December brings a season of joy, celebration, and togetherness. As families prepare for Christmas and New Year’s festivities, this month is the perfect time to focus on safety, wellness, and creating lasting memories. Whether your family is traveling, gathering with loved ones, or enjoying holiday traditions at home, a little preparation can help ensure a happy and healthy holiday season.

Firework Safety: Enjoy Festivities the Safe Way

Fireworks are a popular part of New Year’s celebrations, but they also pose risks, especially for children. To keep your family safe:

Leave fireworks to the professionals. Public shows are safer and just as exciting for kids.

Keep sparklers away from young children. Sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures and can easily cause burns.

Maintain a safe distance. Teach children to stay far away from any lit fireworks, including those handled by adults.

Please be aware of pets and children who are sensitive to sensory stimuli. Fireworks can be stressful due to loud noises and bright flashes.

If you choose to use any fireworks at home, always have water nearby, supervise children closely, and never relight a malfunctioning firework. Safety comes first every time.

Travel Safety: Making Holiday Trips Smooth & Stress-Free

With many families traveling during the holidays, December is an important time to review travel safety:

Check car seats and booster seats. Ensure your child’s seat is properly installed and appropriate for their age and size.

Pack essential medications and health items. Include inhalers, EpiPens, fever reducers, thermometers, and any daily medications.

Keep kids healthy on the go. Encourage handwashing, sanitizing, and avoiding touching their faces, especially in crowded places like airports or rest stops.

Take regular breaks on long drives. Children need time to stretch, snack, and reset.

Whether you're visiting relatives or taking a winter vacation, planning ahead helps your family enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.

Cherishing Family Time & Making Memories

The heart of the holiday season is spending time with loved ones. Amid shopping, decorating, and end-of-year obligations, it’s important to slow down and savor the moments that truly matter.

Try creating simple, joyful traditions that help your family bond:

Holiday baking or cookie decorating

Family movie or game nights

Reading holiday stories together

Crafting ornaments or DIY decorations

Taking an evening walk to admire holiday lights

Volunteering or donating as a family to teach children the spirit of giving

These small traditions often become the memories children cherish for years to come.

A Happy & Healthy Start to the New Year

As the year comes to a close, remind your family to rest, recharge, and prioritize well-being. Reflect on the year’s milestones, celebrate growth, and set hopeful goals together. A healthy mindset helps set the stage for a strong start to the new year.

From our pediatric team to your family, we wish you a joyful, safe, and memory-filled holiday season. May your December be full of warmth, laughter, and love.