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The Health Service Executive’s (HSE) mychild.ie website has provided advice to help parents keep children safe, healthy, and happy during the festive season.
Dr Abigail Collins, National Clinical Lead for the HSE’s Child Health Public Health Programme and Consultant in Public Health Medicine, said:
“Christmas is nearly upon us and children across the country are counting down the days. It’s a magical time of year, but behind the scenes there are lots of things for parents to consider ahead of the holidays. Taking some things off your ‘to do’ list, preparing for visits to relatives and trying to keep everyone safe and well can help make Christmas a little easier and more enjoyable for all.”
Key Advice for Parents
1. Managing Overwhelm
Christmas excitement can sometimes become overwhelming for children. Dr Collins advises:
- Plan for long journeys, shopping trips, or large gatherings to avoid tired or hungry meltdowns.
- Schedule ‘down time’ at home to relax and stick to familiar routines.
- During meals, allow children breaks from the table and keep familiar snacks available.
2. ‘Elf and Safety’ When Visiting Other Homes
Homes not child-proofed can pose risks. Parents are reminded to supervise children closely, as dangerous items like sharp objects, cleaning products, or medicines may be accessible. Seasonal plants such as poinsettia, holly, and mistletoe are also potentially toxic.
In cases of poisoning, contact the Poisons Information Line at 01 809 2166 (8am–10pm daily), or in emergencies, call 999 or 112.
3. Simplifying Your ‘To Do’ List
Parents are encouraged to reduce stress by opting for simple, cost-effective activities such as winter walks, crafts, board games, or attending community events.
4. Protecting Babies During ‘Kiss-mas’
Newborns and premature babies are vulnerable to RSV and viruses. Parents should ensure visitors wash their hands before cuddling babies and avoid contact if unwell or showing cold sore symptoms. Dr Collins stresses the importance of prioritising baby safety over festive traditions.
5. Safe Gifts and Battery Awareness
The HSE highlights key toy safety tips:
- Choose age-appropriate toys with the CE safety mark.
- Avoid toys with sharp parts, small objects, or magnets.
- Secure battery compartments, particularly those containing button batteries, which can cause severe internal burns if swallowed.
If a child swallows a button battery, immediately visit the nearest emergency department and administer 2 teaspoons of honey (for children over 1 year) if they can swallow safely.
6. Staying Virus-Free
Dr Teresa O’Dowd, Specialist Registrar, HSE Child Health Public Health, advises:
“To reduce the risk of viruses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV, encourage children to cough into their elbow or tissues and wash their hands regularly. If unwell, stay home and rest.”
She also reminds parents to carefully follow dosage instructions for over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol.
7. Vaccinations Are Key
The free nasal spray flu vaccine is available for children aged 2–17 from participating GPs and pharmacies. Dr O’Dowd said:
“It helps protect children from severe flu while also safeguarding babies, grandparents, and vulnerable family members.”
Dr Collins concluded:
“Our last top festive tip is an early bedtime on Christmas Eve, and no peeping! Santa Claus has a special request that all children go to bed early as he’s excited to visit as soon as everyone is asleep. Wishing everyone a safe, healthy and happy Christmas and new year.”
For more parenting advice, visit the HSE’s mychild.ie, a trusted resource for pregnancy, baby care, and child health guidance.