December 2024

Our nursing team wishes everyone a happy holiday season and a healthy, prosperous new year. We hope you enjoy this month's newsletter!

Important Notice About Immunization Records

Earlier this month, letters were sent to several families alerting them that their children's immunization records are not current. If you received one of these letters, you must provide your school nurse with updated records indicating that your child has received all vaccines required for school attendance by Friday, December 20th. If your child's record is not up-to-date by the deadline, they may not return to school after the vacation until we have proof that their immunization record is current and up-to-date. Please contact your child's school nurse with any questions or to share your plans for addressing this issue.

After one of the driest autumns on record, we are hoping for snow over this holiday break. Here are some tips on keeping sledding safe for all:

• Use Safe Gear
• Choose a sled that has options to steer and brake.
• Use a helmet - winter sports helmets are best.
• Wear warm layers of clothing. Ensure that all skin is covered in extreme cold temperatures. Avoid wearing scarves as they pose a choking hazard.
• Designate a Safe Spot
• Select a hill that is followed by a flat space in order for the sled to glide to a full stop.
• Avoid locations near car traffic, bodies of water, steep drops, and trees, poles or fences.
• Consider Basic Safety
• Children under 12 y.o. should be supervised by an adult. Children under 5 y.o. should be accompanied by an adult in the sled.
• NEVER use the head first position in the sled. This causes increased risk for head injury. Seated with feet first is the safest position.
• Keep arms and legs tucked in the sled at all times.
• Always walk to the side when climbing to the top of the hill to avoid being hit by oncoming sleds.
• NEVER tie a sled to a moving vehicle for a ride.

To read the full article, please click HERE

Gingerbread Milk

Ingredients

• 4 cups milk of your choice
• 1 TBSP molasses OR 3 TBSP honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

• Please click HERE for instructions.
• For a festive look, top with whipped topping, sprinkle with cinnamon and a mini gingerbread cookie.

Here are some ideas to spread holiday cheer with your family this December:

• Sensory Friendly Pictures with Santa: The Trustees property at Long Hill in Beverly offers an opportunity for those with neurodivergent children to have the opportunity to visit with Santa in a manageable environment. Appointments are on the half hour from 11 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. This will allow for each child to spend 5-7 min with Santa. There will also be a scavenger hunt, craft table and fire pit. The grounds will also be open for hiking and exploring. Please click HERE for more information.
• Winter Solstice Hike and Fire Pit Adventure: This event is held on the Crane Estate trails through the forest and beach. There is a fee associated with the event, which is held on 12/21. Please click HERE for more information.
• Market Street Rink: The outdoor Rink at Market Street in Lynnfield is open for the season! Please click HERE for more information.
• Sledding Spots: If the snowflakes start flying, here are some spots that people like to sled:
• Kernwood Country Club
• Mack Park
• Olde Salem Greens Golf Course