Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Health Tips for October 19

Health Tip: Choose a Day-care Provider Carefully

There are many questions to ask and numerous options to consider when choosing a day-care provider.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests these questions:

  • How are children treated?
  • How clean is the facility?
  • What's the quality and nutritional value of the food?
  • How safe are the playrooms?
  • Is there enough space for play and activities?
  • What's the general demeanor of the children and staff?

Health Tip: Inspect Your Child's Playground

Before you turn your child loose at the playground, inspect it to make sure it's safe.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons mentions these features to look for when inspecting a playground:

  • A soft, padded surface below the equipment, such as sand, shredded tires, mulch or wood chips.
  • Separate "active" and "quiet" locations, for activities such as swinging versus playing in the sand.
  • Separate play areas for preschoolers and bigger kids.
  • A safe entrance - exit area, away from equipment that's being used.
  • Popular areas that are kept separate, to limit crowds.
  • Clear sight lines so that parents can easily see across the playground.

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