Toddlers are a busy, active group and their natural curiosity about the world makes them prone to injury. A first-aid kit is essential. My kit contains an arnica-based cream to rub on their bumps to help trauma and bruising (avoid putting it on open wounds or broken skin); hydrogen peroxide to wash out any cuts or scrapes to prevent infections; calming Rescue Remedy for emotional traumas, upsets or when you feel the child might be in shock; and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), though not a natural product, in case a child encounters something they are severely allergic to. Oh, and of course plenty of Band-Aids, a kid favourite!
~ Michelle Stapleton is a Naturopathic Doctor practicing in downtown Toronto, Ont. Her practice focuses on family medicine. She is the mother of two young boys and understands the challenges of parenting, working, and bringing healthy living into family life.
