A NOTE FROM THE FRANKLIN SCHOOL HEALTH OFFICE

“I Ran for the Chapstick”

  By Ken Nesbitt

I ran for the Chapstick mom keeps in her purse

My lips were so chapped that they couldn’t feel worse!

I dug through her handbag and pulled it out quickly,

Then sighed in relief as I smeared it on thickly.

I felt so much better I almost rejoiced.

My painful, dry lips were now mended and moist.

My dad burst out laughing. My mom looked amused.

Her Chapstick was lost. That was lipstick I’d used!

Now that the cold weather has arrived many students here at Franklin School are suffering from chapped lips.  Our lips only have a thin layer of skin on them so they tend to dry out quickly.  Dry winter air, wind and heating systems all dehydrate lips, which can result in redness, cracking and bleeding.

Ways to prevent chapped lips include using a lubricating lip balm, staying well hydrated, using a humidifier in your home and not licking your lips.

In addition to over the counter lip balms, coconut oil, aloe vera gel, cocoa butter and beeswax are all natural moisturizers and when applied, may help soothe sore, chapped lips.  Encourage your child to keep lip balm in their desk or backpack for use during school hours. This allows for easy and frequent access during the school day and eliminates the need to leave the classroom.