JUNE 2008
KIDS KALEIDOSCOPE

by Cody Chandler Hilton

It's time to plan all the fun summer trips to local amuzement parks and have fun at events in your home town. I really like Universal Studio because they are always adding new attractions and rides, and because you can see films at the theatre in Universal before they are released to other places. You get to be first. Disney in Anaheim is also a good place for family fun, and don't forget about spending the day at Dodger Stadium, watching a great baseball game. There are some good movies out for summer, like Chronicles of Narnia, that the whole family can enjoy.These are the things we do in Los Angeles, but every city and town has their own great places to visit. Have a great June, and I hope you come back next month for more tips and things to do. 

FAMILY SAFETY TIPS FOR SUMMER

• Beware of the summer sun—prevent accelerated aging and reduce the risk of skin cancers by using effective sunscreens and/or protective clothing. And make sure your product is not outdated. A tan may look good now, but your skin won’t as you get older.
• Poison ivy, oak and sumac are widespread in the United States, and contacting them is a sure way to ruin a vacation! Know where they’re found, how to identify and avoid them and the itchy blisters they cause.
• Tiny deer ticks that carry Lyme disease are common in some areas—know what they and their bites look like. If you’re walking in a suspect area, wear protective clothing, use repellent and check yourself and children carefully to avoid any bites.
• Never swim alone, and know your limits—whether in a lake, pool or the ocean. Most drowning deaths could have been prevented.
• Protective helmets are a necessity when cycling or rollerblading—head injuries are major causes of death from cycling accidents.
• If you’re allergic to insect bites or stings, wear warning identification and carry medication if necessary.
• Know how to prevent and treat travelers’ maladies such as motion or altitude sickness and travelers’ diarrhea.
• Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation.
• Travelers should pack a healthy suitcase—take any prescription medications in your carry-on luggage and, if traveling out of the country, take a prescription along.
• Avoid dehydration in hot weather—drink plenty of fluids and take breaks in cool spots when overheated.

MOMS BEST

Most kids have trouble with oatmeal, and I was surprised at how good the instant Moms Best oatmeal is. They also have great oats & Honey cereal and toasted cinnamon squares. Everything is healthy and they really taste good for breakfast or anytime.