The Infamous Words… “My Child Ate…”

As an experienced babysitter/nanny and parent of a toddler, we’ve seen young children eat or get into everything from crayons to lotions to poop! The first reaction is usually…OMG; then “what should I do?”; then sheer panic. Sound familiar?

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned parent/caregiver, professional childcare provider or an experienced babysitter;  you want expert advice and want it fast when you find yourself saying or hearing those infamous words…”My child ate…”. Here are some common situations the IPC regularly receives calls about:

• At the park or beach, you’re applying sunscreen to your little one(s) and you accidentally get some in their eye and/or mouth…
• In the middle of the night, while changing your baby and applying diaper rash cream, his little fingers not only reach down to explore what you’re up to but also quickly move those fingers to his mouth. You don’t know if he actually got any cream in his mouth but you can’t be sure…
• While babysitting, the toddler decides to not only draw on the nearest open space but also to suck on the ink end of the marker…
• In a rush to get ready, you accidentally leave your makeup out only to find your toddler painting her lips with it!
• While bathing your toddler, you notice something brown and gooey in their hand and face (poop?)…could he really have put that in his mouth…oh my!
• While visiting grandma/grandpa, your little one finds the closet and decides that the white packet (silica gel) in the shoe box looks like a tasty treat…

If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, don’t hesitate. Either call the IPC directly at 1-800-222-1222 for free, confidential and expert advice or click on the IPC’s “My Child Ate…” (MCA) resource library for substance information, possible symptoms and most importantly, what to do.

Take a moment right now to:

• Save the 1-800-222-1222 number to your phone(s)
• Save the “My Child Ate…” web site as a favorite on your computer and/or handheld device
• Click here for a free Complimentary Packet with stickers, magnet and first aid recommendations
• Not sure about calling the IPC hotline, you’ll never doubt yourself after reading “A Day In the Life of a Poison Center”

Do you have a story to tell about using the IPC? We want to hear it!

Just remember… no issue or question is too big or small; just call 1-800-222-1222 anytime of the day/night, 365 days a year! The call center experts are available when you need them!

–Janine and Vickie

Related posts:

1. Introducing The ‘My Child Ate’ Web Resource Library
2. “My Child Ate…!” Honorable Mentions
3. “My Child Ate…Grandma’s Medicine”
4. “My Child Ate… Nature!”
5. “My Child Ate…Something Around the House!”