Many Teens Feeling Stressed Out
We all feel stress. And children aren’t immune to the pressure. They may struggle with school, sports, and other daily demands. A recent national survey shows stress can be especially troubling for teenagers.
Safety Restraints Save Children’s Lives
Your car can be a dangerous place for your child. More children die from motor vehicle accidents than from any other type of mishap. The latest statistics show such incidents are declining. But many more could be prevented with proper safety restraints.
More U.S. Children Need a Daily Dose of Exercise
One hour a day. That’s all it takes for your child to meet the national physical activity guidelines.
Unfortunately, a recent government report found too few U.S. children are reaching that goal.
Hearing Loss Is Hitting Children Hard
Parents, now hear this: More American children are losing some or all of their hearing. But too few parents seem to be aware of any hearing hazards, according to a recent survey. By taking steps now, you can help keep your child’s hearing well-tuned into adulthood.
Could Your Teen Daughter Have PCOS?
Puberty can be a trying time in a young girl’s life. Your daughter may struggle with acne or irregular periods. These are often normal coming-of-age signs. But they can sometimes indicate a serious condition called polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS.
Behavioral Problems Linked to Toxic Lead
As every parent knows, your little angel can sometimes be bad. But if a young child has serious behavioral problems, it may be a sign of lead poisoning. A recent study found lead’s toxic effects may not just be physical.
Ear Infections: A Frequent Child Malady
It’s a common childhood complaint: an earache. Ear pain often heralds an ear infection — the leading reason children visit the doctor. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated its guidelines for managing ear infections. Arm yourself with the latest about this frequent child malady.
Play It Safe on the Playground
Whatever your child imagines, a playground can be: a pirate ship, a fort, a medieval castle. Playgrounds are perfect places to exercise your child’s mind and body. A few precautions can help keep these areas of adventure and activity safe.
The Benefits of Well-Child Visits
Childhood is prime time for episodes worthy of a doctor visit. Sprains, concussions, and ear infections-to name just a few. A trip to the doctor when your child is well can be just as essential. Periodic well-child visits can alert you to developmental delays and provide valuable parenting advice. They may even help deter critical care, such as hospitalizations.
Deciphering Autism’s Origins
More parents and doctors are on the alert for autism spectrum disorder (ASD )-often simply called autism. They know its symptoms: social problems, communication troubles, and repetitive behavior. This greater awareness may be behind rising rates of ASD, particularly in children ages 6 to 17.
Start Sun Protection Young
Sunscreen may already be a family staple for a trip to the beach or an afternoon by the pool. But protecting your child from skin cancer requires more than a dab of sun defense. A recent study found that melanoma-the deadliest type of skin cancer-is becoming more common in children. Teaching your child proper sun safety early can prevent skin cancer for a lifetime.
Family Focus: Less Sodium for All
Your child probably loves pizza. And how about hot dogs, lunch meat, or cheese? In addition to being many children's favorites, these foods are high in sodium. They contribute to a startling fact: Many children eat as much sodium as adults in the U.S. That's setting the table for serious concerns about children's future heart health.