credit: g-hatHealthy children.  Of course that is what we all want.  We want the best for our children and we consider it our job to see that they are healthy and protected from harm.

One area of fear in many parents is that their children may receive burns.  It is a reasonable fear because there are many ways a child can be burned. We want to be extra cautious and here are some reminders:

• Heating baby bottle or baby food in a microwave could leave hot spots from uneven heating and could burn your baby's mouth.   A safer idea is to warm the milk bottles in hot, but not boiling water for five minutes, then test the milk on the inside of your wrist.  Sure it may be more trouble, but your baby is worth it.
• While you are grilling or cooking on the stove, make sure the kids stay at least three feet away.  It is a kids' no-go zone for safety.
• Pot handles sticking out can be bumped and disaster follows.  So, keep the handles turned toward the inside of the stove so children can't grab them or bump into them by accident.
• Watch those hot cups of coffee or other liquids around your children.  Carrying a baby and a hot drink is just asking for trouble.
• In three seconds a child can suffer a third-degree burn in 140-degree bathwater, so if possible, adjust your water heater to a maximum of 120 degrees.

In other words, common sense is a good rule of thumb.  Take extra care and keep those precious kids healthy.

The Schoolmarm