The holiday season can be the most wonderful time of the year. Along with the fun and festivities, it is important to take steps to ensure special moments stay merry and bright.
As families celebrate by decking the halls, lighting menorahs and enjoying other activities, Johns Hopkins Children’s Center experts are available for interviews on a variety of topics, to help kids stay safe and healthy for the holidays.
Prevent Coughs and Sniffles
Gatherings with families and friends and crowded transportation can lead to the spread of respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and those that cause the flu, COVID-19 and the common cold. Pediatric infectious diseases specialists Aaron Milstone, M.D., M.H.S., Anna Sick-Samuels, M.D., M.P.H., and Erica Prochaska, M.D., can discuss ways to help prevent infections, what to do when children get sick and when it’s safe to return to school and activities.
Eliminate Health Emergencies
Some gifts and decorations around the house could be dangerous for children. For example, small parts can be choking hazards, and button batteries found in toys can be toxic if swallowed. Leticia Ryan, M.D., M.P.H., director of pediatric emergency medicine, and Mary Beth Howard, M.D., M.Sc., pediatric emergency medicine physician, are available to speak about dangers that could send a little one to the emergency room and precautions to help keep kids safe. They can also discuss car seat safety for those who are traveling with children this holiday season.
Avoid Potential Burn Hazards
For many people, the holidays mean festive décor, hot beverages and cookie baking. However, all the excitement can also lead to burn injuries. Alejandro Garcia, M.D., director of the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center pediatric burn program, can discuss fire and burn safety, highlight potential hazards for children — such as Christmas trees, menorahs, fireplaces and cooking activities — and offer tips on how to safely celebrate these traditions.
Beat the Holiday Blues
The holidays can bring a range of emotions — from excitement to sadness. Events, activities and social interactions can also lead to stress, anxiety and a change in routine for kids. Also, the days become shorter and colder during the winter months, which may contribute to symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, even among children. Johns Hopkins Children’s Center child psychologist Joseph McGuire, Ph.D., M.A., can share advice to help manage the winter blues.
Encourage Healthy Eating
This magical time of year can be filled with comfort foods and sweet treats, and some of these foods are high in calories and low in nutrition. Pediatrician and obesity prevention expert Eliana Perrin, M.D., M.P.H., is available to provide guidance on staying active this season and maintaining healthy eating habits for children the rest of the year so they can enjoy the special flavors and traditions the holidays bring.
