Here are a few tips, courtesy of the American Association of Poison Control Centers, to keep the holidays merry, peaceful and safe:
- Though they're not the fatal poisons that were once believed to be, poinsettias, if consumed, can cause some gastrointestinal discomfort, including vomiting. Keep small children and pets away from poinsettias to keep the plant pretty and the kids and pets comfortable.
- Keep small children and animals away from other seasonal plants, including Mistletoe berries, Holly berries, the fruit of Jerusalem Cherry, the leaves and twigs of Boxwood and all parts of Yew plants.
- Christmas tree preservatives are usually non toxic. Still, check the label for special ingredients and warnings. As for trees themselves: pines, spruces and junipers can cause stomach discomfort if large amounts are ingested. In other words: Don't eat the Christmas tree.
- The prettiest old ornaments might have hidden hazards. Beware of cuts from broken glass and be aware that some older ornaments may be decorated with harmful lead paints.
- Lead is also a hazard in some tree lights wires. Wash hands before and after handling tree lights.
- Be mindful of "icicles" or tinsel. Both can be a choking hazard if swallowed.
- Angel hair is finely spun glass which can cause cuts or irritation when handled or swallowed.
- If relatives come to stay through the holidays, be sure their medications are put away.
- Lock medicines in a suitcase, or, if in a purse, place it out of reach. And NEVER leave medications on the nightstand. A child might wander into the room at any time, and what clearly appears to be medication to you can look like candy to them.
- Designate a locked room where relatives and guests can place coats and purses that may contain medications.
- Empty ash trays often, and when the party is over, clean them. Ingesting as few as six cigarette butts can send a child to the hospital.
- Make sure small button batteries are not available to children. One swallowed battery can make a child very sick.
Here are some ways to reconnect with your family and enjoy the season:
- Volunteer as a family somewhere. It's better to give than to receive.
- Emphasize gifts from the hearts and hands. Gifts can be as simple as a cherished handprint, a scrapbook, or a service such as housecleaning.
- Help children learn about dollars and sense. Educate children that spending is a choice, and that there is a difference between a "want" and "need."
- Give the gift of time.
- Make memories and establish traditions. How about sharing memories during a special meal, decorating the tree as a family, opening one special gift with just your family that has special meaning, starting a journal with contributions by each member, or have a family PJ night?
- Let there be too many cooks in the kitchen. Make a gingerbread village, with each member crafting an individual cottage. Or, bake up sugar cookie cut-outs and use imagination with the decorations.
- Teach "Thank You" from the heart. While it's natural for children to possess a case of the "greeds" around the holidays, parents should use the season to teach manners, respect for elders, grace, giving, and gratitude.
