With kids back in school and spending more time indoors, the fall season is a good time to make sure your child's immunizations are up to date. Respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 can cause serious illness in children, especially babies and those with certain health conditions. Measles is another concern as outbreaks are occurring in communities where vaccination rates have fallen. The American Academy of Pediatrics (

Playing sports offers children and teens many benefits. In addition to staying physically active, young athletes can develop new skills, build confidence, learn teamwork, and have fun. However, sports also come with a risk of injuries, particularly when children train too intensely or don't give their growing bodies enough time to recover. Starting the season with a sports physical and encouraging healthy athletic habits can help keep your child safely in the game. Schedule a

Adolescence is an exciting time of growth, but it can also bring plenty of changes for both kids and their parents. As children move toward adulthood, they experience physical, emotional, social, and cognitive changes that can affect everything from their moods to their relationships and decision-making. Understanding what is happening during these years can help you prepare your child for the changes ahead and provide the support and guidance they need. Adolescence generally

One of the most common concerns for breastfeeding parents is wondering whether their baby is getting enough milk. Unlike bottle feeding, breastfeeding doesn't allow you to see exactly how many ounces your baby drinks at each feeding. Fortunately, there are several other signs that can help you know whether your newborn is getting the nutrition they need. Paying attention to your baby's diapers, feeding patterns, behavior, and growth can provide helpful clues. Your baby's diap

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons children visit the pediatrician. While they can be painful and frustrating, the good news is that many ear infections improve on their own and there are effective treatments available when needed. In this blog, we talk about the signs of an ear infection, how they're treated, and when to call the doctor.

Children's media has changed drastically over the past couple of decades, especially in recent years with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Many parents are concerned about what types of content their kids are consuming and if it's created by AI. AI-generated content, sometimes referred to as "AI slop," is designed to grab children's attention rather than support healthy development. Dr. Jenny Radesky, Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician and Co-Medical Director of t

Many parents wonder when their child is old enough to stay home alone. Whether it’s for a short trip to the store or a few hours after school, deciding when your child is ready can feel like a big step. The answer is different for every family because there is no single age that works for all kids. Instead, the decision should be based on your child’s maturity, judgment, and ability to handle unexpected situations safely. One of the first things to know is that age alone does

Children experience stress just like adults do. School demands, extracurricular activities, social challenges, family changes, and even everyday frustrations can sometimes feel overwhelming. While it's not possible to eliminate all stress from a child's life, it is possible to help them develop healthy ways to cope. One method that is helpful for supporting children's emotional well-being is mindfulness.

Flying with children can feel stressful for many parents, especially when traveling with babies or toddlers for the first time. From packing everything your child may need to navigating security lines and long flights, traveling by air often requires extra planning. However, with preparation, patience, and a few helpful strategies flying with children can become a much smoother and more manageable experience for the whole family.

It can be tough for parents to watch their child have a hard time at school. Whether it’s falling behind in certain subjects, difficulty concentrating, or feeling discouraged about learning, these challenges are more common than many families expect. The encouraging news is that with early support, patience, and the right approach, children can strengthen their skills, rebuild confidence, and find success in the classroom. A helpful first step is recognizing that school strug

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. Autism spectrum disorder is unique for every child, which means there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. The good news is that a variety of evidence-based therapies can help children build communication, social, and daily life skills. In this blog, we share some of these therapy options so you can determine whic

Sleep plays an important role in a teenager’s health, development, and ability to function during the day. Yet many teens struggle to get enough sleep. Between busy schedules, stress, and technology use, falling asleep at a reasonable time can be challenging. In this blog, we share what families need to know about sleep for adolescents and how to help your kids get an adequate amount. Sleep needs change as children grow, but teens still require a significant amount of hours.

Making sure your children follow a healthy diet can feel challenging, especially when food labels contain long ingredient lists and unfamiliar terms. Many parents wonder about things like artificial food colors, genetically modified foods (GMOs), or antibiotics used in food production. While you don't have to panic over every ingredient, it is important to limit exposures when possible. The good news is that simple dietary habits, like focusing on whole, minimally processed f

You might wonder if you should give your child a daily vitamin or supplement. For most healthy children who eat a well-balanced diet, vitamins and supplements are not necessary. Eating a well-balanced diet that provides vitamins and minerals naturally is the best way for kids to absorb the nutrients their bodies need. However, in some specific situations, vitamins and supplements may be needed to support your child's health and development. In this blog, we share what to know

Many kids need orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth or correct an improper bite. This can improve long-term oral health and make teeth easier to clean. However, when kids wear braces, it can be more challenging to clean their teeth properly. Brackets and wires create extra nooks where food and plaque can get trapped, increasing the risk of cavities and gum irritation. That is why it's important that kids with braces are extra diligent with their dental hygiene. Th

Your child experiencing a fever can be worrisome for many parents. Fevers are one of the most common reasons families call or visit the pediatrician, and while they can be scary, especially in babies, they are usually a normal part of how the body responds to illness. Knowing what a fever means, how to care for your child at home, and when to call the doctor can help you feel more prepared and less anxious. A fever is a rise in body temperature that typically happens when the

When thinking about vaccines and children’s health, it’s understandable to focus on illnesses like measles, whooping cough, or influenza. But there’s one virus that often doesn’t get as much attention, despite its potential for serious long-term effects, and that is hepatitis B (HBV). In this blog, we share what hepatitis B is, how it spreads, and how vaccination protects your child.

Smartphones can help us stay connected, navigate schedules, access information, and keep our families safe. But when it comes to giving a smartphone to your child the decision can be challenging. There’s no single perfect age for every child, but there are important factors to consider when it comes to deciding when and how to introduce a smartphone in a way that supports your child's wellbeing. One thing to understand is that smartphones are different from other digital dev

Toys play an important role in childhood. They spark imagination, support development, and bring plenty of joy into your home. But choosing safe toys is just as important as choosing fun ones. A toy that isn’t age-appropriate or well-made poses serious risks, including choking, cuts, hearing damage, or injuries. With guidance and a safety check, you can help ensure your child has toys that are both enjoyable and safe. When picking out toys, start by reading the labels. The ag

If your baby arrived earlier than expected, you’re not alone. Around one in ten babies in the U.S. are born prematurely, and many of them grow up to be healthy, thriving children. Still, it’s completely normal to feel anxious or have questions about what comes next. Caring for a premature baby can feel overwhelming at first, but with time, support, and guidance, you’ll find your way. Premature birth is defined as delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Babies born between 34