When medical professionals offer advice, it carries the weight of scientific evidence and clinical experience. But when these experts are also parents, their guidance takes on a deeply personal, protective layer. This unique blend of professional knowledge and parental concern was recently highlighted by ophthalmologist Dr. Rupa K. Wong on her Instagram platform (@drrupawong). She posed a compelling question to her colleagues: What is the one thing you would never let your own children do?
The Hidden Dangers in Everyday Activities
The responses she gathered are eye-opening, not because they warn against rare or extreme activities, but precisely because they target common, often normalized parts of modern life. These are the everyday choices where small precautions can prevent life-altering consequences.
A specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation was unequivocal: he would not allow his children on trampolines. Despite their popularity as a fun backyard activity, he highlighted the severe risks of spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, and concussion associated with their use.
An Intensive Care Unit (ICU) physician pointed to electric bikes, or e-bikes, as a major concern. He cautioned that while classified similarly to bicycles, e-bikes can reach motorcycle-like speeds. The lack of adequate protective gear for riders often leads to devastating outcomes seen in critical care settings.
Medical Precautions Beyond Accidents
The warnings extended beyond physical accidents to include medication and sun exposure. A nephrologist, or kidney specialist, advised extreme caution with common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Motrin, Ibuprofen, Advil, and Aleve. In strong terms, the expert warned that overuse can severely damage kidney function.
A dermatologist emphasized a non-negotiable rule for her family: no trip to the beach without sunscreen, a hat, or sun-protective clothing. This aligns with the American Academy of Dermatology's stance that consistent sun protection is key to reducing the risk of skin cancer, painful sunburn, and premature aging of the skin.
Common Themes in Emergency Medicine
Doctors who routinely handle trauma reinforced the dangers of high-speed vehicles. An Emergency Room (ER) physician stated he would never permit his children to ride motorcycles. The sheer volume and severity of motorcycle-related injuries he encounters in the ER make this a paramount fear for him as a parent.
Finally, Dr. Rupa Wong, the ophthalmologist who initiated the discussion, shared her cardinal rule: her children must never sleep while wearing contact lenses. She explained that this habit is linked to a significantly higher risk of painful eye infections, corneal ulcers, and inflammation.
The collective insight from these healthcare professionals is powerful. It shifts the focus from reacting to dramatic headlines to proactively safeguarding against the subtle risks embedded in daily routines. Their advice, born at the intersection of the clinic and the home, serves as a crucial checklist for parents aiming to build a safer environment for their children.
