Firstly, we would like to wish all our families a very Merry Christmas! We have really enjoyed spending time with you all this year and have had some fabulous family events too! We wish you all the best for the New Year and look forward to welcoming you back on the 2nd January 2024.

Month in Pictures

Safety at Christmas

Sarah Potter –Lead Paediatric Nurse, Children’s Emergency Department, Royal United Hospital, Bath

With the festive season approaching, things get a little more merry and chaotic at home. Visitors come and go, and new toys, games and electronics enter our homes. And with this, the chances of your child swallowing something they shouldn’t increases.
The main things we worry about children swallowing are button batteries and super strong magnets. These items should always be stored securely out of the reach of children.

Button batteries are the flat round batteries that may be found in some children’s toys and some household electronics. If ingested there is a risk that they may cause severe internal burns which can be catastrophic. If you suspect your child has swallowed a button battery, are over 12 months of age and this will not delay you (i.e. you have some at home), you can give them a teaspoonful of honey before coming to A&E, which may coat the battery and delay the harmful reaction.

Super strong magnets are found in a large number of toys, particularly those aimed at old children, but also in fake jewellery and decorative items. If more than one magnet is swallowed, then there is a risk of damage to the bowel.

At festive times there are often visiting family members who may have medications in their bags that may be harmful for children, or perhaps you’re staying with family who don’t usually lock their medications away. Always check with family members that medications are stored out of the reach of children, particularly any medications for the heart or blood pressure and antidepressants.

If your child has ingested something they shouldn’t, call 999 or got to A&E immediately if they have any of the following…
• Unconscious/lethargic
• Confused/agitated
• Has a fit/seizure
• Becomes pale, mottled or blue
• Choking/breathing difficulties
• Severe abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Eye pain or redness
• Swallowed a button battery or magnets

Ring 111 or your GP surgery if your child has any of the following:
• Rash or skin irritation
• Vomiting/mild abdominal pain
• Headache
If the substance is:
• A medication
• The bottle/packet suggests seeking medical help or has any warning symbols

For more advice and guidance, visit NHS Healthier Together www.what0-18.nhs.uk
Sarah Potter – Lead Paediatric Nurse, Children’s Emergency Department, Royal United Hospital, Bath

Chef’s Corner

Bubble & Squeak

Ingredients

1 tbsp duck fat, goose fat or butter
4 rashers of streaky bacon, chopped
1 chopped garlic clove
1 onion, finely sliced
15-20 brussel sprouts sliced or left over boiled cabbage (or any left over veg will work)
400g leftover mashed, boiled or roast potatoes

Method

Melt 1tbsp duck fat, goose fat or butter in a non-stick pan. Allow it to get nice and hot, then add the streaky bacon. As it begins to brown, add the onion and garlic
Next add the brussel sprouts/cabbage/other green veg
Add the potaotes and push down the mixture so it covers the base of the pan
Allow the mixture to catch slightly on the bottom of the pan before flipping over.
Serve with a poached or fried egg for a great festive brunch

Nursery Request

We are on the hunt for some “loose parts” for play in Nursery please

Examples would be pine cones, shells, screw bottle tops, perfume bottles, spare crockery or kitchen utensils. If in doubt, send us an email. Many Thanks in Advance!

Christmas Fun!

What is the best Christmas present?

A broken drum, you can’t beat it!

What comes at the end of Christmas Day?

The letter “Y”!

What's a parent's favourite Christmas carol?

Silent Night

How long are an Elf’s legs?

Just long enough to reach the ground!

What do you call Rudolph with tinsel in his ears?

Anything you want, he can’t hear you!

What did the stamp say to the Christmas card?

Stick with me and we’ll go places!

December 2023