As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. That’s why when groups of parents around the country say vaccines may cause autism, you probably stopped to consider the possibility. Before getting into specifics, no, vaccines do not cause autism. Yes, children who eventually tested for autism did receive vaccines, but the two have no connection, in much the same way that someone who [...]
Soda is served nearly everywhere, and when it comes to kids, they never seem to get enough of it. There are good reasons to moderate their intake (and yours!), even when they are teenagers. Weakens bones Kids bones are delicate as they are still developing. Phosphorus found in soda depletes calcium required for bone formation. Caffeine, also found in soda, inhibits calcium absorption and reduces [...]
It’s a familiar scene: your child slowly atrophies on the couch, slouched, potatoesque, glazed eyes semi-focused on the gadget that darn Santa Claus just had to bring. (Like Santa knows anything about fitness!) You imagine all the other kids are sweating, training for the Olympics, while their health-conscious parents prepare carrot sticks and protein shakes for their delighted consumption. You want physical activity to be [...]
Childproofing You probably childproof your house and constantly worry that you forgot about some deathtrap. Relax! If you’re worrying, you’re probably on top of things. A quick checklist of potential hazards: electrical outlets hazardous household materials, such as cleaning agents and paint medications heavy furniture stovetops and hot liquids sharp objects and edges choking hazards objects or areas (such as old hope chests) where children [...]
Proper immunizations for teenagers and young adults is important. As your child grows up, they will come in contact with more people from different walks of life. While this is an excellent opportunity, it also exposes your child to different forms of potential disease. Whether they are going off to high school, college or planning an international trip, there are certain immunizations you need to [...]
Fostering healthy habits while your child is still young Most of our physical and mental health attributes have a deep rooting on our childhood. The food we eat, the medical attention we get and the general care we receive defines who we are. Teaching your kid healthy habits at a tender age will not only create a strong foundation but also train them to live [...]
Keeping your kids safe is a full- time job. It’s easy to protect them from obscene content on television, but it’s difficult to protect them from themselves, when they are out of your sight. Athletes suffer from foot fungus, athlete’s feet, and staph infections. Has a parent, your job is to help prevent your child from picking up germs in the locker room, and the [...]
With the birth of a new baby, comes new responsibilities, sleepless nights and dozens of doctor visits. You can lighten your load, and save yourself a few crying moments, by taking your child to the pediatrician at the appointed time. Babies are born with a schedule. From the minute they enter the world, it is your job to ensure their health and safety, by keeping [...]
All fevers are not bad fevers; in fact, a normal temperature for your baby is 97.1 to 100 Fahrenheit. A fever is an indicator that something is wrong, your child is coming down with a bug, is teething or something serious is taking place. As a concerned parent, you need to know what to look for if you suspect your child has a high fever. [...]
Here in Phoenix, we enjoy beautiful weather year round. While this can be extremely beneficial for encouraging kids to play outdoors and soak up the sunshine, sometimes it can be difficult to come up with fun activities that will entertain and engage your kids without costing money. If you're struggling to find a way to entertain your child during the warmer months, here are 7 [...]
