Recent Blog Articles

Child & Teen Health Archive

Articles

Cutting and self-harm: Why it happens and what to do

Published May 31, 2023

What drives forms of self-harm like cutting that some teens engage in? Gaining an understanding of why some children harm themselves by cutting their skin, what signs to be aware of, and how to approach the subject can help parents respond if this occurs.

Swimming and skin: What to know if a child has eczema

Published May 15, 2023

Swimming is a great activity for children, but for children with the allergic skin condition known as eczema, swimming can be complicated. Taking steps to protect skin before and after a swim can help.

A muscle-building obsession in boys: What to know and do

Published May 12, 2023

Muscle dysmorphia is a preoccupation with a muscular and lean physique that is more pervasive in boys. Learn the signs of body dysmorphia as well as ways to encourage positive body image.

Lead poisoning: What parents should know and do

Published May 1, 2023

Lead poisoning is a serious health risk for children. And yet, they may be exposed to lead in their daily lives. Learn the dangers of lead exposure and what you can do to keep your child safe.

Helping children who are neurodiverse build friendships

Published April 5, 2023

Children with neurodevelopmental disabilities like autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities may need extra support in building friendships and participating in social activities. Parents and other adults can help children develop their social and emotional skills.

Helping children make friends: What parents can do

Published March 6, 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic affected children's developing social skills. Many children either didn't learn the skills they need to make friends — or those skills got rusty. Here are some ways parents can help.

Does your child need to gain weight?

Published February 9, 2023

Weight can be a sensitive topic with children and teens, and sometimes a child needs to gain some weight. Checking with your doctor before working on adding weight and emphasizing healthy, high-calorie foods are important.

Why play? Early games build bonds and brain

Published February 2, 2023

More than a million nerve connections are made in the brain in the first few years of life. Babies and young children thrive with responsive caregiving, such as engaging a child in playful games that change as they grow.

New pediatric guidelines on obesity in children and teens

Published January 24, 2023

Rates of obesity in children have more than tripled in the past six decades, and are still climbing. With millions of children and teens at risk for the many complications of obesity, the American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its guidelines for pediatricians.

Curbing nearsightedness in children: Can outdoor time help?

Published December 15, 2022

Nearsightedness is a growing problem worldwide. While genes and developmental factors play a role in whether a child becomes nearsighted, research suggests that spending time outdoors can lower a child's risk of developing this condition.

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