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Edition 8: December 2024

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Food AllergiesFeatured

December 1, 2024
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Food Allergies in Toddlers: What You Need to Know

Food allergies in toddlers are an abnormal and often dangerous reaction of the immune system to certain foods. Although the exact cause of these allergies is not yet fully understood, it is common for children to outgrow them as they grow.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe and may appear quickly after consuming the offending food. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Digestive problems: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
  • Skin problems: Hives, eczema, swelling.
  • Breathing problems: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing.
  • Other: Swelling of the mouth, lips, or throat, dizziness, loss of consciousness.

In severe cases, a food allergy can trigger an anaphylactic reaction, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

What foods commonly cause allergies?

The foods that most often cause allergies in children are:

  • Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt, butter.
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat.
  • Soy.
  • Peanuts.
  • Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachios.
  • Fish: Salmon, tuna, cod.
  • Shellfish: Shrimp, lobster, crab.

However, any food can cause an allergy, although these are the most common.

How to prevent allergic reactions?

  • Read labels: Always check food labels to identify allergens.
  • Inform others: Inform family members, caregivers, and teachers about your child’s allergies.
  • Carry a medical alert card: A medical alert card can be useful in an emergency.
  • See an allergist: An allergist can perform tests to confirm allergies and develop a management plan..

What to do in case of an allergic reaction?

If you suspect your child is having an allergic reaction, follow these steps:

  • Stay calm: Give emergency medication prescribed by your doctor, if available.
  • Call 911: If the reaction is severe, call 911 immediately.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions: Follow your doctor’s recommendations for managing your child’s allergies.

Additional tips

  • See a nutritionist: A nutritionist can help you plan safe, nutritious meals for your child.
  • Join support groups: Connecting with other parents who have children with food allergies can be very helpful.

Remember, although food allergies can be worrisome, with the right information and care, you can help your child lead a healthy, happy life.

Reference:

https://texaswic.org/es/salud-y-nutricion/para-el-bebe/alergias-alimentarias

Contribution by Precious Moment Childcare, LLC.

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Potty TrainingFeatured

December 1, 2024
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Every child is unique, and unique in the way they develop their skills and knowledge. Many children show that they are ready to potty train between 18 and 24 months. There are different ways to potty train children. The success of potty training will depend on physical, developmental and behavioral milestones, not age. However, others may not be ready until age 3. There is no rush, if you start too early, potty training may be delayed and that is where many parents get impatient.

To identify if your little one is ready to potty train, you can use the following key questions:

  • Can he walk and sit in the toilet?
  • Can he pull his pants down and pull them back up?
  • Can he stay dry for two hours?
  • Can he understand and follow basic directions?
  • Can he communicate when he needs to go to the bathroom?
  • Does he seem interested in using the toilet or big boy underwear?

If most of the answers are yes, your child may be ready. If not, he or she may want to wait, especially if there are other major changes, such as a move or the arrival of a new sibling.

Adult preparation is also vital. You should set aside your enthusiasm and allow your child’s motivation to direct the process. Try not to equate the success or difficulty of potty training with your child’s intelligence or stubbornness. Also, keep in mind that accidents are inevitable, and punishment has no role in the process. Plan potty training for when you have quality time to devote to the process and the energy to be consistent.

When it’s time to start potty training:

  • Choose your words. Decide what words you’re going to use for your child’s bodily fluids. Avoid negative words, such as dirty or stinky.
  • Prepare the equipment. Place a potty chair in the bathroom or, at first, wherever your child is spending most of his or her time. Encourage your child to sit on the potty with clothes on to start.
  • Make sure your child’s feet rest on the floor or stool. Use simple, positive terms to talk about the toilet. You could dump the contents of a soiled diaper into the potty and toilet to show your purpose. Have your child flush the toilet.
  • Schedule potty breaks. Have your child sit on the potty or toilet without a diaper for a few minutes at two-hour intervals, as well as first thing in the morning and right after naps. For boys, it’s often best to master sitting urination and then move on to standing after bowel training is complete. Many parents are alarmed when their potty-trained child is sitting up to do #1 – this is seen a lot with single moms because it’s what the child watches at home, and it’s okay – it’s just natural.

Stay with your child and read a book together or play with a toy while he or she is sitting. Allow your child to get up if he or she wants to. Even if your child just sits there, praise him or her for trying and remind him or her that he or she can try again later. Bring the potty with you when you are out and about with your child.

  • Use a watch. Time the intervals when your child is using the toilet – this will help with regular use, preventing accidents.
  • Go to the toilet quickly! When you notice signs that your child might need to go, such as squirming, squatting, or holding on to the genital area, respond quickly. Help your child become familiar with these signs by stopping what you are doing and going to the toilet. Praise your child for telling you when he or she needs to go. Keep your child in loose, easy-to-remove clothing.
  • Explain hygiene. Teach girls to spread their legs and wipe carefully from front to back to prevent germs from the rectum from reaching the vagina or bladder. Make sure your child washes his or her hands afterwards.
  • Ditch the diapers. Once potty training begins, replace diapers with cloth underwear. Remember that training pads have the same texture as diapers, so they could cause confusion.

After a couple of weeks of successful potty breaks and staying dry during the day, celebrate the transition. Let your child go back to diapers if he or she can’t stay dry. Consider using a sticker or star chart as positive reinforcement. If your child resists using the potty or toilet or isn’t getting the hang of it within a few weeks, take a break. Chances are, he or she isn’t ready yet. Pushing your child when he or she isn’t ready can lead to a frustrating power struggle. Try again in a few months.

Nighttime potty training

Naptime and bedtime training often take longer to achieve success. Most children can stay dry through the night between the ages of 5 and 7. In the meantime, wear disposable training pants and mattress covers when your child is sleeping.

  • How to deal with accidents?
    • Stay calm. Don’t punish or embarrass your child. You can say: You forgot this time, but next time go to the bathroom first.
    • Be prepared. Have a change of underwear and clothes on hand, especially at school or daycare.
  • When to seek assistance?
    • If your child seems ready for potty training but is having difficulty, talk to your pediatrician. He or she can provide guidance and check to see if there are any other problems affecting the potty-training process.

Reference:

Baby and Toddler Health. 2021. https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/potty-training/art-20045230

Contribution by Precious Moments Childcare, LLC.

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Viral Illnesses in Children: What to Expect and How to Protect Your Family This Fall/WinterFeatured

December 1, 2024
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In Wisconsin, like many other cities, has seen an increase in respiratory viral infections among young children, especially with viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Health officials have noted elevated levels of respiratory disease activity based on data from emergency room visits, lab tests, and hospitalizations. It is important to follow prevention strategies, such as staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, and considering wearing masks in crowded settings (Wisconsin Department of Health Service).

RSV is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms in most people, but can cause more severe illnesses in young children, especially those younger than six months. Symptoms of RSV include nasal congestion, cough, fever, and in some cases difficulty breathing. Parents should watch for signs such as difficulty breathing, dehydration (such as few wet diapers), and changes in their children’s interaction and alertness to decide when to seek medical care.

Influenza is also on the rise in the region, primarily affecting children and young adults. Vaccination is recommended for everyone over six months of age, as the vaccine takes about two weeks to offer full protection.

Prevention

• Vaccines: Make sure all family members over six months of age are up to date on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness.

• Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

• Avoid Crowds: Limit time in crowded places, especially during seasons of high incidence of respiratory viruses.

• Use Masks: Consider wearing masks in closed, crowded spaces, especially if you have an infant or young child who cannot yet be vaccinated.

Common Symptoms of Viral Infections

• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, fever, decreased energy, and in some cases, difficulty breathing.

• Influenza: Symptoms include fever, body aches, cough, nasal congestion, and in some children, vomiting and diarrhea.

• COVID-19: Like other respiratory viruses, it can cause fever, cough, nasal congestion, and in some cases, breathing difficulty.

When to Seek Medical Care

• Difficulty Breathing: If you notice your child is breathing faster, shallowly, or with a lot of effort (like skin sucking in between the ribs), seek immediate medical care.

• Inadequate Hydration: Children should have at least three wet diapers in 24 hours. If they are drinking less or showing signs of dehydration, see a doctor.

• Behavior Changes: If your child is less alert, not interacting, or showing fewer periods of play and activity, it is important to take him or her to a specialist.

Home Care

• Provide rest and keep your child well hydrated.

• Use fever and pain medications appropriate for children, but never give aspirin.

• Keep your child home and away from others to avoid spreading the illness.

How to Help Prevent the Spread

• Stay home if you or your child is sick.

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or your elbow.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, and tables.

For detailed and up-to-date information on viral illnesses in children, especially during the fall, you can consult the following reliable websites:

1. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): The CDC provides up-to-date information on viral infections such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. Their website offers prevention guidelines, symptoms, and specific recommendations for parents and caregivers.

2. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP offers resources on children’s health, including specific information on viral illnesses in young children and recommendations for the fall and winter season.

3. Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic provides information on symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical care for various viral infections affecting children.

4. Wisconsin Department of Health Services: This site offers information specific to Wisconsin residents, including public health alerts and resources on respiratory illnesses and prevention.

Contribution by Precious Moments Childcare, LLC.

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