Ms McCormick's blog

The CDC has proclaimed October 6-10, 2008 "Get Smart About Antibiotics" week.  Since most of our upper respiratory infections are viral, they should not be treated by antibiotics, which are for bacterial infections. Antibiotic overuse is dangerous, as it can lead to more serious infections later on.

To prevent illness,  frequent hand washing remains the key element. In addition, flu vaccination is recommended, along with avoiding contact with sick people.  For further information, contact the CDC website www.cdcgov/getsmart.

Welcome back to the 2008-2009 school year at Rutledge Hall! We all hope that this will be a healthy and safe year for your student. As we start this new year, it is important to review some familiar health issues.

Breakfast is essential for a student to start the day well. Although fitting this meal in may be difficult with the new starting times, it can not be missed.It may be necessary to set the alarm for an earlier wakeup ( going to bed earlier is important too). On days when the family is running late, having a banana or granola bar provides a morning pickup. Including fruit in the morning helps to meet the daily requirements.

As warm weather continues, remember these guidelines also:

1. if your student rides a bike to school, a helmet is a must

2. shirts with sleeves protect the shoulders and upper arms from sunburn and insect bites

The track and field meet, along with the class picnics, are two events which require advance planning. Please note the following considerations to guarantee a fun, safe program for your student.

Nutrition-  A healthy breakfast before your child leaves for these active days will provide the needed energy requirements for starting the day.Fluid requirements are especially important. Remind your child to drink water during the day.

Dress-  Dress for the weather. Tops should have sleeves which protect the tender shoulder area. Supportive gym shoes are a must. Sandals and flip flops do not support the feet and ankles; the open skin area is susceptible to lacerations.

April 21-27 is "TV Turn Off Week". Turning off the TV encourages families to spend active time together. Spring has arrived, and a  perfect way to celebrate this lovely season is by sharing time away from the TV. Earth Day is also being celebrated, so planting flowers or a tree as a family, taking a walk,or participating in an Earth Day activity are just several alternatives for families.

The state of Illinois has changed the requirements for physical examinations from fifth grade to sixth grade. Thus, currrent fourth grade students will not be required to submit evidence of an exam for enrollment. However, we do hope that parents and guardians will strive to promote the health of their students by having the recommended yearly physical examinations for their family.This visit with the physician not only ensures your child is receiving a regular health assessment, but gives you the opportunity to discuss relevant issues with your doctor.

Concerned about household germs and illness in your family? A researcher from the University of Arizona has initiated a telephone information line to provide tips regarding killing those nasty germs that cause illness. You may dial 1-888-MIC-MOMY to receive basic guidelines on health promotion.

This is a reminder to all fifth grade  student parents that the State of Illinois requires a dental examination for all sixth grade students. The required dental form will be distributed to the students this month, which is Children's Dental Health Month. It is not too early to complete this requirement. Please make appointments now!

February is Children's Dental Health Month. During this month, staff will be reminding students of the importance of caring for their teeth. These reminders include:

1. teeth should be brushed at least twice a day. While at home, brushing after every meal and after ingesting sweets is ideal. When brushing is not possible, rinsing the mouth with water is helpful.

2. floss every day. Flossing is necessary to remove plaque and promote gum health. Poor gum care has been found to be related to cardiac disease.

3. children should visit the dentist every six months

4. a healthy diet is essential for good teeth. Children should avoid sweets.

5. Mouth guards are recommended during sports to protect the teeth from injury.

Third graders can participate in a coloring contest sponsored by the Dental Society. Please encourage your child to complete the entry form.

Children need to be protected from the harsh winter weather. Whether waiting for the school bus, the bell at school, or during recess, they must have the proper clothing for warmth. All clothing and boots should be loose fitting, mittens are preferred over gloves, and windproof, water resistant jackets provide protection from cold exposure. It is important to take a few extra minutes in the morning to be sure each child has the proper clothing before setting out for the new day.

Now that the winter months are here, it is good time to review skin care. Winter weather is very hard on the skin, and preventive measures are necessary.

1. Provide humidity in the home since lack of humidity increases dryness.

2. Use warm water for baths and showers, as hot water removes the natural moisturizing agents of the skin. Immediately afterwards, apply a moisturizer to damp skin. Pay particular attention to the hands, elbows, knees, and feet.

3 Use a mositurizer that contains  ingredients such as mineral oil, petrolatum, linoleic acid,ceramides, dimethicone, and glycerin. These are more protective than standard lotions. (American Academy Of Dermatology)

4.Apply lip balm regularly as the lips need individual attention.

5. When sunny, use agents with SPF 15 protection, as sunburns can occur in the winter also.