With spring in the air, many parents mange to convince even the most reluctant cleaners to lend a hand for spring cleaning. And those parents with little ones end up with a few “helpers” as well. That can mean lots of little hands and mouths exposed to some scary chemicals. But the truth is that…
Read moreIn the U.S., only 1 in 3 children are physically active every day, while a large proportion of kids spend excessive amounts of time using various electronic devices – TVs, computers and phones to name a few. With April nearly here, there is no better time to encourage our kids to get outside and get…
Read moreNursing Mamas! While every mother and baby pair is different, breastfeeding can often be a challenge, especially in the beginning. It’s good to remind yourself once in a while that your effort is worth it. And of course, we are always here for you. Make an appointment with our Chicago Breastfeeding Center any time! Breastfeeding…
Read moreAmerican Heart Health month happens each year in February and is an important reminder to be mindful of heart health. But the reminder shouldn’t end there! Our hope is that the focus on heart health will carry your family throughout the rest of the year, forming lifelong healthy habits. Though this is an important reminder…
Read moreWinter is a tricky time for car seats. As a general rule, bulky clothing, including winter coats and snowsuits, should not be worn underneath the harness of a car seat. In a car crash, fluffy padding immediately flattens out from the force, leaving extra space under the harness. A child can then slip through the straps…
Read moreHeredity is clearly an important risk factor for conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. However, researchers are steadily gathering strong evidence about how diet influence development of diseases. Experts agree that healthy eating habits from an early age can lower the risk of developing several deadly diseases later on. A diet designed to…
Read moreUse plenty of positive and encouraging words with your child. Try to avoid using sarcasm or mockery and get rid of put-downs from the words you use as a parent. Children often don’t understand your purpose, and if they do, these messages can create negative-ways of talking and connecting with each other. Make an extra effort to…
Read moreRespect kids feelings without empowering fears Many children experience anxiety of varying degrees on a daily basis. And although it would be unrealistic to eliminate anxiety completely, we regularly work with children and families in our practice to provide strategies and tools that help kids manage anxiety more effectively. How does anxiety manifest in children…
Read moreEach year, approximately 3 million people—more under the age of 5—swallow or have contact with a poisonous substance. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has some important tips to prevent and to treat exposures to poison. How to Poison Proof Your Home: Most poisonings occur when parents or caregivers are home but not paying attention. The…
Read moreNo doubt you’ve heard recent research on the gut. Countless articles explain the microbiome in our (and our children’s!) guts, affecting digestion, allergies, metabolism and more. And you’ve also likely heard that antibiotics can mess with that whole system. Add to that research all we know about the repeated use and misuse of antibiotics that…
Read moreWith the start of a new year, it’s important to consider ways to discourage bullying. Too many sad stories have come to light regarding bullying –either physical or emotional – that have led to dramatic consequences, sometimes even to the point of suicide in extreme cases. And the term “cyberbullying” has become all too familiar….
Read moreIn a world where children are “growing up digital,” it’s important to help them learn healthy concepts of digital use and citizenship. Parents play an important role in teaching these skills. Here are a few tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to help parents manage the digital landscape they’re exploring with their children….
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