Five Daily Oral Health Practices to Teach Your Kids

 

Just because your child’s first teeth will eventually fall out does not mean you should shirk your duty to teach them the best oral health habits. The sooner they learn how to care for their teeth, the better prepared they’ll be for their final set as it slowly grows in.

 

Eating Healthy

While brushing and flossing are probably the first things thought about when asked about oral hygiene, eating healthy is just as important. Fast foods, sugars and other unhealthy snacks promote the growth of bacteria and can open up the mouth to serious problems like cavities and gum disease. Teaching your child healthy eating now will ensure that once they start making food choices on their own, they’ll make the right ones.

 

Flossing Regularly

This is arguably one of the most neglected aspects of dental health when, in reality, it should be one of the most important. Flossing allows your child to disrupt the growth of any harmful bacteria trying to eat through the enamel of their teeth. Dentists recommend teaching kids how to do this only when their primary teeth start growing in.

 

Brushing Properly

The best brush technique is with soft bristles and a pressure no harder than you would use to brush a tomato without breaking its skin. This is because brushing exists to merely wick away external bacteria. If there is too much pressure, damage is done to the teeth and gums. Also, remember to only use a pea-sized drop of toothpaste. That is all that is necessary to obtain a good clean.

 

Drinking Water

Saliva is a very important aspect of our mouths that is often overlooked. Made up from water, it keeps the mouth moist, fights germs, prevents bad breath and contains essential minerals and proteins that naturally prevent gum disease and tooth decay. By drinking enough water, your children are making sure their first line of defense is always strong.

 

Visiting the Dentist

Finally, teach your child that dentist visits are necessary for deep cleans and spotting any potential problems. They are also great resources to discuss your current methods of cleaning your teeth and if what you’re doing is enough. One visit every six months from your child’s first tooth eruption is believed to be the optimal schedule.

 

Take time to show your kids these healthy daily practices to guarantee they will have nothing but beautiful smiles as they get older. Good dental health habits can be life-long, especially with a good childhood foundation.

 

Informational Credit to Advanced Family Dental Care LLC

Categories: Child, daily, dental health, eating healthy, Gum Disease, health, health habits, Kids, nbsp, oral health, teach, teeth

5 Ways Your Child’s Health Benefits by Going to the Dentist

 

Many adults and children alike have a fear of going to the dentist that can prevent them from going in for regular cleanings. Your dental insurance plan should allow your children to receive two cleanings per year, and it’s essential for you to make these appointments. You’ll build healthy habits in your child that will last a lifetime.

 

Building Healthy Oral Habits

The dentist or hygienist will help teach your child the proper way to care for his teeth. She’ll give him a new toothbrush and tooth paste, along with some floss. She’ll ask him to show how he does it and give some tips to make it better. As kids get older, they don’t always allow the parents to brush their teeth for them, so it’s nice to have an outside person stressing the importance.

 

Finding Problems Early

A visit to the dentist should include yearly x-rays and a checkup in addition to the cleaning. This can alert you to problems with the teeth, such as cavities. Catching and fixing these problems early can prevent them from turning into bigger problems.

 

Getting a Thorough Cleaning

No matter how good your child is about brushing his teeth, there are likely to be areas that he’s missing. The thorough cleaning that he’ll get at the dentist will scrape away plaque in hard-to-reach areas. This is an essential step in preventing cavities and gum disease.

 

Sealing the Teeth

Once the adult teeth come in, the dentist often offers the option of “sealing” the teeth. In this process, the dentist will place a hard enamel over the adult tooth that protects the tooth from getting cavities. The enamel doesn’t last forever and will have to be periodically replaced, but this process can be a big help to any child who has “bumpy” teeth, or teeth that have nooks where food particles can hide.

 

Routine Dental Visits

It is important to establish a routine with your kids. According to Smith Family Dental, part of this routine should include taking your child to the dentist for his or her twice-yearly checkup. This should help to remove some of the fear that’s associated with the dentist. When he grows up, he’ll hopefully be able to continue going to the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups, and this will keep his teeth in good shape.

 

Going to the dentist isn’t always a fun thing to do, but it’s a good habit to have for dental health. Starting your child from an early age can make the process a lot easier.

 

The post 5 Ways Your Child’s Health Benefits by Going to the Dentist appeared first on .

Categories: Child, Dentist, Health Benefits, nbsp, problems, problems early, regular cleanings, teeth

5 Ways Your Child’s Health Benefits by Going to the Dentist

 

Many adults and children alike have a fear of going to the dentist that can prevent them from going in for regular cleanings. Your dental insurance plan should allow your children to receive two cleanings per year, and it’s essential for you to make these appointments. You’ll build healthy habits in your child that will last a lifetime.

 

Building Healthy Oral Habits

The dentist or hygienist will help teach your child the proper way to care for his teeth. She’ll give him a new toothbrush and tooth paste, along with some floss. She’ll ask him to show how he does it and give some tips to make it better. As kids get older, they don’t always allow the parents to brush their teeth for them, so it’s nice to have an outside person stressing the importance.

 

Finding Problems Early

A visit to the dentist should include yearly x-rays and a checkup in addition to the cleaning. This can alert you to problems with the teeth, such as cavities. Catching and fixing these problems early can prevent them from turning into bigger problems.

 

Getting a Thorough Cleaning

No matter how good your child is about brushing his teeth, there are likely to be areas that he’s missing. The thorough cleaning that he’ll get at the dentist will scrape away plaque in hard-to-reach areas. This is an essential step in preventing cavities and gum disease.

 

Sealing the Teeth

Once the adult teeth come in, the dentist often offers the option of “sealing” the teeth. In this process, the dentist will place a hard enamel over the adult tooth that protects the tooth from getting cavities. The enamel doesn’t last forever and will have to be periodically replaced, but this process can be a big help to any child who has “bumpy” teeth, or teeth that have nooks where food particles can hide.

 

Routine Dental Visits

It is important to establish a routine with your kids. According to Smith Family Dental, part of this routine should include taking your child to the dentist for his or her twice-yearly checkup. This should help to remove some of the fear that’s associated with the dentist. When he grows up, he’ll hopefully be able to continue going to the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups, and this will keep his teeth in good shape.

 

Going to the dentist isn’t always a fun thing to do, but it’s a good habit to have for dental health. Starting your child from an early age can make the process a lot easier.

 

The post 5 Ways Your Child’s Health Benefits by Going to the Dentist appeared first on .

Categories: Child, Dentist, Health Benefits, nbsp, problems, problems early, regular cleanings, teeth

5 Ways Your Child’s Health Benefits by Going to the Dentist

 

Many adults and children alike have a fear of going to the dentist that can prevent them from going in for regular cleanings. Your dental insurance plan should allow your children to receive two cleanings per year, and it’s essential for you to make these appointments. You’ll build healthy habits in your child that will last a lifetime.

 

Building Healthy Oral Habits

The dentist or hygienist will help teach your child the proper way to care for his teeth. She’ll give him a new toothbrush and tooth paste, along with some floss. She’ll ask him to show how he does it and give some tips to make it better. As kids get older, they don’t always allow the parents to brush their teeth for them, so it’s nice to have an outside person stressing the importance.

 

Finding Problems Early

A visit to the dentist should include yearly x-rays and a checkup in addition to the cleaning. This can alert you to problems with the teeth, such as cavities. Catching and fixing these problems early can prevent them from turning into bigger problems.

 

Getting a Thorough Cleaning

No matter how good your child is about brushing his teeth, there are likely to be areas that he’s missing. The thorough cleaning that he’ll get at the dentist will scrape away plaque in hard-to-reach areas. This is an essential step in preventing cavities and gum disease.

 

Sealing the Teeth

Once the adult teeth come in, the dentist often offers the option of “sealing” the teeth. In this process, the dentist will place a hard enamel over the adult tooth that protects the tooth from getting cavities. The enamel doesn’t last forever and will have to be periodically replaced, but this process can be a big help to any child who has “bumpy” teeth, or teeth that have nooks where food particles can hide.

 

Routine Dental Visits

It is important to establish a routine with your kids. According to Smith Family Dental, part of this routine should include taking your child to the dentist for his or her twice-yearly checkup. This should help to remove some of the fear that’s associated with the dentist. When he grows up, he’ll hopefully be able to continue going to the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups, and this will keep his teeth in good shape.

 

Going to the dentist isn’t always a fun thing to do, but it’s a good habit to have for dental health. Starting your child from an early age can make the process a lot easier.

 

The post 5 Ways Your Child’s Health Benefits by Going to the Dentist appeared first on .

Categories: Child, Dentist, Health Benefits, nbsp, problems, problems early, regular cleanings, teeth

Should I Put My Child on a Diet?

 

Written by Jenny Catton

 

All parents want the best for their children and this includes making sure they are physically healthy and confident about their own body image. But getting children to eat well, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy lifestyle can sometimes be a challenge. Media reports are regularly suggesting that childhood obesity is increasing but if you feel your child is at risk of becoming overweight, is it right to put them on a diet?

 

Yes – Tanisha

By the time she was ten, my daughter was a lot heavier than her classmates. She was getting to the age where clothes and her appearance were becoming really important and I could tell that she was becoming upset about being bigger than all of her friends. I really didn’t want her to end up struggling with her weight all of her life – as I have and so I suggested that we both start a new diet.

By planning our diet together, I was able to supervise exactly what she ate. It gave me the opportunity to teach her about healthy foods and help motivate her not to turn to the sugary snacks that she loves. Every Friday we weigh ourselves and if we’ve hit our target for the week, we’ll reward ourselves with a trip to the cinema or some new clothes.

If your child is overweight then I think the right thing to do is put them on a diet. If you don’t, they will continue to put on weight and then it’s only a matter of time before doctors, teachers or their classmates start to make comments about their weight – and this is far more upsetting for children. Hopefully by putting my child on a diet at this age, she will grow up to eat healthily and maintain a normal weight for the rest of her life.

 

 

No – Gillian

Children are still growing well into their late teens and so putting them on a diet at a young age isn’t a good idea. Quite often a chubby child will lose their puppy fat naturally as they grow up and so diets often aren’t necessary for children.

I think it can be really harmful to talk to young children about diets and body shape. It can cause them to become obsessed about food which can then lead to eating disorders. It’s far better to encourage children to feel happy and confident in themselves, whatever their shape happens to be.

In our household, we all eat healthily most of the time. This means that our children have naturally stayed at a healthy weight and there has never been any need to suggest that they should diet. If I was worried about my children putting on weight, I wouldn’t mention it to them. Instead, I’d just change the habits of the whole family – perhaps by buying fewer treats.

Our culture is obsessed with image and it’s really sad to see young people obsessing over whether they ‘look right’. So many adults are on endless diets and encouraging children to diet just starts them on this path from a young age.

Categories: catton, Child, Children, diet, diet nbsp, eat healthily, jenny, nbsp, weight, written, young age

How to Get Your Child to Eat Healthy

 

 

Many kids have difficulty eating. They will fuss about having to consume a plate of vegetables, meats and fruits. Some kids literally look sick when they see healthy foods, but they do not have the same reaction to tasty treats such as a chocolate bar or a cupcake.

Children need proper food to grow and the only way you can get them to eat is by doing the following things:

 

• Make healthy treats

If your child likes eating cupcakes and cookies, you can bake them at home and substitute most of the unhealthy ingredients for the healthy ones. You can use honey or agave in place of sugar. You can also add some nuts, currants, berries, grated carrots or zucchini.

This way, you give the child what she or he wants, with the added benefit of health.

 

• Create an eating schedule

Children need to eat regularly especially if they are very active; when a child is suffering from low blood sugar, their craving for high sugar foods increases. They could also become cranky and refuse to eat altogether.

 

• Learn to substitute

Some kids dislike particular foods, but have no problem eating others. You should learn what your child likes or dislikes and substitute. For instance, if your child does not like pumpkin, there is no point in making him or her eat it. Substitute with zucchini or butternut instead.

You can also substitute beef steak with healthy treats like grass fed beef sticks, which your child can feed on any time of the day.

 

• Serve smaller quantities

It is better to have your child eat 5 to 6 times a day, and in smaller quantities, than it is to serve large quantities 3 times a day.

Part of the reason that kids refuse to eat is when the food looks too much. Kids feel really grown when they are able to clear their plate and they will even show off about it.

Serve in smaller quantities and your child will be encouraged to eat more.

 

• Make the meals interesting

If your child will not eat fruit, make a fruit smiley face with a variety of colorful fruits such as mango, melon, berries and currants.

Most children have a problem eating breakfast. You can make your pancakes into interesting shapes that your child will look forward to eating. For instance, the ginger bread man.

• Blend vegetables into a smoothie

Most children dislike vegetables and the more you urge them to eat their vegetables, the more they will detest them.

It is better to serve them in a juice. Add the vegetables to a fruit juice to mask the taste. You can sweeten the juice with some natural sweeteners to make it more delicious.

 

• Don’t make separate meals for your kids

You don’t want to show your kids that they can control what they eat. Your kids need to know that the meal you make is for the whole family.

Making separate meals is tiresome and expensive.

 

• Cook with your kids

Allow your kids to participate in the cooking process as they will naturally want to eat what they have made. They can even name their signature dishes. This process can include all types of meals from salads to main dishes.

 

Categories: Child, Eat, Healthy

Allergies in the Classroom

 

If your child suffers from allergies you’ve probably taken steps to reduce the number of allergens in your home environment. But when it comes to taking your child outside the home, you have much less control. And of course, a large chunk of your child’s time is spent in the school environment. If your child suffers from severe allergies, you may need to speak to your school about a plan to help your child deal with allergic triggers in the classroom.

According to the Journal of Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 50 percent of children in the UK suffer from an allergy. Common childhood allergies include asthma, rhinitis and eczema – all of which can be triggered by allergens found in the classroom such as dust mites and pet hair which can be carried in on the clothing of other children.

 

Carpets and Clutter

Suffering from allergic reactions whilst at school is not only uncomfortable but can also impact heavily on a child’s ability to concentrate during lessons. If your child’s allergies are triggered in the classroom, the school should be willing to help. One major problem, particularly in primary school, is that children are often asked to sit on the floor where there may be a greater number of dust mites and other indoor allergens. Some schools have taken steps to replace traditional carpets with flooring that is specifically designed to reduce allergens. Other things that the school can do include keeping classrooms well ventilated and ensuring that rooms are kept clear of unnecessary clutter.

 

Managing Medication

If your child has other serious allergies – such as food allergies or an allergy to insect bites or stings, it’s important to make the school aware of the risks they face. Make sure your child understands their allergy, its triggers and how to treat a reaction. You should also arrange a meeting with the school before the start of term to ensure that your child’s teachers know what to do if your child suffers from an allergic reaction whilst at school. It’s a good idea to give teachers written information about the allergy and an allergy management plan for your child – particularly if the allergy is less common.

Staff at the school should feel confident helping your child with medication if necessary and should know what to do in an emergency. If your child has an auto injector pen for use in emergencies, your doctor may be able to provide a training session to show school staff how to use it.

If your child has a serious food allergy, the school may write to other parents asking them not to include a particular ingredient in their own child’s packed lunch.

 

Planning for the Unexpected

Of course, the school day does not always follow the same pattern and there may be times when children take a lesson outdoors, go on a trip, or have visitors coming into the school. It’s worth discussing with your child’s teachers about any unusual lesson plans that are coming up each term so you can assess any risks and take action. Cookery demonstrations, visits by exotic animals, or craft workshops may all feature allergic triggers that are not normally found in the classroom.

 

For more information about dealing with allergies at school, visit: www.allergyuk.org

Categories: allergic triggers, allergies, allergy, Child, child suffers, classroom, Dust Mites, School

Keira Knightley Named Most Stylish Mother-to-be Over Kate Middleton

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Pregnant actress Keira Knightley has been voted most stylish mother-to-be.

The 29-year-old Atonement actress, who is expecting her first child with her husband James Righton, fought off tough competition from the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton in a poll by baby brand My1stYears.com, reported Hello! magazine.

“We were surprised that Keira beat Kate in this poll as usually the Duchess is so popular with the nation. However Keira has more than proved herself the top spot with her effortless Chanel chic on the red carpet and with her recent Oscar nomination, we can’t wait to see what she wears on the night,” a spokesperson said.

Actress Jacqueline Jossa, who stars on the BBC One soap EastEnders and is expecting her first child with The Only Way Is Essex hunk Dan Osbourne, was voted third.

The Saturdays‘ Frankie Bridge came in fourth place after announcing she is pregnant with her second child with footballer Wayne Bridge, while Abbey Clancy, the wife of footballer Peter Crouch – who is also expecting for the second time – came fifth.

Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch’s fiancee Sophie Hunter received seven per cent of the vote to take the sixth spot.

Categories: actress, Child, expecting, kate, Kate Middleton, keira, keira knightley, stylish mother

Basic things to know before you take your child to the dentist for braces

 

 

As your kid grows up, it might be necessary to get him/her fitted with braces. This is a big decision for both of you.

Though the following downsides might deter you from getting braces,

• Braces are expensive


• They might make your child feel awkward

You should consider the benefits and stop at nothing to get them:

• Braces will give your child a better smile in later years


• Correct a life threatening dental problem

 

How to determine your child needs braces

Your child may be a suitable candidate for braces if he or she has the following.

• Twisted teeth, some teeth visibly overlapping or crowding others


• Misalignment of upper and lower jaws resulting in under bite or overbite


• Children who suck their thumbs tend to have protruding upper teeth


• Accidents and tooth decay

If your dentist refers you to an orthodontist, make the appointment as soon as possible. The orthodontist will take x-rays and perform a couple of other tests to decide on the best treatment procedure. See more about orthodontic procedures at http://ddsconnections.com/.

 

Braces to choose from

Braces bring teeth into proper alignment by applying pressure to the teeth over a couple of years.

• Metallic braces-They are very visible and have wires to move the teeth and colorful bands to align them.


• Porcelain brace-They are white in color and are not easy to notice.


• Lingual braces-They sit behind the teeth therefore they are not visible.


• Clear braces-They are invisible and are recommended if there is no bite problem. They are removable and instead of using wires and bands, they use aligners, which are made of plastic.


• Headgear-Which is only worn at night to pull back the hind teeth in order to create room for the front teeth.


• Dental retainer-This is used after the braces have been removed to prevent the dental problem from recurring.

Braces need to stay on for up to 2 years (could be more or less time as the orthodontist sees fit).

 

How to care for your child’s teeth after getting braces

It is harder to care for teeth with braces on. Make sure your child is observing the following:

• Makes regular visits to the orthodontist for routine checkup and alterations.


• Cleans teeth after every meal


• Flosses daily after every meal


• Visits the dentist for cleaning and to check for cavities


• Avoids hard foods and sticky foods that can destroy the braces


• Does not eat sugary foods and drinks as they will cause tooth decay


• Does not eat with aligners on

 

Cost of braces

Braces are quite costly. It helps to have insurance, but if you don’t have insurance, try the following:

1. Find out if there is a program within your location that can assist to get braces at a reduced cost. For instance, smiles change lives is a good program supporting American low income families get dental treatment for children below 18.


2. If your child has a life threatening dental condition, contact aid programs within your locality as they are usually better connected in the medical community.


3. Opt for overseas treatment. Do your due diligence a bit more thoroughly.

The earlier you visit the dentist, the better chances you’ll have of reversing badly growing teeth.

 

About the Author

Daniel Kush is an accomplished medical professional with extensive experience in the field of dentistry. He has for the last 10 years contributed to shaping individuals’ lives by changing their smiles. When he is not busy at his practice, he writes about his experiences and useful dental tips.

 

Categories: basic things, braces, Child, Dentist

Pre And Post Nutrition Work Outs For Kids

 

 

It is common knowledge that active kids are usually healthier than those who spend most of their times indoors. In short, you should ensure that your kids participate in outdoor activities like cycling, soccer, running and other sports. This not only promotes socialization but it also makes them healthier and reduces the risk of contracting medical conditions like obesity, hypertension, asthma and cardiac problems. During play, kids usually encounter problems that they have to solve without the need of an adult. By doing this children get skills that they can use to solve skills in their adult life. Food provides energy that is used when playing. Lack of proper diet causes nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath and muscle cramps. The following tips will offer you the best advice about pre and post nutrition work out tips that your kids should follow:

 

 

Before The Work Out

 

· It is highly advisable that you ensure that your kids eat something small before they work out. However, they should play when on a full stomach since this causes sluggishness, nausea and muscle cramps. After eating most of your blood supply goes to the digestive system. This reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your muscles causing cramps and dizziness.

· Prior to working out your children should eat a diet that has proteins, carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. Your child should eat three to four hours before playing or working out. Food takes around three hours to be digested. In essence, energy is provided only by food that is digested and not food that is in the stomach.

· Before working out your child should have a light snack. This provides energy that is needed during the work out.

· When playing the body loses water by sweating. Dehydration causes dizziness, nausea and collapsing in extreme situations. To avoid this child should have a water bottle when playing.

· One of the best ways of hydrating your body is by drinking natural fruit juice. Fruit juice provides water to your body and has vitamins that are needed by the body when working out.

 

 

After Working Out

 

· After working out your body, muscles are strained and deprived of energy. Your child’s post work out nutrition should provide energy and rejuvenate the muscles after exercising.

· You should give your kid a glass of milk or a protein snack. Milk has proteins, vitamins and minerals that recuperate your muscles and repairs worn out body cells.

· One hour after exercising your child should eat carbohydrates, vitamins and proteins. This ensures that your child gets back the energy that was used up when playing or working out. This helps your kid to recover quickly.

· Minerals strengthen the bones and teeth. Strong bones increase stamina and reduce the risk of getting injuries when playing or working out. Proteins repair worn out body cells and also helps you’re your body to recover quickly from diseases and injuries.

You should ensure that you have your Ehic card since it helps you to get subsidized and Free State provided health care in most European countries.

 

 

Categories: Child, exercising, muscle cramps, nutrition

Easy Ways To Ensure Your Family’s Happiness

There are common factors in all happy families which you can adopt in order to ensure your family unit stays close, trusting and happy. These foundations are ones which experts agree are key to a loving, cheerful home.

Cuddle time

You can’t overdose on hugs, so it’s important that you make time to cuddle those close to you. This time spent together, whether you’re reading, playing games or just talking, is vital for maintaining a close bond and helping your children to feel loved. A happy home is one where each member of the household knows their value within the home, and as parents it is your role in helping your children feel loved every day.

Sing together, stay together

The Von Trapp family had the right idea – singing together is a fantastic way to increase closeness as a family and to bond with your siblings and parents. You can make up your own words to your favourite tunes, dance around the house with your children, or use music to motivate the more boring chores such as cleaning their room. However you choose to do it, music can help create wonderful lasting memories for you and your children to look back on.

Make room for fun

Naturally you want your children to do well and this can only happen if you’re encouraging them to do their homework on time and to do well at school. Of course, it can be easy to get too involved with this mind-set and forget that they are just children. It’s vital that, as a happy family, you make time for light-heartedness and fun to lower tension and anxiety. Spend time together doing the things you all enjoy, such as playing games, taking long walks together or cooking.

Exercise together

Take a run or a bike ride to a local park with your children, or plan a day trip to the nearby beach for some swimming and frisbee on the shore. Not only are these outings fun but they also encourage a healthier lifestyle and teach your children the importance of exercise. You may find it a fun activity in finding an exercise you can all enjoy as a family – why not try different things and see what you all like best?

Create healthy habits

On that note, creating habits which will teach your children the importance of staying healthy are great for ensuring your family stays healthy and happy. Junk food is high in salt and sugar, as well as fat, so you should make an effort to create meals and offer snacks which are rich in nutrients and low in these bad additives. You may find that cooking together as a family will help to teach your children about healthy foods, so that they become more interested in the subject. Kids who make meals are generally more inclined to eat them, which is great if you have a fussy eater in the family.

Reward good behaviour

You should encourage good behaviour in your children, but you don’t need a grand extravagant gesture – why not take a trip to the zoo or see a film with a  popcorn treat ? There are plenty of ways to let your kids know you’re happy with their performance in school. It’s also a way to bond with your child – why not spend some time, one on one, each day with your child. Even if it’s just ten minutes, your child will love the attention and that special time they have with you.

Categories: Child, Children, Family, Family Wellness, Happiness, Healthy, playing games, time

Could Colds During Pregnancy Lead To Child Asthma?

Studies suggest that mothers who catch a cold during pregnancy could be more likely to have children who develop asthma, as the bacteria and viruses affect the in-utero environment. Babies who are exposed to the allergens are more likely to become sensitive to them and this could affect them later in life, according to researchers. The new study, which examined the risk of the common cold to unborn children, shows that women who are pregnant should take extra precautions around people who have colds and are sneezing, as it could lead to problems for their children later in life. The mothers infections and bacterial exposure during the pregnancy leads to the environment in the womb being altered. Allergist Dr Mitch Grayson stated that in addition to this, the same children in the study who had early exposure to allergens, including house dust and pet hair, also had increased odds of becoming sensitive by the age of five. When dust mites from the mother and the child’s mattresses were analysed, children with high dust mite exposure yet low bacteria exposure were more likely to develop allergies to dust mites than those with low dust mite exposure and high bacteria exposure.

 

Researchers looked at 513 pregnant women in Germany, and their 526 children. The women completed questionnaires during the pregnancy, when the children were 3 and 12 months old, and then every year up until the children reached five years old. Of the families, 61 per cent of them had a parent with asthma, hay fever or atopic dermatitis. According to the ACAAI, asthma and allergies can be hereditary; if both parents have allergies, the child is as much as 75 per cent more likely to be allergic. If just one parent is allergic, or if a close relative has allergies, then the child has a 30 to 40 per cent chance of developing some form of allergy. This drops to just 10 to 15 per cent if neither parent has an allergy. Researchers claim that they now know for certain that allergies and asthma can develop in the womb, as genetics play an important factor in both diseases. However, this study sheds light on how the environment a mother creates during pregnancy can begin to affect the child before it’s even been born. Asthma is the most common potentially serious medical condition to complicate pregnancy, according to the ACAAI.

 

Asthma affects around 1 in 12 women during their childbearing years, and when women with asthma become pregnant, one third of the patients improve, one third get worse, and one third remain unchanged. Asthma is a serious condition which affects a number of people and has numerous triggers, including house mites, dust, pollen and pollution. As pollution and toxins in the air have increased over the years, the risk of developing respiratory diseases has also increased. There are ways to treat asthma and, depending on the severity of the condition, your child may require medication to maintain it. If you’re concerned about the risk colds and asthma have to your baby, or think your child is developing symptoms of asthma, you should seek advice from your GP as soon as possible. As with any pregnancy, it’s important to stay as healthy as possible, maintain a balanced diet which includes all the nutrients both you and your baby need, and get enough exercise; you should also avoid alcohol and smoking, to maintain good health for both you and your baby.

Categories: Asthma, bacteria exposure, Child, Children, dust mite, Dust Mites, exposure, mite exposure, new study, pregnancy

How to Keep Athletic Kids Happy and Healthy

Getting your children to participate in sports and activities is a fundamental part of their wellbeing. Not only is the exercise good for their health, but the camaraderie of sport helps children to develop their relationship wellness. So how can you as a parent help to keep your growing children happy and healthy as they participate in athletic activities?

 

1. Warm Ups: According to family wellness expert Dr. Kristen Bobik, DC, DABCA, Founder of the Balance Doc, ‘Proper warm up’s along with weight lifting and stretching are common in all childhood athletics. Unfortunately, many children are taught the incorrect methods to these activities, or are allowed to perform them incorrectly on a regular basis. Doing so creates abnormal stressors on the vertebrae, bones, muscles and other tissues. It is key that parents ensure that their children are learning and practicing the correct techniques in these practices. Check in with your child’s coach, watch them during a practice, and follow up by having them show you their technique at home, or on personal time.’

 

2. Diet: ‘Nutrition is something that you can’t afford to mess around with when your child is growing and also an active athlete,’ says Bobik. ‘In order for them to reach their full potential the fuel they put in their body must be good fuel full of vitamins and nutrients that the cells need! Ensuring your child eats a breakfast each morning that includes proteins such as eggs and bacon (yes, bacon can be healthy in moderation and if you purchase a brand that does not cure their product) will start the body’s metabolic process and provide fuel for your child’s morning. Eating a small and healthy meal before and after practices or games will allow replenishment to take place and keep the body’s metabolism operating at its peak.’

 

3. Hydration: Bobik asserts, ‘Hydration is key. The body is comprised primarily of water and without it our brain functioning decreases, or body functions are impaired and serious complications from dehydration can occur. It is recommended that active children need eight to 10 glasses of water per day (80-100 oz.) to maintain optimum performance. Sport-drink products can be skipped, as they often contain ingredients that can work against the hydration efforts of the body. Plain water is the best option for children during their day. It is especially important to keep hydrated during games and practices to ensure optimum athletic performance.’

 

4. Supplements: ‘There have been a number of mainstream news articles questioning the efficiency and health benefits of vitamin supplement use,’ notes Bobik. ‘The facts from these studies are often misconstrued and manipulated to benefit a specific point of view. The reality is that a high quality daily vitamin supplement from a reputable health label can provide a growing child more benefits than harm (if any would actually exist). Taking vitamins as instructed on a label or health care provider ensures that the maximum benefits of the supplement are received. A vitamin supplement will compliment a healthy diet thus producing a healthy body. Caution is given in regards to excessive vitamin use. While some vitamins are water soluble and pass through the urine without negative impact on the body, some vitamins are fat soluble (example – Vitamin D) and cannot be passed in the urine. These fat soluble vitamins remain in the body and will build up, possibly creating negative side effects such as headaches, fatigue and nausea. In addition, avoid trendy supplements like Creatine and other “bulking” or “thinning” agents. They are not designed for children or teens to use and often have negative side effects for children and adults alike.’

Categories: athletic kids, body, Child, Children, Healthy, hydration, Supplements, vitamin, vitamin supplement

Back on the Bus: Helping Your Children After an Accident

When you walk your children down to the bus stop to get to school, you assume they’ll be safe on the ride there. School bus accidents are not terribly common, but they do happen. If your child has been involved in a bus accident on the way to or home from school, there may be injuries to contend with. However, invisible injuries such as post-accident trauma can take their toll too. Children who have been in an accident can oftentimes exhibit real fear and anxiety about getting back on the bus or into a car. So, what’s a parent to do? 

Dealing With The Aftermath

When your child starts exhibiting unusual or fearful behavior after an accident, this can be post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While you may have only heard of this disorder for ex-soldiers or those who have been in kidnapping situations, the simple fact is that PTSD can actually affect anyone who has been involved in even the most minor trauma. According to TraumaHealing(dot)com, trauma can be frightening primarily because it is not well understood. As children mirror your reactions to their trauma, much of it can be avoided by simply keeping your feelings and emotional responses in check.

1) Talk to your child and take note of their responses.

After a school bus accident, take note of your child’s responses. Do they become fearful or tremble at the thought of getting back on the bus? Try to talk to your child and make some mental notes about how they respond. Evasive behavior, refusal to talk or avoiding the subject can all be signs that your kid is suffering beyond normal responses to trauma.  

2) Look for therapeutic options for your child.

If the situation doesn’t seem to be getting better, looking at engaging your child with a therapist or trauma specialist can really help to get them back on track. Try to find a therapist that specializes in children, as they will be able to more easily understand the issues affecting your child. If you’re not sure where to start, visiting your family doctor is a good place to begin. He or she can usually suggest colleagues they feel will be a good fit, as well as prescribe medication to help deal with the traumatic aspects in the interim.

3) Discuss your child’s emotional trauma with an attorney.

When your child needs extra medical attention and therapy, the costs can really add up. A bus accident is not the fault of either you or your child, and the responsible party should be picking up those bills. One New York personal injury attorney states that “school bus accident claims can be very challenging”, as a result of involving the driver, the school system, and in many cases the city as well. A lawyer can help to navigate the laws. They will also be able to let you know what the process and timeline will be for settlements.

Be sure to stay local as well. For example, if the accident happened in New York, NY, you’ll be best-served having a local attorney who has knowledge of both city and state laws.

5) Let your child know their reactions are normal and healthy.

Your child will be looking to you to see how they should be reacting, so try to keep your actions measured and calm so they know it’s okay. However, also let your child know that their reactions to the trauma are both healthy and natural, and something that anyone would experience after an accident. By letting them know that it’s okay to have these feelings, they will be more willing to work through their issues and hopefully come out the other side.

 

Getting your child over the trauma of a school bus accident can take a lot of time and some investment in your kid’s mental health. Look for post-trauma specialists who can help your kid learn to deal with their feelings of anxiety. By setting your child on the right path for recovery,  you’re more likely to see a significant turnaround in how they’re responding to their feelings post-accident.

 

 

Writer Melanie Fleury is not always 100% comfortable with putting her kids on the school bus each day. She learned a lot from the website of The Perecman Firm, a New York personal injury attorney, about the available options if her children are involved in a school bus accident.

 

 

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/wwworks/6098747006/

Categories: accident, accident nbsp, bus, bus accident, Child, Children, injury attorney, nbsp nbsp, personal injury, post accident, school bus, york personal

Shocking Treatment of Child Mental Health Patients

A shocking new report in the news this week has indicated that the mental wellness and wellbeing of child patients is being put at extreme risk due to lack of appropriate facilities. The report shows that an ever-increasing number of children under the age of 18 who are suffering from mental health problems are being sent for treatment in adult psychiatric wards.

 

For this to take place, many children are having to travel away from family and friends to units hundreds of miles across the country.

 

This problem has been highlighted before, and the Department of Health had previously promised that the practice would be stopped by 2010. It is well-known that young people should not be treated in adult psychiatric wards apart from in exceptional circumstances.

 

It is shocking, then, to find that the report this week states that the number of children under the age of 18 who are currently being treated in adult units runs into hundreds, and that the number is actually on the increase.

 

So far in the 2013 – 2014 period, data shows that 350 under 18s have been admitted to adult mental health wards. This compares starkly with 242 – the number of children who were treated in adult facilities just two years previously.

 

Narrowing down the group to under 16s, it was found that 12 children of this age were admitted to adult psychiatric wards in the past year, as opposed to just three in this age group a couple of years ago.

 

The health authorities contacted for the study also confirmed that children are being sent a long way for treatment. The data confirmed that 10 children were sent over 150 miles away to receive care. The furthest distance that a child was sent was from Sussex to Greater Manchester, a distance of 275 miles, as there were no beds available in facilities closer to home.

Categories: Adult, adult psychiatric, Child, Children, health, mental, Mental Health, nbsp, number, Patients, psychiatric wards

Oral Health: Does your Child Need to See an Orthodontist?

In the minds of many people, “dentist” and “orthodontist” are synonymous. However, this isn’t the case. A dentist focuses primarily on oral hygiene and health, treating and preventing problems with the mouth before they can occur. An orthodontist focuses on the alignment of the teeth and jaw; if your child has crooked teeth, an orthodontist is who they should see, not a dentist. Here’s how to tell the difference.

 

1. Irregular loss of teeth

Children lose teeth on a somewhat regular basis, and it’s usually easy to tell when they are about to lose one. However, if your child exhibits abnormal loss of teeth, either losing them too early or way later than they should, it might be time to consult with an orthodontist to check if your child has a dental problem that needs treatment.

 

2. Crowded teeth

If your child’s teeth are very close together, causing them to push together painfully and to jut out in all directions, it’s very likely that he will need braces to straighten out the teeth and give them a more favorable smile. According to a professional from Jensen Orthodontics in Bedford, having braces and straightening teeth can help create a perfect smile which will enhance self-confidence. Crooked teeth can lead to severe self-esteem issues later in life or even headaches or pain eating, so it’s better to treat the problems before they get serious.

 

3. An underbite or overbite

If your child’s jaw juts out at an awkward angle or excessive amount, that can be indicative of an underbite or overbite. To fix this, surgery is often required, although it can be corrected over time through noninvasive techniques.

 

4. If the dentist recommends it

Many times, orthodontic appointments are the result of dental checkups. Your child’s dentist will inform you if he sees an issue with the teeth that might need orthodontic care. As a result, many orthodontists operate on referrals only, and require a dentist’s recommendation in order to schedule appointments.

 

5. If the jaw makes a popping noise

A jaw that pops when chewing and results in pain is a sign of TMJ, a disorder of the jaw. This condition is one that children can grow out of, but it can also resurface later in life. While surgery is an option, there are several other methods that are more rehabilitative in nature and can help to correct any problems. A dentist will likely notice this, especially if you mention any symptoms your child has, and refer you to a specialist.

 

Dentists serve an important purpose, but there are just some things an orthodontist is better suited for. Knowing which type of professional to use for what situation can save you a lot of money on appointments.

Categories: Child, Children, dental health, Dentist, nbsp, oral health, orthodontist, teeth

What To Do When You Need Quick Help With Kids" Injuries

One thing to do when a child is injured is call 911. The child can also be rushed to the nearest hospital if the adult believes that the child’s condition won’t deteriorate. The adult can also call the child’s pediatrician and ask what can be done. The adult will need to be calm and give as much detail as he or she can. This includes giving a number where the adult can be reached, the exact location of the accident, the type and gravity of the injury, the gender and age of the child and whether there are any hazards in the area like downed power lines or icy roads.

 

There are two things to do when dealing with an injured child even before an ambulance is called:

 

• The helper needs to find out what’s wrong with the child

 

• The helper then needs to treat the injuries according to their severity. A life threatening injury needs to be dealt with first. Three other things that need to be seen to are:

 

• Airway

 

The child’s airway needs to be cleared. If the child is talking to the person or crying, that means his or her airway is clear. If the child is unconscious, his or her tongue might have fallen back in his or her mouth and blocked the airway. The adult should open the airway by lifting the child’s chin and tilting back his or her head. This moves the tongue from the back of the throat and clears the airway.

 

• Breathing

The helper needs to see if the child is breathing normally. If the child isn’t breathing, the adult should start CPR.

 

• Circulation

The helper will need to see if the child is bleeding from the injury. If the bleeding is severe, it needs to be treated at once. Direct pressure should be applied to the wound with by a sterile dressing held by the helper. The injured limb should be raised above the level of the child’s heart and the child should be helped to lie down. The legs too should be raised above the heart to lessen the risk of shock.

 

Fractures need to be stabilized and secured by slings, bandages and padding.

 

Lost teeth aren’t as gruesome as they appear, and if the tooth is reimplanted within an hour of being knocked out, it can be saved. Place a knocked out tooth back in the socket or have the child hold the tooth in his or her cheek or under his or her tongue. If the tooth is filthy, it can be put in a cup of milk. A chipped tooth can be temporarily fixed with dental cement until the child sees the dentist.Dr. Eli Markovich DDS can help with any of these dental problems that your child may run into.

 

The helper should also note whether the child was conscious or not and then pay attention to any change in consciousness while they wait for help. Some injuries, like head injuries, can be very serious but hidden. The only sign of them is a change in the victim’s consciousness.

 

The helper should examine the child from head to toe to make sure that there are no injuries that have been missed. If the child is unconscious but breathing, he or she should be put in a recovery position. This is where the child is gently rolled on his or her side, one knee is drawn up and a hand placed under the cheek to keep the airway open.

Categories: Adult, airway, airway nbsp, Child, helper, injuries, Kids, nbsp, Quick

Six Health Issues Your School Aged Child Will Be Checked For

It is vitally important to make sure that your child’s health is regularly checked. Finding heath problems before they escalate will make them much easier to treat. When children start school, they need to be vaccinated and they will also need to see a doctor at least once a year. There are many things that your child will be checked for at those visits.

 

Cavities

Children do not have the best eating and brushing habits, so they are always very susceptible to cavities. Dentists from Genesis Dental recommend that you have your child’s teeth checked at least every six months. Tooth decay can spread and cause pain and damage to other teeth, so it’s best to catch it before it becomes a bigger problem. The dentist will also be able to give you child tips on how to properly care for and brush their teeth.

 

Vision Test

Most children do not even realize that they are having trouble seeing, which is why vision tests are extremely important. If your child can’t see properly, then they are not going to perform well in school. Many schools will do basic vision tests, but if you notice your child’s grades are suffering or they are sitting very close to the television or reading with books close to their face, it’s a good idea to get their vision tested.

 

Head Lice

While there is no major health risk associated with head lice, they can be very uncomfortable for your child and the rest of the family. Once you notice that your child or a friend of theirs has head lice, it’s important to check them and the rest of the family during treatment to make sure that it doesn’t spread.

 

Hearing Test

While every child is tested for hearing damage at birth, it is also a good idea to get their hearing checked periodically throughout childhood. Kids can develop hearing loss at any age, so it is best to find the problem as quickly as possible.

 

Scoliosis

Children will have their spines checked for scoliosis as they grow. This is especially important when they come to the age where they are starting sports and more physical activities. The only way to prevent permanent damage to the spine is to diagnose scoliosis early and start treatment as soon as possible. The doctor can do a basic test just by looking at and feeling the curve of your child’s spine.

 

Cholesterol Test

This may seem like an odd test to most people, but it is actually becoming very common in the medical field. It is now recommended to have your child’s cholesterol levels checked when they are nine years old. High cholesterol is one of the leading causes of heart problems, and it can be treated rather easily if found at such a young age.

 

Every parent worries about the health of their child, but there is absolutely nothing to worry about if your child is being tested for common health problems on a regular basis. Having these tests done doesn’t have to be expensive. Your school probably offers the basic tests and others can be received through free or low cost clinics. Getting your child regularly checked will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your child is as healthy as possible and they will get amazing care if any problems arise.

Categories: checked, Child, Head Lice, health, issues, nbsp, regularly checked, School, Test, vision tests

How to Deal With Your Child’s Separation Anxiety Disorder

Many children go through a phase of struggling with the mental/emotional aspects of separation. Often referred to as separation anxiety, this can occur at any age and can also affect their wellness and wellbeing at recurring stages throughout their childhood. Some children are naturally more anxious than others, so you may find that whilst one child seemingly sails through without a care in the world, another is far more reticent and anxious about situations.

 

Children are also generally bonded to one person in a strong nurturing relationship, usually to their primary caregiver (who is often their mother). It is common for children to display nervous or anxious characteristics when they are not around that person. It is normal up to an extent, but for some children the fear takes hold and they start to have irrational fears that something bad will happen to their caregiver or that they will not come back for them.

 

One of the best ways to help reduce separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is to develop ritualistic ways of saying goodbye. Anxious children often struggle to say goodbye to a parent, and these ‘goodbye rituals’ help them to feel more safe and snug. It can be something as simple as a kiss, a big hug and then leaving. Don’t delay or come back for more kisses and cuddles as this actually makes your child more anxious in the long run, as they don’t know when it is ‘really’ goodbye.

 

It is also important to make a clean break, so if you are going out for a reasonable period of time, do not lie to your child and say that you will be back soon. Instead be clear that you will be away for some time, but say that you will both do something fun later. This stops your child from having false hopes about you coming back sooner.

Categories: anxiety, anxiety disorder, anxious, Child, Children, Disorder, goodbye, separation, Separation Anxiety

Daycare Wellness: How to Keep Your Child Healthy

Working moms and dads know that daycare is often the best option for their childcare while they’re on the job. Not only do daycare facilities provide your kids with an opportunity to socialize, it helps encourage your children to be more independent, striking out on their own away from their parents. Unfortunately, the benefits also come with some nasty side effects, namely illness. As most parents are aware, kids pick up all manner of illnesses no matter where they are. When you add more kids to the mix, the likelihood that they’ll be picking up colds, flu and other problems increases tenfold. What can you, as a parent, do to help your child avoid getting sick?

The Daycare Dilemma: Illness to Go?

According to TLC’s How Stuff Works blog, early exposure to other children and illnesses may not necessarily be a bad thing. In recent years, there is a theory going around called the “hygiene hypothesis” that puts forward the thought that with all the antibacterial cleansers and washes that children are being exposed also kills off good bacteria that little bodies need to work and develop their immune systems.

Studies have also found that children who are exposed to other children from an early age are less likely to catch certain illnesses, as well as have a lessened chance of developing asthma. While nobody is suggesting that you allow your child to get sick or dirty on purpose, the idea of a more relaxed approach is certainly compelling considering the arguments.

1) Teach your children how to wash their hands.

Though it may seem like a relatively easy task, very few people actually wash their hands correctly to beat infectious material or germs. Teach your children that washing their hands before they eat and after they go to the bathroom is a must. Show them how to use soap and warm water, and explain that they should sing the song “Happy Birthday” to themselves to know how long they should wash for. Taking these simple steps can prevent the spread of sickness, and keep your child more protected than others.

2) Keep your childcare provider in the loop about illnesses and allergies.

If your child suffers from any particular allergies or is coming down with a cold, it’s important that your child care facility knows about it. Allergies are an important factor if the daycare provider gives out snacks, so be specific about what your kid can and cannot eat. Additionally, if you notice that your little one is getting a bit snotty or is coming down with a case of pink eye, let your child care provider know. They can sometimes help with the situation by keeping  him or her away from other children, and thus preventing the spread of illness.

3) Accidents can happen… and can also be prevented.

Kids are clumsy, and it’s only natural that they will occasionally come home with scrapes, cuts and bruises from their daily activities. Teach your children how to play safely on playground equipment and with other children. If you feel that your child’s accident might be a case of negligence on the part of your child care facility, speak to a personal injury attorney with regards to a case. It’s also important you stay local. For example, a child’s accident in Raleigh, NC may have local ordinances that you’re not aware of. It’s always best to check to see if you have a case.  

4) Check out the license.

When you’re seeking a daycare facility, be sure to check the licenses and any other criteria they may have. You may also want to ask them for references so you can talk to other parents who use the facility and get their opinions on the positive and negatives. In one case, according to one Raleigh, NC personal injury lawyer, an 11 -year-old boy was abused by a supervisor who was supposed to be caring for him. You can also take it one step further and do a background check on the employees who will be working with your child. A good facility will be able to provide these on request.

 

Keeping your kid healthy and happy is a parent’s number one priority when they’re growing. If you’re planning on using a child care facility, check out their policies on health and wellness thoroughly. After all, they will be spending quite a lot of time with your little one, and you want to make sure it’s the best possible placement for them.

 

Writer Melanie Fleury has four kids of her own and is always concerned about their health and safety. She was inspired to write this article after reading a blog post on the website of Raleigh, NC personal injury lawyer Auger & Auger. She hopes that parents who read this will exercise due diligence before sending their kids to daycare.

Categories: care facility, Child, child care, Children, daycare, Healthy, injury lawyer, nc personal, personal injury, raleigh nc, Wellness