Seasonal Health News
Winter
Welcome to the New Year
Dear Parents,
Welcome to the New Year and to our seasonal health newsletter. I am excited to bring you health-related information for you and your children. With the long winter season ahead of us I would like to address the best tips to keep your child safe and healthy throughout the school year. Thank you for joining me on this journey.
Christel Caminiti, Irving School Nurse
Staying healthy and happy
Head lice are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood. They are a common problem among children, particularly those who attend school or daycare, but adults can also get head lice. Yes, they are creepy, crawly parasites and can cause a lot of itching. But they are largely harmless as they do not cause serious illness or carry any diseases.
Getting rid of head lice can be difficult. You may also feel a little anxious or embarrassed that it was your child who got lice. Doctors say there is nothing to feel ashamed about. Anyone who has direct head-to-head contact can become infested no matter how often you bathe and wash your hair.
Please find more information on the prevention and treatment of head lice here.
Mood brightening activities for long, dark winter days
Here are some ideas for brightening up dark, cold days in the winter for you and your children
Get outside: Fresh air and sunlight can help improve mood and boost energy levels. Bundle up and go for a walk and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa afterward.
Get active: Exercise can help improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Find indoor activities that your children enjoy, such as dancing, playing games, or doing a home workout.
Have a movie night: Curl up with some blankets, snacks, and a favorite movie or TV show.
Do a craft or art project: Art can be a great way to express creativity and relieve stress. Gather some art supplies and try a new project or do a classic activity like coloring or painting.
Read a book: Choose a book that everyone will enjoy and take turns reading aloud.
Play board games or card games: Board games and card games. Play a classic game or try something new.
Take a virtual trip: Use the internet to explore new places and learn about different cultures. Look at pictures, watch videos, or even take a virtual tour.
Vaccines
Vaccines are an important part of preventing serious illnesses and keeping children healthy. There are vaccines available to protect children against a variety of diseases, including measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, polio, influenza, and many others.
It's important to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure that your child is fully protected against these diseases. If you have questions or concerns about vaccines, you should discuss them with your child's healthcare provider to get more detailed information about the benefits and risks of vaccination and help you make an informed decision about your child's health. You are also welcome to contact me in regard to state-mandated vaccination requirements for NJ schools (please find my contact information below).
Christel Caminiti
732-572-1205 ext. 1003
No health insurance?
Eric B. Chandler Health Center
277 George Street
New Brunswick, NJ
08901
Ph.: 732-235-6700