News Moms Need

It may be tempting to put your infant or toddler in front of the television, especially to watch shows created just for children under age two. But the American Academy of Pediatrics says: Don’t do it! These early years are crucial in a child’s development. The Academy is concerned about the impact of television programming intended for children younger than age two and how it could affect your child’s development. Pediatricians strongly oppose targeted programming, especially when it’s used to market toys, games, dolls, unhealthy food and other products to toddlers. Any positive effect of television on infants and toddlers is still open to question, but the benefits of parent-child interactions are proven. Under age two, talking, singing, reading, listening to music or playing are far more important to a child’s development than any TV show. For more information on your child’s health, visit www.aap.org.

OK, I’m guilty and you may be, too.  Chattering away or texting on our cell phones while we drive, hands-free or otherwise.

Did you know that cell phones account for 636,000 car accidents a year? 330,000 minor injuries. 12,000 serious injuries. And 2,600 deaths. That’s what the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis has learned.

And  hands-free devices don’t improve safety while driving, according to researchers at the University of Utah.

When you’re on a call or texting, your thoughts aren’t on driving; they’re somewhere else. And that’s what’s dangerous.

Because of the risks, some companies have already told their employees: Don’t use a cell phone while driving.

The National Safety Council has called for a nationwide ban on cell phone use while driving. So be ahead of the curve, for yourself and your family. Don’t use a cell phone when you drive.