Questions and Answers!
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Healthy Childcare 5-2
February - March 2002

IN SICKNESS & IN HEALTH: ALLERGIES IN CHILDREN

What is an Allergy? "Allergy" is a term often applied to a variety of conditions caused by a reaction of the body's immune system to normal substances (allergens) in the environment. These substances may be found in food, the air, on pets, etc.

What are the common symptoms of allergy? Symptoms of allergies depend on the organ involved. Allergies may affect the eyes (itching, tearing, redness and swelling of the eyelids), the nose (itching, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose), the gastrointestinal trace (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), or the skin (itching, redness).

What is an anaphylactic reaction? This is a severe allergic reaction which may involve all the organs, including the heart and blood vessels. It may cause swelling, hives, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. It is a life-threatening reaction.

What are the most common food allergens for children? Wheat, eggs, milk, peanuts, and soy.

NUTRITION ACTION - KIDS AND WEIGHT GAIN

What are Growth Charts? These are tools that use height and weight measurements to track a child's change in growth over time. They also allow comparison of a child's growth pattern to "normal" growth patterns for the child's age.

What is BMI? BMI (body mass index), is a measure of body fatness based on a mathematical formula.

Why are so many children becoming overweight? Excess weight is usually the result of getting too many calories and not enough physical activity. "Junk food" and "fast food" are one way children get excess calories because they usually contain large amounts of fat and/or sugar.

If I have an overweight child, how can I help him become healthier? There are several ways caregivers and parents can help the child develop healthier eating and fitness habits. Adults should model healthy eating and fitness; prepare foods fresh, baked, steamed, or roasted rather than fried; do not use food as a treat or reward or as a recreational activity; offer healthy snack choices such as fresh fruits; offer water rather than sodas or fruit-flavored drinks; and encourage physical activity.

SAFETY FIRST: REPORTING INJURIES

What is the leading cause of serious injury to children? Falls, with most injuries occurring on the playground.

Why is it important to report injury? When injury reports are analyzed, safety researchers can find trends in juries. By finding the causes of multiple or serious injuries, they can help childcare providers know how to prevent injuries by eliminating hazards.

Should I report all injuries, even minor ones? Contact your state licensing agency to find out what you are required to report to them. For your own records, record any injury that requires first aid, such as a bandage or a cold compress.

How can I use injury information in my own program? You can look for injury patterns caused by hazardous conditions and identify problem areas before they cause serious injuries.

MEDICINE CHEST: MAKING ORAL HYGIENE FUN FOR KIDS

I don't know much about dental health. How can I find out more about it? Develop a partnership with a dentist or dental hygienist in your community. If you do not know a dentist, ask parents to recommend someone or check with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for help.

What are some ways to make brushing fun? Help children create stories about tooth-- characters; include dental health in art activities; or do the "toothbrush wiggle" during physical activity play.

HEALTH AND YOU: SAY GOOD-BYE TO SLEEP DEPRIVATION

How much sleep do adults need? Most adults need about 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

What are ways to help get to sleep? Avoid overeating or drinking before bedtime, establish a regular routine, and make sure your bed and room temperature are comfortable.