Start Sun Protection Young
Sunscreen may already be a family staple for a trip to the beach or an afternoon by the pool. But protecting your child from skin cancer requires more than a dab of sun defense. A recent study found that melanoma-the deadliest type of skin cancer-is becoming more common in children. Teaching your child proper sun safety early can prevent skin cancer for a lifetime.
Family Focus: Less Sodium for All
Your child probably loves pizza. And how about hot dogs, lunch meat, or cheese? In addition to being many children's favorites, these foods are high in sodium. They contribute to a startling fact: Many children eat as much sodium as adults in the U.S. That's setting the table for serious concerns about children's future heart health.
Children Can Suffer ACL Injuries, Too
Parents of young athletes may expect the occasional bruise, scrape, or pulled muscle. But an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) may seem a more likely concern for a professional running back or a slam-dunking hoop star. Yet millions of children every year suffer serious sports injuries, including torn ACLs.
Energy Drinks: Not a Good Choice for Children
They're labeled with compelling names, such as Monster Energy and Rockstar. X-Game athletes sport their brands on jackets and hats. Energy drinks exude an ethos that attracts many children and young adults. Although these beverages may be considered cool, they're not a healthy choice for your child.
Give Your Child an Academic Boost—Exercise!
Keeping your child active may not always be easy. Children may be more interested in video games, YouTube videos, or the latest episode of American Idol. But regular physical activity can help curb childhood obesity, an epidemic that affects more than 12 million U.S. kids. Urging your child to move more has other benefits, too. It may even improve academic performance.
Preventing Teen Dating Abuse
The teen years can be an exciting and anxious time for your child - and you. One of the more nerve-wracking moments may be your child's dating. It's natural for a parent to worry. You want to keep your child safe. Knowing about the dangers of teen dating violence can help you prevent it and, if needed, identify such abuse.
Flame Retardants May Affect Kids’ Development
The family's well-worn couch. Grandpa's favorite old chair. Of all the things parents may worry about, these items probably don't make the list. But according to a new study, maybe they should, particularly if they contain flame retardants. Furniture, carpet, electronics, and other products that are made with such chemicals may increase a child's risk for developmental problems. Exposure to them may lead to a lower IQ, inattention, and coordination troubles.
More Youths Abuse Painkillers
Talking with your child about drug abuse is important. It helps to keep him or her healthy. But did you know you should cover prescription painkillers in that chat? A new study points to why.
U.S. Kids’ Diet Too Salty for Their Health
The average child or teen in the U.S. consumes nearly 3,400 mg of sodium each day - or more than 1,000 mg above the recommended maximum. Some researchers say that high salt intake is what's driving an increase in high blood pressure among kids.
Lasting Effects of Parents' Squabbles
Kindergarteners whose parents fight with each other frequently and harshly are more likely to struggle with depression, anxiety, and behavior issues by middle school, a new study says.