Parenting Newsbytes

Menstuff® has compiled newsbytes on the issue of parenting. Also see Newsbytes for Children, Fathers, and Teens. See Fathering also.

IMPORTANT BOOKS

Click on covers for more specific information.

COLUMNS

Mark Brandenburg

Ted Braude

Armin Brott

Tim Hartnett

John Hershey

Bruce Linton

Steven Svoboda

Linda Nielsen

Reena Sommer

Peter Baylies

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Journals - on Child, Emotional, Religious, and Sexual Abuse and Trauma
Related Issues: Talking With Kids About Tough Issues, Fatherhood Aptitude Test to check if you're ready to be a Dad.
Periodicals - Children, Parents, Teens

Children Spend 8 Hours Per Day Looking At a Screen

The average 8 to 10 year old is spending almost 8 hours per day looking at a screen and older children and teenagers are spending 11 hours a day, according to the New York Times.

The effect this can have on kids is widespread: schoolwork and grades suffer, social skills decline, and if the screens involve a lot of violent movies and video games, it can also decrease a child’s empathy.

But all isn’t lost! Find out what the experts do to curb their children’s screen time – and how you can do the same.
Source: mail.aol.com/webmail-std/en-us/suite

Hazing

Hazing isn't a rite of passage confined to military boot camps, sororities, and fraternities. Read on to find out what hazing is and how you can help to prevent it from happening to your child.
Source: kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/no_bullying.html

Tried and True: Tips From You!

From infants to teens, raising kids of any age can be quite a challenge. Perhaps, along the way, you've learned something you’d like to share with others. If so, please send us your tried-and-true parenting tips and advice. From nutrition to exercise, behavior to discipline, schoolwork to boredom busters, chores to bedtime routines - you name it, we'd like to know about the ideas that have made raising your little ones (and not-so-little ones) easier.

Share your tips, and we may include your comments on our site. We'd love to hear from you, but please send us only your initials and state (or area of residence). eMail Please don't send any other personal or health-related information.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/misc/popup/P_squarebanner2.html

National 5 a Day Week

Because higher fruit and vegetable consumption is linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease and better overall health, the National Cancer Institute began the 5 a Day for Better Health Program to encourage kids - and adults - to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/misc/5aday_banner.html

Broken Bones Emergency Sheet

Broken bones are not uncommon in children - especially after a fall. A broken bone requires emergency medical care. Find out what to do in this printer-friendly version.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/sheets/broken_bones_sheet.html

Fireworks Safety Month

Fireworks may look pretty but they can be extremely dangerous, especially for kids. Find out how to stay safe this Fourth of July.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/misc/fireworks_banner.html

Parents Time with Kids

Among the many interesting statistics from the research at the University of Maryland was the fact that married fathers are spending much more time on housework: an average of 9.7 hours a week in 2000, up from 4.4 hours in 1965. That increase was more than offset by the decline in time devoted to housework by married mothers: 19.4 hours a week in 2000, down from 34.5 hours in 1965. And, parents are spending more time with their kids today than they did in 1965--although the quality of that time may be in question.
Source: www.nytimes.com/2006/10/17/us/17kids.html?

Raising a Fit Preschooler

Preschoolers have a lot of energy, and they're able to use it in a more organized way than when they were toddlers. Instead of just running around in the backyard, a preschooler has the physical skills and coordination to ride a tricycle or chase a butterfly.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/growth/growing/fit_preschooler.html
 

As Your Child Grows

What should you expect as your child grows? Learn how to understand and deal with your child's changing body and mind from infancy through the teen years.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/growth/index.html
 

Infants Treated With Amoxicillin May Be Prone to Tooth Discoloration

Researchers from the University of Iowa in Iowa City found that children exposed to the antibiotic amoxicillin early in life were at increased risk of developing fluorosis of their permanent teeth.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/amoxicillin_exposure.html

Raising Healthy, Happy Kids: How Do You Do It?

We're looking for your best tips so we can share them with other parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/misc_pages/surveys/P-S_raising-healthy-kids.html

Rabies

Rabies is a serious infection of the nervous system that is often transmitted by an animal bite. Read this article for important facts about rabies, such as how to recognize the symptoms.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/rabies.html

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is far less frightful than its name. Though it's one of the most common causes of knee pain in adolescents, it's really not a disease at all, but rather an overuse injury.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/aches/osgood.html

Exposure to Lotions Containing Peanut Oil or Consumption of Soy Protein May Predispose Infants to Peanut Allergy

The prevalence of peanut allergy among children has increased in the last few decades. It's well known that a family history of food allergies can increase a child's risk of developing the condition, but researchers from London studied other potential factors in the development of peanut allergy.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/peanut_allergy_predisposition.html

Toilet Training Begun at a Younger Age Takes Longer to Complete

Children who begin toilet training at a younger age take longer to achieve daytime control than kids who start later, say researchers from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/early_toilet_training.html

Neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerve tissue, producing skin and bone abnormalities. Learn more about NF, including its diagnosis and treatment.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/aches/nf.html

Predictors Of Future Fight-Related Injury Among Adolescents

"Predictors of Future Fight-Related Injury Among Adolescents" showed that certain factors related to violence, substance use and other psychosocial issues can predict future fight-related injuries requiring medical treatment.
Source : American Academy of Pediatrics, www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/EMIHC270/333/8895/376600.html?d=dmtICNNews

AAP Recommends Keeping Potassium Iodide on Hand

You've probably heard or read about KI, but may wonder what these tablets really are and what they do in the event of a radiation incident. In a recent release, the American Academy of Pediatrics says KI could help save you and your kids from radiation-induced thyroid effects caused by the accidental or intentional release of radioactive iodines ("radiodines") into the environment.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/breaking_news/potassium_iodide.html

Teaching Your Child Tolerance

Teaching tolerance is important not just because it is part of our American heritage but because the person who learns to be open to differences will have more opportunity. This article offers information on tolerance and tips for teaching your child to be tolerant.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/tolerance.html

Intussusception

Intussusception is a problem with the intestine in which one portion of the bowel slides into the next, much like the pieces of a telescope. It's the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children between 3 months and 6 years of age.
Source: http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/surgical/intussusception.html

Soiling (Encopresis)

If you're the parent of a child who has bowel movements in places other than the toilet, you know how frustrating it can be. Many kids who soil beyond the years of toilet teaching have a condition known as encopresis. Read this article to learn more.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/encopresis.html

Taking Your Child's Temperature

Sooner or later, every parent has to take a child's temperature to check for fever. How do you know which thermometer to use? Where is the best place to take your child's temperature and how?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/take_temp.html

Financial Management During Crisis

Although the emotional price of raising a seriously ill child can be devastating, it's only part of the picture. Even during this difficult time, you have to consider the financial implications.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/ill/financial_crisis.html

Fruit Juices and Iron Absorption

Offering your child orange juice instead of apple juice with a meal doesn't significantly affect his or her ability to absorb iron, say researchers from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/juice_iron.html

Adenoid and Tonsil Removal Reduces Health Care Utilization and Costs Associated with Sleep Disorder

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by short periods of stopping breathing during sleep, which can lead to poor sleep quality and daytime drowsiness. Researchers from Beer-Sheva, Israel, studied how health care costs changed after children received surgical treatment for OSAS.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/tonsils_sleep.html

Kidneys and Urinary Tract

The bean-shaped kidneys, each about the size of a child's fist, perform several functions essential to health. Their most important role is to filter blood and produce urine.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/body_basics/kidneys_urinary.html

 

About Recipes for Kids With Cystic Fibrosis

These high-calorie recipes are especially for kids with cystic fibrosis (CF). Kids with CF may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs. Check out these delicious recipes.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/body_basics/kidneys_urinary.html


Exposure to Tobacco Smoke Harms Children With Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a red blood cell disorder that causes chronic anemia and episodes of pain. Researchers from the University of California at Davis examined whether exposure to tobacco smoke exacerbated medical problems in children with sickle cell disease.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/tobacco_sickle_cell.html

Instruction Sheets for Childhood Emergencies

Check out these sheets - or print them to keep in a folder for easy access - to help you handle some common childhood emergencies and less serious, but still scary situations.Animal Bites

Broken Bones
Burns
Cuts
Falls
Frostbite
Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke
Knocked-Out Tooth
Nosebleeds
Seizures
Strains and Sprains

Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/sheets/about_instruction_sheets.html

Changing Family Behaviors Reduces TV Viewing Time by a Third

Even though health organizations recommend that children and teens watch no more than 2 hours of TV a day, many children spend 3, 4, and even 5 hours in front of the tube daily. Researchers sought to reduce TV viewing in a group of preschoolers through a program targeting parents and teachers.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/reducing_tv.html

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy May Counteract Psychological Symptoms Caused by Exposure to Violence

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is sometimes used to treat depressive and post-traumatic stress disorder in adults who have experienced violence. Researchers from California examined whether CBT could also be beneficial and effective for children.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/cbt_violence.html

Strep Screen/Throat Culture

Is your child having a strep screen or a throat culture? Find out how these swab tests are performed and when you can expect the results.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/labtest11.html

Bullying at School

Are you concerned about bullying in your child's school? Although it's impossible to "bully-proof" your child, there are some things you can do to help him through a tough situation. Whether your child is the victim of a bully or the bully himself, check out KidsHealth's Positive Parenting section for tips on how to handle this growing problem in our schools.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/
 

Growing Pains

Is your child waking up crying in the night because her legs throb? Your child may be experiencing growing pains. Learn all about this problem in our article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/aches/growing_pains.html

What Parents Need to Know About Bedwetting

The medical name for bedwetting is enuresis and it is a common problem in children and adolescents. Find out more about bedwetting and how it is treated in this article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sleep/enuresis.html
 

Teething Tots

Teething can be a difficult time for babies and parents. Read this article to learn the facts on teething, including tips for baby teeth hygiene and relief of teething discomfort.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/teeth/teething.html

How Much Activity Do Physical Education Classes Really Provide?

The National Institute of Health and Human Development currently recommends that kids get at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Physical education classes could be a good opportunity for your child to get some exercise, but how much activity do kids really get during PE class?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/pe_classes.html
 

A Parent's Guide to Fitness for Kids Who Hate Sports

Read this article to find out how you can help to promote fitness in a child who dislikes team sports.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/fitness/hate_sports.html

Enhanced Drug Education Programs Are More Successful at Preventing Risky Behaviors

Many elementary and middle schools have implemented the drug education program Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) to reduce drug use and violence in kids and teens. The effectiveness of D.A.R.E. and an enhanced D.A.R.E. program was evaluated by researchers from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/success_drug_education.html
 

Medical Error Rates Higher Among Children With Special Medical Needs

Researchers from Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC, and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee, examined the occurrence of medical errors among hospitalized pediatric patients in 1988, 1991, 1994, and 1997.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/medical_error_rates.html

The Obesity Epidemic - Positive Changes on the Horizon

A worrisome problem of international proportions, obesity's effect on public health has been the subject of increased media attention, as the rates of overweight and obesity continue to rise. Read on to find out what's being done to control the epidemic.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/breaking_news/obesity_epidemic_positive_changes.html

Too Many Sweetened Drinks Negatively Affect Nutrition

Overconsumption of sweetened drinks can have important nutritional consequences in school-age children, report researchers from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/sweet_drinks.html

Cochlear Implant Surgery May Lead to Improved Development and Ability to Understand Speech

Researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland, studied the functioning and development of children with cochlear implants before and after surgery.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/cochlear.html

Dog Bite Injury Rates Are Highest Among Children Ages 5 to 9

Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, analyzed current data on dog bites by examining 2001 emergency department records.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/dogbite.html

Cooking Without Heat

As you're doling out the strawberry shortcake and stirring the potato salad, it's important to remember that bacteria like E. coli and foodborne illnesses such as salmonellosis, campylobacter infections, and listeriosis could contaminate your uncooked summer creations.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/misc/cooking_banner.html

Mouth and Teeth

Check out our informative article and cool Flash graphic to find out the many roles the mouth and teeth play in our daily lives.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/body_basics/mouth_teeth.html

Sportsmanship

You've probably met parents who get so wrapped up in winning and losing that they lose sight of what's really important in children's sports: instilling a sense of good sportsmanship.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/sportsmanship.html

Encopresis (Soiling)

If you're the parent of a child who has bowel movements in places other than the toilet, you know how frustrating it can be. Many kids who soil beyond the years of toilet teaching have a condition known as encopresis. Read this article to learn more.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/encopresis.html

Iron-Deficiency Anemia

A lack of iron in the blood can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, the most common nutritional deficiency in the world. Keep reading to find out more about this disorder and how it can be treated.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/heart/ida.html

External Otitis (Swimmer's Ear)

Swimmer's ear is an infection of the ear canal that is caused by many types of bacteria or fungi. Read this article to find out how this infection got its name and how to help prevent it in your kids.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/swimmer_ear.html

Infants Who Sleep on Their Backs Do Not Have an Increased Risk of Illness

Researchers working with the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development investigated the risk of illness in infants who were placed on their backs or sides to sleep.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/sleep_back.html

Growth Not Impaired in Girls With ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the stimulant medication used to treat it is not related to growth deficits in girls, say researchers from Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/girls_with_adhd.html

Parents May Not Understand the Potential Dangers and Side Effects of Herbal Therapy

If you've ever taken vitamin C to combat an oncoming cold or brewed a pot of herbal tea to settle a queasy stomach, you've used herbal therapy. Researchers from Atlanta, Georgia, surveyed parents about their children's use of herbal therapies.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/herbal_therapy_risks_and_dangers.html

Will the Tooth Fairy Don a Lab Coat?

Pulp of baby teeth a reservoir of stem cells
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/NewsFullText.cfm?id=512818

Study Gets Handle on Deadly Heart Condition in Kids

Survey reports incidence of cardiomyopathy higher in boys, blacks.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/NewsFullText.cfm?id=512847

Exposure to Tobacco During Pregnancy Affects Behavior in Newborns

Smoking during pregnancy passes nicotine and other dangerous substances to the fetus and increases the risk of stillbirths, birth defects, low birthweight, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and cancer. Researchers examined the effect of maternal smoking on a newborn's body functions and behavior.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/tobacco_exposure_during_pregnancy.html

Apnea of Prematurity

Apnea of prematurity is fairly common in preemies and usually resolves on its own around the time the premature infant has matured enough to equal the age of a full-term infant at birth. But it's frightening while it's happening.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/lungs/aop.html

Eye Patching for Treatment of Amblyopia

Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is one of the most common causes of visual impairment in children. Researchers from the National Eye Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, examined the effectiveness of eye patching treatments for amblyopia.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/amblyopia_treatment.html

Family Teamwork Can Help Teens Control Diabetes

Kids and teens with diabetes may be reluctant or unable to manage their condition on their own. Researchers from the Joslin Diabetes Center and Harvard Medical School in Boston studied how family involvement in diabetes treatment affects control of the condition.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/diabetes_family_teamwork.html

Ear Infections and Ear Tube Surgery

Many children, particularly those between the ages of 6 months and 6 years, get middle ear infections (otitis media). Find out more about acute otitis media in this article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/ears/ear_infections.html

A Low-Carb Diet May Help Some Overweight Teens Achieve Short-Term Weight Loss

Researchers from Schneider Children's Hospital in New York investigated whether a low-carbohydrate diet could help overweight teens lose weight safely and effectively.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/carb_diet.html

Children Benefit by Increasing Physical Activity and Reducing TV Time

Researchers from Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, investigated how changing physical activity levels affected children's weight over a year's time.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/increase_activity.html

Lyme Disease Awareness Month

May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month - find out what you can do to lower your child's risk, and also learn the basics of safe tick removal.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/misc/lyme_banner.html

Eat As I Eat

Parents are important role models for children's culinary habits.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/NewsFullText.cfm?id=513161

Mild to Moderate Asthma Does Not Affect Growth and Bone Density in Kids

Researchers involved in a national childhood asthma study investigated the effect of mild to moderate asthma on children's growth and bone development.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/asthma_bone.html

Girls With Higher Body Fat Levels More Likely to Enter Puberty Earlier

Children with excess body fat are at increased risk for a variety of health problems. According to researchers from Penn State University, girls who have higher body fat percentages are also more likely to enter puberty at an earlier age.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/bodyfat_puberty.html

Hearing Deficits, Personal Stereos, and Childhood Ear Infections

Some research has indicated that when teens with a history of childhood ear infections used personal stereos, they experienced greater degrees of hearing loss. Researchers from the Netherlands investigated the link between hearing deficits, personal stereos, and childhood ear infections.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/earinfections_hearing.html

When Your Baby Is Born With a Health Problem

Becoming a new parent is challenging when complications occur. Read this article for information about common newborn problems.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/genetic/newborn_problems.html

Is Aspartame Safe for My Child?

It's a known fact that most humans have a sweet tooth, and kids are certainly no exception. But are artificial sweeteners that contain aspartame, which offer more sweetness with less calories, safe for kids?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/nutrition/aspartame.html

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Commonly known as pinkeye, conjunctivitis is the most common infection of the eye that affects children. Read this article to learn more about conjunctivitis and how to prevent it from spreading.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/conjunctivitis.html

Child's Weight & Height Says A Lot

Regular, accurate measurements of weight and height are an important part of a child's health care. From infancy through childhood, a child's weight and height should be regularly checked - at home and/or at his/her doctor's office.

During the child's school years, it is important to check your child's growth at least once a year - perhaps by measuring a special place on a wall or door, with a growth chart or at your doctor's office. Doctor offices often use a "stadiometer" to accurately measure height.

Growth Charts

Your doctor will likely compare your child's growth to that of other children of the same age and sex to determine whether your child's growth is within the appropriate range. Your doctor likely will use growth charts showing average ranges for height, weight, weight-for-height ratio, and head circumference of children at different ages, developed by the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics.

If your child's height is at the 10th percentile, this means that 90 percent (or nine out of 10) children are taller than your child at this age, and 10 percent are shorter.

Although many healthy children are shorter or taller than average, their growth tends to follow one of the curves of the growth chart.

Growth Rate Over Time

A child's growth rate over time is a better indicator of normal growth than his or her height at a particular point in time. The speed of growth is very fast in the first 3 years of life. But from around 3 years of age, until about 9 or 10 years of age, the speed of growth slows down a little more each year.

Then, at puberty, there is a rapid increase in growth rate - the pubertal growth spurt - during which the speed of growth usually doubles. By regularly measuring height, weight, and rate (velocity) of growth, your child's doctor will be able to determine if your child's growth is following a normal pattern.

The rate of growth is calculated by subtracting a previous height measurement from the current measurement, then dividing by the time between the two measurements.
Source: content.health.msn.com/content/article/53/60641.htm?printing=true and content.health.msn.com/content/article/53/60662.htm

CPSC Says Deadly Products Are Still In Use Despite Warnings And Recalls

Despite recall notices and warnings, consumers continue to use products that have the potential to seriously injure or kill, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC unveiled a list of many common hazardous consumer products and urged consumers to use the list to check their homes and destroy or fix unsafe products.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/333/8895/364040.html?d=dmtICNNews

Kids With Disabilities At Risk

Many schools are ill-equipped to deal with teens with learning or behavioral problems, so a disproportionate number of those children end up in juvenile court, a government report says.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/333/8895/364053.html?d=dmtICNNews

Bat In A Run Instead Of Sliding Into The Emergency Room This Spring

It's almost little league season again. Exercise and physical activity are important but for many, that translates into a trip to the emergency room. According to the U.S. Product Safety Commission, in 2001 over 270,000 baseball/softball-related injuries were treated in hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers and hospital emergency rooms in children ages 5 to 14.
Source: Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/24479/28840/363998.html?d=dmtICNNews

Day Care or Nanny?

Picking someone to look after your little one can be one of the hardest decisions you'll ever have to make. If you're weighing your options, we've got some tips to make it a little easier for you, including important criteria to use in making your selection.
Source: content.health.msn.com/content/article/63/72169.htm

SARS: What Parents Need to Know

It's easy to become alarmed by recent reports of a new disease called severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Even its name sounds frightening. Although those who contract the infection can become quite sick, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that there is not a widespread outbreak of SARS in the United States at this time.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/breaking_news/sars.html

Pacifier Use in the Early Weeks of Life May Interfere with Duration of Breastfeeding

Mothers who wish to encourage their infants to continue breastfeeding should avoid introducing pacifiers or other artificial nipples to their infants during the first few weeks of life, say researchers from the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York, and Children's Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/pacifiers_breastfeeding.html

When Your Child Has Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common congenital (existing before birth or at birth) disorders of childhood. About 500,000 children and adults of all ages in this country have cerebral palsy. This article explains causes, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and more.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/brain/cerebral_palsy.html

Children in Day Care Experience More Upper Respiratory Infections Between Age 3 and 5

Infants who attend day-care centers or private-home care tend to develop more respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and episodes of diarrhea than children cared for at their homes. Now researchers say that older children in day care develop more infections, too.
Source: http://www.kidshealth.org/research/child_care_infections.html

Children With Behavioral Disorders Are at Greater Risk for Injuries

Children who have been diagnosed with behavioral disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are at greater risk for injury such as fractures and concussions, say researchers from British Columbia, Canada.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/behavorial_disorder_injuries.html

Fighting the Biting

All children bite at some point in their early years. But are you concerned that your child's biting indicates a larger problem? Read our article for parents to find out more.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/biting.html

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

The first symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold, with a runny nose, dry cough, and mild fever.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/whooping_cough.html

Is Your Child Fit?

Kids should exercise and eat healthy foods, but how do parents make it happen? KidsHealth would like to hear from moms and dads who are trying to encourage their children and teens to eat right, keep active, and maintain a healthy weight. What have your experiences been? What works? What doesn’t? Send us your comments - or offer your best piece of advice - and we might include them in a book to be published next year. Send an email to ginther@KidsHealth.org
 

Exercise Doesn't Affect Immunity Proteins in Breast Milk

Breastfeeding moms may be concerned that their postpartum exercise program could affect the quantity or quality of their breast milk, but researchers at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro say you shouldn't throw out your workout clothes.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/breastmilk_exercise.html
 

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Even if your ancestors did not hail from the Emerald Isle, St. Patrick's Day offers a chance to bring a little shamrock fun into your family's day. Perhaps you would like to try a traditional recipe, such as soda bread with Irish stew, for dinner. Or if you want something a bit more kid-friendly, find inventive ways to turn your child's meals and snacks green on March 17. Try these suggestions or craft your own creative recipes: kidshealth.org/parent/misc/st_patricks_banner.html
 

About your child's behavior

From temper tantrums to breath holding, your child probably does many things that leave you positively bewildered - but that are perfectly normal! Learn more about your child's behavior by checking out KidsHealth’s section on Emotions & Behavior.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/index.html
 

Teaching Your Child to Use 911

Teaching your child how to use 911 in an emergency could be one of the simplest - and most important - lessons you'll ever share.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/911.html

Sun Safety

Soaking up those rays sure feels good - but you know the old saying about too much of a good thing.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/sun_safety.html
 

Your Child's Weight

If you're concerned about your child's weight, you're in good company. About 25% to 30% of school-age children in the United States are overweight or obese.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/nutrition/childs_weight.html

Breastfeeding Reduces Pain During Newborn Procedures

Breastfeeding is the most effective technique for reducing pain during routine immunizations and heel sticks for newborns, say French researchers.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/breastfeeding_pain.html

Infant Colic Usually Doesn't Cause Long-Lasting Maternal Distress

Parents of colicky infants may wonder how they will survive the ordeal, but there is good news, according to researchers from the University of Western Ontario in Ottawa. Colic almost always goes away by age 3 months and appears to cause no lasting family stress.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/colic_stress.html

Birthing Classes

The more information and physical and emotional support you have throughout the pregnancy, the healthier you're both likely to be - and the same goes for your baby. Facts and support can come from a variety of places - a birthing class is one of them.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/pregnancy/birth_class.html

Antidepressant Paroxetine May Pose Risk to Newborns

Paxil doesn't appear to cause major birth defects when taken during pregnancy, but a small study from the University of Toronto, indicates that after birth, many babies may experience withdrawal symptoms because of exposure to the drug through the placenta.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/paxil_risks.html

What Are Germs?

Let's get to know germs better. What do they look like and how do they live? How do they harm us and how do medications work against them?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/germs.html

Croup

Croup is characterized by a loud cough that resembles the barking of a seal, difficulty breathing, and a grunting noise or wheezing during breathing. Read this article to learn more about croup.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/croup.html

Your Child's Behavior

From temper tantrums to breath holding, your child probably does many things that leave you positively bewildered - but that are perfectly normal! Learn more about your child's behavior by checking out KidsHealth's section on Emotions & Behavior.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/

Teaching Your Child Tolerance

Teaching tolerance is important not just because it is part of our American heritage but because the person who learns to be open to differences will have more opportunity. This article offers information on tolerance and tips for teaching your child to be tolerant.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/tolerance.html

Your Child's Immunizations

This article for parents includes a description of each of the vaccines recommended for children, plus a handy immunization schedule that you can use to make sure your children have all of their vaccinations on time.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/body/vaccine.html

Choosing Safe Baby Products

Choosing products for your baby can be confusing, with all the gadgets available. But there is one consideration that must never be compromised when picking out stuff for your baby: safety.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/products.html

Seasonal Link to Celiac Disease Uncovered

Study says children born in spring and summer are at greater risk.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/NewsFullText.cfm?id=510934

The School Lunch Debate

Contrary to activists' claims, kids aren't getting fat because they eat school lunches, Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman contends. Read the story and comments from a Harvard physician.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/EMIHC000/333/333/360000.html

First-time Parents Encouraged to Read-up Before Birth

First-time parenting can sometimes mean two times the worry! If you or someone you know is expecting a first child, calm those jitters by reading up ahead of time on what to expect when a new baby joins the family. Check out KidsHealth’s Pregnancy & Newborns section.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/index.html

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Your child is sent home from school with a sore throat, cough, and high fever - could it be the flu that's been going around? Or is it just a common cold? Find out here!
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/flu_vs_cold.html

Toilet Teaching Your Child

Teaching your child to use the toilet can be a difficult process for both you and your toddler. How do you know when your child is ready, and what's the best way to toilet teach? Find out in this article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/toilet_teaching.html

Your Child's Weight

If you're concerned about your child's weight, you're in good company. About 25% to 30% of school-age children in the United States are overweight or obese.
Source:  www.kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/nutrition/childs_weight.html

PTA president hires stripper for sons 16th birthday party

A former PTA president just pleaded guilty to charges that she arranged a birthday party for her 16-year-old son that featured booze, marijuana, and a stripper named Kristi. Joan Boysen, 47, even admitted giving her teenage guests (aged 13-16) a lesson on how to roll a joint. Below you'll find excerpts from a Mason County (Washington) Sheriff's Office report detailing the April bacchanal at the Boysen family's weekend home outside of Olympia. Included in the report--which was released following Boysen's November 6 conviction--are accounts provided by several teen partygoers and the stripper herself, a 30-year-old woman who also works as a dance instructor and teaching assistant at a Montessori school. Boysen, who pleaded to one felony and a pair of misdemeanors, was sentenced to 30 days in jail, 60 days home confinement, and ordered to perform community service and pay a $15,000 fine. Boysen's husband is also expected to face a misdemeanor charge of providing alcohol to minors. TSG has redacted the names of Washington State's underage party animals. (10 pages)
Source: www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/boysenparty1.html

"I wish they all could be California girls."

Gee, we never got invited to the kind of raucous slumber parties they throw on the Left Coast. In fact, according to this incredible set of police reports, the teenage girls in Pleasanton, California not only hire male strippers for their bashes, but they don't hesitate to, um, interact with the paid entertainment.

In fact, that's what recently landed 29-year-old stripper Steven Schmitt (stage name: Steve Mitchell) and the mother of one of the party hosts in hot water. Seems that Schmitt got real familiar with some of the nubile partygoers (most of whom were 15 or 16), while mom/chaperone Carye McGrath was observing the action unfolding in her San Francisco-area home.

Before Schmitt arrived (he was hired via an online Strip-a-Gram firm and came dressed like a cop), the precocious girls amused themselves with classic party games like the door-to-door condom hunt and Bobbing for Trojans. Prior to Schmitt's performance, McGrath allegedly had to warn her excited teenage charges not to touch or lick the talent.

So, you might ask, what did these girls learn from an incident that resulted in the arrest of Schmitt and McGrath? Well, dirty dancing with a guy in a g-string is no Kodak Moment. And when mommy says, "don't grope the naked guy," you should listen to her. And next time, limit your entertainment to the Leonardo DiCaprio canon.

In some documents, police have changed names to "Jane Doe." In other reports, The Smoking Gun has redacted the names of underage party animals. And as for those two evidence photos, we had to employ the red bar.

Editor's note: Sure seems like the mother should be up on a morals charge.

Choking Risks for Children

Choking on food and nonfood objects poses a significant safety risk for children. A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention investigated the causes and reasons for choking among children in a large national study of U.S. emergency departments.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/choking.html

Stroller Injuries Are Common Among Young Children

Strollers are convenient for parents. How else would you shop at the mall, enjoy an outdoor carnival or fair, or tour the local museum? But strollers aren't risk-free - falls, pinches, and tips from strollers send many children to the emergency department each year.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/stroller_injuries.html

Looking for information on a specific infection?

Most childhood illnesses are caused by infection, and KidsHealth has a virtual encyclopedia of them - from chicken pox and fifth disease to flu and pinkeye. Learn how to recognize symptoms and when to call the doctor. Check out KidsHealth's Infections section.
Source:  www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/

How TV Affects Your Child

Television may seem like a good thing: your child can learn the alphabet on public television and you can keep up with current events on the evening news. But how does TV affect your child?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/family/tv_affects_child.html

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

Is your child scheduled to have a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap? Find out how this test is performed and when you can expect the results.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/lumbar_puncture.html

When Your Baby Has a Birth Defect

If you've just found out that your child has a birth defect, you're probably experiencing a number of emotions. Fortunately, you aren't alone - with a little effort, you'll find that there are lots of people and resources to help you.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/ill/baby_has_birth_defect.html

 

CPR

Every parent should know how and when to administer CPR. Our informative article for parents will teach you more about cardiopulmonary resuscitation and your child.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/cpr.html

Are Ear Thermometers Accurate?

Ear thermometers allow parents and health care professionals to quickly measure a child's temperature at the external ear. But are infrared ear thermometers, also known as tympanic thermometers, as accurate as other temperature measurement methods for children?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/ear_thermometers.html

What Keeps Children From Walking or Biking to School?

Are you tired of driving in the neighborhood carpool or ferrying your child to school because he missed the school bus? Encouraging your child to walk or bike to school is a great way to promote physical activity, but the majority of U.S. children don't.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/walking_biking_school.html

Treating Hemangiomas in Infants

Because most hemangiomas are painless and usually disappear within the first few weeks or months of life, many doctors recommend that parents wait and see whether the condition worsens before recommending pulsed-dye laser or other treatments. Researchers from the United Kingdom studied whether the hemangiomas of infants treated with laser treatment went away more quickly than untreated hemangiomas.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/hemangiomas.html

Proper dental care begins even before your baby's first tooth appears?

It's never too early to start thinking about your child's oral health, so check out KidsHealth's General Heath section for more information on healthy teeth and gums.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/index.html

Impetigo

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that is characterized by blisters that may itch. Find out the facts about impetigo in this article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/impetigo.html

Playground Safety

Playgrounds and outdoor play equipment can provide your child with fun, fresh air, and exercise, but they can also pose some safety hazards. You can make the playground a place that's entertaining and safe for your children by following some simple safety guidelines.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/playground.html

Getting Help: Know the Numbers

The best time to prepare for an emergency is before it happens. Make sure your family knows emergency phone numbers - and make sure your kids know how to place a call for help.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/help.html

Girls Need to Learn to Run Like Boys

Study finds doing so cuts risk of ligament injuries.
Source: www.healthscout.com/template.asp?page=newsdetail&ap=408&id=508289

Guiding Your Child Through The Early Years

Guiding Your Child Through The Early Years will lead yo
u through the major stages you and your child will face together. It includes things you need to know about keeping your toddler healthy and happy, from basic care to safety.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/30945/30945.html

Keeping Your Toddler Healthy

Guiding Your Child Through The Early Years will lead you through the major stages you and your child will face together. It includes things you need to know about keeping your toddler healthy and happy, from basic care to safety.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/30945/30945.html

Preventing Violence in Schools

Violence prevention programs, such as those in place at many schools at high risk for violent crimes, strive to make schools and the surrounding neighborhoods safer for children. Do they work?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/violence_prevention.html
 

Breastfeeding and Infant Growth

Some research has indicated that exclusively breastfed 6- to 12-month-old babies are shorter and lighter than formula-fed babies. Canadian researchers studied infants whose mothers participated in a breastfeeding promotion program to investigate possible growth discrepancies between formula-fed and breastfed infants.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/research/prolonged_breastfeeding.html

Kids and Speech Therapy

Many children see a speech therapist, physical therapist, or occupational therapist at home or at school. Want to know more about what these specialists do? Check out KidsHealth's section on Medical Care & the Health Care System.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/index.html

Infections That Pets Carry

Caring for animals and pets offers a tremendous learning experience for children. But it's not uncommon for animals and pets to transmit infections to humans, especially children. Read this article for more information about how to protect your child from infections carried by pets and animals.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/pet_infections.html

Childhood Cancer: Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer. Although many types of cancers spread to other parts of the skeleton, osteosarcoma begins in bones and sometimes spreads elsewhere.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/cancer/cancer_osteosarcoma.html
 

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a primary immune deficiency that can be successfully treated if it's identified early. Otherwise, it's often fatal within the first year.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/allergies/severe_immunodeficiency.html

Suburbs See Rise In Low Birthweights

More and more low-birthweight babies are being born across the country, and the rate is growing even faster in the suburbs than in the cities.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/EMIHC000/333/333/353362.html

Having Intimate Talks With Children Is Part Timing, Part Art

For children, intimacy is as much about connection as it is about content. Bedtime works like magic, but so can car time, when it's just the two of you, or chore time, when you're working at something side by side.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/333/8014/349658.html

FDA Warns About Formula Infection

Hospitals should not feed powdered infant formula to most premature or sick newborns because the powder isn't sterilized and could cause a rare but dangerous infection, the government warned.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/325/8015/348597.html

New! "KidsHealth Guide for Parents: Pregnancy to Age 5"

Now you can take KidsHealth with you! From the creators of KidsHealth.org comes "KidsHealth Guide for Parents: Pregnancy to Age 5" (Contemporary Books, A Division of the McGraw-Hill Companies). This 800-page book provides practical, understandable, and medically reliable information that anticipates just about every medical concern and situation that parents might face. It includes fast-access reference sections on first aid and emergencies; signs and symptoms, what they mean and when to consult a doctor; and childhood infections. Full of useful tips and advice from real parents. Makes a great gift for new and expecting parents (and grandparents). To learn more or to order, please visit: store.yahoo.com/kidshealth/index.html

5 Year Olds Show Signs of Body Image Problems

It used to be that obsessing over body image belonged mostly to teens and young adults - but now even children as young as 5 and 6 are showing signs of body image problems. What can you do to instill in your child a healthy sense of self? Check out KidsHealth's Emotions & Behavior section for ways to help your child build self-esteem and avoid destructive behaviors.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/index.html

Intestinal Malrotation

Malrotation is a type of obstruction caused by abnormal development of the intestines while a fetus is in the mother's womb. Find out more about this condition and the complications it can cause.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/digestive/malrotation.html

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists offer treatments for a variety of medical conditions with the goal of improving the quality of life for children and adults. Learn how physical therapy may help your child.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/aches/phys_therapy.html

Mumps

Mumps is a disease caused by a virus that can infect many parts of the body, especially the parotid salivary glands.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/mumps.html

The Truth About Teeth

Did you know that there is much more to that tooth than meets the eye? Our article for kids explains all about teeth and the different parts that make them work.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/body/teeth_noSW.html

What's a Funny Bone?

Have you ever hit the inside of your elbow in just the right spot and felt a tingling or prickly kind of dull pain? If so, then you already know where you funny bone is. Find out more in this article just for kids.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/talk/qa/funny_bone.html

Dental Care Begins Before the First Tooth

Proper dental care begins even before your baby's first tooth appears? It's never too early to start thinking about your child's oral health, so check out KidsHealth's General Heath section for more information on healthy teeth and gums.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/index.html

Fighting the Biting

All children bite at some point in their early years. But are you concerned that your child's biting indicates a larger problem? Read our article for parents to find out more.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/biting.html

When Your Teen Is Having a Baby

Finding out their child is pregnant and planning to have the baby is certainly not what most parents expect, but it happens every day: nearly half a million teenage girls give birth every year. How can you support your child through the changes and challenges that are ahead?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/family/teen_pregnancy.html

What's It Like to Have a Cerain Illness?

Want to know what it's like to have a condition from the kids who have it? Then take a look at My Journal, a collection of interactive articles written by kids who have different illnesses and conditions.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/closet/journal.html

What Is Ritalin?

Lots of kids need to take Ritalin because they have ADHD. Read this article to find out more.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/feel_better/things/ritalin.html

 

The Scoop on Strep Throat

Strep throat is a disease caused by tiny egg-shaped bacteria called Group A streptococci. Strep throat makes your throat hurt and makes it hard to swallow. Find out more in this article for kids.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/ill_injure/sick/strep_throat.html

FDA Suspends Drug-Testing Rule

The Food and Drug Administration is suspending a rule that lets the government require safety testing of adult medicines commonly given to children - from asthma treatments to Prozac.
Source: www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/333/21344/347287.html

Should You Child See a Therapist?

Many children see a speech therapist, physical therapist, or occupational therapist at home or at school. Want to know more about what these specialists do? Check out KidsHealth's section on Medical Care & the Health Care System.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/index.html
 

The Danger of Antibiotic Overuse

When you bring your child to the doctor for a cold or flu, do you automatically expect a prescription for antibiotics? If so, read this article to find out why taking antibiotics too often or for the wrong reason may do more harm than good.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/antibiotic_overuse.html

New! "KidsHealth Guide for Parents: Pregnancy to Age 5"

Now you can take KidsHealth with you! From the creators of KidsHealth.org comes "KidsHealth Guide for Parents: Pregnancy to Age 5" (Contemporary Books, A Division of the McGraw-Hill Companies). This 800-page book provides practical, understandable, and medically reliable information that anticipates just about every medical concern and situation that parents might face. It includes fast-access reference sections on first aid and emergencies; signs and symptoms, what they mean and when to consult a doctor; and childhood infections. Full of useful tips and advice from real parents. Makes a great gift for new and expecting parents (and grandparents). To learn more or to order, please visit: store.yahoo.com/kidshealth/index.html

Bumps, bruises, sprains, and strains

Bumps, bruises, sprains, and strains - childhood is full of minor injuries. Which ones can you treat at home and which should be brought to the attention of your child's doctor? Check out KidsHealth's General Health section to find out.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/index.html

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a spreading skin infection that can affect any area of the body, but it is most common on the face or lower legs. Find out more about this infection by reading this article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/cellulitis.html
 

Hearing Evaluation in Children

Many parents worry about their child's hearing, especially if he's too young to talk. Usually there's no need for concern, but it's comforting to know that hearing may be evaluated at any age.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/medical/hear.html

Tear-Duct Obstruction and Surgery

Blocked tear ducts are a fairly common problem in infants. The earlier they're discovered, the less likely it is that infection will result or surgery will be necessary.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/surgical/tear_duct_obstruct_surgery.html
 

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis may not be something you think about much now - unless someone you love has this condition. Wondering what it is? How can you prevent osteoporosis now? Read this article to find out!
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/feeling/adults/osteoporosis.html

How Important is it to be Involved in Your Kid's School Life?

Getting involved in your child’s school life is one of the most important things you can do to support your child’s success. By taking an active interest in what goes on in her classroom, you show your child that you value her efforts and her education. For tips on getting involved, check out KidsHealth’s Positive Parenting section.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/index.html

Dwarfism

If your child has been diagnosed with dwarfism, you're probably wondering what lies ahead for her and your family. Read this article to learn more about the condition and living with dwarfism.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/bones/dwarfism.html

Nosebleeds

A nosebleed can be scary, but it is rarely cause for alarm. Most nosebleeds are caused by blowing, picking, or a blow during play. Learn more about nosebleeds in this article for parents.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/nose_bleed.html

Is Your Child Hitting Puberty?

If your child is hitting puberty, it may be a challenging time for both of you. Hormonal changes coupled with physical and emotional growth can bring on a wave of insecurity in your son or daughter and lots of questions about what's "normal." Talking ahead of time about the changes your child can expect can be a big help. To find out how to talk to your child about puberty, check out KidsHealth's Positive Parenting section.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/index.html

Frostbite

Frostbite must be handled carefully to prevent permanent tissue damage. Children are at greater risk because they lose body heat faster than adults do and because they may be reluctant to go indoors.
Source:www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/frostbite.html

Necrotizing Enterocolitis

A gastrointestinal disease that affects mostly premature infants, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) can be extremely frightening for new parents. Find out more about the treatment of NEC.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/digestive/nec.html

Is Your Child Being Bullied in School?

Are you concerned about bullying in your child’s school? Although it's impossible to "bully-proof" your child, there are some things you can do to help him through a tough situation. Whether your child is the victim of a bully or the bully himself, check out KidsHealth's Positive Parenting section for tips on how to handle this growing problem in our schools.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/index.html

 

Choosing Safe Baby Products

Choosing products for your baby can be confusing, with all the gadgets available. But there is one consideration that must never be compromised when picking out stuff for your baby: safety.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/products.html

Genetic Counseling

Genetic counselors work with people who are either planning to have a baby or are pregnant to determine whether they carry the genes for certain inherited disorders. Find out more about genetic counseling. Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/genetic/genetic_counseling.html

Folic Acid and Pregnancy

One of the most important things you can do to help prevent serious birth defects in your baby is to get enough folic acid every day - especially before conception and during early pregnancy.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/medical_problems/folic_acid.html

Helicobacter Pylori

H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) is a bacteria that can cause digestive illnesses, including gastritis and peptic ulcer disease.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/h_pylori.html

What Don't Percentile Charts Mean?

It seems that once a child is born, the word "percentile" automatically becomes part of a parent's vocabulary. From very early on, doctors plot your child's height, weight, and body mass index on percentile charts to see how his growth compares with that of his peers. But what do these charts mean? Even more important, what don't they mean? Find out how to keep these charts in perspective by checking out KidsHealth's General Health section.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/index.html

Auto Safety

More children are injured in auto accidents than in any other type of accident, but you can protect your child by learning the proper use of car seats and booster seats.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/travel/auto.html

 Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammatory process involving the liver. Hepatitis, in its early stages, may cause flu-like symptoms.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/hepatitis.html

My Child Is Shoplifting

Your child does her homework, helps you clear the table after dinner, and even helps with housework. So can it be true that this child was really caught shoplifting?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/shoplifting.html

Neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerve tissue, producing skin and bone abnormalities. Learn more about NF, including its diagnosis and treatment.
Source:www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/aches/nf.html

Separation Anxiety in Toddlers

You've always dropped off your 1-year-old child at day care without a problem - until today. She's anxious and distressed and clinging to you for dear life. It could be separation anxiety, a normal phase of childhood development.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/separation_anxiety.html

TV Turnoff Week

Studies show that children ages 2-17 watch on average 20 hours of TV per week. Combine this statistic with the recent release of a study conducted by the University of Michigan, which proved a direct correlation between TV watching and an increase in violent behavior, and you'll conclude that many of our nation's youth could be on a road to destruction. Help turn the tide by recognizing TV Turnoff Week 2002, April 22-28, in your home and community. Go to www.tvturnoff.org/index.html for information and ideas on how to turn youth away from TV and on to other healthier activities.

What Boys Think

Researchers at Adelaide's Flinders University decided it was time to ask boys what they think of school and their teachers.

The responses of 1800 boys in grades 9 through12 both support and contradict some of the current theories as to why boys' rates of retention and achievement are declining.

Many boys think school work is boring, irrelevant and a waste of time. They say that teachers don't listen to them or care what they think, and that the system won't prepare them for the world of work. Interestingly very few thought "masculinity" was an issue.

Source: Read the summary of the ABC Radio National interview at www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/lm/stories/s288946.htm
Read the full article in the International Education Journal, December 2000, No.3 iej.cjb.net/

Why Little Boys Need Toy Guns

Parents want toys that make their kids think, but all kids want are talking Barbies and Kens that can kill, according to Ralph Osterhout. Ralph used to design diving equipment for the US Navy Seals and Gulf War night-vision equipment, now he designs toys. In this New Scientist interview he shares his views about why boys play with guns and girls with dolls and what he thinks the toys of the future will look like.
Source: www.newscientist.com/opinion/opinion.jsp?id=ns22915

Parents Shape Body Image, Self-Esteem of Children

These days, it is not unusual for girls as young as age 10 to try to emulate the look of glamorous fashion models and wispy television stars--a trend that may be linked to eating disorders among young children.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=46779&src=n43

Keep Fit and Have Fun

Exercise may be wise, but sometimes it's hard to get up and get going. Keeping Fit and Having Fun is full of ideas on how to stay focused and healthy.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/stay_healthy/index.html

What Is the Apgar Score?

The Apgar score is the very first test given to your newborn, and it occurs right after your baby's birth in the delivery or birthing room.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/medical_care/apgar.html

Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever is a rash that is caused by strep infections. Learn important facts about scarlet fever in this article for parents, including how to recognize its symptoms.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/scarlet_fever.html

Shaken Baby/Shaken Impact Syndrome

Shaken baby/shaken impact syndrome (SBS) is the leading cause of death in child abuse cases in the United States. The syndrome results from vigorously shaking an infant, which can cause brain damage.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/brain/shaken.html

Tetanus and be Fatal

Tetanus (also called lockjaw or trismus) is a serious, often fatal disease that affects the muscles and nerves. It occurs when a certain type of bacterial infection grows in a contaminated wound.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/teen/health_problems/infections/tetanus.html

Snoring

Not only does snoring interrupt a good night's sleep - sometimes, it's a sign of a serious problem that should be treated by a doctor. Read this article to find out more about the snore!
Source: www.kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/teeth/snoring.html
 

Talking to the Pharmacist

If your child is sick, you'll probably think of countless questions to ask your child's doctor. But how many times have you made a list of questions and concerns to share with your pharmacist?
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/pharmacist.html

Your Child's Cough

Coughs are one of the most frequent symptoms of childhood illness, and although they can sound awful, they usually aren't a symptom of anything dangerous. Learn about your child's cough and what you can do to help.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/childs_cough.html

Milk Allergy

Almost all infants experience irritability and sleeplessness at times. But if your bottle-fed baby seems excessively fussy much of the time, it could be due to an allergy to cow's milk.
Source: www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/allergies/milk_allergy.html

Free Curriculum on Daughters

For all you teachers, mentors, parents and home schoolers out there, New Moon has free curriculum and study guides available on our website for each issue of New Moon for Girls. This is a great resource that we are proud to offer. Find them at
Source: www.newmoon.org/what_we_do/curriculum/index.htm

Creating Safe Space: A Collaborative Journey in the Art of Facilitating Young Women's Talking Circles

Have you ever thought how incredible it would be, how healing it would be, to sit in a weekly circle with young women who felt safe to tell the truth about their lives and with whom you, too, could tell the truth about yours?

For the past 10 years, women from the Daughters Sisters Project and other national organizations have been practicing the growing D/S model in compassionate listening and speaking to do just that. The results have been phenomenal for everyone involved. In May, D/S Project is offering two trainings, where young women who have been involved in circle work, as well as adult facilitators, will share the process with women who are interested in starting a circle in their communities. Please contact Linda Wolf for more information at 206-842-3000 or daughtersi@aol.com or www.daughters-sisters.org

Surgeon General Targets Children's Mental Health

US Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher unveiled an action plan aimed to improve services for children and adolescents with mental health problems, which the Clinton administration calls a "health crisis."
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=46584&src=n49

Today's Moms and Dads say They're as Good as Their Parents

Moms and Dads who were asked to compare their parentsing skills with those of their parents said they're going:

About as well as their parents - 48%
Better than their parents - 24%
Much better than their parents - 17%
Not as well as their parents - 8%
Much worse than their parents - 1%
Don't know - 2%

Source: Dr. Benjamin Spock, 1,016 parents, April 19-22, 2001

Babies Who Can't Sleep Alone Risk Sleep Troubles Later

Sleep deprived parents might believe that their infant's regular 3 A.M. request for a story is par for the course of parenthood, but according to preliminary findings this habit may signal future sleep problems.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=46635&src=n49

Breast Milk Feeding Boosts Preemies' IQ

Low birthweight infants who are breast-fed or given breast milk in a bottle appear to have slightly higher IQs at ages 7 and 8 compared with similar children who are not given breast milk!, a new study suggests.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=46415&src=n49

Mental Illness can Pass from Parent to Child

The children of parents with panic disorder or major depression are at increased risk of developing the same disorders that afflict their parents--even at a very young age, according to researchers in Boston.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=46551&src=n49

Opting Out of Vaccinations Bosts Disease Risk

Children whose parents opt not to vaccinate them against measles or whooping cough are much more likely to contract the illnesses compared to children who are vaccinated, according to a new study.
Source: www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=46375&src=n49

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Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you. Robert Fulghum
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