Many warm-weather activities are just around the corner. In an effort to maintain a sun-kissed look, many teens will turn to tanning beds, which can come with an increased risk of developing skin cancer. “A considerable problem with that is many people, especially young people, turn to tanning beds in order to accomplish what they think…
Many families in Louisville and Southern Indiana struggle to provide healthy meals for children. This is due to many factors, including cost, living in a “food desert” — an area where it’s difficult to find affordable fresh food — and being unable to travel to a grocery. Food insecurity has negative effects for a child’s…
If you have tweens or teens, you’ve no doubt noticed things have changed since you were that age. Maybe you talked about puberty and sex with your parents, or maybe they left it to a pamphlet or health class, or didn’t discuss it at all. Today, what’s recommended is more open communication between parents and…
Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together to celebrate the bounty of the season, reconnect and express gratitude for life’s many blessings. It’s much more than turkey, football and parades. Here are some ideas for Thanksgiving traditions you can start doing with your family to keep them healthy and happy beyond the holiday…
Some of the most frequently asked questions pediatricians hear from new parents are about health insurance. Below are some tips to help you establish insurance while making sure your baby’s medical needs are met in a timely manner. Step 1: Determine which insurance coverage your newborn should have. Option A: Private/commercial coverage – Contact your…
Jay spent the start of summer glued to his Xbox. When his mom brought him to Healthy Living Workshops, a wellness series sponsored by Kohl’s Cares and held by Norton Children’s Prevention & Wellness at Shively Community Center in Louisville, he admitted that sometimes he would spend all day in front of the screen. Kids…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced it is investigating 805 possible cases of electronic cigarette-related lung disease across 46 states, and one U.S. territory, including Kentucky and Indiana. The CDC confirmed 12 deaths, including one in Indiana. The CDC is cautioning consumers not to use e-cigarettes. If your kids are vaping, what…
Germany had more than 300 drownings in the summer of 2018. The German Lifeguard Association (DLRG), the world’s largest lifeguard organization, issued a warning to parents in response: There is a direct link between being distracted by smartphones and child drowning deaths. Studies show that cell phones are a growing distraction for parents who should be supervising…
This year marks the 11th anniversary of the passing of Max Gilpin, a local high school football player who suffered a heat stroke during a team practice. The community remembers Max’s legacy through the annual Norton Children’s Hospital Splash ‘n’ Dash Walk/Run, which was started in his honor five years ago. Splash ‘n’ Dash raises…
Two-thirds of all drownings happen between May and August, according to Safe Kids Worldwide. The Norton Children’s Hospital emergency department typically sees an average of 19 drowning victims a year in these months. Sadly, most drownings are completely preventable. Know the signs of drowning. “There are some safety precautions you can take to prevent drowning,…
Most parents realize they’re in for some sleep deprivation when having a newborn at home, but now researchers have determined it takes much longer for sleeping habits to return to normal. A recent studyfound sleep satisfaction and durationreached the lowest point during parents’ first three months after having a baby. Even six years later, however,…
Another online challenge is causing concern for local parents. The “Momo Challenge” is a game illustrated by a disturbing character. Momo supposedly pops up in YouTube and social media videos and encourages self-harm and even suicide. The entire thing could be a hoax – there are still conflicting reports – but a pediatric psychologist says…