Too much screen time can lead to developmental delays in babies, researchers say. When 1-year-olds viewed screens for more than four hours a day, they had delays in communication and problem-solving skills when assessed at ages 2 and 4, according to a new study published Aug. 21 in JAMA Pediatrics. They also had delays in…  read on >  read on >

There’s been another case of locally acquired malaria in the United States, this time in Maryland, authorities report. It’s the first time this has happened in that state in 40 years. No evidence connects this case to seven locally acquired infections in Florida or another one in Texas that were previously reported, according to the…  read on >

When U.S. parents express their concerns about their school-aged children, social media use and the internet are at the top of the list. Mental health issues are another top worry, according to the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. “Parents still view problems directly impacting physical health, including…  read on >  read on >

Helping a child who struggles with reading can be a rewarding experience. A nationally known expert offers some tips for parents who are trying to help their child work through these difficulties. Patricia Edwards, professor of language and literacy at Michigan State University’s College of Education, said it’s essential to approach this challenge with patience,…  read on >  read on >

Video games and social media are keeping school kids up at night, according to a new survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). But so, too, are more constructive pursuits, including homework and extracurricular activities, which can be a problem when it comes to setting a good sleep routine early in the school…  read on >  read on >

Teens’ desire to start smoking, and later to keep smoking, may be linked to differences in gray matter in their brains, a new study reveals. Researchers found that reduced gray matter in the left frontal lobe was found in kids who started smoking by age 14. This area is involved in decision-making and rule-breaking. Once…  read on >  read on >