This is the time of year when many children enroll in school or leave the home for college. And with those enrollments come vaccinations, in many cases. The next few months will see doctors’ offices stocking up on flu shots in anticipation for the winter season. The National Institutes of…
Kids may have trouble keeping up with possessions like coats, sporting equipment and homework, but one thing they tend to find without fail at school is germs. There are several common infections – and even parasites – that your kids can pick up as a result of being in close…
Can playing music to your baby or young child make her smarter? That was the claim of the much-hyped “Mozart Effect” several years ago, but the truth isn’t exactly black and white. Certainly, music is a great complement for stimulating babies’ brains and teaching toddlers vocabulary, but the jury’s out…
With the start of the new year inevitably come resolutions. January is National Birth Defects Prevention month, and if your resolution is to get pregnant, then learning how to have the healthiest baby possible is important. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that one in 33 children is…
Summer means it’s time to enjoy fresh, locally grown fruits, veggies and other homegrown goodies. Take advantage of the season and make a visit to the farmer’s market fun and educational for the kids. As they have a choice in the foods they’re served, they’ll be more encouraged to get…
Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus — or is there? It’s the question that no parents want to address, especially when it’s coming from an inquisitive little one. Like the birds and the bees conversation, this is likely one of those conversations you want to be prepared for well…
Your child is ready to reach out and touch someone with his or her very own cell phone, which begs the question “how young is too young?” There’s no denying that we’re living in the age of technology where it seems like everyone is connected. Seeing a grade-school child with…
Whether it’s an April shower, a sick day or just a quiet day indoors, things can get boring pretty fast. If you don’t want your kids to veg out in front of the TV for hours, then arts and crafts can provide a great diversion. But don’t run to the…
Peanuts, dairy, gluten, soy, eggs, sulfites…many foods contain potential allergenic products. And up to 8 percent of kids have life-threatening food allergies, and those limitations can become problematic as kids enter school or change schools. But parents and administrators can keep all kids safe and happy as they deal with…
“Are you listening to me?” How many times have you asked your child that very thing? It may seem like you say things a thousand times, and your child still never hears you. Truth be told, they may be hearing you; they’re just not listening to you. Not sure how…