DEAR HELOISE: The best activity for kids before a holiday meal is having them help in preparing it. This is how they’ll learn how to prep for a big celebration, which is the only way to learn how to do anything. Of course, the work must be geared to each kid’s level of ability, and some guidance is required. This will also teach them responsibility and give them pride.

•Louis R., in Reseda, California

Louis, this is a solution that brings varied results. It’ll all depend on whether the host likes to have everything ready for company before they arrive and whether the children are underfoot. If it’s a small gathering or just the family, then it’s easier to assign them a task, such as setting the table or filling the salt and pepper shakers.

Well, readers, what do you think about this idea? Have any of you tried this, and if so, how did it work out for your family?

• Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: Regarding the letter titled “Curing Dry Hair” from the woman whose hair was brittle, it could be due to her diet. Years ago, I was chronically dehydrated. When a nurse told me that I needed to drink more water, I listened. Not only did my sinuses improve and my headaches go away, my hair and nails stopped snapping off like fresh potato chips! When I added extra virgin olive oil to my diet, my hair and nails got even stronger (and longer!). Also, my skin wasn’t as dry.

All the hair and skin products in the world won’t compensate for a diet that is lacking in water, vitamins and minerals.

•Marcia B., in Birmingham, Alabama

Marcia, this is a nice suggestion, but the best thing for physical problems like dry hair is to see a doctor and make sure that there’s no underlying cause. As we age, our bodies change, and a checkup can often detect a health issue that we were unaware we had.

• Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: I recently discovered that older Corelle dishes contain lead that is harmful to humans. Some patterns contain harmful amounts of lead, mercury and cadmium, as well as additional chemicals. Please do your own research. I trashed my dishes as I wasn’t comfortable donating them for resale.

Also, black plastic utensils and black takeout boxes are made from recycled electronics and can contain harmful chemicals.

• Jan, in Dayton, Ohio

Jan, yes, this is true. Many black plastic items that we use for takeout orders have cancer-causing agents from flame retardants, which leach into our food. Black plastic can contain unregulated amounts of toxic chemicals, including heavy metals. In addition to this, black plastic usually isn’t recyclable because of the color.

• Heloise