Parents Connect Blog

The official blog of Nicklaus Children's Hospital, written by parents for parents.

A space where families share their experiences and inspire hope as we aim to raise happier, healthier children. Contributing bloggers include parents and medical experts who together serve as a voice for families everywhere. We invite you to join our online community and connect with us on the parenting journey.

 

Latest Blog Posts

What You Need To Know About Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

April 15, 2021 – If you have a child in your life that suffers from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), then you know that it can sometimes be a challenging diagnosis. I see a lot of patients with IBS at my office, and their concerns range from persistent stomach pain to diarrhea, constipation or upset stomach. Since April is IBS month, this felt like an appropriate time to discuss some of the common issues related to the condition. First off, if your child has IBS, he or she is definitely not alone.

Talking With Your Teen About Social Media Filters

April 12, 2021 – When I see my children on social media, I realize that they have no baseline of "normalcy" like I did at age 15. They are looking at screens so much that there is a chance they are seeing more people with altered images than they are seeing people "in their natural state" on a daily basis.

3 Weight Loss Myths: Facts vs. Fiction

April 08, 2021 – The COVID-19 pandemic has hindered weight loss plans for many, and triggered weight gain for others. Thanks to fitness and calorie counting apps, influencers’ success stories, and a multitude of diet products in the market, it can be very confusing to differentiate between fact and fiction – leaving you feeling frustrated and ready to give up. Read on for some of the most common myths built around weight loss diets.

Fatigue? Fitful Sleep? Could My Child Have Sleep Apnea?

March 17, 2021 – Most people think of obstructive sleep apnea as a condition that impacts adults. Although obstructive sleep apnea is less common in children, it is still a risk that parents should be aware of. Between 1 and 5 percent of children are affected by it, and that it may be underdiagnosed. Dr. Sandeep P. Davé, pediatric otolaryngologist, compiled a list of sleep apnea warning signs for parents to be on the lookout for.

Nutrition and Kids: The Impact of the Pandemic

March 12, 2021

Families have spent more time at home this past year to help prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. As a result, parents and children have fallen out of their normal routines. So, what can you do to keep your kids healthy?

Get to Know Your Healthy Eating Style

February 25, 2021 – Healthy eating can look very different for everyone in your family. Each age group requires unique nutritional needs that should be met through the foods and drinks you consume. “Just like you can’t burn calories in your fifties as you did in your twenties, children can’t eat like adults.” Learning what healthy eating looks like at each stage of life is key for a long healthy life.

It's American Heart Month: Step Toward a Heart-Healthy Future with Your Child

February 17, 2021 – Heart disease associated with lifestyle factors has been increasing among children and teens in recent years, generally associated with the rise in childhood obesity. By modeling and reinforcing healthy habits, parents can lead the way toward a heart-healthy future for their children.

Five Ways a Speech-Language Pathologist Can Help Your Child

February 16, 2021 – Speech-language pathologists (aka speech therapists or SLPs) study human communication, its development, and associated disorders. This ranges from how we use our muscles for talking to how our neurological systems mature and work. In short, we can help with more than just speaking or talking. Many parents are surprised when they learn of all the areas in which we can help their children.

Five ways to help your children maintain a healthy lifestyle

January 19, 2021 – What does a healthy lifestyle mean for your children? A healthy lifestyle can encompass a variety of things such as nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, spirituality, cultural diversity and more. Researchers often look at studies showing risk of premature death or disease and what increases that risk. It is important we instill healthy lifestyle habits in our children at a young age. The following are five ways to help your children maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Single Parenting During the Pandemic: Facing and Overcoming Challenges

January 11, 2021 – Parenting is hard enough. Now, let's combine being a single parent and a pandemic, and you’ll have more gray hairs on a daily basis. Granted, I have had my moments where a time-out, for me, is imperative. However, the blessings have surpassed the challenges.