by Little Stars & She | Apr 20, 2024 | Uncategorized
Summer is a wonderful time for children to enjoy playing outdoors and exploring new activities. However, the rising temperatures bring a set of challenges, especially for young ones. Parents and caregivers should ensure that their children stay healthy and safe through the warmer months. Here are some handy tips for parents on making the summer a happy and healthy one for their children.
Keep Them Hydrated
- Frequent Fluid Intake: Children are more susceptible to dehydration than adults, especially during playtime. Ensure they drink water throughout the day. Fun tip: offer colourful water bottles or add natural flavours like berries or citrus to make hydration exciting.
- Add a lot of hydrating Foods: Serve snacks that boost hydration. Watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries are not only hydrating but also nutritious and kid-friendly.
Protect Their Skin
- Sunscreen is a Must: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to your child’s skin 30 minutes before they go outside, and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Create Shade: Use hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to cover your child’s skin when out in the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Plan Indoor Breaks: Balance outdoor time with indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day to avoid overheating.
Heat Safety
- Cool Spaces: Utilize fans or air conditioning to keep indoor environments cool during peak heat times. If air conditioning isn’t available, plan visits to public places that are air-conditioned, like libraries or shopping malls.
- Cool Baths: Help them cool down with a tepid bath or a gentle spray from a hose in the backyard. However make sure not to bathe your child with cold showers or just after coming back from outdoors. Always use lukewarm water for bathing. The immediate change of temperature can lead to variations of body temperature.
Nutritious and Light Meals
- Lighter Meals: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals. Heavy meals can raise body temperature and feel uncomfortable.
- Seasonal Fruits and Veggies: Make the most of summer’s fresh produce. Serve lots of fresh fruits and veggies as snacks, in smoothies, or frozen for a tasty treat.
Safe and Fun Exercise
- Morning or Evening Play: Schedule outdoor play times during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
- Water Activities: Activities like swimming are excellent for staying cool while getting exercise. Just always ensure active supervision and appropriate safety gear. Use sunblock and necessary swim gear to suit the environment.
Travel Tips
- Preparation is Key: if you are planning an outing or a road trip, make sure to pack essentials including water, healthy snacks, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and extra clothing.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts to avoid extreme heat and plan your activities accordingly.
Conclusion
Summertime with your child can be full of fun and memorable experiences if you take the right precautions to manage the heat. At Little Stars & She, one of the leading paediatric hospitals in Hyderabad, we are dedicated to providing you and your family with the care and support you need to ensure a safe, healthy summer. From preventive health tips to comprehensive care, we’re here to help your little star shine brightest, even under the summer sun. Keep these tips in mind as you plan your summer days, and remember, we’re just a call away whenever you need us.
by Little Stars & She | Feb 29, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Environmental Impact We All Share
Periods. We whisper the word, hide our pads, and often feel embarrassed to acknowledge their existence. But for over half the world’s population, menstruation is a natural, recurring reality. And with that reality comes the responsibility of managing menstrual hygiene – for ourselves and the environment.
Breaking the Silence:
Let’s start by openly acknowledging periods. They’re not something to be ashamed of, but a normal part of life for women and girls. Open discussions empower us to make informed choices about menstrual hygiene products and their environmental impact.
More Than Just Pads and Tampons:
From reusable cloth pads to menstrual cups and period panties, options for managing your flow are expanding! Explore to know and switch to what works best for you, considering comfort, affordability, and environmental impact.
Reusable vs. Disposable? Weighing the Options:
Both reusable and disposable products have their pros and cons:
Reusable:
- Pros: Environmentally friendly, cost-effective in the long run, no need for constant replenishment.
- Cons: Requires cleaning and proper storage, might only be readily available in some places.
Disposable:
- Pros: Convenient, readily available, requires minimal maintenance.
- Cons: Generating significant waste, often made with non-biodegradable materials, can be expensive in the long run.
Every Girl, Every Period, Every Responsibility:
Here are some pointers to ensure responsible menstrual hygiene:
- Choose wisely: If opting for disposables, consider biodegradable options.
- Dispose responsibly: Roll the pad into itself, with the bloodied surface inside. Secure it in a paper wrap. Dispose of it in a disposal bin. Do not flush down the toilet.
- Advocate for change: Raise awareness about menstrual hygiene and waste management in your community.
Beyond Products: Breaking the Stigma
Menstrual hygiene goes beyond choosing the right product. It’s about:
- Accessibility: Ensuring girls and women in rural areas have access to hygiene products and education.
- Tackling period poverty: Addressing affordability concerns, especially for underprivileged communities.
- Breaking taboos: Challenging cultural stigma and shame surrounding menstruation.
Let us work together to build a menstrual ecosystem that celebrates periods as a natural part of life, empowers every girl and woman, and safeguards our environment for generations to come. Together, let’s create a world where “period poverty” and stigma become relics of the past, and menstruation is synonymous with confidence, not concealment.
The fight for responsible menstrual hygiene is a collective journey. Let’s flow with the tide of change, building a menstrual ecosystem that reflects our values and aspirations for a just and sustainable future.
Must know facts about menstrual health
- Q: What if I can’t afford reusable products?
- Look for government-sponsored programs or NGOs providing subsidized or free menstrual hygiene products. Remember, your well-being matters, regardless of your economic situation.
- Q: Are biodegradable products eco-friendly?
- While a better option than conventional disposables, biodegradable products still create waste. Aim for reusables when possible.
- Q: How can I talk to my family and friends about periods?
- Start by sharing your own experiences and encouraging open discussions. Normalize the conversation and challenge any misconceptions they might have.
Remember, periods are a natural part of life, and managing them sustainably and responsibly is a shared responsibility. We can break the silence, empower ourselves, and protect our environment.
Let’s flow in confidence, not just during our periods, but by advocating for change and making informed choices.
by Little Stars & She | Aug 22, 2023 | Uncategorized
As a parent, nothing is more important than the health and safety of your child. While we strive to create a safe environment, accidents, and emergencies can still occur. Being prepared and knowing how to respond to paediatric emergencies is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss common paediatric emergencies, provide essential first-aid tips, and empower parents with the knowledge and skills to handle these situations effectively. Remember, quick action and proper first aid can make a significant difference in ensuring the well-being of your child.
1. Choking
Choking is a common emergency in children, especially toddlers, who tend to explore objects by putting them in their mouths. If your child is choking, it is essential to act swiftly.
First Aid Tips:
a) For infants (under 1 year old):
- Support the infant’s face and head and place them face down on your forearm.
- Deliver firm but gentle back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.
- If the object does not dislodge, turn the infant face up while still supporting the head and perform chest thrusts.
b) For children (over 1 year old):
- Stand or kneel behind the child and deliver five back blows between the shoulder blades.
- If the object does not dislodge, perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) by standing behind the child, placing your fist above the navel, and applying upward pressure.
2. Burns
Burns, a pediatric emergency, can occur from hot liquids, flames, chemicals, or electrical sources. Prompt first aid is vital to minimize damage and alleviate pain.
First Aid Tips:
a) Remove the child from the source of the burn and cool the affected area with cool running water for at least 10 minutes.
b) Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing or cloth.
c) Seek medical attention for severe burns, burns involving the face, hands, or genitals, or burns caused by chemicals or electricity.
3. Fever and Seizures
Fever, a paediatric emergency, is common in children and is often harmless. However, high fevers can lead to seizures, known as febrile seizures, which can be frightening for parents.
First Aid Tips:
a) Stay calm and place the child on a flat surface away from any potential hazards.
b) Remove any tight clothing and ensure a clear airway.
c) Do not restrain the child or put anything in their mouth during a seizure.
d) Time the seizure and seek medical attention if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if it is the child’s first seizure.
4. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions, a paediatric emergency, can range from mild to severe and can be triggered by food, insect bites, or medications. Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
First Aid Tips:
a) For mild allergic reactions:
- Remove the allergen if possible.
- Administer an over-the-counter antihistamine if age-appropriate and as directed.
- Monitor the child for worsening symptoms.
b) For severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis):
- Administer epinephrine if available, following the prescribed instructions.
- Call emergency services immediately.
- Help the child lie down and raise their legs if they feel lightheaded.
- Do not give the child anything to eat or drink.
5. Fractures and Sprains
Children are prone to fractures and sprains due to their active lifestyles and developing bones. Recognizing and providing initial care for these injuries is crucial.
First Aid Tips:
a) Immobilise the injured area by using a splint or by supporting it with soft padding and bandages.
b) Apply ice or a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
c) Seek medical attention to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment.
6. Head Injuries
Head injuries, a paediatric emergency, can range from minor bumps to more severe trauma. It is important to assess the situation and seek medical attention when necessary.
First Aid Tips:
a) For minor head injuries:
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Monitor the child for any changes in behavior, drowsiness, or vomiting.
b) For severe head injuries:
- Call emergency services immediately.
- Keep the child still and support their head and neck.
- Do not move the child unless it is necessary for their safety.
7. Ingestion of Harmful Substances
Children are naturally curious and may ingest harmful substances, such as household cleaners or medications. Immediate action is crucial to prevent further harm.
First Aid Tips:
a) Remove any remaining substance from the child’s mouth.
b) Call the local poison control center or emergency services for guidance.
c) Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical professionals.
Conclusion
Being prepared and knowing how to respond to paediatric emergencies is essential for every parent. By familiarizing yourself with common emergencies and learning the appropriate first aid techniques, you can provide immediate care for your child and potentially prevent further complications. However, it is important to remember that first aid is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek medical attention for severe emergencies or when in doubt.