One of my favorite West Michigan events is coming up on Saturday, September 6th.  It’s the Priority Health Grand Cycling Classic!  Bring the whole family down to watch top cyclists from around the country race at speeds up to 40 mph on the brick streets of downtown Grand Rapids!  Racing action starts at 10:30 a.m.  and continues throughout the day.

Plus, the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital is sponsoring a FREE kids bike race for little ones 9 and under.   The first 100 kids to register will get FREE Bike Helmets too!!   Find out more the Grand Cycling Classic and the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital kids race at www.priorityhealthclassic.com

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 Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital has recommended some great tips to make sure your child is ready to start the school year of the right foot.

Backpack Safety
· Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
· Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10-20% the student’s body weight.
· Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
· Consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs, and they may be difficult to roll in snow.

Traveling To and From School
School Bus
· If your child’s school bus has lap or shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times when on the bus.
· Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.
· Do not move around on the bus.
· Check to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing.
· Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.

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As of July 1, Michigan law states that all children must be in a booster seat until they are 8 years old or 4’9” tall. 

There are various types of booster seats that will lift a child up so that the seatbelt fits properly.  You can choose a no-back booster that can be used when the child is tall enough to use the headrest in the back seat, or a high-back seat that supports both the head and neck.  All booster seats must have a lap/shoulder safety belt. 

It is important to note that all booster seats must be used in the backseat only and both the booster seat lap belt and car shoulder belt should be buckled to properly protect your child.

Booster seats are readily available at many retail stores and cost as little as $15.  For more information on the new booster seat law visit www.michigansafekids.org.

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Is your family prepared to take a vacation?  Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of packing, families can forget some important items.  Here are a few medical travel tips from Dr. Bill Stratbucker of Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

1.  Families need to be prepared, so think about all the things your child may need at home and make sure to pack them.  Essentials include any medications your child takes.  Make sure the prescription is filled and if you might run out, visit your doctor ahead of time for a refill.

2.  Another important thing to remember is emergency contact numbers.  You should have a list of your regular doctors as well as physicians in the area you are visiting.  If you need help locating someone in the area you’re visiting, your child’s pediatrician should be able to help.  This is especially important if your child has a pre-existing medical condition.

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