Safety Guidelines for a Safe & Fun Summer

Water Safety

 

The best way to beat the summer heat is playing in the water! However, water can be extremely dangerous, so it is important to establish some water safety guidelines with your children before entering any body of water.

  • Always swim with a buddy and have an adult present
  • Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen every two hours and take frequent breaks in the shade
  • Check out the local beach flags and know what they mean. For Alabama beach updates text “ALBEACHES” to 888-777 to receive daily beach conditions via text message or visit www.gulfshoresAL.gov
  • Beware of rip tides and teach your children how to get out of a rip current. Swim parallel to the beach, DO NOT swim against the current (embed this video if possible https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sItg_9v02SI&t=1s)
  • Choose a beach location or pool that has a lifeguard present

Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equally. Before heading out for a day of summer fun apply a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Broad spectrum SPF refers to sunscreens that protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Even with a high SPF (sun protection factor), if a sunscreen isn’t broad spectrum, you won’t be protected from all UVA rays. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and 5 sunburns doubles the chance of skin cancer. Keep babies 6 months and younger in the shade when possible. If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a small amount of broad spectrum 30+ SPF sunscreen. So, slather on the good stuff, grab a hat, and get outside for some fun! 

 

Read more on infant sun protection HERE

 

Firework Safety

Fairhope Peds wants everyone to have a fun-filled 4th of July and nothing ruins a party like someone getting a firework injury, or even worse, ending up in the ER. Roughly 3,800 children 19 years and younger were treated in the ER in 2020 due to firework injuries. Young children should never directly handle fire or fireworks, even sparklers. Sparklers burn at a temperature of 2,000 degrees fahrenheit which is why we recommend keeping the sparklers in an adult’s hands. Kids can still partake in the fun by standing on the sidelines and waving patriotic flags or watching an amazing public fireworks show! If you do use at-home fireworks be sure to keep a bucket of water or hose nearby, use safety goggles when lighting fireworks, and if you have an emergency call 911 immediately. Firework accidents happen and they can get out of control quickly. Keep everyone safe by being prepared this Independence Day!

 

Car Safety

As temperatures rise, we want to remind you that the temperature of a vehicle that is not running quickly rises to extreme levels. It is never safe to leave anyone behind in the car, especially if it does not have air conditioning running. Car interior temperatures can rise 40 degrees within 1 hour. Cars can reach deadly temperatures rapidly, so add in some regular habits to make sure no one is left in the car unintentionally. Put important personal items in the back seat such as a wallet, phone, or house keys. Use a mirror to see your child in the back and always make a habit of getting your kids out of the car before anything else (i.e. groceries, packages, backpacks) Do not leave a child unattended in the car even if you’re just running in the house or store for a quick moment. If a child is accidentally left in a locked car, call 911 immediately. 

 

 

Teen Parties

Summer time is party time, but for the parents of a teenager that can mean a lot of stress and late nights. Have a talk with your teen before they head out to any parties. Let them know what your expectations are and listen to theirs. Keep lines of communication open, establish check-in times, curfew, rides to get to and from the party, and get to know the parents of their friends. Creating relationships with their friends’ parents will help you all work as a team to keep all of your kids safe and out of trouble. Be sure to talk with your child about drug and alcohol use and what to expect at the party. Let them know that if they get into a troublesome situation or need help that you are available at all times to pick them up. Establish a safe word they can use to discreetly inform you of an urgent problem. Creating a relationship of trust will help to prevent unsafe situations and allow you to help if trouble arises. If you suspect your teen may be using drugs or alcohol and you have concerns, call your trusted provider at Fairhope Pediatrics to schedule an appointment to evaluate your specific situation. Fairhope Peds is a judgment-free zone and we are here to help! Did you know Fairhope Pediatrics is available to you on Saturdays? We are open from 8am-12pm every Saturday if you need an appointment outside of normal work hours.

 

Ticks & Mosquitoes

ICK! No one enjoys ticks or mosquitoes but they are unavoidable. The best way to deal with ticks, mosquitoes, and other bug bites is prevention! Using bug sprays containing DEET or Picaridin is a safe and effective tool to keep ticks and mosquitoes away. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs when walking through the woods or tall grasses and do a full body check for ticks once you get home. Visit the CDC’s website for extensive information on tick prevention and www.HealthChildren.org for more information on bug sprays and bug bites. If your child has a reaction to a bug spray, stop use immediately, wash with soap and water, call poison control and Fairhope Pediatrics to evaluate the reaction. (251) 928-5568

 

Summer Meals

If you rely on school meals to help feed your children throughout the year you may be wondering what you’ll need to do to get through the summer while school is out. Baldwin County Public Schools offer a Summer Feeding Program to assist families with feeding their children. Click here to find the closest Summer Feeding Program to you. If you are concerned you will not be able to feed your family at any time please reach out to Fairhope Pediatrics and our team will help guide you to the best resources for you. 

 

 

Social Media and Mental Health: How to Help Your Child Develop Healthy Social Media Habits

In today’s world, children and teens are growing up in a digital age and are exposed to various types of devices. Social media influences how children and teens feel, learn, think, develop, and behave. It is inevitable for your child to be exposed to the online world, and at Fairhope Pediatrics, we encourage you to help your child form healthy social media habits that benefit their mental health.

Depression:

Facebook Depression, a new phenomenon proposed by researchers from the National Library of Medicine, is common for preteens and teens to develop as they spend a great deal of time on social media. This occurs when users see status updates, posts, or photos from people they follow that make them feel excluded or disconnected. The online world can be overwhelming and may trigger depression in youth. Clinical depression unrelated to online activity can be amplified with social media use and may lead to an increase in social isolation.

Loss of sleep:

Sleep is essential to a child’s overall health and development, but social media can negatively affect sleep quality. Over 60% of adolescents report using social media an hour before bed, causing shorter sleep duration, poor sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness. The impact of social media on sleep quality remains a risk for mental health concerns among the youth.

Comparative thinking:

Rumination is a common side effect of social media that creates an unhealthy pattern of comparative and anxious thinking. Comparative thinking is a difficult cycle for people with depression to break as it puts thoughts and worries on repeat. Children often compare themselves and their family to others on social media, which negatively influences their outlook and thinking.

Bullying:

About 10% of teens report being bullied on social media and many more are subjected to offensive comments. Social media can be a hub for spreading hurtful rumors, lies, and abuse that can leave lasting emotional scars.

Personal safety:

Pew Research Center reports 97% of American teens use social media every day. While most social media use is dedicated to talking to their friends, the youth are subjected to a variety of risks regarding their personal safety. Risks like child predators, identity theft scams, inappropriate content, and sharing posts and images that could regret later that should be taken seriously. It’s important for young teens and preteens to always know who they are talking to over social media – the person may or may not be who they say they are! Warn your teens to only accept a follow request if they know the individual personally to limit shared information.

Although the risks of social media are unnerving, it’s important to understand the benefits of social media to give your child guidance and provide them with the best practices they need to make their experience a positive one.

Humor and entertainment:

Kids of all ages can learn and appreciate different perspectives, worldviews, and opinions on social media to better understand the world around them and expand their knowledge on a variety of topics. With so many platforms, children can discover areas of interest and utilize social media for educational purposes.

Identity exploration:

For children who may not feel they connect with others in the community around them, social media is a great way to follow pages or influencers that share their ideas and interests. This gives them reassurance there are other people who they can relate to.

Creative expression:

Social media gives kids the opportunity to show their personalities and be creative by customizing their profile pages, photos, videos, and even modifications for video games. Kids who have a passion for photography, art, video production, music, or writing can use certain platforms to express themselves and showcase their talents.

When using social media in a healthy way, the benefits outweigh the risks! Explore the tips below and talk with your child on how they can use social media in a safe and positive way.

Tips to help create healthy social media habits for your child:

  • Place consistent limits on media use and types.
  • Monitor the type of media your child views.
  • Avoid exposure to devices or screens one hour before bedtime.
  • Plan media-free times together, such as family dinners.
  • Create offline, unplugged locations in your home.
  • Engage in family activities that promote well-being such as sports, reading, and talking.
  • Set a good example by turning off the TV and putting your smartphone down.

Creating good social media habits can be difficult to navigate, but trial and error are key. All children have different needs, and it is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have concerns regarding your child’s social media wellness, please call our office at 251.928.5568 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.

Pediatric Mental Health Through Our Eyes

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and we thought it would be a great opportunity to share how Fairhope Pediatrics is leading the way in pediatric mental health. At each wellness visit, our patients are screened for depression, anxiety, and behavioral and developmental concerns. Our providers can treat and refer based on these results.

We are fortunate to have a provider that carries the Pediatric Mental Health Specialist (PMHS) certification. Using the PMHS certification, Dr. Katie Erdlitz builds upon her role as a nurse practitioner to provide advanced assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of common developmental, behavior, and mental health (DBMH) problems in children and adolescents. Therapeutic services include early recognition, intervention, active monitoring as well as appropriate referral for complex individual and family mental health disorders.

Health care services are evidence-based and include the use of DBMH screening tools, brief psychotherapeutic interventions, and psychopharmacology. The PMHS coordinates care and collaborates with others to enhance quality DBMH services for children and families.

Dr. Erdlitz serves as a Champion Leader with Partners for Vulnerable Youth and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners on the Alliance to Prevent Youth Suicide. The alliance is a five-year project with a mission to prevent youth suicide through evidence-based behavioral screening, support, and interventions, amplifying the diverse voices of youth and advocating for decreased stigma while improving access to mental health services. Dr. Erdlitz ensures all staff at Fairhope Pediatrics are trained appropriately to screen for suicidal behaviors and red flags that could indicate unstable mental health in children and young adults.

Please help us spread the word regarding the new three-digit number people can dial to be connected directly to the National Suicide Hotline. Just dial “988.”

Prevention and early recognition are key! If you have any concerns regarding your child’s mental wellness or development, please call our office at 251.928.5568 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.

The Benefits of Laughter

Families that laugh together tend to be happier, healthier and more supportive of one another. As busy as life can be, it’s important to build fun into family time. Whether it’s singing silly songs in the car or telling jokes around the dinner table, remember to take a moment to laugh with your kids. 

Kids appreciate the healing power of laughter at an early age. When your child cheers up a friend or makes a loved one laugh, they are displaying empathy and sympathy. Humor helps your child cope with stressful experiences and encourages them to be resilient by laughing at their mistakes. Making humor an everyday part of life makes for memorable moments with your children. Laughter adds years to your child’s life, strengthens relationships and increases overall happiness, even in stressful times. 

The saying is true, “laughter is the best medicine!” Laughter is a good distraction from negative emotions such as guilt, stress and anger. A sense of humor helps kids see things from a different perspective and boosts their overall mood. When your child hears laughing, they tend to start laughing too and everyone reaps the benefits! How does laughing affect the body? We will fill you in!   

RELEASE ENDORPHINS 

Laughing not only feels good but is good for you! When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. The release of endorphins helps with chronic pain and can improve your mood. 

REDUCE STRESS 

Life can get overwhelming and stressful when balancing work, school, and family time. Laughter is a great coping mechanism when you’re feeling stressed. Letting out a belly laugh can start the day on a positive note and finish it on a relaxing one. 

BOOST IMMUNE SYSTEM 

Whether you let out a giggle or have tears running down your face from laughing so hard, laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies which improves resistance to disease. The more you laugh, the more your body will fight off stress reactions. 

INCREASE BLOOD FLOW 

Every time you laugh, you release more air as you breathe deeply. This action sends more oxygen into your lungs and helps your heart pump oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. An increase of oxygen encourages healthy cell growth and lets organs work more efficiently to help you feel your best. 

RELAX MUSCLES 

If you’re feeling tense after a long day, a few minutes of laughter can reduce tension in the body and make you feel calmer almost instantly. 

Setting aside time to laugh with your family is a healthy practice that benefits your body and mind. Before you know it, laughter will come more naturally, and you may find humor in situations or places you wouldn’t suspect! 

 

COVID-19 Vaccines Through the Eyes of a Pediatric Health Care Expert

As you consider getting your child vaccinated against COVID-19, you may find it difficult to process all the information circulating around vaccines. Fairhope Pediatrics is here to provide clarification and help you avoid misinformation as you consider vaccinating your child against COVID-19.

A picture containing graphical user interface Description automatically generated

The Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2021 and is an mRNA vaccine, which teaches our cells to make pieces of protein replicating the COVID-19 virus. Our bodies react to the mRNA vaccine by building up immunity to the specific protein. Once this occurs, if the body is exposed to COVID-19, the immune system will know how to fight it off and further reduce the chances of becoming infected or severely ill. This vaccine does not contain the live virus, which means it cannot give your child COVID-19. Just like adults, the vaccine requires two doses given three weeks apart and can be given at the same time as other vaccines (such as the flu vaccine).

A picture containing text, person, indoor, wall Description automatically generated

While children are still at a lower risk of becoming severely ill from COVID-19, it doesn’t mean they can’t get sick. Children with underlying health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and asthma are at the highest risk for severe illness. For these reasons, it is important to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to reduce the risk of harmful disease, death and “long COVID,” a condition where individuals show the effects of COVID-19 for months after the initial infection.

The dosage of the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages five to 11 is one-third of what is used for adolescents and adults. The results of this dose mirror those seen in people ages 16 and older who received the higher dose of the vaccine. Additionally, side effects are similar including a sore arm, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, and fever. Typically, these side effects go away in a day or two and are signs the immune system is responding.

We understand medical information can sometimes be intimidating, but we are here to be a resource for you, your child, and your family. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit cdc.gov.

To schedule an appointment for your child or ask further questions, call 251.928.5568.

Screening Early for Developmental Delays

Did you know that one in six children between ages three and 17 have one or more developmental or behavioral disabilities?

According to the American Family Physician’s journal, less than one-fifth of children with developmental delays receive early intervention services and are unaware of their developmental disabilities. Developmental delays refer to a child who has not gained the developmental skills expected based on their age. For example, children learn to crawl, talk, or become potty trained at different speeds. Sometimes a child may reach those milestones at a later age. To help diagnose developmental delays early, our practice utilizes the CHADIS platform.

CHADIS is a web-based screening, diagnostic, and management system that administers and analyzes pre-visit questionaries completed by parents, teens, and/or teachers. It also allows you to list any problems, questions, or concerns that you would like to discuss before your child’s appointment. This online survey provides our practice with instant access to valuable clinical data and resources needed to deliver the highest quality of care to our patients. It also gives our providers time to review these assessments prior to your visit for the benefit of making potential recommendations, ask further questions, or discuss additional concerns.

It is proven that physicians who implement tools like CHADIS detect more children with developmental delays than physicians who do not use standardized screening. CHADIS screens for hundreds of developmental factors, including autism, asthma, ADHD, depression and other mood disorders, OCD, substance abuse, somatic complaints, family stress, dyskinesia, and PTSD – to name a few.

At Fairhope Pediatrics, we begin conducting standardized developmental screenings on patients as early as two months old and again at each routine wellness visit. Developmental screening can help highlight important milestones children achieve as they grow and identifies your child’s strengths and uncover areas of concern. Screening is not meant to establish a diagnosis for a child, but to help determine whether a more in-depth assessment is needed. After each assessment, our practice works with families to understand your child’s condition and discuss treatment plans moving forward.

By utilizing CHADIS assessments, we are able to understand your child’s development based on age and resources available to them. Once we know your child’s starting point, CHADIS allows us to track their progress and improvements over time.

Countless studies have shown the earlier a delay or disability is recognized, and intervention has begun, the greater the child’s chance of substantial improvement. Therefore, developmental screening is one of the best proactive steps to ensure a child’s success.

Additionally, most insurances cover CHADIS and completing the online forms in advance reduces in-office wait times for patients. It is our policy for all caregivers to complete CHADIS assessments 24 hours before your child’s visit, or cancellation will occur.

For more information about the benefits of CHADIS and developmental screening, visit the CHADIS website, or give our office a call at 251.928.5568.

Let’s Talk: Healthy Habits for the New Year

New year, new family habits! This month, take time to set goals the entire family can participate in. Our pediatrician-approved healthy habits are attainable goals your family can set and maintain throughout 2022 and beyond.

1. Snack smart.

It’s time to leave processed snacks behind. Snacks such as cookies and sodas have zero health benefits and make learning more difficult for children. Instead, make it a point to improve brain function and overall health by selecting various whole foods for your child’s snacks and lunches.

2. Eat together.

Although weekdays can be busy and oftentimes stressful, we encourage you to enjoy quality moments as a family during mealtime. It is important to leave stress behind and not rush when sitting down at the table. Prioritizing mealtime allows everyone to focus on a healthy meal and open conversations.

3. Turn off electronics.

While watching TV as a family is easy and relaxing, crafts, volunteering, and board games promote conversations and allow everyone to contribute. Spark traditions, laughter, and memories through tangible bonds by taking time away from electronics.

4. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

Set up a time before bed, at the end of dinner, or on the way to school where everyone can reflect on what they are grateful for. Sharing each family member’s appreciation for life brings positive energy and self-reflection into the daily routine.

5. Participate in daily physical activities.

Daily physical activity lowers the risk of heart attacks, strokes and diabetes, while walks improve mood and memory. To keep kids engaged and encouraged, find activities that align with your child’s interests and model positive attitudes surrounding physical activity.

6. Get quality sleep.

Aim for early bedtimes and establish a consistent routine of winding down. Take time to relax and recharge by incorporating mindful practices or calm reading time before bed, to reduce and manage stress together. Additionally, consider removing electronics from the bedroom at night.

7. Be proactive with health care.

Stay on top of your family’s health by scheduling annual checkups and doctor appointments in advance. These appointments monitor growth and behavior vital to your child’s wellbeing.

Establish a framework of the categories you want to focus on in 2022. Involve your children when developing new family habits, allowing your kids to understand the benefits of each practice, feel involved in the process, and get motivated to maintain the new goals. Finally, post your family’s 2022 healthy habits somewhere at home where everyone can see and reflect on them.

Our Pediatric Approved Gift Guide

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…again! Don’t panic, at Fairhope Pediatrics we have you covered with our pediatric approved gift guide. Although high-ticket items are popular buys, it is important we remember your child’s specific developmental needs. Trust us, we got Santa’s approval!

Infants (0-1 Years):

In the first year, your baby will reach vital milestones in development, and the right toys can make all the difference. With every developmental stage comes new toys to carry your baby into the next stage. Sensory gifts are an excellent choice for babies in the early stages of development. Toys that encourage standing and crawling are perfect for your child during this stage. We recommend reflective toys, textured books, and interactive play mats.

Toddlers (2-3 Years):

Toddlers need a present that challenges their fine motor skills. Puzzles, blocks, and simple books make great gifts this holiday season. You may notice your child at this age beginning to step into the world of “pretend,” or some may begin to mimic your everyday tasks. A play kitchen and food or cars and trucks serve as an early lesson in how to “help” around the house!

Preschoolers (3-5 Years):

Your preschoolers will benefit from any gift that allows them to use their imagination! In this stage, your child can focus for longer periods of time, so magazine or box subscriptions are a fun and unique gift. Crayons, paint, and other art supplies encourage your preschooler’s creative side to run wild. Outdoor toys, dress-up clothes and classic board games are all things that will have your child’s mind thinking and body moving.

Elementary Schoolers (6-8 Years):

They are making a list and checking it twice! Although your child will have specific buys this holiday season, let’s not forget items that will engage mental, physical, and social skills. If your child has you stumped, hobbies and interests are always a great place to start. Art sets, bikes (accompanied by a helmet), and kits that can be completed independently or with friends are all great gifts for children in this age group.

Pre-Teens (9-12 Years):

Shopping for your pre-teen can be tough. Moving away from traditional toys, small gadgets are probably what your not-so-small but also not-quite-so-big kid has at the top of their list this holiday season. Give your pre-teen the gift of being unplugged with board games, sports equipment, or DIY kits. Reading is a key player at this stage, so we also suggest books, magazines, and journals, which stimulate your child’s imagination, improve communication skills, and grow their vocabulary.

Teenagers (13-17 Years):

Teenagers aren’t always forthcoming with exactly what they want. At this age, your child is truly growing into their own, so the best gift will be one that aligns with their interests and grows their confidence through self-expression. Catering to your teens’ tech and fashionable side will bring a much-needed smile to their faces. From portable speakers and projectors to sunglasses and sneakers, the perfect gift for your teen may be easier to find than you think.

Young Adults (18-21 Years):

Where did the years go? Your once little one is now graduating and onto the next steps in life. To help make this transition smoother we suggest items with more sentimental value. Trust us, your young adult will forever appreciate it.

As you race to your nearest department store or start an Amazon shopping cart, please remember to check each gift’s age specifications and warnings. Fairhope Pediatrics hopes you have a happy holiday!

How To Celebrate Thanksgiving With Food Allergies

Thanksgiving is almost here, and we could not be more thankful! Did you know 8% of children and 5% of adults have food allergies? Food allergies can be hard to avoid, especially during a food-filled holiday. At Fairhope Pediatrics, we are here to help you prepare and stay away from preventable food allergy accidents!

Plan ahead.

If you are planning to cook at home, reach out and ask guests and family members if they have food allergies or sensitivities. Planning early allows you to research safe recipes to properly accommodate guests. The most common food allergy groups include milk/dairy, fish, shellfish, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, gluten, and soy. Many traditional recipes can be made to accommodate these food allergies with just a few simple substitutions.

Avoid cross contamination.

If the holiday menu consists of dishes that are not safe for everyone, cook the “safe” meal first to avoid cross contamination. Residue from the first dish cooked can still be present on cooking utensils, causing the meal to be unsafe to others. Wash pans, utensils, and other cookware extensively in hot water. Wipe countertops, and anywhere else you have prepared or cooked food. This will prevent any bits of dried allergens from sticking to dishes or countertops.

Serve it separate.

Consider letting individuals with food allergies serve themselves first. This limits their risk of being exposed to any food allergens present in “unsafe” dishes. If you plan to serve the meal buffet-style, create ingredient labels to help guests distinguish allergen-free dishes. Isolate “safe” foods from the rest of the meal and use separate serving utensils for each dish.

Research.

If you are planning to eat out for Thanksgiving, view the restaurant’s menu ahead of time to make sure there is food accommodating to you. Many restaurants have allergen sheets available for people who struggle with food sensitivities. If you are making a reservation, inform restaurant staff of your food allergies when you call and let your server know upon arrival.

Pre-package food.

If you are not in charge of the menu this holiday season, bring pre-made food to ensure you do not go hungry and you are eating safely. Offer to cook a “safe” dish that you and the rest of the family can enjoy. Bring the food in a closed container and keep it away from other dishes until it’s time to eat.

No matter what your Thanksgiving looks like this year, a little planning and consideration will help you to successfully navigate a food-friendly meal and maybe create a new tradition in the process. We hope you have a safe and full holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving!

Your Pediatrician’s Guide to Halloween: Trick-or-Treating Safety.

Mummies and monsters are the least of your worries on Halloween when cars, costumes, COVID-19, and stranger danger can give you a fright. To keep Halloween on a sweet note, a little preplanning and precaution can keep each family member safe and smiling. Before your big night out, review our pediatrician-approved list of Halloween safety tips.

Costume Safety

Plan eerie-sistible costumes that are bright and reflective. 

A bright-colored costume will make your child more visible at twilight. Decorate the outside of your child’s outfit and trick-or-treat bag with strips of reflective tape. Consider having your children wear glowsticks as bracelets or necklaces to keep it bright.

Check that costumes are easy to walk in and don’t restrict breathing or vision.

Test out costumes before the big night and ensure they are short enough to prevent tripping and entanglement. We recommend costumes having hems above the ground and allow for a full range of motion. Confirm hats and shoes fit properly so your little monster can see correctly and is comfortable on their Halloween journey.

Make certain accessories aren’t a safety hazard.

If your child is going as a superhero, warrior princess, or anything with a pointy accessory like a broom or sword, make sure to choose one made of soft foam instead of hard plastic.

Look for “flame resistant” on the costume labels. 

Wigs, costumes, and accessories should indicate that they are flame resistant. For homemade costumes, stay away from flammable fabrics such as nylon and polyester.

Look for nontoxic makeup and face paint. 

Nontoxic makeup and face paint are excellent substitutes to costume masks that are known to restrict vision. Test makeup ahead of time on a small patch of your child’s skin to guarantee there are no allergic reactions.

Prepare for the unexpected.

Put a nametag on your child’s costume along with your phone number and address. Make sure they know where the nametag is in case your child is separated from their group.

Street Safety

Watch out for your little pumpkin.

An adult should accompany children under 12 years old trick-or-treating. Before heading out, review how to call 911 in case of an emergency. While trick-or-treating, your child should know to look twice both ways before crossing the street and continue to look as they cross.

Set expectations with older children.

Teamwork makes the scream work! Make sure your child is in a group of at least three friendly ghosts and only travel to homes with a porch light on. Before sending them on their way, plan and review a trick-or-treating route that is acceptable to you. Agree on specific times when your child should check in throughout the night and return home. Don’t forget to send them with a fully charged cell phone for quick communication and flashlights!

“Witches know how to drive stick”– Pedestrian safety. 

Pedestrian injury is the most common injury to children on Halloween. Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalks are available, remind your witches and warlocks to walk on the far edge of the roadway facing traffic and in a single file line.

 

Candy Safety

Keep an eye on what your trick-or-treater has in their mouth at all times.

Hard candies, popcorn, and gum can be choking hazards for small children. If your child has allergies that need an EpiPen, bring it with you. For those with older kids, teach your child’s friends how to use it in case of an emergency.

Beware before goblin.

It is always a good idea to inspect your child’s treats before letting them “bone appetite!” Throw away any spoiled, unwrapped, or suspicious items.

Treat yourself for the days and weeks following Halloween and try to ration candy. 

Set realistic, positive guidelines with your child so everyone knows what to expect after the holiday. It’s also an excellent opportunity to teach your goblins about moderation and healthy eating!

COVID-19 Safety

Squad ghouls, but keep them small!

Stick to outdoor Halloween events and trick-or-treating with small groups. Ensure your children know to avoid large clusters of kids at doorsteps. Encourage your kids to incorporate their face mask into their costume or dress up as something that uses one. Apply hand sanitizer when going from house to house, or when you are in contact with an individual that is not a part of your immediate family.

 

Fairhope Pediatrics wishes you and your family a fang-tastic Halloween!