Guest column by Dr. Danton Kono and Dr. Kimberly Hart—
The holidays are upon us and in the spirit of giving, we’re sharing tips and information on how to keep our families safe and healthy all season long.
Perhaps the most exciting part of the season is trimming our trees and hanging our stockings, but there are a few things to keep in mind when picking out your household holiday decorations to ensure they’re child-proof.
Christmas trees can be hazardous for toddlers. Be especially cautious with glass ornaments that your toddler can reach, as well as faulty lights and wiring. It’s also important to make sure the tree base is properly secured and not at risk of falling over.
If you’re doing a lot of cooking and baking, make sure children are staying out of the kitchen. Stove and oven burns are especially more common this time of year and with outlets also in high use, electrical burns can be a concern to keep an eye out for.
When establishing your shopping list for children, it’s also strongly advised to recognize the importance of age-appropriate toys. For example, toys with small pieces, magnets and button batteries are less than ideal for toddlers as swallowing foreign objects is all too common.
You can also decrease screen time for children by purchasing less video games and more interactive toys. Toys that inspire creativity or offer an educational component can inspire more meaningful play.
Of course, if you are considering purchasing a video game, carefully review the game’s rating and content. Video games rated ‘M’ are not recommended for anyone under the age of 18 due to graphic violence, strong language and possible nudity.
Most importantly, remember to step away from the hectic moments of the holidays to truly enjoy the magic of the season with those you love!
Dr. Danton Kono is a pediatrician with Mercy Medical Group in Citrus Heights. He is certified by the Pediatrics American Board of Medical Specialties and has practiced pediatric medicine for nearly 20 years. His office is located at 7115 Greenback Lane, Floor 3, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.
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Dr. Kimberly Hart is a pediatrician with Mercy Medical Group in Citrus Heights. She is certified by the Pediatrics American Board of Medical Specialties and has practiced pediatric medicine for nearly four years. She is located at 7115 Greenback Lane, Floor 3, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.
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The holidays are upon us and in the spirit of giving, we’re sharing tips and information on how to keep our families safe and healthy all season long.
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