As a kid growing up in the Midwest, I always looked forward to visits to the pumpkin patch and apple orchard in October. Fall just makes me yearn for caramel apples with crushed nuts, apple cider, and finding the perfect pumpkin to carve; it is without a doubt my favorite time of year. I still love the orchards and you can't help but feel energetic when the smell of leaves fills the air and the air turns just a bit more brisk. This year I'm enjoying the beginning of fall in the same way, albeit hundreds of miles away from my home town of Indianapolis. And not only am I spending my favorite autumn season in our nation's capitol, I am observing another celebration of sorts in the office I'm interning in. October is Children's Health Month! This year's theme is that 'Everyone can help to provide a safe environment for America's children'. During my time here thus far, I've learned so much about what everyone can do to make environmental health better for children and consequently, you! All children deserve an October to enjoy and there are plenty of things that you can do to help make the environment safe for America's children! Who doesn't want to enjoy the crisp, fall air and roll around the leaves besides kids at heart like me? In honor of my favorite month, here are some 'trick or treat' centered tips to enjoy October as Children's Health Month!
- Trick or treat, trick or treat, give me something good to eat! Washing vegetables and fruits can make the world of a difference and it only takes a few seconds under the kitchen sink.
- 'Trick' your parents into having those air vents in your house cleaned out to reduce asthma triggers. No, but really, if they don't get tricked, you can arrange it yourself, and everyone's lungs will thank you later!
Treat yourself and children to a smoke-free home. - Trick or just really convince your schools to go green! In honor of Children's Health Month, suggest a day where everyone can come in with the best green costumes in honor of being 'environmentally green'.
- Here's a free treat: walk to school in October or ride a bike! Before the snow starts to fall, you can get some exercise and be proud that you're not putting harmful emissions into the air!
There's a ton of activities going on this month and you can visit a calendar of tips every day as well as learn about environmental hazards and prevention in honor of Children's Health Month. Happy haunting and happy October! Everyone can help to provide a safe environment for America's children!
About the Author: Emily Bruckmann is an intern at the Office of Children's Health Protection. She is a senior attending Indiana University who will graduate with a degree in public health this spring.