Child and adolescent nutrition

To develop to their optimal potential, it is vital that children are provided with nutritionally sound diets. Diet and exercise patterns during childhood and adolescence may spell the difference between health and risk of disease in later years. Different stages of the life cycle dictate differing nutrient needs.

What are the most important nutrituonal considerations in the first year of life?

In the first 12 months of life a baby will triple its weight and increase its length by 50 per cent. These gains in weight and height are the primary indices of nutritional status and their accurate measure at regular intervals are compared with standard growth charts. These measurements are important tools for monitoring a child's progress particularly during the first 6 to 12 months of life.

Breast-feeding on demand remains the ideal form of feeding for healthy babies who are born at term. Human milk provides optimum nutrition for growth and development. The first 4-6 months are a period of very rapid growth, particularly for the brain, and the amino acid and fatty acid composition of breast milk is ideally suited to meet those needs. Breast milk also contains anti-bacterial and anti-infection agents, including immunoglobulins, which have an important role to play in boosting immune function. The colostrum, which is the fluid produced by the mammary gland during the first few days after birth, is rich in protein and has high levels of minerals and vitamins. Colostrum also contains antibodies, anti-infection agents, anti-inflammatory factors, growth factors, enzymes and hormones, which are beneficial for growth and development.

Breast-feeding is strongly advocated for physiological, psychological and emotional reasons. There is no reason why breast-feeding should not continue for as long as it is nutritionally satisfactory for mother and child up to 2 years. However, with changing lifestyles and the availability of commercially prepared formulae, prepared formulae are generally safe provided that an approved infant formula is used under strict hygiene conditions. The infant formulae attempt to mimic as far as possible the composition of human milk and their use must comply with guidelines laid down by the European Union and the World Health Organization. Formula-fed infants also need to be demand fed and the formulae must be made up exactly according to the manufacturer's instructions for optimal growth. Special attention has to be taken to sterilise all the feeding equipment to reduce the potential risk of contamination, because formula-fed babies do not have the same degree of immunological protection as breast-fed babies.

When should solid foods be introduced?

Introduction of complementary solid food is usually a gradual process over several weeks or months, starting at about 6 months of age. The exact timing is determined by the individual infant and mother, and reflects the fact that breast milk will suffice in those first months but will no longer be able to provide adequate nutrition by itself as the baby grows. The introduction of complementary foods by about 6 months is important to ensure normal chewing and speech development The quality, number and variety of solid feeds can be increased gradually at a pace that will be generally dictated by the child. Cereals are generally the first foods that are introduced into the infant's diet (mixed with a little breast milk or formula), with purées of vegetables and fruits and meats to follow. By exclusive breast feeding up to 4 to 6 months of age, the likelihood of allergies is lessened. Foods that are more likely to cause allergic reactions in sensitive children, such as egg whites and fish, are generally introduced after 12 months of age.

With present changes in lifestyle, commercially available baby food plays a growing role in the diet of children and should therefore meet strict standards of quality and safety. The convenience and variety of foods available make them a good option to use to complement home-prepared foods. Commercial baby foods are prepared from fresh fruits, vegetables and meat with no added preservatives and must meet very strict standards.

An important consideration in the first year of life is the amount of iron supplied in the diet and iron deficiency anaemia is routinely screened for during infancy. The use of an iron-fortified formula or cereal, and the provision of iron-rich foods such as pureed meats can help to prevent this

What are the most important nutritional considerations for toddlers (1-3 years of age?)

During these years, a child begins to take on its own unique personality and to exert its independence by moving around freely and choosing foods to eat. Although the child is still growing, the rate of growth is slower than in the first 12 months of life. At the end of the third year of age, girls and boys will have achieved about 50 per cent of their adult height.

During this period a child becomes able to drink through a straw and eat with a spoon, and frequently they become "fussy" eaters. The provision of a variety of foods will allow the child to choose from a range of foods with differing tastes, textures, and colours to help satisfy their appetite. The most important factor is to meet energy needs with a wide variety of foods.

Food intake will be influenced increasingly by family eating patterns and peers. Early food experiences may have important effects on food likes and dislikes and eating patterns in later life. Meal times should not be rushed and a relaxed approach to feeding will pave the way for healthy attitudes to food.

What are the most important nutritional considerations in school-aged children?

After 4 years of age, a child's energy needs per kilogram of bodyweight are decreasing but the actual amount of energy (calories) required increases as the child gets older. From 5 years to adolescence, there is a period of slow but steady growth. Dietary intakes of some children may be less than recommended for iron, calcium, vitamins A and D and vitamin C, although in most cases deficiencies are unlikely, as long as the energy and protein intakes are adequate and a variety of foods, including fruit and vegetables, are eaten.

Regular meals and healthy snacks that include carbohydrate-rich foods, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes and nuts should contribute to proper growth and development without supplying excessive energy to the diet.

Children need to drink plenty of fluids, especially if it is hot or they are physically active. Water is obviously a good source of liquid and supplies fluid without calories. Variety is important in children's diets and other sources of fluid such as milk and milk drinks, fruit juices and soft drinks can also be chosen to provide needed fluids.

What are the most important nutritional considerations for adolescents?

The nutritional requirements of young people are influenced primarily by the spurt of growth that occurs at puberty. The peak of growth is generally between 11 and 15 years for girls and 13 and 16 years for boys. The nutrient needs of individual teenagers differ greatly, and food intake can vary enormously from day to day, so that those with deficient or excessive intakes on one day may well compensate on the next. In this period of life, several nutrients are at greater deficiency risk including iron and calcium.

Source by : http://www.eufic.org/en/healthy-living/article/child-and-adolescent-nutrition
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Children's foods habits : improtance of iron and calcium

Dietary habits, which affect food preferences, energy consumption and nutrient intakes, are generally developed in early childhood and particularly during adolescence. The home and school environments play a major role in determining a child's attitude to, and consumption of individual foods.

Teenagers, as well as being exposed to periodic food fads and slimming trends, tend to skip meals and develop irregular eating habits. One of the most frequently missed meals is breakfast. Studies show that breakfast plays an important role in providing needed energy and nutrients after an overnight fast and can aid in concentration and performance at school.

Snacks generally form an integral part of meal patterns for both children and teenagers. Younger children cannot eat large quantities at one sitting and often get hungry long before the next regular mealtime. Mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks can help to meet energy needs throughout the day. Fast-growing and active teenagers often have substantial energy and nutrition needs and the teaching of food and nutrition in the school curricula will enable children to have the knowledge to make informed choices about the foods in their regular meals and snacks.

Iron

Among adolescents, iron-deficiency anaemia is one of the most common diet-related deficiency diseases. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to iron deficiency anaemia in view of their increased blood volume and muscle mass during growth and development. This raises the need of iron for building up haemoglobin, the red pigment in blood that carries oxygen, and for the related protein myoglobin, in muscle. The increase in lean body mass (LBM), composed mainly of muscle, is more important in adolescent boys than in girls. In preadolescent years, LBM is about the same for both sexes. Once adolescence starts, however, the boy undergoes a more rapid accumulation of LBM for each additional kilogram of body weight gained during growth, ending up with a final LBM maximum value double that of the girl. Other factors contributing to elevated iron needs are increased body weight and the beginning of menstruation for girls. All these factors should be taken into account when assessing iron needs in this group of age.

One of the most important diet considerations during adolescence is an increase in the intake of iron-rich foods such as lean meats and fish as well as beans, dark green vegetables, nuts and iron-fortified cereals and other grains. Iron from animal foods (known as haem iron) is much better absorbed than iron from non-animal sources (non-haem iron). Adolescents following vegetarian diets are therefore at an increased risk of iron-deficiency. However, vitamin C (e.g. from citrus fruits) and animal proteins (meat & fish) assist in the absorption of non-haem iron.

Calcium

The skeleton accounts for at least 99% of the body stores of calcium and the gain in skeletal weight is most rapid during the adolescent growth spurt. About 45% of the adult skeletal mass is formed during adolescence, although its growth continues well beyond the adolescent period and into the third decade. All the calcium for the growth of the skeleton must be derived from the diet. The largest gains are made in early adolescence, between about 10-14 years in girls and 12-16 years in boys.

During peak adolescent growth, calcium retention is, on average, about 200mg/day in girls and 300 mg/day in boys. The efficiency of calcium absorption is only around 30% so it is important that the diet supplies an adequate calcium intake to help build the densest bones possible. The achievement of peak bone mass during childhood and adolescence is crucial to reduce the risk of osteoporosis in later years. By eating several servings of dairy products, such as milk, yoghurt and cheese, the recommended calcium intake can be achieved.

As well as a good dietary supply of calcium, other vitamins or minerals, like vitamin D and phosphorous, are needed for building up bones. Physical activity is also essential, particularly weight-bearing exercise, which provides the stimulus to build and retain bone in the body. Activities such as cycling, gymnastics, skating, ball games, dancing and supervised weight training for at least 30-60 minutes a day, three to five times a week can help build bone mass and density. Making the right dietary and lifestyle choices early in life will help young people develop health-promoting behaviours that they can follow throughout life.

Energy needs

Normally, the energy requirements of adolescents tend to parallel their growth rate, and individuals meet their energy needs by means of their appetite with adequate precision. As a result, the majority of adolescents maintain energy balance, and a varied food intake provides sufficient nutrients to ensure optimal growth and development.

Stress and emotional upsets however can seriously affect the energy balance in adolescents, resulting in the consumption of too little or too much food. Mild or severe infections, nervousness, menstrual, dental or skin problems (acne) can result in alterations of appetite, and those adolescents on marginal diets are the most vulnerable. Emotional stress is often associated with food faddism and slimming trends, both of which can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa.

On the other hand, the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents is now a major nutritional problem and the condition is likely to persist into adulthood. Developing adolescents are particularly concerned about their body image and excessive weight can have profound effects on their emotional well being as well as on their physical health. The cause of obesity is multifactorial and socio-economic, biochemical, genetic, and psychological factors all closely interact.

Lack of activity plays an important role in the development, progression and perpetuation of obesity in adolescence. Surveys of young people have found that the majority is largely inactive and health professionals and governments are now encouraging higher levels of physical activity among children and adolescents. Physical inactivity does not only have a prime role in the development of overweight and obesity, but also on the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, hypertension, bowel problems and osteoporosis in later life. In addition, physical activity is related to improvements in body flexibility, balance, agility and co-ordination and strengthening of bones. The current recommendation is for children to try to be physically active for at least 60 minutes daily.

source by : http://www.eufic.org/en/healthy-living/article/child-and-adolescent-nutrition

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Ten Tips for Children and Adolescents

1. Enjoy your food

Try to eat lots of different foods every day for variety and enjoyment. Share foods with family and friends.

2. Breakfast is a very important meal

Your body needs energy after a long sleep so breakfast is important. Foods that are high in carbohydrates, such as bread, cereals and fruit, make good breakfast choices. Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can lead to out-of-control hunger, often resulting in helpless overeating. Skipping breakfast can also cause you to lack concentration for schoolwork.

3. Eat lots of different foods

A variety of different foods every day is the recipe for good health. You need 40 different vitamins and minerals for good health and no one food can supply all of them. There are no "good" or "bad" foods so you don't need to miss out on foods you enjoy. Just make sure you get the right balance by eating a wide variety of foods. Balance your choices over time!

4. Base your food choices on carbohydrates

These foods provide needed energy, vitamins and minerals. Foods that are high in carbohydrates include pasta, breads, cereals, fruits and vegetables. Try to include some of these foods at every meal as around half of the calories in your diet should come from them.

5. Eat fruits and vegetables at each meal

You can enjoy fruits and vegetables at meals and as tasty snacks. These foods provide vitamins, minerals and fibre. You should aim to get at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

6. Fat facts

Everyone needs some fat in the diet for good health. However, too much fat, especially saturated fat, can be bad for our health. Saturated fat is found in full fat dairy foods, pies, pastries, fatty meats and sausages. Balance your food choices-if you eat a high-fat meal at lunch, try to choose low-fat foods for dinner.

7. Snack choices

Snacks help to provide energy and nutrients. Choose from a variety of snacks such as fruits, dairy, biscuits, cakes, crisps, nuts and chocolate. Make sure to vary your choices to keep the balance in your diet and don't snack but have proper meals.

8. Quench your thirst

You need to drink plenty of liquids because half of your body is made up of water. At least 6 glasses of fluid day are needed, more if it is very hot or you are exercising. Water and milk are great but variety is fun too.

9. Care for your teeth

Care for your teeth by brushing them at least twice a day. Foods high in starch or sugars can play a role in tooth decay if they are eaten too frequently throughout the day so don't nibble or sip drinks all day.

10. Get moving

Being fit is important for healthy hearts and strong bones so get active. Try to do something every day and make sure its something you enjoy so you stick with it. Too many calories and not enough activity can result in weight gain. Moderate physical activity helps burn off those extra calories. You don't have to be an athlete to get on the move!

Sources by : http://www.eufic.org/en/healthy-living/article/child-and-adolescent-nutrition
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What You Can Do! For Children to keep them Safe

Children come into closer contact with their environment than adults.
They crawl on the floor and the ground, put their fingers in their mouths and because of their curious nature touch and taste things without knowing if they are harmful.
They may also be more sensitive to some harmful substances because of their stage of development.
As a parent or caregiver you have an important role to play in providing a healthy environment for your child(ren).
This booklet has information on what you can do and gives Internet links and telephone numbers for more information.
Your local Public Health Department may have information on providing healthy environments for children.

Washing Hands
Hand-washing with warm water and soap after going to the bathroom, touching animals, and before every meal helps to prevent infection and reduce exposure to harmful substances your child may have touched.

Tips for hand washing include:
Use warm water.
Lather with soap for 10 to 15 seconds. Any soap will do.
Have your child(ren) sing a favourite song while hand-washing to help them wash for a longer time.
Rinse hands and dry well with a clean towel.

Taking Shoes Off When You Come Inside
The soil outside your home can contain a number of substances you do not want inside.
Taking your shoes off when you come inside is one way to reduce the amount of these substances in your home.

Preventing Breathing Problems
The quality of indoor and outdoor air affects children's ability to breathe easily.
To help your child(ren) breathe more easily:

Outdoor Air
Listen to the radio or watch television reports for information about air quality and smog advisories. Plan your day based on this information.
Consider limiting or rescheduling physical outdoor activities on smog advisory days when air pollution is more harmful than usual.
Reduce exposure to motor vehicle exhaust by limiting physical activity near heavy traffic areas, particularly at rush hour.
Stop unnecessary vehicle idling. This is an easy way to help improve the air quality in your community.

Indoor Air
Prevent anyone from smoking in your car or home. Infants and children exposed to second hand smoke are more likely to suffer from respiratory disease, ear infections, allergies and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Keep your home as clean as possible. Dust and vacuum rugs and upholstery regularly. For children with asthma, dust, mold and pet dander can trigger asthma attacks and allergies.
Reduce your use of aerosol sprays indoors.

Protect Children from Too Much Sun

Too much sun can be harmful. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause painful sunburn and lead to skin cancer. This is especially true for babies and children because their skin burns easily.

To protect your child(ren) from the sun:
Keep babies under one year of age out of direct sunlight. They should be in the shade, under a tree, umbrella or stroller canopy.
Do not use sunscreen on babies less than 6 months old. Keep them in the shade.
Dress children in protective clothing (light colours with long sleeves and pants), including a broad brim hat, AND use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 whenever they are in direct sunlight.
Be sure to use lots of sunscreen lotion and reapply every two hours as well as after swimming.
Keep children out of the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest, unless they are well-protected by clothing and sunscreen.
Take extra care on days when the UV level is high.
Don't think that children are safe just because it's cloudy. The sun's harmful rays can get through fog, haze, and light cloud cover.
Bring water or some juice for your child(ren) to drink when they are outside.
For more information on sun protection please call the Consumer and Clinical Radiation Protection Bureau at (613) 954-6699 or visit the following websites:

Protect Children from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a harmful gas that has no colour, odour or taste. Even at low levels of exposure, carbon monoxide can cause serious health problems. CO is harmful because it will rapidly accumulate in the blood, reducing the ability of blood to carry oxygen.

To reduce the risk of exposure to CO:

Open your garage door before starting your car.
If you have a natural gas or propane clothes dryer, clean its ductwork and outside vent cover regularly to make sure they are not blocked.
Have a qualified professional check your furnace and chimney every year.
Check your fireplace to make sure the flues are open before lighting a fire. If the chimney does not draw, call a fireplace professional.
Do not use propane, natural gas or charcoal barbeque grills indoors, in an attached garage, or in any other enclosed area.
Never run gasoline-powered tools such as lawnmowers, snowblowers, or grass trimmers inside a garage.

More tips to reduce the risk of exposure to CO

Avoid the use of all kerosene heaters indoors or in a garage. They produce CO and other pollutants. If you must use a kerosene heater indoors, be sure it is meant to be used inside. Review and follow the instructions before every use.
Put at least one CO detector in your home as a good safety precaution - in some cities it is the law. It is best to have one CO detector on each floor of your home. CO detectors should be replaced every 3 to 5 years.

Keep Pesticides Away from Children

A pesticide is any substance used to control pests such as insects, mice and weeds.

Pesticides are poisonous.

Poison Control (Information) Centres across Canada often receive calls about children who have swallowed a pesticide that was not stored properly.

To protect your children from coming in contact with pesticides:

Wash fruits and vegetables under running water before eating them.
Avoid the use of pesticides in and around your home. Check for alternatives such as sealing cracks to prevent pests from entering your home.

If you do need to use a pesticide product:
Review the pesticide product label or safety sheet carefully before every use.
Keep children, pets and toys away when pesticides are applied either inside or outside your home. If a pesticide comes into contact with toys, wash them with water before using.
Read the label or information sheet to find out when children can return to the treated area. If you are unsure of the recommended time, keep them away from the area for at least 24 hours.
Put up signs to notify neighbours where a pesticide has been used so their children may also be kept away from the treated area.
Store pesticides in their original containers. Children may mistake other containers for food or drink.
Store pesticides in a locked area out of the sight and reach of children.

If your child has swallowed a pesticide:
Call a Poison Control (Information) Centre immediately and seek medical attention if you suspect your child has swallowed a pesticide.
Keep the phone number of the Poison Control (Information) Centre by the phone.
Phone numbers of Poison Control (Information) Centres can be found at the front of your local telephone directory.
When you call the Poison Control (Information) Centre, you need to know the name of the product, amount taken, and the time of the incident.
Follow the first aid statement on the pesticide label and take the pesticide container or label with you to the emergency facility or physician.




Using Personal Insect Repellents Safely

Parents and caregivers have always tried to protect their children from mosquito bites. Now that mosquitoes can carry the West Nile virus, there is even more concern about their bites. For most Canadians, the risk of illness from West Nile virus is low, and the risk of serious health effects is even lower.

To help prevent mosquito bites, the use of a personal insect repellent should be considered. Never use personal insect repellents on children under 6 months of age, and for children under two years of age it is advisable to use mosquito netting around their carriages rather than personal insect repellents, unless a high risk of complications from insect bites exist.

Repellents containing soybean oil, P-menthane 3,8-diol, Citronella, Lavender and DEET are currently registered for use in Canada.

Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. To help prevent mosquito bites during this time, avoid mosquito areas and dress your child(ren) in long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing with a tight weave.

For all types of personal insect repellents:

Read the label carefully before using. Pay special attention to the maximum number of applications allowed per day, the age restrictions for use, and the protection times.
Do not put repellent on children's faces and hands. This will reduce their chances of getting it in their eyes and mouths. If it does get into their eyes, rinse immediately with water.
Do not apply repellent on sunburns, open wounds or skin irritations.
Apply as little of the repellent as possib le t o exposed skin surfaces or on top of clothing. Never use it under clothing.
Put on insect repellent only in well-ventilated areas. Never use it near food.
If using a sunscreen product that contains insect repellent, use the product as a repellent and apply sparingly.
If using a separate sunscreen and repellent together, apply the sunscreen first, wait 20 minutes, and then apply the insect repellent.
Wash treated skin with soap and water when you return indoors or when protection is no longer needed.
Guidelines for using personal insect repellents containing DEET include:


For children under 6 months of age:

NEVER use personal insect repellents containing DEET. Instead consider alternative methods of protection such as protective clothing and mosquito netting.

For children aged 6 months to 2 years:
Apply once a day only in situations where a high risk of complications from insect bites exist.
Use products labelled 10% DEET or less.
Avoid using over a prolonged period.

For children between 2 and 12 years of age:
Apply no more than 3 times per day.
Use products labelled 10% DEET or less.
Avoid using for a prolonged period.

For children of 12 years of age or older:
Use products labelled 30% DEET or less.

Keep Mold Levels Down in Your Home

Mold inside your home can be a health concern.
Mold grows when there is too much humidity and condensation from building leaks, cooking, washing, flooding etc.
Mold can lead to allergic reactions and respiratory diseases.
Reducing mold levels in your home is one way to help your child(ren) breathe more easily.

To reduce the risk of exposure to mold:

Make sure that there are no wet spots in your house such as: damp basements, leaking bathroom sinks, cold closets on exterior walls, etc.
Check for and fix water leaks. Repair leaky roofs, walls, and basements.
Ensure that your home is adequately ventilated.
Circulate air and prevent moisture build-up by installing and using exhaust fans vented to the outdoors in kitchens and bathrooms.
Check that your clothes dryer exhausts to the outdoors. Remove lint before every use.
Discard clutter and excess stored materials in basements. Molds grow on fabrics, cardboard, paper, wood, and anything that collects dust and holds moisture.
Discard or clean water-damaged materials such as carpets quickly to avoid mold growth.
Wash or change shower curtains monthly and keep bathtub and shower areas free from mold buildup.
Get rid of mold on surfaces by removing the source of moisture. Scrub the moldy area with a mild cleaning detergent. Rinse by sponging with a clean, wet rag. Repeat. Dry the area quickly and completely. Make sure that there is good air circulation when cleaning.

Protect Children from Mercury in Fish

Eating high amounts of mercury can cause damage to the nervous system. Pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of mercury.

Of the different kinds of foods we eat, fish is usually the largest source of mercury. This is because mercury in lakes, streams and oceans can build up in the bodies of some fish.

Fish are an excellent source of high-quality protein and are low in saturated fat which makes them a healthy food choice.

To reduce the risk of exposure to fish contaminated by mercury:

When eating fish bought from the store:

Limit eating swordfish, shark, or fresh and frozen tuna to one meal per month for young children, pregnant women, and women of child-bearing age. This restriction does not apply to canned tuna. [Revised, Information on Mercury Levels in Fish 2007]

When sport fishing:

Watch for local fish advisories that may indicate high levels of mercury and other contaminants in fish.Contact your provincial authority for information about eating recreationally caught freshwater fish.A list of provincial authorities is given at www.inspection.gc.ca/english/related/provincese.shtml or check your phone book for a provincial government contact related to food, agriculture or fisheries.

Protect Children from Polluted Water

Good quality water is a high priority for everyone's health, especia l ly that of children. There are many potential sources of contamination including: agricultural runoff, faulty septic systems, and storm sewers.

To reduce children's exposure to polluted water, be alert for beach closings that result from bacterial contamination.

Providing Safe Drinking Water

If your drinking water comes from a well make sure it is safe by having it tested two or three times a year.


Protecting Children from Exposure to Lead

Lead is an inexpensive metal with many uses. However, it can cause many harmful health effects, especially to the nervous system and kidneys. Exposure to even very low levels of lead can cause learning disabilities and other harmful effects on children's development.

To reduce your family's risk of lead exposure:

If your home was built before 1960, you should assume that lead was used in the original exterior and interior paint. Leaded paint which is chipping or peeling is a serious health hazard, especially to children who might eat it. In such cases the paint should be contained or removed following the guidelines in the booklet Lead in Your Home. Call the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation at 1-800-668- 2642 to obtain a printed copy.
It is important to review this booklet before starting any renovation project in an older home. Renovations that are improperly carried out can greatly increase the risk of lead exposure from leaded paint.
Plumbing systems may have solder or other parts that contain lead. Because lead will leach into water sitting in pipes, always let the water run until it is cold before using it for drinking, cooking, and especially for making baby formula. Do not use water from the hot water tap for cooking or drinking. If you are concerned about elevated lead levels in your home's drinking water, contact your local Public Health Department.
Costume jewellery containing lead is a health hazard for children who chew or suck on it. Ask when you purchase children's jewellery to make sure it does not contain lead.
Discourage children from putting non-food items in their mouths.
When drinks are stored in leaded crystal containers some lead may dissolve into the liquid. Do not store liquids in lead crystal containers, or serve pregnant women or children drinks in crystal glasses.
For more information on the health effects of lead, please call Health Canada's Consumer Product Safety Bureau toll-free at 1-866-662-0666 or consult the following websites:


Reducing Unintentional Exposure to Household Chemicals

Household chemicals are safe if used and stored as recommended. Chemical products commonly found throughout the home include: cleaning liquids and powders, polishers, drain cleaners, paint thinners and windshield washers.

Use the following tips to keep your child safe from household chemicals:

Learn what the symbols and safety warnings on the labels of household chemicals mean.
Teach children that the symbols on product labels mean: DANGER! DO NOT TOUCH.
Read the label. If there is anything in the label instructions that you don't understand, ask for help.
Make sure the labels on containers are not removed or covered up.
Lock all chemical products out of the sight and reach of children. Household chemical containers, even if sealed or empty, are not toys. Never let children play with them.
Close the cap on the container tightly, even if you set it down for just a moment. Make sure that child-resistant containers are working. Child-resistant does not mean child-proof!
Keep household chemicals in their original containers. Never store chemicals in pop bottles or other food containers.
Never mix chemicals together. Some mixtures can produce harmful gases.
Consider using non-toxic alternatives such as baking soda instead of commercial cleaning products.
Buy the smallest quantity of chemical products needed for the job. Unwanted portions should be disposed of at a hazardous waste depot. Contact your local municipal or county office for locations nearest you.
If you suspect your child has swallowed a household chemical:

Call a Poison Control (Information) Centre immediately and seek medical attention.
Keep the phone number of the Poison Control (Information) Centre by the phone.
Phone numbers of Poison Control (Information) Centres can be found at the front of your local telephone directory.
When you call the Poison Control (Information) Centre, you need to know the name of the product, amount taken, and the time of the incident.


Using Arts and Crafts Materials Safely

The most common health hazards from working with arts and crafts materials are cuts from knives or scissors.
However, there can be risks from a few of the materials themselves, such as some colourings and solvents.

To help your child stay safe when doing arts and crafts:

Supervise children with arts and crafts materials.
Choose non-toxic products.
Always follow safety instructions given on the label.
Keep materials in their original containers so that you can refer to
the label instructions every time they are used.
Store all arts and crafts materials that should be used under supervision out of the reach and sight of children.
Do not allow children to eat or drink when using arts and crafts
materials.
Do arts and crafts in a well-ventilated area.
Some arts and crafts materials are never safe for children to use:

Paint that is not identified as non-toxic, ceramic glaze, copper enamel and solder for stained glass may contain lead or cadmium.
Shellac, paint strippers and craft dyes may contain solvents with toluene or methyl alcohol, which may cause blindness or other serious health effects if swallowed. Check the label for the ingredients ofthe product.

source by : http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/pubs/child-enfant/safe-sain/index-eng.php
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