The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program

🌸🐰 Easter Basket Ideas for Infants & Toddlers 🐣🎁 Easter is almost here, and if you're looking for fun and safe basket fillers for your little one, we’ve got you covered! Instead of candy, try these age-appropriate goodies: 🥕 For Infants: 🍼 Soft teething toys 📚 Sturdy board books 🎶 Plush toys that play lullabies 🎨 Sensory-friendly items like crinkle books 🌷 For Toddlers: 🎨 Washable finger paints or crayons 🐰 Easter-themed board books 🛁 Fun bath toys 🍓 Puffs or fruit/veggie melts Easter baskets don’t have to be filled with sugar—thoughtful, development-friendly gifts are just as exciting for little ones! 🌸🐣 What are you adding to your child’s Easter basket this year? Drop your ideas in the comments! ⬇️ Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🤧 Cold or Allergies? How to Tell the Difference When little ones start sneezing and sniffling, it can be tough to know if it’s a cold or seasonal allergies. Here are some key differences to help you figure it out: 💙 Signs of a Cold: ✔️ Fever may be present ✔️ Thick, yellow or green mucus ✔️ Cough and sore throat ✔️ Symptoms last about 7-10 days 💚 Signs of Allergies: ✔️ No fever ✔️ Clear, watery mucus ✔️ Itchy, watery eyes and sneezing ✔️ Symptoms last weeks or even months, especially if triggered by pollen, dust, or pet dander What Can You Do? If your baby or toddler has symptoms that don’t seem to be improving, talk to their doctor. Keeping your home allergen-free, using a humidifier, and wiping down surfaces regularly can help ease symptoms! Does your little one struggle with allergies? Share your experience below! ⬇️ Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🥔🎨 Try Painting Potatoes for Easter! 🐰🌸 Looking for a fun and unique twist on Easter egg decorating? Try painting potatoes instead of eggs! 🥔✨ Potatoes are easy for little hands to hold, don’t break as easily as eggs, and create a smooth surface for painting fun designs. 🎨 How to Get Started: ✔️ Wash and dry the potatoes ✔️ Use non-toxic paints or markers ✔️ Add stickers, glitter, or even googly eyes for extra fun ✔️ Let them dry and display your adorable Easter creations! This is a great alternative for little ones who might be too young to handle fragile eggs and a creative way to celebrate the holiday. Would you try it? Let us know! 💛🐣 Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

How to Repair After Yelling at Your Kids 💛 We all have tough parenting moments—you're human! If you’ve lost your patience and raised your voice, here’s how to repair and reconnect with your child: 🗣 Take a Breath & Regroup – Before addressing the situation, take a moment to calm yourself so you can model self-regulation. 💬 Apologize Sincerely – A simple, heartfelt "I'm sorry for yelling. I was frustrated, but I shouldn't have raised my voice," teaches accountability. ❤️ Reassure & Reconnect – Let your child know they are loved, even in difficult moments. Offer a hug or some extra one-on-one time to rebuild connection. 🧠 Teach & Learn Together – Talk about emotions and ways to handle big feelings. This helps both of you grow and create healthier reactions for the future. Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, learning, and repairing when needed. 💕 Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🔒 Childproofing Tip #3: Keep Small Objects Out of Reach 🔒 Little hands love to grab, explore, and (unfortunately) put things in their mouths! Small objects can be a choking hazard, so it's important to keep them out of reach. ✅ How to keep your child safe: ✔️ Regularly check floors, tables, and low shelves for small items like coins, buttons, batteries, or beads. ✔️ Store toys with small parts in a secure area away from infants and toddlers. ✔️ Be extra cautious with household items like paperclips, jewelry, and pen caps—these can be easily overlooked but pose a big risk. A quick scan of your space each day can help prevent accidents and keep your little one safe! Thank you for following our childproofing series—your child’s safety is always worth the effort! 💙 Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🌸 Springtime Health Tips for Kids! 🌸 As the weather warms up and outdoor adventures begin, it's important to keep your little ones healthy and thriving! Here are a few simple tips to help: 🌿 Allergy Awareness – Spring brings blooming flowers and pollen! Keep an eye on allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Wash hands and change clothes after outdoor play to reduce exposure. ☀️ Sun Protection – Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be strong! Use child-safe sunscreen, dress your child in protective clothing, and provide a hat for extra coverage. 🚰 Stay Hydrated – Warmer days mean more outdoor play! Keep water handy to ensure your child stays hydrated while running, jumping, and exploring. 💦 Spring Cleaning Safety – If you're tackling spring cleaning, store cleaning supplies out of reach and opt for child-friendly, non-toxic products. 🦠 Keep Germs Away – Spring colds can still sneak up! Encourage regular handwashing, especially after playing outside or being around other children. Enjoy the season while keeping your little ones happy and healthy! 🌷💛 Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🐰 Easter Is On The Way... 🌸🐣 Spring is in the air, and that means Easter is just around the corner! 🌷 Now is the perfect time to start planning fun, family-friendly activities for your little ones. Ideas to get in the Easter Spirit: 🐣 Sensory-friendly egg hunts with larger, easy-to-hold eggs 🎨 Easter-themed crafts like fingerprint bunny art or decorating paper eggs 🥚 Egg shakers for a fun musical activity Easter is a great time for bonding, learning, and creating sweet memories with your little one. Stay tuned for more tips and activities as we count down to the holiday! 💕 Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🌸 Hello, Spring! 🌿☀️ The first day of spring is here, bringing longer days, warmer weather, and new beginnings! 🌼🌷 It’s the perfect time to get outside with your little ones, explore nature, and enjoy the fresh air. What’s your favorite springtime activity to do with your baby or toddler? Share in the comments! ⬇️🐞🌞 Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🌟 Parenting Inspiration 🌟 "To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today." – Barbara Johnson Every hug, every laugh, and every moment you spend with your child helps shape their world. Parenthood isn’t about perfection—it’s about being present. 💕 Tag a fellow parent who needs this reminder today! ✨ Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky

🔒 Childproofing Tip #2: Lock Away Hazards 🔒 Curious little hands love to explore, and that often means opening cabinets, drawers, and containers they shouldn't! Household items like cleaning supplies, medications, and sharp objects can pose serious dangers to infants and toddlers. ✅ How to keep your child safe: ✔️ Use childproof locks on cabinets and drawers that store cleaning products, medications, and sharp utensils. ✔️ Keep all toxic substances in high, locked cabinets—out of sight and reach. ✔️ Store batteries, especially button batteries, in a secure place since they can be extremely dangerous if swallowed. Taking these simple steps can prevent accidents and give you peace of mind. Stay tuned for Tip #3 coming soon! Interested in learning more or becoming a member of The Bullitt County Health Department HANDS program? For more information or to enroll in The Bullitt County Health Department's HANDS Program, Please reach out via phone call to: 502-955-5668 HANDS Health Access Nurturing Development Services Bullitt County, Kentucky