Advice

Santa help: Worried that your child won't sit on Santa's lap long enough to have his photo taken? Try these tips from Parents magazine:

Play "Freeze Frame." On the way to the mall, explain that the two of you are going to play a game while he sits on Santa's lap and you stand near the camera. It's called "Freeze Frame," and the person who can stay completely still during picture time wins - completely still, that is, except for your smile muscles.

Include a friend. Tell your child to bring along her favorite doll or stuffed animal to meet Santa on picture day.

Give an early gift. While waiting in line to see Santa, surprise your child with a small, wrapped present. Let him know that Santa sent this one early - a special thanks for sitting so nicely on his lap today. Allow him to hold the gift while the picture is taken, and then let him open it.

Knight Ridder News Service

Squeaky clean: Knowledge is power, and teaching children the relationship between germs and colds will help arm them in fighting the illness.

The American Public Health Association (APHA) says proper hand washing is probably the best defense against the spread of colds and flu.

"Adopting this important behavior can have a huge impact on children's health," says Barbara J. Hatcher, the director of scientific and professional affairs for APHA.

Children are urged to wash their hands after using the bathroom; before eating; before, during and after helping in the kitchen; after coming in from outdoors; after handling money; after sneezing, coughing or blowing their nose and after playing with pets.

The Associated Press

Mark your calendar

Mingling singles: Here's another singles event to check out. The seventh annual Ohio Valley Christian Singles Holiday Extravaganza takes place 8 p.m. next Friday at the Econo Lodge in Fairfield. Last year's gathering attracted 350 singles.

The event, for Christian singles of all ages, races and denominations, includes food, games, prizes and a performance by contemporary gospel recording artists Everett Moore and Company. $20 in advance or at the door. 589-3400.

Shauna Scott Rhone

Contact Shauna Scott Rhone by phone at 768-8511; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: srhone@enquirer.com