CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS: Reading to your child can start as early as six months old by pointing to pictures in a large,colorful book. There are also washable cloth books that can be placed in the crib for baby to look at. Small hard cover books are fun and interesting when baby is held on your lap. Make reading an everyday activity for your child.MY WORD:Parents reading in front of their child sets a good example.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS: The preschool years are an important time to help your child establish good eating habits, since you can control your child's diet successfully. At his age, many children need to eat snacks or "mini-meals." They cannot always eat enough food at mealtimes to get all the nutrients and energy they need. Help your child choose sensible snacks-foods that don't promote tooth decay. MY WORD: Teeth are meant to last a lifetime if taken care of early.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS: Make weekly trips with your child to the library. Show your child the variety of things to read. Stay interested and involved in your child's growth as a reader. The rewards and joys of reading is endless. Let your child know how important reading is by suggesting reading as a leisure time activity, or setting aside an established 'reading hour" every night, perhaps just before bedtime.MY WORD: keep books in the car when going shopping or visiting, your child will learn to use their time constructively.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS: Not everybody with asthma has allergies. Not everybody with allergies has asthma. But there is a connection. For instance, 80% of children with asthma have allergies while 50% of adult asthmatics are affected. In all asthmatics that have allergies, allergies (to things like pollens, molds, and animal dander) may be significant triggers of an asthma attact. Allergies also make asthmatics more susceptible to non-allergic asthmatic triggers, such as viral infections. MY WORD: There seems to be a definite connection in some cases with allergies and asthma.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS:The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that you do not place your babie's crib near draperies or blinds where your child could become entangled and strangle on the cords. When your child reaches 35 inches in height or can climb and/or fall over the sides, the crib should be replaced with a bed. Also, take rattles, squeeze toys, teethers and other toys out of the crib or playpen when your baby sleeps to prevent suffocation.MY WORD: These are important tips for your baby's safety.