10 Essentials for Safety

by Paul Rogers
October 10, 2009

It’s important to be prepared for anything when you watch the kids. These basics will keep everyone safe.

If grandchildren will be visiting, be sure you have key supplies and medications close at hand (yet out of reach of the kids), advises pediatrician Josh Rabinowitz, D.O., of Advocare Main Line Pediatrics in suburban Philadelphia.

First-aid kit. Keep it well-stocked and in a convenient place. Make sure it includes Bacitracin or Neosporin — antibiotic ointments that prevent infections in cuts and scrapes — and hydrocortisone cream, which takes away the itch of poison ivy.

Emergency information. Never let parents leave kids with you without providing an emergency-contact list that includes their cell-phone numbers and their pediatrician’s office information.

EpiPen, inhaler, or prescription medicine. If your grandchildren are taking medication, or have been prescribed an inhaler or EpiPen, make sure parents bring it along with the children and entrust it to you with any instructions you need. It could save a life.

Ice pack. For those inevitable bumps on the head.

Children’s Motrin or Tylenol (or generic). Children can contract fevers for a number of reasons, and these standbys have proven effective for bringing temperatures down quickly. (Always contact the parents before giving children any medicine.)

Children’s Benadryl (or generic). For allergic reactions, including hives (also available in a cream for bad mosquito bites). It can cause drowsiness, but has the opposite effect in some children. (Again, always call the parents before giving children a dose.)

 

Sunscreen (SPF 30 or above). Several children’s brands are available in spray-on bottles. Try to give kids a coating about 30 minutes before you plan to go outdoors.

Insect repellent. This is an essential if Lyme disease is a concern in your area — and even if isn’t, kids often have worse reactions to mosquito bites than adults. For children, use sprays with no more than 30 percent DEET.

Swimming pool gate/fence. A must (and in some places, the law) if preadolescent grandchildren will be spending any time near your pool.

House rules. No one knows the potential safety risks in and around your house better than you, so make sure all your grandchildren know the house rules for where they can go and how they can play.

Source Grandparents

Editors note Paul Rogers is a New York City–based journalist who has written extensively for newspapers and magazines.