Three things to pack for healthy traveling with kids
Since Memorial Day is coming up next weekend and swine flu is still on some of our minds, I thought I'd use some tips from the Mommy Docs for today's Consult.
They recommend that before you travel or even head to the beach with kids, you pack these three things:
--Hand sanitizer will help your kids keep their hands clean when there's no sink handy, the Docs say. But if it's available, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds with water and soap is the best way to clean your hands.
--Thermometer. The Docs say temperatures should always be taken rectally with a digital thermometer for infants under 3 months. For older kids, they recommend the Braun ThermoScan ear thermometer, which they say is very quick.
--Nasal aspirator. That's the little blue bulb that often comes home from the hospital with new moms. Keep it handy; babies have a hard time clearing their own noses and can use its gentle help, say the Docs. I've found it can help older children, too.
Have we left anything out that you find indispensable for travel?
Comments
Neither of my kids would ever let me anywhere near them with a nasal aspirator. Instead, I make sure we travel with plenty of bandaids and antibiotic ointment, plus nail clippers and tweezers, for the inevitable splinters that come from the boardwalk.
Posted by: Kayris | May 18, 2009 1:12 PM
I think the best nasal aspirator is Nosefrida, it works a lot better than the bulb they give you in the hospital, and it's easy to bring on a trip.
Posted by: Kim | May 18, 2009 2:21 PM
Baby wipes - even if the kids are not babies. We were walking on the Trolly [sic] Trail and my 3 year old decided to "pat" a hairy poison ivy vine. Quick wipedown. No PI 3 days later. Great for shopping carts, restaurant high chars. etc.
Posted by: StephanieL | May 19, 2009 11:07 AM