her gone when you turn around. Or one day he does not get home from school at the normal time. Or she goes outside to play and does not come back in. Scenarios like these are fortunately uncommon, and when they do happen there is usually a good explanation, and it is usually pretty easy to find the temporarily missing child. But what about those very rare cases where the child is not easily found? If this should happen to you, your first instinct may be to panic. Any parent would. But it is important to keep a level head, think rationally, and do what needs to be done. Should the unthinkable happen and you cannot find your child, here is what you need to do. Step 1: Someone who knows the child should be out actively looking while you are going through the first few steps of the process. If you wish to be the one out looking, have someone else go through these steps on your behalf. Ideally, multiple people should be out looking-at least one person on foot around where the child went missing, and at least one other person searching the surrounding area via car. But make sure someone is always at home. Step 2: If there was ever an emergency, this is it. Pick up the phone and dial 911. Do not worry-they will not dismiss you or tell you your case is not an emergency. Calmly inform them of how long your child has been missing, and give them all the relevant information they need. They will likely ask take you through a process that involves a series of questions about your child’s age, appearance, clothing, and last known whereabouts. If you do not feel your call is being treated seriously enough, ask to speak to someone in charge. Step 3: Notify other authorities of the missing child. Your 911 call will get the ball rolling on some crucial aspects of the investigation, and they may tell you that you do not need to call anyone else. But just to cover all bases, call the local police as well as any other police departments whose jurisdiction covers the area where your child went missing. You might also get in touch with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Each of these resources should have a process for dealing with missing children. Step 4: Notify local media. Many local news sources are always willing to help out in cases like this by sending out alerts and notifying their viewers and readers to be on the lookout. Step 5: Contact organizations devoted to finding missing children. A great place to start is the National Center for Missing and Exploiting Children, and you may be able to locate nonprofits in your area with expertise in helping out in this kind of situation. Step 6: Ask for help from those around you. This is going to be a difficult time for you. And even if your child comes home safely very soon you are likely to suffer frayed nerves for a while. Get in touch with anyone who you think would be able and willing to drop everything and help you. And if you do not have any close friends or family nearby, ask neighbors. In situations like these, most people are willing to lend a hand, even if they do not know you. Step 7: Follow up on everything. If you feel the law enforcement agencies are taking too long to investigate your case or get back to you, do not be afraid to call and visit them multiple times. Meanwhile, keep taking matters into your own hands. Keep searching actively and calling around to anyone who might know something. Do not give up hope. Despite all frightening stories we hear on the news, keep in mind that the vast majority of missing-child cases have happy endings. By Marc Courtiol

The post Amber Alerts – What to Do in Case Your Child Goes Missing appeared first on Parenting Journals.

How Safe Are Sunscreens Ingredients?

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 17 May 2011 21:33:33 +0000

When people go to the store to buy sunscreen, they assume that the products they purchase are safe and effective. Whether you purchase sunscreen for trips to the beach, lounging poolside, or for everyday protection against the sun’s rays, you probably expect to be able to rely on your sunscreen to protect you from sun damage. The reality, however, is that the majority of sunscreens in the United States offer inadequate protection from the sun. Many of them also contain ingredients that are harmful to our health. Harmful Ingredients When you consider the fact that many Americans rely on sunscreens to protect them from sunburns and skin cancer, it is a bit shocking to realize that some manufacturers use ingredients that are actually harmful to our health. Approximately 1 out of every 9 brands of sunscreen does not offer protection from UVA radiation. UVA rays are the ones that are linked to immune system problems, skin damage and aging, and possibly skin cancer. Though the FDA does not currently require that manufacturers include protection from UVA radiation, the better sunscreens offer it anyway. UVB rays cause sunburn, and while most sunscreens do provide at least some protection against these harmful rays, most of the products contain ingredients that break down in the sun. These chemical breakdowns can occur in minutes or hours, and when it happens, UV radiation gets through to our skin. In fact, some of the chemicals in sunscreens release free radicals in sunlight, causing damage to our DNA and cells. Others build up over time in our bodies or the environment. Keeping this in mind, consumers would be wise to exercise caution when relying on sunscreen labels to determine how long their sunscreen is going to be effective, or if it is actually going to be effective at all. Independent research has shown that there are more than 600 products on the market containing sunscreens that are unstable and break down in the sun. Some of these unstable ingredients are: Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate) Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) Avobenzone (Parsol 1789, Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane) Nano titanium dioxide How to find safe Sunscreens If you want to find the safest sunscreens, you can check out the Environmental Working Group’s website. The EWG is a non-profit organization that provides information to help protect public health and the environment. They recommend several different brands of sunscreens that they have tested. They also provide complete breakdowns of the ingredients in each product tested so that consumers can clearly see which ingredients pose a certain risk and learn why they are hazardous. It is difficult to guess at what the far-reaching health implications may be regarding our continuous exposure to the hazardous chemicals that are used in so many sunscreens. Companies are not required by the federal government to test the ingredients that they are putting into sunscreens before they put them on the market, so it is difficult to tell at this point just how damaging these products may wind up being. To be safe, do your research before purchasing any products. Staying informed is the best way to keep your family, and yourself, safe and healthy. By Jamell Andrews

The post How Safe Are Sunscreens Ingredients? appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Dining Out With Children: Should It Ever Be Okay?

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 20:17:56 +0000

By Lisa Pecos When it comes to dining with children, too many parents fall into the trap of thinking that the rest of the world should happily accommodate their children without complaint. Because we love our children so much, it is easy to forget that other people may not be as charmed by them. This is especially true in grownup restaurants, where diners expect to be able to have a quiet, relaxed meal without someone else’s loud kids running around and disrupting one’s meal. No one likes to think of themselves as one of those parents who show disregard for others in public places, but given all the things we have to worry about as parents, it is surprisingly easy to fall into this trap without realizing it. If you want to make sure you do not become one of those parents, here are some things to keep in mind about dining with children. Follow the unwritten rules Although some restaurants do explicitly forbid children at least during peak hours, many restaurants have no such prohibition. However, it is important to realize that a lack of prohibition does not necessarily mean that eating with children in a certain restaurant is always okay. You could argue that it is a free country and that you can take your kids anywhere, but while that is true, we also have to respect other people, which means following certain unwritten rules. One of the most important unwritten rules about dining with children is that date-friendly establishments are off-limits. When considering a restaurant, think about whether there may be couples there seeking a quiet, romantic meal. If so, understand that having noisy young children at the next table can kill the mood quickly. Meanwhile, it is also a good idea to avoid restaurants that advertise themselves as fine dining establishments, as they generally seek to create a sophisticated and grownup atmosphere. Another unwritten rule is that no one outside of your family should be expected to make sure your kids behave. That responsibility falls entirely on your shoulders, which means that you are in charge of ensuring that your child stays seated, keeps his or her voice down, and does not make a mess. This may seem obvious, but ask anyone who has ever been a waiter at a family restaurant and they’ll tell you that a shocking number parents neglect this basic rule. Dining out with children When seeking a place to dine out with the whole family, places that advertise themselves as “family restaurants” are the best choices. These places are accustomed to dealing with children and should be able to offer things like high chairs as well as coloring mats and crayons to keep kids occupied. In fact, that is another good sign-if you enter a restaurant and see crayons on the tables, then it is a child-friendly establishment. Also, you can check restaurant web sites to see if they have kids’ menus. But even in child-friendly restaurants, parents still need to do certain things to make sure it goes well. For example, it cannot hurt to dine during off-peak hours such as the mid-afternoon or early evening, and it is a good idea to ask for a table that is far away from other diners. Then, parents should try to keep their kids seated and well-behaved. And in the event that a tantrum occurs, it is best to end the situation immediately, before it worsens. Rather than allowing the child to rage and disturb all the other patrons, have an adult take the child outside until he or she calms down.

The post Dining Out With Children: Should It Ever Be Okay? appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Are Sunscreens Harmful for Kids Health

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:01:27 +0000

When choosing a sunscreen for your kids health, the greatest urge may be to simply grab something off the shelf of your local drug store. There are a variety of sunscreens that are specifically marketed for children, but in reality the formulations of these sunscreens are not really that much different than the ones you find in regular formulas that are marketed for adults. Harmful Ingredients Unfortunately , there are a number of ingredients used in sunscreens that are known to be harmful to our health. Some of these ingredients can be even more dangerous to the developing bodies of children. So, when shopping for a sunscreen for your children, what type should you buy? The most important thing to remember is that there are some ingredients that you need to avoid when shopping for sunscreens. Some of the most dangerous ones include the following: Parabens (butyl-,ethyl-,methyl-, and propyl-) are preservatives commonly used in sunscreens, so it may be a bit of a challenge to try avoiding them. Parabens are known to accumulate in the breast tissue of women with breast cancer and they have also produced abnormal hormonal effects within laboratory rodents. PABA causes a DNA defect in human cells, so it has been removed from most sunscreens. Make sure you read labels, however, to be sure that this ingredient is not listed in a product you buy. PABA is a dangerous chemical and it should always be avoided. Padimate-O and Parsol 1789 (Avobenzone) are chemicals designed to prevent UV damage, but they have actually been shown to cause DNA damage after being absorbed into the skin. Some evidence suggests that sunlight exposure is what actually causes the chemicals to react, resulting in free radical damage. Benzophenone (benzophenone-3), homosalate, and octy-methoxycinnamate (octinoxate) have been shown to produce estrogenic effects after being absorbed into the skin. They are also linked to allergies and cell damage. These have been so widely used that the Centers for Disease Control estimates that about 97% of people in the United States are contaminated with these chemicals. Which Ingredients should you look for? The fact of the matter is that you should actively avoid most of the sunscreens that are sold in drug and discount stores. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the two safest choices when checking out sunscreen ingredients because they reflect the sun’s rays off of your skin rather than absorbing them. There is also a lesser risk of these particular ingredients building up inside the body, which of course makes them safer for long-term use. It is important to choose a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15, but it is really not necessary to choose a product with one higher than about 30. You should also be prepared to reapply your child’s sunscreen every hour or so, particularly if he or she is going to be out in the sun for an extended period of time. You should reapply the sunscreen regularly, even if a sunscreen claims to be waterproof. If you are concerned about the overall safety of sunscreens, you should take the time to research specific products and/or ingredients before making any purchases. There are some websites that offer analyses of products and ingredients in an effort to alert consumers to those products that many experts consider to be dangerous. However, if you look for products that contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide you should be able to feel confident that you have chosen the safest possible product for your child’s health and sun safety. Unfortunately, there are a number of ingredients used in sunscreens that are known to be harmful to our health. Some of these ingredients can be even more dangerous to the developing bodies of children. By Andrew Van Vooren Sources Used 1. Treadwell, Patricia. “What kind of sunscreen is best for children?” BabyCenter.com. http://www.babycenter.com/404_what-kind-of-sunscreen-is-best-for-children_ 70547.bc. Accessed 21 September 2009. 2. “Safe Sunscreens for the Family.” NatureMoms.com. http://www.naturemoms.com/blog/ 2008/04/21/safe-sunscreens/. Accessed 21 September 2009.

The post Are Sunscreens Harmful for Kids Health appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Surprising Secrets to a Successful Summer

Danica Hoppe — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 22:02:54 +0000

by Toni Schutta You’re probably busy planning every detail so your kids can have a memorable summer packed with vacations, summer camps, sports activities and more. As you finish your planning, be sure to allow time for three surprising activities that are research-proven to help your child’s emotional, neurological and physical well-being. Secret #1: Allow time each day for unstructured, child-directed play (or free time for adolescents). Research is emerging that the hectic lifestyle that many parents have chosen for their children may be harmful to a child’s development. Remember when you were growing up and you just went outside to play? It turns out that the fun you had using your imagination, playing tag and hanging out with other kids was actually causing nerve growth in the frontal cortex of your brain which controls the executive controls, along with numerous other positive neurological developments. There are other benefits to play: it requires attention and sharpens the senses; it demands mental dexterity and flexibility; it thrives on possibility; it expands human variability; it expands our nervous system; it allows us to take risks and try on new roles; it teaches kids how to get along with others and control themselves; it encourages creative problem-solving; it fosters decision making, memory, thinking and speeds up mental processing; it reduces aggression; it develops brain cells that exert control over attention, regulate emotions and control behavior. (1) In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics has called unstructured play and free time “essential to development and the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights has recognized play as a right of every child. (2) Many children have limited access to play, however. With the increased marketing machine that urges parents to buy gadgets that will give kids an edge, and to the increased academic pressures from No Child Left Behind, the professionalism of kids’ sports and over-the-top college admissions pressures, parents have succumb to the notion that their child has to be involved in multiple structured activities and has to excel at all of them. Play and free time have decreased rapidly. The amount of free time in unstructured play and outdoor activities decreased from 40% of children’s time in 1981 to just 25% of a child’s day in 1997 (1) and in 2009, that number will be even less. When children do have free time, their favorite activities are TV, computer use and video games, all sedentary pursuits that limit creativity. So what’s a parent to do? Cut back on the number of organized activities your child is in and just let him/her have down time. Provide toys that are conducive to imaginative play. Limit the time your child is on electronic gadgets. Send them outside. Teach them old-fashioned games and let them hang out with the neighbor kids. Your kids may need some ideas to get started. Three websites that provide a listing of fun outdoor games for kids are: http://grandparents.about.com/od/projectsactivities/tp/OutdoorGames.htm http://www.indianchild.com/outdoorgames1.htm and http://familyfun.go.com/games/indoor-outdoor-games/ Secret # 2: Let your child connect with nature. A movement is sweeping the country with the claim that our children have â€œNature-Deficit Disorder. Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Wood, who first coined the term, describes it this way. Nature-deficit disorder is not an official diagnosis but a way of viewing the problem, and describes the human costs of alienation from nature, among them: diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. The disorder can be detected in individuals, families, and communities. (3) Others are reminding us that ‘No Child Left Inside’ should be the goal. In a typical week, only 6 percent of children, ages nine to 13, play outside on their own. (3) Yet the effects of connecting with nature are bountiful. Children are smarter, more cooperative, happier and healthier when they have frequent and varied opportunities for free and unstructured play in the out-of-doors. Green plants and play yards reduce children’s stress. Free play in natural areas enhances children’s cognitive flexibility, problem-solving ability, creativity, self-esteem, and self-discipline. Students score higher on standardized tests when natural environments are integral to schools’ curricula. Effects of attention-deficit disorder are reduced when children have regular access to the out-of-doors. (3) The recommendation is for parents and grandparents to simply take children outdoors and share the joys of connecting with nature. Visiting a park, playing in the backyard or walking in the woods will have restorative powers for stressed out kids and adults. Families who want to take a bigger step can organize a nature club. Here’s a link on how to get started: http://www.childrenandnature.org/downloads/NCFF_toolkit.pdf Secret # 3: Just hang out as a family. The number one factor in keeping children emotionally healthy, drug and alcohol free and out of trouble is the amount of time that they spend with their families, according to Bill Doherty, head of the Family Social Science Department at the University of Minnesota. (4) Doherty shares studies that show sharp declines in the number of conversations that children have with family members, the number of family dinners people share, and the lack of free time that families have for connecting. A warm and limit-setting family is the most important element for kids and that requires a lot of time, time not spent running around. Children need time to daydream, to chill out. We’ve reversed it all, said Doherty. A deep-seated connectedness to and caring about others that create the love, safety and security that children need to thrive is what children need most to survive in an ever-increasingly challenging world, according to an American Academy of Pediatrics report. (2) Family activities such as talking, making meals, playing games and playing sports are some of the best interactions which occur when downtime is allowed, the report concluded. The tried and true method for helping children be successful is family time. Doherty and co-creator Barbara Carlson have a web-site (and a movement) called www.puttingfamilyfirst.org that provides parents with tools for putting the breaks on over scheduling

The post Surprising Secrets to a Successful Summer appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Road Trip Bliss – 5 Tips for Enjoy Road Trips with Your Family

Danica Hoppe — Tue, 05 May 2009 22:20:16 +0000

By Sylvia Wells Road Trip Bliss Being from a family of five children that used to take extensive road trips to Newfoundland each and every summer, I have a strange fondness for car trips with the kids. I know you’re thinking that I’m crazy, but they really can be fun if you consider them in the right light. What you want your children to remember of their trip is not Dad yelling at everyone to be quiet and Mom quietly sobbing out of frustration in the front seat. You want them to remember the good stuff, and they will if you can keep your cool and consider the fact that being trapped in a car together for hours on end is actually a good thing. Your kids can’t ignore you. They can’t walk away or hide in their rooms. You have their undivided time and attention while you are all crammed in together. It’s a fabulous opportunity to reconnect with the little rug rats. Time flies and your children are grown and full of attitude before you know it. But time seems to stand still when you’re trying to get to Grandmas five hours north for the holidays. Here are a few tips to keep your cool and enjoy yourself while traveling with the kids: Of course bring the electronic devices. I know it’s the anti-perfect-parent thing to say, but they won’t play them nonstop for the whole trip. Just long enough to stop them from asking ‘Are we there yet?’ ‘How much longer?’ or announcing that they are bored every ten seconds. Thus saving you the frustration of repeating yourself over and over and over again ‘No we’re not there yet’, ‘I don’t know how much further’, ‘So find something to do’. It also gives Mom and Dad a chance to catch up with each other outside of the hustle and bustle of their busy lives and while the kids are preoccupied. Just because the radio is in the front seat doesn’t mean it’s just for the adults. Bring music that everyone likes and enjoys – make a mixed CD and take turns playing everyone’s favourite song. The diversity in music should be entertainment enough and will make everyone feel special. Don’t forget to include Mom and Dad favourites too. Try playing some really catchy oldies by Elvis, Buddy Holly or the Everly Brothers. There’s no harm in education the kids on what ‘real’ music sounds like. When the kids start fighting and the volume of yelling and whining rises from the backseat, do everyone a favour and take a deep breath. Telling them to cut it out or threatening to smack them all á la Larry, Curly, and Moe if they don’t settle down, isn’t going to work. Start by turning off the music which you probably can’t hear at that point anyway. Instead of yelling, which will only compound the noise in the car, clap your hands and announce that it is game time. The first game is who can stop talking the longest. Depending on the age of your children this will actually work. They will get all competitive with each other since they were arguing anyway and try to beat each other out. It may actually go a few rounds so be prepared for some temporary peace and quiet. Bring food. Healthy food that is. You’re just asking for mayhem if you hop the kids up on pop on chocolate during the ride. Some brightly coloured fruits and veggies are all that’s required. They have enough water in them to quench their thirst as well without crying to stop for a bathroom break before you’re scheduled time. A snack is all this in needed before you stop for lunch. Remember to let them burn off some of their newly acquired food energy by running around a bit before getting back into the car. Most places have a grassy area that you can play a quick game of tag on. Don’t pack those pillows. Keep them in the backseat with the kids. Set the mood just as you would at home. Turn off the music or turn it down low and in your soft Mommy voice, suggest that everyone takes a nap. Collect all the gadgets and encourage everyone to get comfortable. Remind them that they will be a lot closer to your destination when they wake up. Take a nap yourself so the kids know to be quiet while you’re sleeping and they will soon follow suit. Traveling with the kids doesn’t have to be a stressful event. Prepare yourself mentally for the road ahead and monopolize on the time together as a family to catch up on everyone’s news, friends, and school. Apply the same principle for short car trips around town; make it a habit to use car time as catch up time. There are no distractions or interruptions from the outside world. Use it to your advantage and you’re children will only have happy family vacation memories when they are older. About the author: Sylvia Wells is a mother of three living in Oakville, Ontario who has recently been published in the Home Decor Journal and Parenting Journal.

The post Road Trip Bliss – 5 Tips for Enjoy Road Trips with Your Family appeared first on Parenting Journals.

Mommy, My Skin Hurts. I Don’t Feel Good.

Andrew — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 21:32:52 +0000

Exposure to the sun is associated with all forms of skin cancer, but the most common type of skin cancer is basal skin cancer. Frequent severe sunburns and intense sun exposure in childhood increase the risk of basal cell skin cancer. Basal cell skin cancers usually appear on sun-exposed areas, most commonly the face and neck, but also on the trunk and legs. The fact that it is showing up in teens and people in their 20s is of great concern to dermatologists. The incidence of basal cell skin cancer in North America is going up by 10% a year. Apply sun protection cream half an hour before your children or infant go outside and reapply it regularly, particularly after they’ve been swimming or got wet. Also, use a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Products with SPFs of 60 offer greater protection but they don’t mean your child can safely spend four times longer in the sun. Sun screens reduce the damage done by the sun’s rays but they don’t block them out completely. You and your children should still cover up with clothes and seek shade during the hottest part of the day. When there is no shade around, dress your children in loose-fitting clothes and give them wide brimmed hats and good-quality sunglasses. The more skin that is covered with clothing, the better. Look for materials with a close weave, because they are best at blocking out harmful ultraviolet rays. Parents should be aware that when clothing gets wet it halves the protection given by the material. Helpful Hints to remember before going out into the sun: • Limit the time in the sun between 10:00AM to 4:00PM. • Apply sunscreen every hour and a half. SPF 30 or greater and make sure it is not expired. • Remember these spots; neck, chin tops of feet and back of hands. • Bring some type of petroleum jelly to protect their lips. • Bring hats and sun glasses for the entire family. Keep them handy all year round. Some tips on how to avoid a struggle with your children applying sunscreen: • Tell your child that sunscreen is a special makeup or paint made just for them. • Try all types for sunscreens like foams, gels, and sprays. • Let your child apply it themselves and then go over it yourself. • Get a kid friendly brand that they identify with, like cartoon character, etc. It is essential that parents change their attitude about spending time in the sun, and where better to start than with their infants and children. Regularly check you and your child’s skin, and contact your doctor notice any irregular color changes in the skin. It’s important that children are taught this sort of information when they are young, because at that age they pick it up easily and it becomes second nature. Children need to get used to wearing sun protection, for it is as essential as eating and brushing their teeth. Remember that a sunburn can ruin your fun day in the sun, but its negative effects can last a life time.

The post Mommy, My Skin Hurts. I Don’t Feel Good. appeared first on Parenting Journals.