Are you struggling to teach your child how to swallow a pill? Maybe even mashed pills in applesauce or diluted them in soda? While it can be very frustrating and sometimes yield little results, pill swallowing is an important skill kids need to learn. While medicines can come in liquid or chewable form, there are […]
Got questions about cleaning those first baby teeth? We’ve got answers.
A child’s first chompers are an exciting milestone for parents and babies alike. But even before those pearly whites pop through — on average, the first baby teeth come in between 4 and 7 months of age — it’s important to establish good dental health. “It’s vital to take care of your baby’s teeth now […]
Is it safe to vape while pregnant?
Is it safe to vape while you’re pregnant? The short answer is no. Dr. Katherine Wolfe, chair of maternal-fetal medicine at Akron Children’s, explains. “Many pregnant women feel vaping may be a safer alternative to smoking. We know that nicotine in any form does affect baby’s development. Specifically, concerns are for low birth weight, preterm […]
How to talk to your child about sex and reproductive health
While there’s no set age to begin talking with your child about sex and reproductive health, establishing a foundation early in life is a good idea. Start by teaching kids to use correct anatomical names for their genitals when they are toddlers. Also, teach them who should and shouldn’t be able to see certain parts […]
Do young athletes need sports or energy drinks?
Sports and energy drinks fueled with caffeine are commonly consumed by kids and teens. While sports drinks, which contain carbohydrates and electrolytes (potassium and sodium), were invented to keep athletes hydrated and enhance their performance, research shows they are unnecessary for kids engaged in routine or play-based physical activity. “Most experts agree that the length […]
Social media’s impact on body image
The effects of social media on body image and disordered eating among adolescents are becoming clear, so it’s important for parents to be aware and take steps to blunt the negative influences. That’s the message from Dr. Crystal Cole of the Division of Adolescent Medicine at Akron Children’s. New studies are showing a pronounced relationship […]