Children whose families regularly eat meals together tend to have better social skills and fitness levels, researchers report. Family meals yield multiple physical and mental health benefits, according to the long-term Canadian study. “The presence of parents during mealtimes likely provides young children with firsthand social interaction, discussions of social issues and day-to-day concerns,” explained… read on >
When it comes to kids with cancer, most health care providers who care for them say they’d help their patients get medical marijuana. That finding stems from an analysis of survey responses from 288 doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychologists, social workers and registered nurses. The survey respondents — in Boston, Chicago and Seattle —… read on >
A treatment for kids with more than one dangerous food allergy shows promise in early trials, researchers say. Almost one-third of people with a food allergy have reactions to more than one type of food. This can increase the risk of accidental exposure and life-threatening anaphylaxis, according to researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine.… read on >
The flu may be dangerous enough, but it’s even more of a threat for women who are pregnant. All women should get the annual flu vaccine, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises. If you do develop the flu while pregnant, the CDC suggests: Begin treatment as soon as possible. Antiviral drugs work… read on >
Decades after the danger was first recognized, young children are still being injured or even killed by the cords in window blinds. Researchers found that between 1990 and 2015, nearly 17,000 U.S. children younger than 6 years landed in the ER for injuries related to window blinds. Most often, the injuries were not serious. However,… read on >
Children born to mothers with rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk for the disease and other chronic health problems, a new study suggests. The finding comes from an analysis of long-term follow-up data on all children born in Denmark in a 25-year period. That included more than 2,100 children born to women diagnosed with rheumatoid… read on >
Holiday toys should be age-appropriate and safe, to avoid injury. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these safety suggestions: Select toys that match the age, abilities, skills and interests of the child. For babies and toddlers, consider toys that build developmental skills. If you are considering a tablet, smartphone or game system, establish rules for… read on >
As a parent, you may worry most about your kids when they aren’t with you. But many of the falls that send a million children to the ER each year happen at home. Plenty of these accidents involve falls from beds, chairs, baby walkers, bouncers, changing tables and high chairs. Some of these injuries are… read on >
Tooth brushing should begin in infancy to instill lifelong habits and protect teeth throughout adulthood. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests: Start practicing oral hygiene as soon as your baby is born by wiping baby’s gums with a soft, clean washcloth. Never give your baby a bottle in the crib. Choose healthy solids when introducing… read on >
A family health history can be key to your wellness. Think of it as a family tree all about your health — a record of your close relatives’ medical conditions, lifestyle habits and even where they grew up. A family health history helps you see any increased risk of developing serious health problems, like heart… read on >
