The safety and health of American children
ChildStats.gov closely analyzes and compiles statistics on the overall well being of America’s children. Examining the positive and negative elements in a child’s environment from lead to housing, ChildStats.gov is a fantastic resource for parents involved in volunteering or community improvement initiatives. Read their report on America’s Children: Key National Indicators of Well-Being, 2009.
Find the latest toy recalls
For the most recent toy recalls issued by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission visit their recall and product safety news page.
US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Underfunded and understaffed, the CPSC is charged with ensuring product safety but has repeatedly asked Congress for more funding, most recently and visibly during the Mattel lead paint recall. The agency, which had about 800 employees 30 years ago now has nearly half that staff level. The Obama Administration’s 2011 budget would increase funding, but not by enough. Please contact your local Congressman or woman and request additional funding for this critical agency to your child’s safety.
Visit the US Consumer Product Safety Commission website to report an unsafe product or to view the latest toy recalls.
The Association of Hole in the Wall Camps
Created by the Paul Newmann in 1988, Hole in the Wall Camps and programs provide life-changing experiences to children with serious medical conditions and are always free of charge. The camps, inspired through the vision of Newmann, give special needs children the opportunity to celebrate simply being a kid. Visit the Hole in the Wall website for more.
Guide to Bullying
Experts estimate that 1 in 5 children in a classroom experience some kind of bullying. A very serious issue, bullying can lead to a number of negative consequences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to bullying, cyber-bullying and harassment.
Child Sports Injuries
Regardless of which sport your child plays it’s worth doing some research on how to prevent unnecessary sports injuries. In the case of prevention, a little knowledge can go a long, long way.
Start with STOP Sports Injuries Campaign (Sports Trauma and Overuse Prevention), a public outreach program initiated by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine. I really admire what they’re doing to prevent unnecessary child sports injuries. Read more on child sports injuries.
Child Brain Injuries
If your child has suffered a traumatic brain injury or TBI, please visit Lash & Associates Publishing. They have a tremendous amount of content regarding brain injuries. Their books, manuals, tip cards and tool kits describe the symptoms, treatment, cognitive rehabilitation and recovery of individuals with brain injuries acquired due to trauma, blast injuries and concussion.
