5 Holiday Health Hacks for Moms

Note: This article is sponsored by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare.

As I strolled through the grocery store yesterday, I found myself captivated by the seasonal aisle overflowing with pumpkin spice and apple goodies. What does that signify? It signifies that autumn is just around the corner. In no time, foliage will transform with vibrant hues, and the cooler air of fall will settle in as children return to school.Right about then, it feels like life is finally returning to normal, yet the busy holiday season lurks just ahead! The holidays are about spending quality time with loved ones, and it’s crucial for everyone at home to stay in good health to enjoy the celebrations, so prepping your home for the influx of germs is essential

Festive gatherings are a joy, bringing together friends and family (and yes, their germs!). This year, I’m determined to stay ahead in the health game. I plan to deploy my trusty mom strategies to keep everyone feeling well.

1. Manage Germs: While I can’t eradicate every germ in my home, I can ensure that frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and trash can lids are regularly sanitized with antibacterial wipes, and I’ll have napkins readily available by the snack bowls to encourage their use over hands.

1. Promote Hand Hygiene: Encouraging children to wash their hands after using the restroom is straightforward, but doing the same for adults can be tricky. Nobody wants to remind Grandma to wash her hands before indulging in chips after playing with her dentures. However, making handwashing stations easily accessible helps; using new, pleasantly scented soaps and cheerful hand towels can make it inviting. “Don’t you just love the aroma of my new apple cinnamon hand soap, Grandma?”

1. Well-Equipped Medicine Cabinet: Kids are typically the first to fall sick, likely due to their developing immune systems. I’m prepared for the inevitable “Sick just got real.” moments with a stocked medicine cabinet that includes Children’s Advil® Suspension (for ages 2-11), Children’s Robitussin® (for ages 6+), and Children’s Dimetapp® (for ages 6+).

1. Fresh Air Flow: During the chillier days, allow your home to ‘breathe’ before and after gatherings to prevent stagnant air. A fan can accelerate this process. If it gets too cold, it’s okay to close windows but keep curtains open to let in sunlight, which naturally helps eliminate viruses and bacteria.

1. Cooler Temperatures: No, you don’t have to freeze the house… but if possible, maintaining a cooler temperature during gatherings can be beneficial. Viruses find it challenging to survive in lower temperatures. The reason for increased virus spread during winter is that body temperatures are ideal and everyone tends to be indoors, facilitating virus transmission.

Do you have your own special mom hacks for keeping your family healthy during the holiday season?