2017-2018 Flu Vaccine, What You Need to Know.
1. The flu virus is a common and unpredictable illness, and it can cause serious complications and death, even in healthy children.  The best way to protect your child is by getting the flu vaccine each year.   According to recent studies, At least 101 children died from the flu in the 2016-2017 seasons.

​The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual influenza vaccination for all people ages 6 months and older, including children and adolescents. Especially out of home caregivers and caregivers of children with high risk conditions including all children under the age of 5.

2. Even though it may seem late, now is the time to get your child vaccinated.  Flu vaccine shipments have already arrived.  Call your local Pediatrician to schedule your appointment. 

3. People DO NOT get the flu from the flu vaccine.  The Flu vaccines are made from killed viruses. Mild symptoms, such as nausea, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and chills, can occur. The side effects of the flu vaccine are usually mild and resolve quickly. The most common side effects are pain and tenderness at the site of injection as with any other vaccine. Fever can also be seen within 24 hours after immunization. 

4. This year’s flu vaccine is only available by injection.  The nasal form of the vaccine was not found to be as effective.   

5. Can I still get the Flu if I have been vaccinated?  Yes. Previous studies have shown that the flu vaccines are about 60% effective. The good news is that vaccinated people who do get the flu usually get a milder form of the virus. People who are not vaccinated will be more likely to be in bed longer with fever feeling miserable and could develop a secondary infection like pneumonia.  

6. The flu vaccine can be given at the same time your child receives his/her other vaccines. It is also important to note that children 6 months through 8 years of age may require 2 doses of the vaccine spaced one month apart to be fully protected. These children should receive their first dose as soon as the vaccine becomes available.

Please contact the office to schedule your child’s Flu Vaccine today:

Central Office: 1100 West 39 ½ Street, Austin, TX 78756 
Phone: 512-454-4545 

North Office: 4100 Duval Rd., Bldg 4, Ste. 100, Austin, TX 78759 
Phone: 512-250-0220 

Additional Resources:

• Flu.gov (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• Preventing the Flu: Resources for Parents & Child Care Providers

 

Here are 5 great ways to involve your child in the kitchen that will not only teach them useful skills but also help them build confidence.

Engage other senses.
It can be a challenge raising a picky eater, but some of these challenges can be overcome by encouraging your young ones to join you in the kitchen. Did you know that taste not only includes the sensations on your tongue but also smelling with your nose? For many children it causes anxiety to try new and foreign foods. However, if they participate in the cooking process they can be familiar with the ingredients along the way. Encourage them to touch, taste, or smell new ingredients to build familiarity.

Use cooking to raise smart kids.
Many lessons can be taught in the kitchen. Children learn the process of planning and completing a project by following a recipe. This can also provide children with a sense of fulfillment. Children can also learn math skills such as adding and measuring.

Make cooking part of the family culture.
Family meal time does not have to start at the table. You can create family traditions and make memories by cooking together as a family. This is a great way to pass down recipes from your cultural heritage and teach your children the importance of a healthy lifestyle. It is also beneficial to share with your child some of your holiday traditions that often revolve around meals. Share with them the meaning of your traditions and encourage them to help you maintain these seasonal traditions.

Keep it safe.
It is very important to teach your children the proper skills to stay safe in the kitchen. Show them how you can use a hot pad to protect your hands from heat and how to hold kitchen utensils properly. When you involve your child in the kitchen make sure to keep in mind their abilities. Assign simple tasks like rinsing produce and tearing lettuce leaves to ensure the safety of little ones in the kitchen.

Ask for input.
Help your children feel more included by involving them in the meal planning and preparation process. Ask them what recipes they would like to make and have them help you shop at the market. When you are cooking together let your child critique the recipe and discuss what you do and do not like together. Overall these tips will help your children feel more included and build more confidence in the kitchen.
 
Reference: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Cooking-With-Your-Children.aspx