DIY First Aid Kit

Instead of having medicines and medical supplies in random drawers, why not create a custom first aid kit with items that your family actually uses. In my 21 years as a parent, I’ve about seen it all and here are a few notes on what you really need. Start with a plastic bin that has a lid. Buy two, so you can put one in your car as well. What’s the most requested item - most parents would say band-aids. Buy some in all shapes and sizes. You need some for the small paper cuts to the finger, large square ones for a skint knee and butterfly-shaped ones to help close up wounds. Next, put in pain relievers like Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen. Even a small bottle of aspirin is okay, that pill can be a lifesaver for those having a heart episode. In addition, have something on hand to treat an upset stomach and diarrhea, cold and sore throat medicine along with a reliable thermometer

We live in a germy world so be sure and include a tube or two of antibacterial ointment or wipes would be okay as well. Add anti-itch cream and insect sting relief, mosquitoes and wasps are not our friends. Also include gauze pads and non-stick sterile pads along with medical adhesive tape and small sharp scissors. Buy small tweezers to take out splinters from wood playgrounds and fences. Many of these same supplies can help treat a dog or cat when they have an injury.

It’s also a good idea to put in a copy of health insurance cards and the names of you family’s doctors in the kit. Tell anyone who may keep your kids or stay at your house where they can find it.

You really haven’t had the true test of parenthood until your child comes home with head lice. Preschoolers and elementary schoolers are most at risk. Don’t panic, go ahead and buy a treatment kit for home. Chances are you will find the critters right before bed when the stores are closed so it is very convenient to have one on hand. Don’t feel guilty or assume you keep an unclean home if your child has lice. It can happen to anyone. You take the treatment too along with your child. These bugs are very adventurous.

For the kit in the car, also include sunscreen, chapstick and bug spray. In the winter months store a blanket in the trunk in case of emergencies. I also put in an extra pair of underwear and socks for my kids 10 and under. You never know when they may have an accident or need socks for bowling or the trampoline park. One last thing, purchase flip flops in a few sizes. They come in so handy when someone gets blisters from their new shoes.

Be prepared and try not overreact when an injury occurs. Take a deep breath, grab your kit and make it all better.