The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all kids get the annual flu shot. Each year, up to 20 percent of the U.S. population gets the flu and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized, the academy says. Here’s the group’s list of things to know about the flu shot: The flu vaccine is recommended for… read on >
Fried turkey has become a trendy dish for the holidays. Here are some safe-preparation suggestions, courtesy of the U.S. National Safety Council: Set up the fryer more than 10 feet fromthe house. Keep children away from the fryer. Locate a flat area to ensure that the oil is even and steady. Use a thawed and… read on >
With a hectic holiday schedule, exercise often falls by the wayside. But finding ways to sneak in activity will help you avoid weight gain and ease some of the stress this season can bring, according to University of Maryland researchers. First, don’t give up cardio exercise just because you don’t have time to do your… read on >
When trying to choose the perfect toys for kids this holiday, consider the age of the child first, a leading pediatricians’ group says. Buying toys that are too advanced can be not only frustrating for kids, but also dangerous, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). When children receive age-appropriate toys they are more… read on >
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season often demands spending too much time on your feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association suggests these remedies: Moisturizefeet daily to help avoid dry, cracked and irritated skin. Raise, point and curl your toes throughout the day. Get a foot rub, which is a great way to release… read on >
Your pet will depend on you even more during an emergency, so you should always have an emergency kit to prepare for the unexpected. The American Red Cross says the kit should include: A sturdy leash, harness or carrier to transport a pet safely and prevent escape. Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter and a… read on >
Holidays, and all of the chocolate goodies that come with the celebrations, can be particularly dangerous for dogs, researchers warn. Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine, which is similar to caffeine. In dogs, it can cause vomiting, increased heart rate, agitation and seizures. In their study, British researchers discovered that dogs were over four times… read on >
There’s little doubt that gift giving has become a central focus of the holiday season, but as a parent you can still rein in kids’ expectations when it comes to presents. One popular rhyme suggests giving kids a maximum of four gifts: something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read.… read on >
Colorful lights and candles can make the holidays sparkle, but child safety should be a priority when decking the halls or trimming a tree, a leading pediatricians’ group says. Christmas trees adorn many homes during the holidays but they can pose fire and other safety hazards if certain precautions aren’t taken, the American Academy of… read on >
Faced with hectic holiday schedules, parents often ask family and friends to pitch in and babysit their children. But many parents fail to provide critical information about what to do in an emergency, a new survey finds. Less than half of parents with children aged 5 and under posted emergency contact information, such as parents’… read on >
