I’m not happy unless I’m outside in the sunshine, with my kids trailing behind.  Now we have an even better reason to take a break from housecleaning and get some fresh air - doctor’s orders! 

The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends children get 400 units of vitamin D daily.   That is 200 more units than previously recommended in 2003. 

If you have four-glass-a-day milk drinkers, then your kids are probably getting the new dosage.  But most children today are not approaching the 400 unit mark. 

How does this relate to sunshine?   When sun touches the skin, the body actually creates vitamin D.  If you stay in the sunshine for 10 to 15 minutes a day without sunscreen, you will probably be getting enough Vitamin D to reach the new 400 unit mark. 

This is natural, healthy and even better - free!  So I say to the Academy, “let the sunshine!”  C’mon kids, let’s go outside!

Researchers in Oakland, CA have announced that keeping a fan running in your baby’s room may reduce the risk of SIDS by 72 percent! 

Many believe SIDS occurs when a baby re-breathes carbon dioxide and is unable to move, or the developing neurological system doesn’t understand the impending danger.  The actual cause is still unknown, and may be a combination of both genetic and environmental factors. 

So moms, be sure to keep a fan running in your baby’s room to keep the air circulating.  Also, do not use soft bedding, and keep your infant on his or her back.  Be sure to tell your babysitter, daycare provider and family members.