Ask the Health Experts: Keeping Grandchildren Safe
Caring for your young grandchildren can be an absolute joy. But besides a lot of love, it also requires preparation. Take steps to keep grandchildren safe under your watch. Our health experts can help.

Q: What should I do if my toddler grandchild gets sick?

A: Providing plenty of rest and lots of fluids are still proven cold and flu remedies. But be cautious about medication. "If your grandchild is younger than age 4, stay away from cold or cough medicines," says Shrikrishna Mate, M.D., chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at Ocean Medical Center.

Both drug manufacturers and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration agree that these medications are safe and effective only for people ages 4 and older. The labels of these over-the-counter drugs are currently changing to reflect this warning.

If you have any questions or concerns about the care of a sick grandchild, always consult a doctor, Dr. Mate says. Also, call the pediatrician if your grandchild has constant diarrhea or vomiting, a fever that comes and goes for a number of days, an earache, or problems breathing.

Q: How can I make sure my home is safe for my grandchildren?

A: "To keep curious grandchildren safe, walk through your home and look for potential hazards — especially at their eye level," says Riverview Medical Center's Jennifer D. Engel, M.D., who is board certified in pediatrics. "Then, take steps to remove the risk."

• Cover unused electrical outlets with childproof plug protectors.



• Keep cords from curtains or blinds up and out of reach.



• Store household cleaners in a locked cabinet.



• Ensure medications are stored in childproof containers.



• Remember to turn pot handles toward the back of the stove when cooking.

Q: My grandchild has asthma. How can I make sure the toys I buy are asthma-friendly?

A: If you want to play it safe, stick with nonfabric toys. Soft toys collect dust mites, which are common asthma triggers.

"If you want to give your grandchild a teddy bear or other plush toy, there are options," says Charles Dadzie, M.D., a pulmonologist at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital. "Look for cuddle toys that carry the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America 'asthma-friendly' certification."

These toys, available at major retailers, have a logo picturing a smiling boy with clear lungs. The label comes with specific instructions to help keep the toy in top condition.

About The Doctor

Dadzie, Charles K., M.D. Board certified in Pediatrics Neptune, NJ  07754 (732) 776-4268

Engel, Jennifer D., M.D. Board certified in Pediatrics Holmdel, NJ  07733 (732) 888-0010

Mate, Shrikrishna K., M.D. Board certified in Pediatrics Brick, NJ  08724 (732) 458-1177