During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we become easily distracted. With cooking, traveling and visiting, it can be easy to lose track of your children’s every move. Keep your children safe this holiday season with these tips.

• Added little hands in the kitchen can lead to an increased risk for burns and other accidents. Keep children entertained outside the kitchen as you prepare dinner.
• Note any food allergies prior to the meal to avoid any accidental contamination that could lead to an allergic reaction.
• Place hot serving dishes in the middle of the table, out of the reach of small hands to prevent burns and spills.
• If you have little sous chefs lending a hand, be sure they thoroughly wash their hands before and after touching raw foods and again before eating.
• Thoroughly disinfect counters, utensils, and other surfaces that come in contact with raw meats to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
• Turn the handles of pots and pans in and small appliance cords on the counter to help ensure that no small hands can pull things down on top of themselves.
• Keep a close eye on alcoholic beverages so that they are not inadvertently mistaken for juice.
• Ensure that candles, knives, lighters and other dangerous objects are kept away from children.
• If you are spending the holidays away from home, be sure to pack a few toys to keep children occupied and out of trouble.

We hope you have a wonderful thanksgiving filled with family, friends, turkey and treats! Happy Thanksgiving from NiteOwl Pediatrics.