When your baby starts to feel warm, it can be anxiety-inducing for parents. Is it “normal” or is it time to visit the emergency room? The truth is: Fever in a newborn is considered a medical emergency. “For babies under 3 months old, a fever isn’t just a sign of illness — it can signal…
As your teenager grows into a young adult, an important life skill you can help them develop is managing their own health care. “From a young age, parents can instill healthy habits like nutrition and exercise, but as a child gets older, teaching them to take ownership over their health care is empowering,” said Heather…
Inhalant abuse has been a deadly problem for generations, but it has received a new boost of exposure through dangerous social media challenges. The “chroming” trend gets its name from metallic spray paint, but other household chemicals can be just as dangerous — nail polish remover, paint thinners, permanent marker, spray deodorant, lighter fluid and…
Getting kids to eat well or exercise doesn’t have to be a daily battle — but it might require a little extra effort from parents when it comes to teaching healthy habits. As parents and caregivers, you play a vital role in creating an environment where nutritious eating and regular physical activity become natural parts…
These days, technology is everywhere, and it can be hard to manage appropriate screen time for kids. It gets even more complex when kids need tech for school, to learn a new skill, for work, for reading and other activities. This guide to recommended screen time can help parents set reasonable expectations and make thoughtful…
Feeding your little one can be rewarding and challenging. Rest assured that if you are feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Feeding a baby is a round-the-clock job, but it’s a way for caregivers to bond with the newest member of the family. Remember, every baby is different, so use the following as a guide, not…
If you’re reading this in the middle of the night with a crying baby nearby, you’ve come to the right place. A screaming child is hard on parents, but a baby fussy at night can be extra overwhelming. “The mix of fatigue and worry can be very stressful,” said Heather M. Felton, M.D., pediatrician with…
As a child psychologist working with families for over a decade, I’ve come to understand that childhood happiness is far more complex than simply having what you want or doing as you please. It’s a rich tapestry woven from genuine smiles, curiosity about the world, meaningful relationships and the ability to navigate life’s ups and…
Following a childhood immunization schedule can stop many serious, preventable and deadly illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends following an immunization schedule for your child’s vaccinations. This schedule lays out which shots your child should receive and when they should be administered. “Childhood vaccines are given at intervals that allow the…
Content disclosure: This post will discuss the challenging but very important topic of child sexual abuse. It was at the height of the pandemic, and I found myself on a video call with my patient’s mom as she experienced a living nightmare. “Your daughter is being assessed for child sexual abuse.” Like me, this patient’s mom…
How to choose a pediatrician: A guide for new parents Choosing a pediatrician for your first child, or because you’ve moved or are looking to switch for any reason, brings up a lot of questions. Here are some tips for how to choose a pediatrician — so you can build a relationship that works for…
While becoming a parent is exciting, it can come with many questions for the pediatrician. During this time, your baby’s pediatrician will be one of your most valuable resources. You’ll be seeing them a lot during the first year during regular check ups, and they are here to advocate for your infant’s health and well-being,…