Parent Resources

Preventing and Treating Ear Infections [PDF – 2 pages] Is your child’s ear hurting? It could be an ear infection. Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections. Talk to your child’s doctor about the best treatment. Some ear infections, such as middle ear infections, need antibiotic treatment, but many can get better […]

Why should my child get a flu vaccine? Reduces the risk of flu illness and hospitalization among children. Shown to be life-saving for children. Can make illness less severe among people who get vaccinated but still get sick with flu. Reduces the risk of illness, which can keep your child from missing school or childcare […]

After your baby arrives, there’s a lot to think about. Click on the following links to learn more about how to help keep you and your baby healthy and safe, as well as learn about certain birth defects and medical conditions. Health Breastfeeding: You and your baby gain many benefits from breastfeeding. Breast milk is […]

Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection […]

Healthy and happy childhoods start now. Learn how you can help! Children and families thrive when they have access to safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments. These relationships and environments are essential to creating positive childhood experiences and preventing adverse childhood experiences. What are adverse childhood experiences? Early negative events impact the health and well-being […]

What is childhood arthritis? Arthritis in children is called childhood arthritis or juvenile arthritis. The most common type of childhood arthritis is juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Childhood arthritis can cause permanent physical damage to joints. This damage can make it hard for the child to do everyday things like […]

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have a tremendous impact on future violence victimization and perpetration, and lifelong health and opportunity. CDC works to understand ACEs and prevent them. Fast Facts: Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences What are adverse childhood experiences? Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). For […]

Español (Spanish)  Your child might not like every food you give him or her on the first try. Give your child a chance to try foods again and again, even if he or she does not like them at first. Children may need to try some foods many times before they like them. Here are […]

Healthy eating is all about balance. There is no need to add salt or sugar to your child’s food. There are also some foods and drinks that are not safe for your child to eat and others that are not as healthy choices as other foods. Honey before 12 months may cause a serious type […]

Your baby is learning how to chew and swallow foods. This means your child may choke. By 12 months old, your child is getting better at eating and may even be feeding themselves. Even though your child can now eat most foods, some are still choking hazards. The way food is prepared may increase the […]

This CDC Kidtastics podcast for kids and parents teaches that baby birds are not good Easter presents due to the risk of illness from Salmonella.

Motor Vehicle Crashes: A Leading Cause of Death for Children In 2019, 608 child passengers age 12 and younger died in motor vehicle crashes,1 and more than 91,000 were injured.2 Of the children 12 and younger who died in a crash (for whom restraint use was known), 38% were not buckled up.1 Parents and caregivers […]

Video – English Video – Spanish What are child abuse and neglect? Child abuse and neglect are serious public health problems and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that can have long-term impact on health, opportunity, and wellbeing. This issue includes all types of abuse and neglect against a child under the age of 18 by a […]

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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, […]

School is back in session. As you stock up on pencils, take first-day pictures, and adjust to new bus schedules, take a few, quick steps that can keep your child safer during an emergency. From tornadoes to water main breaks, emergencies can occur with little or no warning—even during the school day. As children head […]

Safer Ways to Celebrate Holidays Attending gatherings to celebrate events and holidays increases your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. The safest way to celebrate is virtually, with people who live with you, or outside and at least 6 feet apart from others. For information on what fully vaccinated people can do, see the When […]

CDC recommends delaying travel until you are able to get fully vaccinated. If you are traveling with children who cannot get vaccinated at this time, follow recommendations for people who are not fully vaccinated and choose the safer travel options described below.  Check CDC’s Domestic Travel or International Travel pages for the latest recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated […]

Even though they know that they are tired, some children do not want to miss out on any of the action or excitement. They want to spend as much time with mom and dad as possible. They can even see that they have to go to bed before their parents as unjust and even cruel. […]

Providing breast milk is one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health and development. Pumping your milk is one way to provide breast milk to your baby. However, germs can grow quickly in breast milk or breast milk residue that remains on pump parts. Following these steps can keep your breast […]

Teach and reinforce everyday preventive actions Wash hands Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, and encourage your child to do the same. Read more and watch a video on how to wash hands correctly. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Teach […]

In recent months, families have been doing their part by staying at home as much as possible to help stop the spread of COVID-19. As communities open up, it’s important your child goes in for their well-child visit. These well-child visits are essential for many reasons, including: Tracking growth and development including milestones, social behaviors, […]

This video describes the journey of a vaccine for children from development through post-licensure monitoring. Learn about the three phases of clinical trials, vaccine licensing and manufacturing, how a vaccine is added to the U.S. Recommended Immunization Schedule, and how FDA and CDC monitor vaccine safety after the public begins using the vaccine.

Cloth face coverings are an additional step to help slow the spread of COVID-19 when combined with every day preventive actions and social distancing in public settings. Who should NOT use cloth face coverings: children under age 2, or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without […]

Children and teens react, in part, on what they see from the adults around them. When parents and caregivers deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children. Parents can be more reassuring to others around them, especially children, if they are better prepared. Watch for behavior changes […]

Help stop the spread of COVID-19 Take steps to protect children and others from getting sick Help stop the spread of COVID-19 by doing the same things everyone should do to stay healthy. Teach your children to do the same. Clean hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid people who are […]

How to clean and disinfect Wear disposable gloves to clean and disinfect. Clean Clean surfaces using soap and water. Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. High touch surfaces include:Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc. Disinfect Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if […]

Messages for parents, school staff, and others working with children As public conversations around coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) increase, children may worry about themselves, their family, and friends getting ill with COVID-19. Parents, family members, school staff, and other trusted adults can play an important role in helping children make sense of what they hear […]

1. The first way to health, said the CDC to me Wash hands to be safe and healthy. 2. The second way to health, said the CDC to me Bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy. 3. The third way to health, said the CDC to me Manage stress, bundle […]

Feasting with family and friends is part of many holiday celebrations. Follow these simple tips to help prevent food poisoning, or foodborne illness, during the holidays. Cook food thoroughly. Meat, chicken, turkey, seafood, and eggs can carry germs that cause food poisoning. Use a food thermometer to ensure these foods have been cooked to a […]

Fall celebrations like Halloween and Harvest Day are fun times for children, who can dress up in costumes, enjoy parties, and eat yummy treats. These celebrations also provide a chance to give out healthy snacks, get physical activity, and focus on safety. Check out these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for […]

Healthy teeth are important to your child’s overall health. From the time your child is born, there are things you can do to promote healthy teeth and prevent cavities. For babies, you should clean teeth with a soft, clean cloth or baby’s toothbrush. Avoid putting the baby to bed with a bottle and check teeth […]

Measles is a highly contagious disease. It can be serious for young children. Protect your child by making sure he or she is up to date on measles vaccine, including before traveling abroad. Children Need 2 Doses of Measles Vaccine You can protect your child against measles with a combination vaccine that provides protection against […]

CDC advises consumers and retailers not to eat, serve, or sell recalled ready-to-eat deli ham produced by Johnston County Hams, Inc. The ham is linked to a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. A food safety alert has been posted at: https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/countryham-10-18/index.html Key Points: CDC and public health and regulatory officials in several states are […]

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There is a great deal of real but not particularly scientific evidence that birth order has a great influence on who we turn out to be as adults. If you understand how birth order affects a child, you will be better able to understand and effectively parent your children. You might even understand yourself a […]

As a parent, you work hard to keep your baby healthy, by giving lots of love… providing healthy foods. Keeping little hands, feet, and faces clean. Getting plenty of physical activity, and vaccination. Nothing protects babies better from 14 serious diseases by age two. That’s why doctors recommend and parents choose the safe, proven protection […]

 Ready for the Ride: Keeping Kids Safe on Wheels – Click to Download PDF Bike Safety Tips – Click to Download PDF Bike Safety Tips – Spanish – Click to Download PDF

Children, especially those younger than 5 years, are at higher risk for serious flu-related complications. The flu vaccine offers the best defense against getting the flu and spreading it to others. Getting vaccinated can reduce flu illnesses, doctor’s visits, missed work and school days, and prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths in children. Information on this […]

What is Influenza (also called Flu)? The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Signs […]

The holidays are a stressful time for even the best-adjusted adult. The holiday season for young children is almost a certain situation to cause the toddler meltdown. Think about the way your child sees the holiday season. First of all, the stores where he is used to going with Mommy look entirely different. Everybody keeps […]

Many children have sleep disorders that interrupt their lives, and those of their parents and siblings as well. A child sleep disorder can make life very difficult and interfere with the necessities of life. Parents who worry about the child sleep disorders in their family might rest assured that they are not alone. Many parents […]

Children have conflicts, and one of the important tasks of childhood is learning how to manage conflict successfully.  Ideally, education in conflict resolution begins at the preschool age or even earlier.  With appropriate help from parents, even pre-verbal children can benefit.  For conflict resolution education to work with children this young, it needs to be […]

Ah, summer! That is a word that every kid knows and loves. Warm weather means outdoor fun — swimming, baseball, riding bikes, and jumping on trampolines. Summer, from a kid’s point of view, ranks right up there with Christmas — and it lasts longer! You get the picture. Kids love summer, and summer was made […]

Traveling with small children is not an activity for the faint of heart, the disorganized, or those who are short on patience. It takes courage, planning, and patience to travel with children safely and even pleasantly. First, it is wise to recognize the fact that your young child likes his comfort zone. He knows what […]

With all the sunscreens available these days (organic or mineral? water-resistant or sweat-resistant? lotion or spray?), choosing the right one for your kids can be tricky. But what matters most when picking a sunscreen is how well it protects skin from UV rays. Learn How to Choose – Listen Below   Link to Full Article: […]

Approximately 3,500 infants die annually in the United States from sleep-related deaths, including SIDS – Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, ill-defined deaths, and accidental suffocation and strangulation.  In 2016, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released new guidelines for creating a safe sleep environment.  Below, is an abbreviated list and circumstances that increase the risks of […]

This widget provides users with a quick and easy way to see state data related to cholesterol, diabetes, heart attacks, high blood pressure, nutrition, obesity, physical activity, stroke, and tobacco use.

Zika is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. It can also be spread by a man to his male or female sex partners during sex. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red […]

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While it can be embarrassing, frustrating, and sometimes frightening, for the most part, this type of behavior by toddlers is a normal phase that they all pass through. It is a part of their growth and development and usually results from frustration at not being able to express themselves, whether he wants a toy, or […]

Was parenting easier forty years ago? As a mom in the new millennium, I dream about the idea of parenting in a world where streets are safe and parents can let their children run freely through the neighborhood, their bodies naturally challenged with the exercise of play. Instead today, before the slam of the car […]

  Every new parent enters their first summer season with a certain amount of reservation.  With so many things to be wary of, combined with the natural anxiety of being a new parent, it can be challenging to be confident about one’s capabilities.  As any parent will tell you, a certain amount of trial-and-error will […]

Choosing the right toy for your child’s age is not just a matter of selecting a toy that will engage, entertain and educate them, it is also a matter of safety.  If you have browsed the aisles of any toy store lately, you probably know that selecting the right toy can be a difficult undertaking. […]

Childhood obesity, what was once shocking and disturbing has now become a fact of life, as adult obesity increased childhood obesity is growing and rapidly increasing.  With bad eating habits and fatty diet and some hereditary influence some kids are doomed to battle childhood obesity late into their twenties, childhood obesity has become a wide […]

Why would anyone buy backpacks for young children?  Your toddler will feel important if she has her own backpack to take with her to Grandma’s house for an overnight visit.  My two-year old twin nephews who were being potty trained, wanted “back backs” to carry their own lunches for a trip to the zoo. I […]

Was parenting easier forty years ago? As a mom in the new millennium, I dream about the idea of parenting in a world where streets are safe and parents can let their children run freely through the neighborhood, their bodies naturally challenged with the exercise of play. Instead today, before the slam of the car […]

When you first have a newborn baby, you are very protective.  You are always afraid of something happening to your baby. Well when you are at home you should not be afraid of anything happening to it because you are there and it should be safe.  Keeping your baby safe at home is very important. […]

Obesity in children has doubled for children between the ages of two and five since the 1970s. Alarming is an understatement; this is traumatic. Toddlers should not be overweight and according to an article I read today, nearly half of America’s children will be obese by the end of the decade. What could be the […]

All newborns are, of course, different. Some sleep better than others at a young age, which prompts many parents to trade stories of how “lucky” or “unlucky” they were with a given child. There is, no doubt, a certain amount of mystery to getting a child to sleep well and through the night on his […]

Introducing your baby to solid foods is exciting and rewarding – but it can be difficult to know exactly how and when to get started. Your baby should be four months of age at the very least – or his immature digestive system will find it difficult to cope with solid food. Most medical professionals, […]

When it comes to child-proofing your home, one of the first things you will consider is the baby safety gate.  Neglecting to add baby gates to your home can mean risking your baby’s safety when wandering around the home.  It only takes a second of distraction and your child could be in a dangerous situation.  […]

Many parents find the risk of baby food allergies one of the most worrying aspects of introducing new foods to their baby. But there are simple steps you can take to minimize potential problems and make your child’s introduction to solid food a safe and happy one. Allergic reactions take place when your baby’s immune […]

When you first have a newborn baby, you are very protective of it. You are always afraid of something happening to it. Well when you are at home you should not be afraid of anything happening to it because you are there and it should be safe. Keeping your baby safe at home is very […]

How do I feel about my child’s separation anxiety? Honestly, it’s absolutely one of the most delightful feelings I really enjoy as a mom. I remember when my son was between 8-9 months old. Just like every mother, I couldn’t forget those moments. At that time, he often asked for more attention from me rather […]

Caring for your baby is the most important things you need to consider once you became a new parent. There are many things you need to take into account in order to make sure that your baby gets attention necessary. 1. Make sure that you feed your baby right. Deciding on whether you should breastfeed […]

Preventing and Treating Ear Infections [PDF – 2 pages] Is your child’s ear hurting? It could be an ear infection. Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections. Talk to your child’s doctor about the best treatment. Some ear infections, such as middle ear infections, need antibiotic treatment, but many can get better […]

Why should my child get a flu vaccine? Reduces the risk of flu illness and hospitalization among children. Shown to be life-saving for children. Can make illness less severe among people who get vaccinated but still get sick with flu. Reduces the risk of illness, which can keep your child from missing school or childcare […]

After your baby arrives, there’s a lot to think about. Click on the following links to learn more about how to help keep you and your baby healthy and safe, as well as learn about certain birth defects and medical conditions. Health Breastfeeding: You and your baby gain many benefits from breastfeeding. Breast milk is […]

Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection […]

Healthy and happy childhoods start now. Learn how you can help! Children and families thrive when they have access to safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments. These relationships and environments are essential to creating positive childhood experiences and preventing adverse childhood experiences. What are adverse childhood experiences? Early negative events impact the health and well-being […]

What is childhood arthritis? Arthritis in children is called childhood arthritis or juvenile arthritis. The most common type of childhood arthritis is juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Childhood arthritis can cause permanent physical damage to joints. This damage can make it hard for the child to do everyday things like […]

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have a tremendous impact on future violence victimization and perpetration, and lifelong health and opportunity. CDC works to understand ACEs and prevent them. Fast Facts: Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences What are adverse childhood experiences? Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). For […]

Español (Spanish)  Your child might not like every food you give him or her on the first try. Give your child a chance to try foods again and again, even if he or she does not like them at first. Children may need to try some foods many times before they like them. Here are […]

Healthy eating is all about balance. There is no need to add salt or sugar to your child’s food. There are also some foods and drinks that are not safe for your child to eat and others that are not as healthy choices as other foods. Honey before 12 months may cause a serious type […]

Your baby is learning how to chew and swallow foods. This means your child may choke. By 12 months old, your child is getting better at eating and may even be feeding themselves. Even though your child can now eat most foods, some are still choking hazards. The way food is prepared may increase the […]

This CDC Kidtastics podcast for kids and parents teaches that baby birds are not good Easter presents due to the risk of illness from Salmonella.

Motor Vehicle Crashes: A Leading Cause of Death for Children In 2019, 608 child passengers age 12 and younger died in motor vehicle crashes,1 and more than 91,000 were injured.2 Of the children 12 and younger who died in a crash (for whom restraint use was known), 38% were not buckled up.1 Parents and caregivers […]

Video – English Video – Spanish What are child abuse and neglect? Child abuse and neglect are serious public health problems and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that can have long-term impact on health, opportunity, and wellbeing. This issue includes all types of abuse and neglect against a child under the age of 18 by a […]

You need javascript enabled to view this content or go to source URL.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, […]

School is back in session. As you stock up on pencils, take first-day pictures, and adjust to new bus schedules, take a few, quick steps that can keep your child safer during an emergency. From tornadoes to water main breaks, emergencies can occur with little or no warning—even during the school day. As children head […]

Safer Ways to Celebrate Holidays Attending gatherings to celebrate events and holidays increases your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. The safest way to celebrate is virtually, with people who live with you, or outside and at least 6 feet apart from others. For information on what fully vaccinated people can do, see the When […]

CDC recommends delaying travel until you are able to get fully vaccinated. If you are traveling with children who cannot get vaccinated at this time, follow recommendations for people who are not fully vaccinated and choose the safer travel options described below.  Check CDC’s Domestic Travel or International Travel pages for the latest recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated […]

Here are some easy ways to incorporate instilling the virtue of gratitude in your children. Then, as you go through your day, show them the wonderful events behind the scenes that we most usually take for granted. Set the Right Example. Teach them by using the appropriate words at the right times yourself. For example, […]

How often are you fully and completely present when you are with your children? One of the greatest gifts we can give to our children is to be fully present with them. Being fully present can often be a big challenge. When my children were growing up, I worked full time as a counselor, wrote […]

Even though they know that they are tired, some children do not want to miss out on any of the action or excitement. They want to spend as much time with mom and dad as possible. They can even see that they have to go to bed before their parents as unjust and even cruel. […]

We all know that learning to read is important, but as parents, what can we do to facilitate this milestone? Reading to your child has many benefits, one of which is simply having time to snuggle together. Here are ten reasons to read to your child. 1.When you read to your child, he/she will learn […]

Teach and reinforce everyday preventive actions Wash hands Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, and encourage your child to do the same. Read more and watch a video on how to wash hands correctly. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Teach […]

In recent months, families have been doing their part by staying at home as much as possible to help stop the spread of COVID-19. As communities open up, it’s important your child goes in for their well-child visit. These well-child visits are essential for many reasons, including: Tracking growth and development including milestones, social behaviors, […]

This video describes the journey of a vaccine for children from development through post-licensure monitoring. Learn about the three phases of clinical trials, vaccine licensing and manufacturing, how a vaccine is added to the U.S. Recommended Immunization Schedule, and how FDA and CDC monitor vaccine safety after the public begins using the vaccine.

Why should you want your child to be an optimist? Because, as Dr. Martin Seligman explains: “Pessimism (the opposite of optimism) is an entrenched habit of mind that has sweeping and disastrous consequences: depressed mood, resignation, underachievement and even unexpectedly poor physical health.” Children with optimistic thinking skills are better able to interpret failure, have […]

Cloth face coverings are an additional step to help slow the spread of COVID-19 when combined with every day preventive actions and social distancing in public settings. Who should NOT use cloth face coverings: children under age 2, or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without […]

Children and teens react, in part, on what they see from the adults around them. When parents and caregivers deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children. Parents can be more reassuring to others around them, especially children, if they are better prepared. Watch for behavior changes […]

Help stop the spread of COVID-19 Take steps to protect children and others from getting sick Help stop the spread of COVID-19 by doing the same things everyone should do to stay healthy. Teach your children to do the same. Clean hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid people who are […]

Messages for parents, school staff, and others working with children As public conversations around coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) increase, children may worry about themselves, their family, and friends getting ill with COVID-19. Parents, family members, school staff, and other trusted adults can play an important role in helping children make sense of what they hear […]

Communicating with our children can be a difficult task at times.  We feel like they’re not listening to us; they feel like we’re not listening to them.  Good listening and communication skills are essential to successful parenting.  Your child’s feelings, views, and opinions have worth, and you should make sure you take the time to […]

1. The first way to health, said the CDC to me Wash hands to be safe and healthy. 2. The second way to health, said the CDC to me Bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy. 3. The third way to health, said the CDC to me Manage stress, bundle […]

Fall celebrations like Halloween and Harvest Day are fun times for children, who can dress up in costumes, enjoy parties, and eat yummy treats. These celebrations also provide a chance to give out healthy snacks, get physical activity, and focus on safety. Check out these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for […]

Healthy teeth are important to your child’s overall health. From the time your child is born, there are things you can do to promote healthy teeth and prevent cavities. For babies, you should clean teeth with a soft, clean cloth or baby’s toothbrush. Avoid putting the baby to bed with a bottle and check teeth […]

Measles is a highly contagious disease. It can be serious for young children. Protect your child by making sure he or she is up to date on measles vaccine, including before traveling abroad. Children Need 2 Doses of Measles Vaccine You can protect your child against measles with a combination vaccine that provides protection against […]

CDC advises consumers and retailers not to eat, serve, or sell recalled ready-to-eat deli ham produced by Johnston County Hams, Inc. The ham is linked to a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. A food safety alert has been posted at: https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/countryham-10-18/index.html Key Points: CDC and public health and regulatory officials in several states are […]

You need javascript enabled to view this content or go to source URL.

As a parent, you work hard to keep your baby healthy, by giving lots of love… providing healthy foods. Keeping little hands, feet, and faces clean. Getting plenty of physical activity, and vaccination. Nothing protects babies better from 14 serious diseases by age two. That’s why doctors recommend and parents choose the safe, proven protection […]

Communicating with our children can be a difficult task at times.  We feel like they’re not listening to us; they feel like we’re not listening to them.  Good listening and communications skills are essential to successful parenting.  Your child’s feelings, views, and opinions have worth, and you should make sure you take the time to […]

 Ready for the Ride: Keeping Kids Safe on Wheels – Click to Download PDF Bike Safety Tips – Click to Download PDF Bike Safety Tips – Spanish – Click to Download PDF

All parents want their children to have a life guided by good values. A child’s conscience and value system develop at an early age. As parents, what can you do to help them? Here are five ways you can enrich their conscience and help them to develop a value system that will guide them through […]

Crafting provides a great way to spend time with children while enjoying a fun activity together.   Following some simple tips can make it a fun experience for everyone. We hope you will put some of the following suggestions to use. Find the craft that children want to make and then make a list of all […]

Children, especially those younger than 5 years, are at higher risk for serious flu-related complications. The flu vaccine offers the best defense against getting the flu and spreading it to others. Getting vaccinated can reduce flu illnesses, doctor’s visits, missed work and school days, and prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths in children. Information on this […]

What is Influenza (also called Flu)? The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Signs […]

The holidays are a stressful time for even the best-adjusted adult. The holiday season for young children is almost a certain situation to cause the toddler meltdown. Think about the way your child sees the holiday season. First of all, the stores where he is used to going with Mommy look entirely different. Everybody keeps […]

Children have conflicts, and one of the important tasks of childhood is learning how to manage conflict successfully.  Ideally, education in conflict resolution begins at the preschool age or even earlier.  With appropriate help from parents, even pre-verbal children can benefit.  For conflict resolution education to work with children this young, it needs to be […]

Ah, summer! That is a word that every kid knows and loves. Warm weather means outdoor fun — swimming, baseball, riding bikes, and jumping on trampolines. Summer, from a kid’s point of view, ranks right up there with Christmas — and it lasts longer! You get the picture. Kids love summer, and summer was made […]

Traveling with small children is not an activity for the faint of heart, the disorganized, or those who are short on patience. It takes courage, planning, and patience to travel with children safely and even pleasantly. First, it is wise to recognize the fact that your young child likes his comfort zone. He knows what […]

Approximately 3,500 infants die annually in the United States from sleep-related deaths, including SIDS – Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, ill-defined deaths, and accidental suffocation and strangulation.  In 2016, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released new guidelines for creating a safe sleep environment.  Below, is an abbreviated list and circumstances that increase the risks of […]

Zika is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. It can also be spread by a man to his male or female sex partners during sex. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red […]

Save

While it can be embarrassing, frustrating, and sometimes frightening, for the most part, this type of behavior by toddlers is a normal phase that they all pass through. It is a part of their growth and development and usually results from frustration at not being able to express themselves, whether he wants a toy, or […]

Many people have a strong opinion on the importance of self-esteem in children.  Some people think too much emphasis is placed on self-esteem today. However, most believe strongly that self-esteem development is crucial in children. The truth is that both opinions are correct. There is probably too much emphasis on self-esteem today, and self-esteem development […]

We all get angry from time to time. Anger is just part of the human condition. It is not “bad” to be angry. Now, some behaviors that are the result of being angry can be “bad,” but it is not the anger that’s “bad.” The same thing goes for children. Of course, children get angry […]

Children do not deal with separation and loss in the same way as adults. Adults, for example, recognize the difference between a friend moving out of town and a friend dying. Young children, on the other hand, simply view both situations as a loss. Here are some important points to consider when you are helping […]

In the traditional family structure, the role of the father is clearly unique.  Perhaps it is because dad goes off to work and comes home with that big booming voice or maybe it is that he is a soft touch for ice cream or an extra ride on the Ferris Wheel at the State Fair […]

Was parenting easier forty years ago? As a mom in the new millennium, I dream about the idea of parenting in a world where streets are safe and parents can let their children run freely through the neighborhood, their bodies naturally challenged with the exercise of play. Instead today, before the slam of the car […]

  Every new parent enters their first summer season with a certain amount of reservation.  With so many things to be wary of, combined with the natural anxiety of being a new parent, it can be challenging to be confident about one’s capabilities.  As any parent will tell you, a certain amount of trial-and-error will […]

Choosing the right toy for your child’s age is not just a matter of selecting a toy that will engage, entertain and educate them, it is also a matter of safety.  If you have browsed the aisles of any toy store lately, you probably know that selecting the right toy can be a difficult undertaking. […]

Do you know the difference between discipline and punishment with their Latin roots? Punishment implies inflicting pain, while discipline means to teach.  Parents who use punishment are missing important opportunities to teach their children better behaviors and help them self-discipline. Children can actually be taught responsible behaviors to help them get the things they want […]

Think about your interactions with your children today.  How many things did you notice they did wrong?  What did you do or say to them because of their wrong doings?  Have they engaged in the same kind of behavior before?  What did you do or say the times before?  Is it working?  How many things […]

Many people have a strong opinion on the importance of self-esteem in children.  Some people have a negative opinion and believe too much emphasis is placed on self-esteem today. However, most believe strongly that self-esteem development is crucial in children. The truth is that both parties have a share in the truth.  There is probably […]

Parenting is not about just providing; it is much deeper than that.  As a parent you will be worried about your child’s well-being as well as his future.  The aim of most parents is to raise a happy, intelligent, and fulfilled child – a child that is secure, confident, and independent. The Circle of Love […]

Why would anyone buy backpacks for young children?  Your toddler will feel important if she has her own backpack to take with her to Grandma’s house for an overnight visit.  My two-year old twin nephews who were being potty trained, wanted “back backs” to carry their own lunches for a trip to the zoo. I […]

Was parenting easier forty years ago? As a mom in the new millennium, I dream about the idea of parenting in a world where streets are safe and parents can let their children run freely through the neighborhood, their bodies naturally challenged with the exercise of play. Instead today, before the slam of the car […]

The No Child Left Behind Act is a landmark education reform law that is already improving academic performance across the country.  One of its chief aims is to close the troubling achievement gap that separates many disadvantaged, disabled and minority students from their peers. To do this, it measures student performance and focuses extra resources […]

Reading aloud may be the single most important activity parents do with their child. That’s because a child who is read to is more likely to enjoy reading and will want to learn to read. Once a child becomes passionate about reading-he or she will have the opportunity to enjoy a lifetime of learning. According […]

Learning to read can be a challenging adventure for some children.  It seems that everyone from a child’s teacher to Mom and Dad and even Grandma is excited and waiting for the child to learn to read.  All the pressure and expectations from the adults can sure put a damper on the excitement for the […]

We all know that learning to read is important, but as parents what do we do to facilitate this milestone? Reading to your child has many benefits one of which is simply having time to snuggle together. Here are 10 reasons to read to your child. 1. When you read to your child, he/she will […]

Here are the wisest commandments ever commended to parents: 1. Thou shalt be consistent.  Do as you say you will. Children know where they stand when you are consistent, follow through and mean what you say. 2. Thou shalt expect children to contribute (without being paid).  Expect children to help at home but don’t expect […]

If you are thinking about starting to potty train your toddler, there are a few questions you should ask yourself before you begin potty training.  Being well prepared for this challenging transition from diapers to potty is one of the best things you can do to make this as easy as possible on your child. […]

Every grandmother and grandfather will tell you hilarious stories of their children when they were first born.  And for every funny and touching story they have, they will be able to tell you another for every hardship they encountered.  Parenting is something that is done in many different ways by each parent.  The following are […]

When you first have a newborn baby, you are very protective.  You are always afraid of something happening to your baby. Well when you are at home you should not be afraid of anything happening to it because you are there and it should be safe.  Keeping your baby safe at home is very important. […]

All newborns are, of course, different. Some sleep better than others at a young age, which prompts many parents to trade stories of how “lucky” or “unlucky” they were with a given child. There is, no doubt, a certain amount of mystery to getting a child to sleep well and through the night on his […]

Introducing your baby to solid foods is exciting and rewarding – but it can be difficult to know exactly how and when to get started. Your baby should be four months of age at the very least – or his immature digestive system will find it difficult to cope with solid food. Most medical professionals, […]

When it comes to child-proofing your home, one of the first things you will consider is the baby safety gate.  Neglecting to add baby gates to your home can mean risking your baby’s safety when wandering around the home.  It only takes a second of distraction and your child could be in a dangerous situation.  […]

Many parents find the risk of baby food allergies one of the most worrying aspects of introducing new foods to their baby. But there are simple steps you can take to minimize potential problems and make your child’s introduction to solid food a safe and happy one. Allergic reactions take place when your baby’s immune […]

If the baby is very young or a new born baby then it is accepted that he will get up many times at night. But in case of older babies, it is not accepted.  It is very frustrating for the mother if the baby goes to sleep after a great deal of effort and then […]

When you first have a newborn baby, you are very protective of it. You are always afraid of something happening to it. Well when you are at home you should not be afraid of anything happening to it because you are there and it should be safe. Keeping your baby safe at home is very […]

How do I feel about my child’s separation anxiety? Honestly, it’s absolutely one of the most delightful feelings I really enjoy as a mom. I remember when my son was between 8-9 months old. Just like every mother, I couldn’t forget those moments. At that time, he often asked for more attention from me rather […]

“A new baby brings a lot of joy and hope to a family. It also brings some uncertainty. You may be concerned that your home is too small, or that you need a larger car, among others. Whether you are expecting your first or your fifth child, chances are that you need baby gear! There […]

Caring for your baby is certainly one of the most important things you need to consider once you became a new parent. There are many things you need to take into account in order to make sure that your baby gets all the attention. 1. Make sure that you feed your baby right. Deciding on […]

Caring for your baby is the most important things you need to consider once you became a new parent. There are many things you need to take into account in order to make sure that your baby gets attention necessary. 1. Make sure that you feed your baby right. Deciding on whether you should breastfeed […]