RAINY DAY REMEDIES

Remember the old saying “April showers bring May flowers”? Before we can enjoy summer fun, we have a month of rainy days to endure.

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Keeping your kids entertained inside is no easy task, but we’ve got a few ideas that might do the trick. So put away the iPads and turn off the Wii. It’s time for some old-fashioned fun!

Put on a Talent Show

It’s can be your own version of America’s Got Talent. Challenge your kids to find something that they love to do and show it off. Little kids can say their ABCs, and older kids can do a dance or sing a song. Encourage them to dress the part and have the other kids serve as “judges” – but positive feedback only!

Break out the Games

Nothing beats a good game of Candy Land or Go Fish. Your kids will enjoy the competition and this is a good way to work on skills such a patience and communication.

Get Creative

Paint, crayons, play-doh – Kids love it all. Give them a chance to be creative, and they’ll be busy for hours.

Play Dress Up

Playing dress up is always fun. This time, have them dress up in their real clothes – not costumes. When you find clothes that don’t fit, set them aside to be used as hand-me-downs or donated to folks who need them.

Cook Up a Storm

Get your kids in the kitchen. It’s a great chance to teach them how to eat healthy and stay busy. Here are some kid-friendly recipes to try. Who knows? You may even have a chef on your hands!

Get Out and Explore!

Marbles, Monkey Joe’s, Kidzu or the Museum of Life and Science? In our area, the possibilities are endless. There are plenty of great places in the Triangle to explore with your kids.

Hit Up the YMCA

A trip to the Y is sure to cure cabin fever. Play some hoops or a game of Marco Polo in the pool. This is a great way for your kids to get some exercise without having to brave the rain.

Hope you enjoy these 7 easy ways to beat the rain and enjoy those April days. What’s your favorite way to spend a rainy day?

ASTHMA: FACTS & MYTHS

Most of us can’t wait for spring.  We’re tired of scraping windshields and bundling up in coats and boots. The warmer weather, blooming flowers and chance to spend time outside are welcome changes.

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For some suffering with asthma, spring can cause breathing troubles and dangerous asthma attacks.

With more than 300 million people suffering from asthma worldwide, it’s important that we all know the facts.

Myth: Asthma is a psychosomatic disease.

Fact: Asthma is a genetic disease that results in the inflammation of bronchial tubes. While some people’s asthma may be triggered by stress, that is not the cause of the illness. Interaction with pollen, smoke, or perfumes is just as likely to trigger asthma.

Myth: If I don’t feel my symptoms, my asthma is gone.

Fact: Asthma is a chronic, long-term disease. It cannot be cured or outgrown. Even if your symptoms subside, you should continue to take your prescribed medication.

Myth: Asthma is not serious.

Fact: For most asthmatics, asthma is not serious. However, without proper treatment, asthma can be life threatening. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, asthma accounts for one-quarter of emergency room visits each year and is the third-ranking cause of hospitalization for children.

Myth: Children with asthma should not exercise or play sports.

Fact: All kids need exercise! Certain athletic activities may be better for children with asthma, but with the proper medication and care, all asthmatics should be able to participate in sports and exercise.

When kids with asthma exercise or play sports, extra precautions should be taken. Make sure medication has been taken before starting the activity, and have a plan in place in case of an asthma attack.

Think you could have asthma? Take this test to see if you are at risk.