GUEST POST: Children and Winter Time Health by David Novak (Healthline)

Winter is the most anticipated seasons for children. Snow signals numerous fun activities they can enjoy such as sledding and skiing. For parents, this also signals the prevalence of cold and flu viruses, as well as other accidents caused by playing in the snow and cold weather. Don’t let winter dangers keep your children from enjoying outdoors. It’s all about proper planning and following safety guidelines that will ensure your kids are safe at all times.  Follow these winter safety tips so your family can enjoy winter without worries:

Encourage proper hygiene

Winter doesn’t only bring cold weather, but also cold and flu viruses. Children are more prone to acquiring these viruses because they play closely together, and they’re still unaware of proper hygiene. Washing hands the right way is one of the basic essentials kids should learn when it comes to hygiene because most viruses are transferred through surfaces and direct contact. Oral and nasal secretions can get on the hands, and ultimately in your body quite easily. Another rule for kids is to cover their mouth when they cough, and keep a safe distance from others when they are doing so. This is a very simple and helpful way in preventing the spread of cold and flu viruses. Teach them also to use a disposable tissue to cover their nose and mouth while sneezing. 

Dress warmly

Snow is like a child’s beacon for fun.  When snow falls, children get amped up to play outside, but it also signals parents to make sure they are dressed warmly for the weather. Dressing them in layers helps in keeping their body insulated, and prevents them from being too cold. Make sure they are also wearing water-resistant or waterproof jackets, gloves, wool hats and thermal underwear. Instruct them to come back in the house regularly to check if they aren’t ignoring any signs of possible hypothermia. 

Keep their skin winter-proof

Children have more sensitive skin than adults, and the winter weather can wreak havoc on their delicate hands, faces and lips if skin care is not taken seriously. Sunscreen is vital even if it’s winter, since sun glare reflected off snow can still burn the skin. Make sure to reapply sunscreen if needed. Breakouts of eczema and other dry skin conditions are also common during winter, so it is vital to keep their skin moisturized. Apply moisturizers made from natural ingredients or petroleum jelly on any exposed areas. Avoid those with artificial fragrances and colors, which can only cause irritation.

Provide healthy foods and plenty of liquids

Eating healthy can also help in fighting off cold and flu viruses that are prevalent during winter. Make sure that children are getting all the necessary nutrients they need to keep their immune system healthy. Serve foods that are high in vitamin C, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits, as these are well-known for their flu-fighting components. Vegetables are high in nutrients and vitamins, so make sure to include these in their meals as much as possible. Keeping them healthy lowers their risk of cold and flu, and in case they do get sick, these nutrients aid in fighting off illness more vigorously.

Give them daily multivitamins

Most kids can be picky when it comes to food, leaving them deficient in certain nutrients and vitamins. Supplementing with daily vitamins is vital in ensuring they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need. Try to use supplements that are all-natural, dye and preservative-free daily multivitamins. 

Sleep

Rest is one of the most important components in keeping the body healthy, as well as helping our bodies to recover easily when we get sick. As a parent, stress to your kids that they should follow a good sleeping routine, which includes 8-solid-hours of night-time sleep, and the occasional nap if needed. Check on your child’s room temperature to make sure it is not too cold or too hot. Either could disturb their sleep. Make sure to cover them with blankets or duvets to keep them cozy and warm at night.

Be careful in winter sports

Winter sports such as sledding, skiing, and ice skating can be lots of fun, but they can also be dangerous if proper safety guidelines are not followed. Adults should supervise children while they are sledding, and make sure the path doesn’t have any obstacles that can cause accidents. Children should also wear protective gear such as fitted helmets to avoid any head injuries, which is one of the most common sledding injuries. When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, children should always be accompanied by an adult who is familiar with the sport and the route. Make sure that the slopes are in good physical condition as well as the equipment they are using. 

Enjoy indoor activities

Snowstorms can hinder your child’s outdoor activities, thus it is best that you have fun indoor activities planned when this happens. Board games and art supplies can help in keeping your child busy when they are snowed in. Other activities that can be more active and fun include dressing up, bean bag tosses and dance parties. Scavenger hunts and obstacle courses can also help not only in keeping them active, but also in enhancing their cognitive, social and physical performance.

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David Novak’s byline has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the world.  He’s an avid health enthusiast, and frequently is featured in regional and national health publications. He is also a weekly writer for Healthline.  To view his other stories on Healthline, visit http://www.healthline.com/. 

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GUEST POST: "Childhood Allergies: Symptoms and Treatments by David Novak (Healthline)"

Childhood allergy is an exaggerated reaction by the immune system in response to certain foreign substances. These foreign objects may or may not be harmful, thus that’s why it’s classified as only an exaggerated response.

In an attempt to protect the body, the immune system produces antibodies called immunoglobulin, which cause the mast cells and allergy cells to release chemicals, including histamine resulting in allergic reactions.

With most people, allergies appear during infancy and childhood. Some allergies can be outgrown while some last a lifetime. It is best to consult with an allergy specialist early on so that the source can be easily avoided and the symptoms treated. When avoidance measures fail to produce results, there are also numerous medications and other measures that can help in treating your child’s symptoms. 

Causes

There are numerous causes of children’s allergies. Here are some of the common allergens that can trigger allergy symptoms:

●     Pollen - these are fine, reproductive pollen found in plants that travels easily through the air. Several examples include tree pollen such as oak, elm and birch. Pollens from Bermuda grass and orchard grass can also cause allergies. 

●    Mold spores - These pesky allergy-producers are found almost everywhere, such as in soil, vegetation, attics, basements and carpets. Mold spores also travel by air, so it is one of the most prevalent causes of allergies. 

●    Dust mites - These tiny creatures can also cause allergies. They are commonly found in bed linens and sofas. Dust mite allergies usually peak in July and August, when the dust mite population is high due to a warmer climate. 

●      Pet dander - These allergens are the dead skin that warm-blooded animals, such as dogs and cats, shed. Pet dander can be found everywhere because it can be carried through people’s clothing.

●    Food - There are numerous foods that can cause allergies. Most common are peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, shellfish and milk or dairy products.

Symptoms

Children’s allergy symptoms occur when their immune system overreacts to certain foreign objects. If the allergen was acquired through the air, the reaction will most likely affect the nose, eyes and lungs. If it was eaten, it may affect the mouth and the digestive system. Some also cause skin rashes and asthma symptoms. Effects usually vary depending on what type of allergens trigger the allergy.

●   Food allergy - symptoms include rashes, hives, diarrhea, swelling in the throat and mouth, and difficulty breathing. 

●     Drug allergy - skin rashes, itchy skin, anaphylaxis, and wheezing or other breathing problems

●    Mold allergy - sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat, swollen eyelids and trouble breathing

●    Pet allergy - wheezing, sneezing, runny nose and other breathing problems

●      Dust allergy - runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Treatments

There are numerous medications to help alleviate the symptoms of childhood allergies. Here are several that have been found effective. Take note that all prescribed and over-the-counter medications should only be used as directed by a prescription, package labeling or your child’s pediatrician.

●     Oral Antihistamines - This is the most common class of medication for children with allergies. Prescription medicines such as cetirizine, fexofenadine, and desloratadine can be given to children as young as six months of age. Loratadine, which can be bought over-the-counter, can be administered to children as young as two. These medications are relatively inexpensive and easy for children to take. It usually treats symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and itchiness, particularly in the eyes, nose and ears.

●     Topical Nasal Steroids - This type of medication is found to be most effective in nasal allergies and non-allergic rhinitis. Topical nasal steroids can be easily found and available by prescription. These are excellent in controlling sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy nose, runny nose and post-nasal drip. Side effects are usually mild and limited to nosebleeds and nasal irritation.

●   Over-the-Counter Nasal Spray - Oxymetazoline and phenylephrine are cromolyn nasal sprays that can be administered to children as young as two, and they work by preventing symptoms before exposure, but not too effective when used during the outbreak of these symptoms. Topical decongestants with phenylephrine can be given to children down as early as six months old. It is crucial that these medications be used sparingly and during short periods -- three days a month is suggested.

●     Oral Decongestants - Oral decongestants are useful medications in the treatment of nasal congestion in children. This class of medication includes pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. They work well for occasional and as-needed use since side effects such as insomnia, headaches and rapid heart rate can be experienced with long-term use.

●     Leukotriene Blockers - Montelukast was originally developed for asthma, but has been subsequently approved for the treatment of allergic rhinitis for children as young as six months old. It is found beneficial for children with mild asthma and allergies. It must be taken daily, and it takes a few days before effects can be seen. Mild side effects include fatigue, abdominal pains and headaches.

●     Allergy Shots - Allergy shots or immunotherapy are particularly helpful when it comes to childhood allergies. This is not typically considered for children under five years of age due to maturity and cooperativeness of the child, however, several studies have shown that allergy shots can help in asthma prevention up to three years after immunization.

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David Novak is a international syndicated newspaper columnist, appearing in newspapers, magazines, radio and TV around the world. His byline has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Readers Digest and GQ, among others, and he has appeared on The CBS Morning Show, Paul Harvey and The Today Show. David is a specialist at health, wellness, diet and exercise, and he is a regular contributing editor for Healthline. For more information, visit http://www.healthline.com/.

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GUEST POST: Calming Tips for Hyperactive Children by David Novak

As challenging as it is to be around a hyperactive child, it is essential that you know and understand what they are going through as well as how you can help in keeping them calm. A parent may have to speak to a hyperactive child about his/her behavior several times in an hour with no avail.

There are several factors, however, that cause a hyperactive child’s behavior, such as emotional or relationship issues, diet and other environmental factors. Focusing on overcoming these factors can result in a keeping those afflicted more controlled and calm. There are a number of tips to help parents in settling down their hyperactive child. These quick tips have been found to produce incredible results in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).

Create a relaxing atmosphere

Hyperactive children are found to be very responsive to their surroundings, and a messy house or tense environment could trigger their hyperactivity. Try to keep your house as quiet and relaxing as possible, as well as instructing older siblings at home to participate in keeping the younger ones calm. Avoiding shouting or arguing can drastically decrease agitation. You should also try to keep your house in order.  Messy environments can promote irritation among hyperactive children.  You should also dim the light in the evening for a more tranquil effect. Scented candles can also help in creating a calm and serene atmosphere.

A nice warm bubble bath

An enjoyable soothing warm bubble bath is also effective in calming hyperactive children. You can add fragrances, such as vanilla and lavender, which have been shown to produce relaxation. If your child seems uninterested in taking a bath, you can coax them by offering toys and bath activities that may interest them. Many parents have found great success in making their child sleepy and calm after a warm bath before going to bed.

Teach deep breathing or meditation

It is also important to teach your child the process of self-regulation. Deep breathing exercises, yoga and meditation can help your child achieve inner tranquility, which slows down their thoughts and their bodies. You can also consult a professional to assist you in teaching your child different methods of relaxation.

Massage

Hyperactive children respond well to gentle massages. Based on studies by the Touch Research Institute, the children who receive massages twice a week are more productive and less hyperactive than those who don’t. It also shows that massage really helps in easing the tension and promotes relaxation. Massage therapy aligns the body and mind resulting in calmness, allowing hyperactive children to focus better and to perform at their best. You can try this technique by gently massaging your child’s temples or back, and then working up to a full massage by a therapist. 

Keep your child well exercised

Hyperactive children have more pent up energy to get rid off than other children, thus it is crucial for them to have more physical exercise. Examples of great exercises for hyperactive kids are swimming, bicycling and skating. Any other activity that could allow them to play hard for a couple of hours will have a tremendous effect on calming them down for the duration of the day.

Routine and structure

All children excel in an environment with routine, structure and consistency. This is highly essential for hyperactive children, since this type of environment makes them feel secure in their surroundings. Children with ADHD are also found to flourish in a structured environment wherein they know what to expect. Make plans early for your child, and give them fair warning of new agenda plans.  Also, try to make the transition from one activity to another as smooth as possible. This consistent, non-abrupt routine will ease the severity of hyperactive outbreaks.

Make a boredom chest

Hyperactivity is usually triggered when children are bored, thus having a recreational box at the ready is sometimes necessary. Create a box of activities that can get your child’s attention. Make sure to have enough variety so that they won’t get bored easily with the contents. Fill it with coloring books, paint sets, crossword puzzles, jewelry making kits, modeling clay, dress-up clothes and other things that might interest them. You can also switch items once in a while maintain their interest.

Diet

Certain foods can affect your child’s behavior. That’s why it's essential that you know what foods to avoid and what foods are best for your child who is hyperactive. Try to switch out processed foods for natural foods since food additives and colors as well as artificial sweeteners found in processed foods are known to make the nervous system overactive. Additionally, try to choose foods that are calming such as vegetables, nuts and seeds that have calcium and magnesium. These minerals have been proven to have calming effects.

You can also incorporate foods such as low-fat yogurt, reduced-fat cheese, whole grain crackers and healthy cereals in your child’s diet. To satisfy their sweet tooth, you could consider fruits such as berries, peaches and oranges. You can also give them dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate since it’s healthier, and it decreases cortisol levels that trigger anxiety and nervousness.

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 David Novak’s syndicated column has appeared around the world, including several national publications like Reader’s Digest, Newsweek and USA Today. He’s has appeared on The CBS Morning Show and The Today Show. David is a specialist at health, wellness, diet and exercise, and he is a regular contributing editor for Healthline. For more information, visit http://www.healthline.com/.

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