How to Have a Safe and Healthy Holiday Season — Johns Hopkins Children’s Center Experts Are Available to Offer Advice for Families

Navigate RSV, COVID-19 and the Flu  

Newswise — The holiday season is a special time to gather and celebrate with family and friends. Crowded transportation and large gatherings can also mean the spread of germs and respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and those that cause flu, COVID-19 and the common cold. Pediatric infectious diseases specialists Aaron Milstone, M.D., M.H.S., and Anna Sick-Samuels, M.D., M.P.H., can discuss the importance of hand-washing and other ways to help prevent the spread of infections. These experts can also offer helpful guidance about immunizations, like an annual flu shot, and general infection prevention recommendations to help keep kids healthy.

Holiday Toy Safety Reminders

This time of year is filled with food, family and celebration, but some of the gifts under the tree and decorations around the house could be dangerous. Small parts may be choking hazards, and toys might require button batteries, which are toxic if swallowed. Pediatric emergency medicine physicians Joanna Cohen, M.D., and Mary Beth Howard, M.D., M.Sc., are available to speak about dangers that could send a little one to the emergency room and precautions to keep kids safe. They can also discuss car seat safety for those who are hitting the road with children this holiday season.  

Avoid Holiday Fire Hazards 

For many people, filling their home with fun, festive holiday décor — trees, lights, stockings, menorahs and kinaras — is an annual tradition. However, some of these decorations can be fire hazards. The director of the Children’s Center pediatric burn program, Erica Hodgman, M.D., can discuss fire and burn safety, and offer tips regarding potential hazards such as Christmas trees, candles and fireplaces.

Beat the Holiday Blues and Manage Mental Health  

While the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year for some, they can be difficult for others. The days are shorter and colder during the winter months, which may contribute to symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, even among children. The holiday season can also bring many events, activities and social interactions that may lead to stress and anxiety for kids. Children’s Center child psychologists Joseph McGuire, Ph.D., M.A., and Erika Chiappini, Ph.D., can offer tips to help manage the winter blues. They can also provide advice for children and family members who are coping with loss this time of year.  

Healthy Holiday Nutrition Tips

Holidays can be a magical time for children, filled with special seasonal foods and sweet treats. Some of these foods, however, are high in calories and low in nutrition. Pediatric endocrinologist Stephanie Green, M.D., M.S., is available to provide advice on maintaining healthy eating habits and limiting junk food.