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The Sandbox
As many of you know, I write for the Kids’ Health column in Parenting Magazine. It’s something I really enjoy, especially when the questions are relevant to what my own kids are doing at the time. It’s always good to have spent a few moments researching a topic before it happens to you. Which is why I’m so happy that I’d already answered, “What do I do if my kid insists on eating sand?”
Eva had her first trip to the sandbox this week. Well, Zoe too, but she just lay there and laughed. It was Eva who really appreciated what a new and exciting adventure this was. She spent a lot of time just flapping her arms and laughing to herself, with the occasional high-pitched squeal thrown in. I had been so afraid of sand in the mouth, in the eyes, (let’s be honest: in my house) that I’d put this off. But we really had a great time. Of course, I was watching out of the corner of my eye for a fistful of dirty neighborhood park sand heading towards her mouth but it wasn’t happening. So I stopped paying such close attention. That’s always the first step towards disaster, isn’t it?
I had my hands full with Zoe, trying to get vomit-soaked sand off her face when I saw the hand heading toward Eva’s mouth. I was stuck between two really disgusting situations and I just wasn’t fast enough. Within seconds her face registered first surprise, then shock, then disgust. Spitting and snorting and coughing. I wiped what I could away and grabbed her Tommee Tippee (thank goodness I had her water with us or she was about to have her first sip of Orangina light). A few minutes later, she was fine and playing happily. And I had no choice but to accept that my child has just eaten sand. From an outdoor, public playground. Complete with sheep that roam the grounds. While sand, in and of itself, isn’t harmful to swallow in small bits, it’s the other stuff, like cat pee and bird poo that I’m not too happy about. But what can you do? If you have a sandbox at home, keep it covered when it’s not in use. Try to discourage the behavior if possible. Of course, that’s easier said than done. So I guess the real answer is: get over it. What’s more harmful? A life without a sandbox or a bit of dirt?
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"WHAT I LIKED: This book is written in a funny, down to earth way that doesn't make you feel like an idiot. I really would have appreciated something like this when my kids were really little and I freaked out over everything they put in their mouths. It has a scenario/question and answer format, with clear answers on when not to panic and when to call 911."
- Chic Book Chick
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