Mommy Lessons: Keep Medications and Vitamins "Up and Away"

“My father was an amazing man. The older I got, the smarter he got.” - Mark Twain

If you recall, a couple of weeks ago my talented toddler surprised me by going into the refrigerator and pulling out her yogurt for breakfast. She accomplished this task while my back was briefly turned. I was impressed and amused.  I also complied with her request to have yogurt for breakfast.

When I shared the tale with my mother she cautioned me against sharing the tale on my blog lest my followers get the idea that I am a neglectful parent. I shared the tale anyway. When I converted this blog into a “mommy blog” I decided to share the good, bad, and the ugly. I want everyone to understand that I’m not a perfect mom. I am just a mom who tries really hard!

That being said, my mother’s comments resonated with me.  I was fortunate that my toddler grabbed her yogurt and not a bottle of hot sauce, which is also in a bright package that she may have been attracted to.   Apparently this issue has also drawn the attention of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Consumer Healthcare Products Association(CHPA) Educational Foundation .  They have launched the “Up and Away and Out of Sight Campaign”.  It is a program that is designed to keep our children safe.

It emphasizes the importance of parents and caregivers to keep medicines and vitamins out of every child’s reach and sight. Things happen so fast.  And apparently, more than 60,000 young children end up in the emergency department every year because they consumed medications while parents or caregivers were not looking. You can find out more information about the program at www.upandaway.org.  You can also visit www.cdc.gov/medicationsafety/protect/protect_Initiative.html to obtain tools to remind everyone of the importance of safe medication storage and keeping medicines and vitamins “Up and Away”.

As usual, my mom was right.  It’s funny how when I was fifteen I thought I knew everything. And every day since having my child, I am amazed by my mother’s wisdom.  Perhaps, she got smarter?! J In any event, I will let her know that her point is well taken.  I need to keep a close eye on my agile, strong, little girl who has a propensity to climb and explore.  I hope that all of you do the same with your kids!