Infopeds for parents

03/02/2025

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Misinformation is unfortunately spreading online about the measles outbreak in Texas and about the measles vaccine. To help dispel the misinformation, we break down and debunk measles myths and share important info about measles and the recent outbreak. For example, the measles vaccine did not cause...

01/31/2025

Embrace the power of understanding—it's your strongest asset! Stay aware of what's happening around you!

12/20/2024

Great recommendation

12/16/2024

As flu season approaches, let’s prioritize the health of our children and community. Together, we can make a difference!

07/18/2024

Title: 🦟🌿👶 Let's Discuss: Keeping Kids Safe from Insect Bites! 🍃🦗

As parents, we all enjoy seeing our little ones playing outside, but dealing with pesky mosquito bites afterward is no fun. With the outdoor season in full swing, it's important to remember to use insect repellent to protect your children not only from itching but also from diseases that insects can carry.

Today, on our segment "Let's Discuss," we'll delve into important questions about insect repellents: What should you buy? Is it safe? How should you use it? 🤔🍀

Insect repellents work by repelling biting insects, not stinging ones like bees. Natural options like Citronella, peppermint, Lavender, Lemongrass, while safe, may not be as effective in preventing insect-borne illnesses. On the other hand, chemical repellents like DEET are widely used for their safety and efficiency, with DEET being suitable for children from 2 months old and up.

When using DEET, remember the following key points:
- Choose the right percentage for the duration of protection needed.
- Apply it only once a day and avoid re-application.
- Dress your child in protective clothing.
- Do not apply on damaged skin or in combination with sunscreen.
- Avoid using on infants under 2 months old or pregnant women. 🚼

Additionally, repellents like Picaridin (for children over 6 months) and Permethrin (for treating clothing) offer effective alternatives to DEET. Simple measures like avoiding bright colors, scented products, and using mosquito nets can also help keep your child safe from insect bites. Let's prioritize our children's safety while enjoying the great outdoors! 🌳🌞👪🔆

07/15/2024

Exploring Sun Protection - Part Two: Essential Outdoor Information! ✌🏻🧴

In our previous discussion, we covered the fundamentals of sunscreen, its various types, and proper usage. However, there's still much more to learn to ensure your family receives the best sun protection possible. Here are additional valuable insights for outdoor activities. 🏕🏝

🌊💦 Water Resistance and Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen:

- Water-resistant sunscreen is beneficial as it maintains its effectiveness for approximately 80 minutes while in water. Nonetheless, it's important to note that reapplication is still necessary!

🚨⛔🙅🏻‍♀️ Spray Sunscreen: Is It Recommended?

Unfortunately, spray sunscreen is NOT recommended, despite the convenience it offers. Here's why:

1. It's challenging to determine the amount applied and which areas of the skin are properly covered. Ever sprayed a wall and noticed the spots without paint? The same concept applies. No spray means no sun protection.

🧐🌬️ DID YOU KNOW? Proper application of spray sunscreen still requires rubbing it in, which isn't significantly faster than using lotion.

2. Inhalation of spray sunscreen is a concern. The amount that ends up in the lungs and any potential toxic effects remain unknown.

3. Consider the effect on others around you. Sprayed aerosols, just like to***co smoke 🚬, expose those nearby to the sunscreen particles.

4. While not inherently flammable, spray sunscreen is still an aerosol. It should be used cautiously around open flames, such as grills, candles, or any other sources of fire.

🚨If you still choose to use spray sunscreen, follow these recommendations from the American Association of Dermatology to ensure proper usage: 🚨 Source: ASD.org

1. Hold the nozzle close to your skin and spray generously. Most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) to cover their entire body.

2. Thoroughly rub it in to ensure no spots are missed and to achieve an even layer of coverage.

3. Avoid inhaling the spray and never spray directly on your face. Instead, spray it onto your hands and then apply it to your face.

4. Refrain from using spray sunscreen on windy days, as it's harder to apply and easier to accidentally inhale.

5. Never apply spray sunscreen near heat or open flames, and ensure it's fully rubbed in and dry before approaching any open flames. Source: ASD.org

⛺️🏕️ Other Considerations for Outdoor Activities 🏝️🏝️🙋🏻‍♀️

- Individuals with sensitive skin should opt for mineral sunscreen.

- If using self-tanners (commonly used by teens), select those that also provide UV protection.

- Be cautious of sunscreen containing PABA, as it may cause irritation.

- Be mindful of leaving strollers or other equipment exposed to the sun before placing your child in them. Similar to car seats or seat belts on a hot day, they can become hot and cause burns that your child might not be able to communicate about.

- Don't be swayed by judgmental stares or comments when applying sunscreen to your child. Protecting your child is your priority as a parent, even if it leads to brief fussiness while reapplying every two hours. They will be safe!

- YOU'VE GOT THIS! Enjoy the outdoors with your family!

🙋🏻‍♀️Stay tuned for our upcoming segment, DID YOU KNOW?, where we'll share interesting facts about sun-protective wear, daily sunscreen use, and other sun protection tips!

Follow us and SHARE this valuable information with friends and family to ensure everyone enjoys sun-safe activities during this wonderful time of the year.

Have any questions or comments? Share them below! ⏬🔽

07/12/2024

🌞👦👧 Sun Protection for Our Little Marvels! 🌞👦👧
Let's prioritize the well-being and safety of our little ones by ensuring they have proper sun protection. Here are some essential tips to keep our kids shielded from harmful UV rays while enjoying outdoor activities. ☀️🌈

1️⃣ Cover up: Dress your child in light, breathable clothing that covers most of their skin when they are out in the sun. This helps to minimize direct exposure to UV rays and provides a physical barrier of protection.

2️⃣ Seek shade: Encourage your kids to take breaks in shady areas, especially during peak sunlight hours. It's a great opportunity to rest and recharge while reducing their sun exposure.

3️⃣ Hat on: Grab those stylish hats for your little sunshine! Wide-brimmed hats provide additional protection by shielding the face, neck, and ears from the sun's rays.

4️⃣ Sunglasses are cool: Don't forget to protect those young eyes too! Opt for sunglasses that block out UVA and UVB rays to safeguard their delicate eyes from potential damage.

5️⃣ Apply sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your child's skin. Don't overlook easily forgotten spots like the ears, nose, and back of the neck!

6️⃣ Timing is key: Aim to avoid direct sun exposure during the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest. Plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense.

7️⃣ Frequent reapplication: Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if your child is swimming or sweating profusely. Consistency is key to ensuring continuous protection.

With these sun-savvy strategies, our little ones can bask in the joy of outdoor play while staying safe from harmful UV rays. Let's make sun protection a top priority this season! 🌞👕🌴

⁉️What to know more about what type of sunscreen is best for your child? Follow and don’t miss our next post on sunscreen ✅

07/12/2024

🌞😎 SUN-EXPOSURE and Prevention: How to Stay Sun-Safe Outdoors? 😎🌞 and what sunscreen to use.

👕🕶️ Clothing and Accessories:

- Cover your body with clothing, preferably with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor). If using regular clothing, hold it against a bright light to check for fabric density – the more "see-through" it is, the less protection it offers.

- Don't forget to wear sunglasses with UV protection, including for your little ones!

- Opt for a hat with at least a 3-inch brim all around to provide shade not only for the face and head but also for the ears and neck. (We often overlook these areas when applying sunscreen, don't we?)

⏰☀️ Time Considerations:

- Avoid the hours when UV exposure is at its highest, typically from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. If possible, go out earlier in the morning or after 6:00 pm when the sun's intensity is lower.

🧴🌞 Sunscreen: Let's Talk About It!

🤷🏻‍♀️🙋🏻‍♀️ Who Should Use Sunscreen?

- Children above 6 months of age can use sunscreen safely.

- Infants younger than 6 months should be kept away from direct sun exposure whenever possible. However, if unavoidable, a small amount of sunscreen can be applied to exposed areas like hands and feet.

🧴 What Type of Sunscreen Should We Choose?

- There are two main types: mineral or inorganic sunscreens and chemical or organic sunscreens.

- Mineral sunscreens create a protective barrier on the skin surface and are suitable for younger children. They can be challenging to apply, may leave a white residue, and are easily washed off with water or sweat.

- Chemical sunscreens get absorbed into the top layer of the skin and work by absorbing UV rays. They take around 30 minutes to become effective, making them more suitable for older children and adults.

🏝️🌊 When and How Often Should We Apply and Reapply Sunscreen?

- Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure, regardless of the type used.

- Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if your child is sweating or has been in water.

📈 How Much Sunscreen Is Enough?

- You need to use a significant amount! Most people underestimate the quantity necessary for effective protection. Remember, the recommended amount is approximately one ounce, which would fill a shot glass, to cover the exposed areas of the body.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will share more fascinating and helpful information about sun protection! Make sure to check it out!

Follow us and share with your friends: Infopeds for parents

07/08/2024

🌞📣 Protecting our Little Ones: Understanding Heat Exposure, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke 🌡️🚫
As we gear up for summer, let's shine a light on an essential topic that concerns our little ones - ☀️ heat exposure. It is crucial for us to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary steps to prevent any heat-related issues. ⁉️How we can protect our children from these conditions?😎🌤️

1️⃣ Heat Exhaustion:
Heat exhaustion occurs when our kids are exposed to high temperatures and physical exertion in hot environments. It is characterized by symptoms such as excessive sweating, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and pale skin. If your child experiences these symptoms, it's crucial to act swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating. Move them to a cooler shaded area, provide water to drink, and use a damp cloth to cool them down.

2️⃣ Heat Stroke:
Heat stroke is a severe condition that can occur when heat exhaustion is left untreated or becomes more intense. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Heat stroke can be recognized by symptoms such as high body temperature (above 103°F or 39.4°C), rapid heartbeat, confusion, irritability, seizure, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect that your child is experiencing heat stroke, call for medical help immediately while taking steps to cool them down, such as removing excess clothing and applying cold wet towels to their body.

To prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke, we can take the following preventive measures:

1️⃣ Stay hydrated: Encourage your children to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, throughout the day to maintain proper hydration.

2️⃣ Dress appropriately: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing for your kids to help them stay cool and comfortable in hot weather.

3️⃣ Seek shade: Whenever possible, find shaded areas for outdoor activities to reduce the risk of excessive sun exposure and overheating.

4️⃣ Limit outdoor activities: Plan outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, and encourage rest breaks in cool areas to avoid fatigue.

5️⃣ Apply sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating to protect your child's skin from harmful UV rays.

By being aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, as well as taking preventative measures, we can ensure our children stay safe and healthy during the summer months.

✅Share your own tips or experiences in the comments below! 👇😊

Stay cool, stay safe, and have a fantastic summer with your little ones! 🌞🏖️🌈

02/07/2024

Today let’s talk about- Obstruction of the lacrimal ducts in newborns. 🧑‍⚕️

Rest assured, there is no need for concern, newborns may experience blockages in their tear ducts, resulting in the shedding of tears. 😢

This is a common occurrence that often resolves itself within a few months. In the meantime, allow me to offer some useful tips to alleviate discomfort for your precious little one:

1️⃣ Gently massaging the tear duct area can be remarkably beneficial.

2️⃣ Utilizing a clean, warm cloth to delicately wipe away excess tears will bring relief.

3️⃣ Patience is paramount, as time often serves as the ultimate remedy. In the majority of cases, the obstruction dissipates as your baby grows.

❤️

02/06/2024

🌟👩‍⚕️ Debunking Thumb Sucking Myths🖐️👶

Hello Infopeds parents! 🌸✨ Today, let's have a chat about: thumb sucking. There are several myths surrounding this habit, and I'm here to shed some light and provide you with accurate information. Let's debunk those myths and understand thumb sucking in a positive and informed way! 🌈👍

🌟 Myth 1: Thumb sucking is a sign of emotional distress.

Fact: Thumb sucking is a natural self-soothing mechanism for infants and young children. It helps them feel secure and calm, especially during times of stress or fatigue. It does not necessarily indicate emotional distress or anxiety. Remember, each child is different, and thumb sucking can be a normal part of their development.

🌟 Myth 2: Thumb sucking will lead to dental problems.

Fact: While prolonged thumb sucking can potentially affect the alignment of permanent teeth, it's important to emphasize that this depends on the intensity, duration, and frequency of the habit. Most children naturally stop thumb sucking between the ages of 2 and 4, before any significant dental issues arise. If you have concerns, consult your pediatric dentist for personalized guidance.

🌟 Myth 3: Thumb sucking is a habit that needs to be stopped immediately.

Fact: Trying to force a child to stop thumb sucking prematurely can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. It's crucial to remember that thumb sucking is a self-soothing behavior and may naturally diminish as your child grows older. It's best to offer gentle guidance and support as they develop alternative coping mechanisms and outgrow the habit on their own.

🌟 Myth 4: Thumb sucking is a sign of immaturity.

Fact: Thumb sucking is a common behavior among infants and toddlers. It does not indicate immaturity or a lack of development. Children develop at their own pace, so it's important to respect their individual journey and not rush the process of outgrowing thumb sucking.

🌟 Myth 5: Thumb sucking will damage the shape of the thumb.

Fact: Thumb sucking does not cause any permanent damage or change the shape of the thumb. The thumb naturally returns to its original shape once the habit is discontinued.

Understanding thumb sucking as a natural part of development can help you approach it with patience and positivity.

Dr. Bello and the Infopeds team 🌸👩‍⚕️

02/05/2024

🌟👩‍⚕️ Helping Your Child Transition from Pacifier to Big Kid Status🍼👶

Hello Infopeds parents! 🌸✨ Today, let's talk about: the prolonged use of pacifiers. Let's explore when, why, and how to wean your child off the pacifier in the most gentle and loving way possible. 🌈🌺

🕐 When is the right time to start weaning off the pacifier?

As a general guideline, it's recommended to start weaning your child off the pacifier around their first birthday, By this age, they are developing their language skills and may rely less on the pacifier for soothing💡👪

🔑 Why is it important to wean your child off the pacifier?

Weaning your child off the pacifier is essential for their overall development and oral health. As your little one grows, it's important for them to learn other ways to self-soothe and communicate their needs effectively. Additionally, weaning can promote proper dental development and reduce the risk of dental issues in the future. 🌟🌱

🌈 How can you make the transition a positive and happy experience?

1️⃣ Gradual approach: Start by limiting pacifier use to specific times, such as naptime or bedtime. This gradual reduction allows your child to adjust gradually.

2️⃣ Substitute with love: Offer alternative comfort objects like a special soft toy or a cozy blanket. Encourage your child to embrace these new sources of comfort.

3️⃣ Distraction and engagement: Keep your child engaged in activities and play to divert their attention from the pacifier. Fun activities and quality time together can make the transition easier.

4️⃣ Praise and rewards: Celebrate every milestone your child achieves in the weaning process. Encouragement and small rewards can motivate and make them feel proud.

5️⃣ Let them participate: Involve your child in the process by explaining why it's time to say goodbye to the pacifier and let them have a role in giving it away or saying farewell.

Remember, weaning process may take time. Be patient, provide lots of love and understanding, and offer alternatives for comfort and self-soothing. 🤗❤️

Dr. Bello and the Infopeds team 🌸👩‍⚕️