700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by Lara McKenzie, PhD, MA

Posted by: Lara McKenzie, PhD, MA on Sep 18, 2026

When children are stuck inside, they may try to turn your house into a playground. All parents of young children understand how quickly a trinket on a high shelf suddenly becomes a quest as alluring as the summit of Everest to a seasoned climber.

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Fire Escape Plan: Can Your Family Get Out in Less Than Two Minutes?
If a fire starts, your family may have only two minutes to get outside safely. Learn how to create a home fire escape plan, teach kids what to do when a smoke alarm sounds, and practice together so everyone is ready in an emergency.
child getting an ultrasound done
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5 Hidden Household Hazards
Some everyday household items may be more dangerous to young children than they seem. Learn how hand sanitizer, detergent packets, medications, button batteries, and nicotine products can pose serious risks—and simple ways to keep them safely out of reach.

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About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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Latest Posts

Woman sitting on a couch looking at her phone.

The Dangers of Parent Hacks on Social Media

Aug 12, 2026

I’ll admit I’m no Martha Stewart. But something about Pinterest sucks me in. But as a childhood injury researcher, I have a problem with Pinterest. I see ideas for children that are completely unsafe for them. Read More

lady swimming in pool while holding young girl

How to Keep Your Kids Safe in the Pool

Jul 25, 2024

Drowning is a leading cause of injury death for young children ages 1 to 4, and the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death for people of all ages. For toddlers (children ages 1 to 4 years), swimming pools pose the greatest risk of submersion injury. Read More

Pinterest Sunscreen

DIY? Homemade Sunscreen May Not Be as Safe as Parents Think

Jul 19, 2024

When it comes to sunscreen, many parents want to use natural, organic, vegan or homemade products. But, when it comes to protecting your kids’ skin, it’s important to use regulated, commercially available sunscreen. Read More

Baby gate surrounding a fireplace

Fireplace Safety

Oct 12, 2023

Whether you’re roasting chestnuts or just enjoying the warm glow, fireplaces can help make a home warm and cozy. To a baby, toddler, or young child, flames in a fireplace are a new thing they want to explore. Read More