Search Results

Tech and your kids: how much is too much?

In today’s digital era, tech devices have taken on a whole new role (and meaning). They have become kids’ most popular accessory and prized possession. iPhones, iPods, laptops, tablets- you name it and it is almost guaranteed that the kid sitting next to you has access to it. But why have these tech devices become so popular? Simple. They are an easily accessible way to entertain kids of all ages for hours on end- from the short trip to the grocery store, to the much-anticipated family road trip. While these devices can come in handy and better yet, to kids, how do parents decide when enough in enough?

How to tame kids' ever-growing Christmas list wishes

My family celebrates Christmas.  Recently, my son wrote his Christmas list.  I guess it’s a sign of the times, but most of the items he is requesting this year are technological in nature and are at least $50.00.  Here’s the kicker:  He’s only seven.  I figured I’d have a few more years before the list started to contain gadgets like laptops and ipods, but it looks like I was wrong.  I read through the list and my initial reaction was, “Are you kidding me?!  No way!”

A child’s legacy: Will’s Gift Giving

It was a day like any other day. But it was a day that this family would soon realize, would change their lives forever. Will had been out on a Sunday, wakeboarding on one of the lakes in Central Florida, along with over 20 other people boating and skiing that day. On a hot summer day in late July of 2007, the cool, fresh water was the perfect way to escape the scorching heat.

What November means to me

In honor of Epilepsy Awareness Month, we would like to share this story written by a mother, whose son was diagnosed with Epilepsy in 2007.

Friends can impact your child’s activity level

“You are who your friends are.” The phrase every parent knows, but no kid, especially teenagers, wants to hear. Parents often use this popular line as a way to encourage their pre-teen or teenager to choose friends who will set a positive example, build their character, and create healthy habits.  But recent studies have shown that this theory can even apply to kids as young as 5 years old. Young kids like to play “follow the leader” and are easily influenced by what those around them are doing, especially when it comes to physical activity (or lack thereof).

Fighting Birth Defects with Folic Acid

Did you know there are things you can do even before you become pregnant that can help give your child a healthy start in life? Making sure your body has enough folic acid is one of the most important ways to protect your baby from birth defects.

Preparing for Baby's Arrival... Continued

Earlier this week, we talked about several ways for new and expectant parents to become prepared for their new arrival. Here is some more helpful information that every parent should know:

What questions do you have about vaccines?

Last night, I went to my pediatrician’s office to learn more about vaccines. His office provides monthly educational sessions discussing various aspects of children’s health, and I must admit that I look forward to each and every one. Perhaps that is partially because I am a healthcare professional and I’m a little bit nerdy that way. But mostly it’s because I’m a mom, and each and every time I go I learn something new that helps me take better care of my daughter.

Can screen time affect my child's eye health?

Have you ever caught your child staring at the computer or TV screen, not even taking the time to hardly blink? It’s as if their eyes are glued to the screen from being consumed with what they are doing or watching. For most parents, this is probably a scene you’ve seen far too often.

Arsenic in rice: is it safe?

Last week, Consumer Reports issued a warning to consumers regarding potentially harmful levels of arsenic found in rice and rice products. The Food and Drug Administration also released preliminary data from an in-depth study which seemed to be in line with those conclusions. But, don’t run to the pantry to purge your home of your favorite cereal just yet.

What is arsenic?