Supporting the Emotional and Behavioral Health of Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic
As our nation continues to endure the COVID-19 pandemic, many families may be wondering about the impact the pandemic has had on the emotional and behavioral health of their child(ren). In addition to social distancing recommendations and requirements that do not allow for close contact with a variety of individuals (e.g., peers, teammates, extended family …
Promoting Healthy Behaviors to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19
As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, parents and families should remain diligent in modeling and promoting healthy behaviors that reduce the spread of COVID-19. Currently, a vaccine is not available to help minimize and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Fortunately, there are several strategies, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention …
Talking to Children about Germs, COVID-19, and Practicing Proper Hygiene
With the recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many children may have questions about the virus or germs in general. What are Germs? Germs are everywhere! They are small and can enter our bodies without us knowing. Some germs can live on surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, countertops) for a short period of time. Once they …
The Importance of Rituals and Routines
Summer is over; fall has arrived, and new schedules and routines are beginning – back to school, back to work – and, in some cases, unfamiliar territory! Transitions can be hard for individuals, especially children, to adapt to, and to ease effects of these changes, some form of predictable structure at home is helpful.2 As …
How to Talk to Kids about Tough Topics
School shootings, natural disasters, political turmoil, epidemics… these and other distressing events are common headlines in our current world. Today, many kids have ready access to information 24/7, which means parents need to be ready to talk about and explain information with their children. But as a parent, what is the best approach to talking …
Recognizing and Managing Stress for Parents
Stress is an unavoidable part of life. Parents can experience stress related to a variety of situations. These situations can be ordinary, such as getting your children to school on time or rushing home from work to make dinner. On the other hand, they can be extreme, such as facing a serious illness or financial …
Helmet and Bike Safety for Children
Whether used for transportation or just for fun, bikes can be a great way to get outdoors and get some exercise! When parents encourage their children to practice helmet and bike safety, they can help prevent some injuries that can occur while riding, such as concussions. Most importantly, children and adults should always wear a …
When Should You Start Getting Your Child’s Teeth Checked?
One of the many milestones parents track with their new babies is the emergence of the first tooth. But, when should you first visit the dentist? Probably earlier than you think. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children should visit the dentist within six months after their first tooth appears or by …
