We know all of the “regular” things we should pack for our kids when they leave home for a day or longer. Here’s a look at a few things you may not have thought about.
1 medical alert labels
NAME BUBBLES allergy and medical alert labels provide four lines of information to keep everyone aware of emergency care. Helps alert those around your child, letting them know of peanut allergies, juvenile diabetes, and other potentially life threatening conditions. Great for lunch bags, water bottles, food containers, toys, permission slips, and school forms. Medical alert labels are also waterproof … just press and stick. namebubbles.com; about $33 for 96 labels
2 quick wipes
Soiled, sweaty, stinky, self-conscious? Portable single-use disposable washcloths offer an easy and convenient way to help kids get clean and eliminate embarrassing grime and body odor after physical activity. QWIK SHOWER wipes are also great for adults for use after the gym, a jog, when traveling, during a long shift at the office, or even after work enroute to another engagement. qwikshower.com; about $29 for 50 individual packets
3 tattoo you
Colorful SAFETYTATS are going high-tech with the inclusion of a QR (Quick Response) code, a barcode that can be scanned by the camera in smart phones. This brings up additional phone numbers, allergies listed, and other information you provide. One emergency contact will be visible on the tattoo. The tattoos, available beginning June 2011, are waterproof and latex-free. safetytat.com
4 tread tracker
Who doesn’t want incentives for daily exercise and activity? GEOPALZ pedometers are clipped to the hip area and record steps and movement, earning kids prizes for participating in camp or sports programs. Steps entered online can be redeemed for sports equipment and accessories. Parents receive weekly email updates on their child’s progress and tips for encouraging activity. The pedometers are available in 21 different styles. geopalz.com; about $20
5 energy boost
GRANOLA GOURMET energy bars are great to throw in a backpack, to give kids the necessary pick-up without causing the dread sugar crash. These 100 percent natural bars are great for an on-the-go snack that won’t cause a spike in blood sugar. The bars are available in four flavors, contain no wheat or dairy, and are low in sodium. granolagourmet.com; about $22 for 20 bars
