Picky Eating: the Dos and Don'ts

May 01, 2025 – Many children between ages two and five experience stages of picky eating, which can be frustrating for both parents and kids. While it’s completely normal, it can lead to situations where a child suddenly refuses foods they once liked or only eats one thing on the plate—so here are some helpful dos and don'ts to guide your family through it.

Plant-Based Meals Made Easy

April 07, 2025 – Incorporating plant-based meals into your weekly recipes is a great way to increase fiber, fruit and vegetables, and necessary vitamins and minerals. Our Food for Salud experts put together some tips to help make delicious and easy plant-based meals.

Food Connects Us: Celebrating the Power of Food and Nutrition

March 03, 2025 – March is National Nutrition Month, a time to celebrate how food connects us to one another, our cultures, and the world around us. This year’s theme “Food Connects Us” emphasizes the powerful role food plays in building relationships, promotion of cultural understanding, and supporting personal health.

Breaking the Sugar Habit: 10 Tips for Reducing Sweets

February 18, 2025 – Helping your child limit added sugars and develop healthier eating habits is essential for their health. Excessive sugar intake is linked to obesity, dental problems, and chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. As a family, you can make a big impact by making small changes.

Apple Nachos Recipe

January 16, 2025 – Looking for a sweet treat for your kid's after school snack? Apple nachos are not only an easy snack, but they're a healthier alternative to traditional sugar snacks and they're fun to make!

Tips to Increase Your Child's Interest in Eating More Fruits and Vegetables

January 16, 2025 – Getting children interested in eating more fruits and vegetables can be a challenge. However, studies have shown that as repetitive exposure to foods increases, acceptance of new foods also increases. Here are some tips by our experts at Food for Salud to help get your kids eating more veggies!

This Holiday Season, Give Your Child the Gift of a Healthy Relationship with Food

December 18, 2024 – The holiday season, while joyful and festive, can pose significant challenges for individuals struggling with disordered eating or negative relationships with food. Our nutrition experts provide some tips to help navigate this time of year.

Keeping Healthy Habits During the Holidays

November 19, 2024 – The holiday season is almost upon us, and with that comes lots of festivities with family, friends, and of course, delicious food. A question that comes up a lot is how to maintain healthy eating habits for kids amidst holiday tables filled with treats and indulgences. Dr. Joanna Perdomo, pediatrican at Nicklaus Children's, has the answers!

Sweet Potato Cakes Recipe

November 19, 2024 –

Our sweet potato cake recipe is simple to make and great at any time of the day!

Fruity & Fun: Fiber-Filled Snacks for After School

October 17, 2024 – When the school day ends, kids often come home ravenous and ready for a snack. Offering them healthy, satisfying foods is the key to keeping bellies full all the way until dinnertime. Here are a few easy and nutritious snack ideas that will not only curb your child’s hunger but will also help you increase their fruit intake.

Fruit Pizza Recipe

October 15, 2024 – Perfect for dessert or an after school sweet treat, our fruit pizza recipe is easy to make in just 3 simple steps!

Breakfast Parfait Recipe

September 24, 2024 – Did you know parfait means perfect in French? This breakfast parfait by our nutrition experts, Food for Salud, is the perfect way to start your day.

Lunchbox Lessons: Nutrition Tips for Back-to-School

September 18, 2024 – Eating nutritious foods can greatly enhance kids’ energy levels and ability to learn. Our nutrition experts at Food for Salud put together tips to help your family navigate this busy start of the school year while fueling your children each day.

Homemade Pancake Mix Recipe

August 27, 2024 – Love pancakes? We do too! Follow along with the perfectly easy recipe for pancakes (or pancake mix if you like to prep ahead)!

Cheesy Zucchini Cakes Recipe

June 25, 2024 – Veggies and cheese? Yes, please! Enjoy these cheesy zucchini cakes in just five easy steps.

Shingles While Nursing an Infant

June 20, 2024 – Over the summer, I was diagnosed with shingles.  Whenever someone has found out that I had shingles, they have been surprised. “I thought only the elderly got that,” is usually the response. It turns out, you can develop shingles at any age, but you’ll only get it if you have had chicken pox (varicella).

Tips to Stay Hydrated Beyond Water

June 19, 2024 – Preventing dehydration is as easy as making mindful choices when selecting your food. Food for Salud’s nutrition experts share tips to help you and your family stay healthy and hydrated this summer.

Foods to Nourish Your Mental Health

May 20, 2024 – May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Mental health can be lurking in the background at any stage of life. Creating environments that promote mental health, such as making more nutritional choices and healthier lifestyles, are necessary for your well-being at any age.

Guacamole and Corn Tortillas Recipe

May 20, 2024 – Make a delicious and nutritious snack for you and your family in just three easy steps!

Lemon Hummus with Baby Veggies Recipe

April 15, 2024 – Our easy lemon hummus recipe is an easy and delicious healthy snack that you can enjoy with your favorite vegetables!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

April 12, 2024 –

Spring is here! Let’s get outdoors and in nature. Have you thought about growing a garden? Gardens are excellent spaces where families and communities can come together to grow and harvest their own delicious and fresh foods.

Reducing Food Waste and Eating Right

March 25, 2024 –

Food for Salud’s nutrition experts are celebrating National Nutrition Month! How would you like to save money and have your entire family eat healthy? One simple way is to reduce food waste!

Watermelon and Tomato Gazpacho Recipe

March 06, 2024 – Gazpacho is a cold soup traditionally made with blended fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and garlic. For this version, we're adding watermelon some extra nutrition and flavor!

Five Tips for Healthy Meal Planning on a Budget

February 27, 2024 – When life feels nonstop and food costs are continually going up, it’s hard to eat healthy. It can be stressful deciding what to feed our family. Food for Salud’s nutrition experts have ideas to help you learn to fill your pantry and fridge with healthy foods for healthy meals.

Blueberry Banana Smoothie Recipe

February 15, 2024 – This blueberry banana smoothie only requires 6 simple ingredients and makes a good breakfast on-the-go or snack.

Helping Kids Celebrate Black History Month

January 29, 2024 –

Black History Month is an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the incredible accomplishments of Black people. There are many amazing stories of resilience that can inspire and encourage. 

12 New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier You

January 26, 2024 – This year, fill your resolution list with “good-for-you” goals that are easy to sustain. Let’s make 2024 a healthier year for you.

Kids and Gaming – Impacts on Mental Health

January 09, 2024 –

Online games and video games are entertaining, and kids love to play them. But there are reasons why you should monitor your child’s game time.

How to Manage Diabetes During the Holidays

December 05, 2023 –

Navigating the holiday feasts while maintaining a healthy weight can be difficult. For those with diabetes who are also trying to manage their blood sugar, it can be exceptionally challenging. Maria Paula Criado, Registered Dietitian at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, shares tips to help manage diabetes and healthy weight during the holidays.

Talking to Kids about Breast Cancer

October 25, 2023 – Women diagnosed with breast cancer who have children face the additional challenge of having to explain the situation to their children. This can be difficult and even traumatic. Considering that, it’s important to handle the discussion with care.

Navigating Trick-or-Treating and Children’s Food Allergies

October 19, 2023 – For children with food allergies and their parents, trick-or-treating can be scary, but we've got tips on how to navigate the Halloween festivities.

6 Ways to Prevent the Educational 'Summer Slide' in Your Kids

June 06, 2023 –

All kids look forward to summer and the break from school that it provides. When it comes to their education, however, there can be a drawback: summer learning loss, also sometimes referred to as "the summer slide". Luckily, there are simple strategies parents can use to prevent the summer slide.

The Importance of Reading to Your Kids

May 04, 2023 – Child development experts have long known the importance of reading and talking to your young children to give them a leg up in their academic development and other crucial milestones in life. It builds your baby’s brain and helps them on their journey to communicating and reading themselves earlier on.

How Your “Dad Jokes” Can Keep Kids Healthy

April 13, 2023 – When Dad cracks another one of his corny jokes, the family often groans and may even describe the joke as “painful.” Ironically, the latest research seems to indicate the opposite to be true: Dad jokes may be good for your children’s health.

How to Eat Healthy Amid Rising Food Costs

March 08, 2023 –

Rising food costs are prompting consumers to get creative with their grocery-buying habits. This may be an ideal time to rethink how you spend your food dollars, with a focus on making budget-savvy and healthy choices simultaneously!

How Social Media Impacts Our Children’s Mental Health

February 14, 2023 –

Tablets and smartphones are a present and growing part of our daily lives. If you’re a parent to tweens or teenagers, their use of technology and social media is likely a primary concern. As social media apps such as TikTok and Instagram rise in popularity with our children, it’s relation to mental health has come to the forefront.

Curb the Candy Craze for Trick-or-Treaters

October 14, 2022 – An important lesson we can teach our children is that no foods – not even candy – need to be completely off limits. It is well recognized that restricting foods can lead to an increased desire to consume the forbidden food. In worst case scenarios, restriction can lead to negative thoughts about these foods in the future while negatively affecting relationships with food.

What Parents Should Know About Amblyopia

August 17, 2022 –

Whenever I must deliver a diagnosis of amblyopia, or lazy eye, to a child’s parents, they typically have a lot of concerns. Can it be cured? Will it permanently impact their vision? What does the outlook look like for my child Amblyopia is a condition with long-term implications both for a child’s vision and physical appearance. Luckily, I can offer parents many assurances about the condition.

Three Ways You Can Support Families of Children With Autism

April 15, 2022 – Odds are you either know someone with autism or know of someone with autism. Autism now affects one in 68 children and boys are five times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. The numbers alone are alarming. The fact that there is no medical detection let alone a cure, even more so. As a self-proclaimed advocate for my child on the autism spectrum, I have complied a list of 3 simple (and fun) ways YOU can support families with children with autism.

Delicious and Nutritious: Add Latin American Flavor to Your Plate

March 14, 2022 – March is National Nutrition Month. That makes this month a great time to start making nutritious food choices for better overall health. If you think that eating healthy means eating boring, think again. The nutrition team at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is here to remind you that a world of flavors from other cultures is waiting for you. All you need are a few tips to start eating fun, healthy and delicious meals from around the globe! 

Enjoying Spring Break With Kids During COVID-19

February 14, 2022 – Spring break is approaching, and as you plan an exciting family trip, the question may linger about how you and your family can travel safely with the ongoing COVID-19 worries and precautions. Here are a few tips that can help you plan so that your family can have a trip to remember.

Putting a Stop to Teen Smoking

January 19, 2022 – Parents, teachers and pediatricians often faced the challenge of encouraging teens to avoid smoking cigarettes — or helping them quit if they started smoking. Now that challenge has taken a different form, as e-cigarette use, or vaping, has become the growing trend among today’s teenagers. 

National Stalking Awareness Month: Awareness and Prevention

January 17, 2022 – January is National Stalking Awareness Month, and we are sharing tips, information, and resources to assist anyone who may be a victim. While any sort of unwelcome communication or interaction is unpleasant, it’s important to know the seriousness of stalking and the safety measures that can be taken to protect oneself.

Tips for a Happy and Healthy Holiday Table

December 10, 2021 – Hosting a holiday at home does not come without challenges, but the good news is that you can navigate the holidays beautifully and help create memories for years to come with a good plan and strategy. This is why we have created a list of things that can help you navigate the holidays with the confidence of a worry-free table.

Five Indoor Holiday Activities To Do With Your Family

December 07, 2021 – Engaging in holiday activities can create memories that your children will remember forever! The holidays are a great reminder of what is important, and for me, that is family. With the hustle of everyday activities, we tend to rush through the day without taking the time to be present. Here are some great activities you can do from home with your family and kids.

Participate in Safe Toys and Gifts Month This Holiday Season

November 29, 2021 – December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. During the biggest gift-giving month of the year, it is important to be cautious when buying presents for your little ones. 

National Bulling Prevention Month: How to Help Children Who Are Being Bullied

October 13, 2021 – Bullying has become a widespread public health crisis. In commemoration of October’s National Bullying Prevention Month, Dr. Jackeline Sanchez wanted to discuss the importance of this issue and how parents and other adults can help a child being bullied, either in person or virtually.

Preparing for Flu Season

October 13, 2021 – With flu season already here and our kids back in school, there are a few small steps you can take to keep everyone in your family healthy this year. Learn more about the 2021-22 flu season and how the flu vaccines are quadrivalent to protect against each of these unique strains of the virus.

Raising Stuttering Awareness

October 13, 2021 –

Stuttering occurs as children learn many languages and sort through how to pronounce different words. While about 75 percent of kids recover from developmental stuttering early on, some may need additional treatment as they age. Nicole Gondar Hernandez, speech-language pathologist, shares some important information to help spotlight this communication disorder.

Helping Your Children Deal with Grief

September 22, 2021 – There are many factors involved in how your children process loss, such as how close they were to the person who passed away, their age and maturity level, and their support system. However, it's important to let your child know what to expect, so they are prepared for what is to come. Vanessa tells her story about how she helped her daughters through a difficult time. 

Back to School: Routines for a Good Experience

September 01, 2021 – If you’re like most families, you are in the swing of back-to-school. Though they sometimes fight it, our kids thrive on structure. So it’s time to wake up early and refresh our routines for this new school year. Follow these tips to ease back into a routine with your child so that they have a great school year.

Keeping Your Child’s Vision in FOCUS This School Year and Beyond

August 18, 2021 –

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. That means that it is the perfect time to have your child’s eyes and vision checked so they can be ready to start the new school year. Studies have shown that better vision leads to improved academic performance in children. Parents need to remember that they have the best chance of detecting vision problems and taking action by getting their children’s vision checked. Learn more about the guidelines for yearly vision screenings and the vision problems to look out for in your children.

Back-to-School Jitters

August 13, 2021 – Every new school year brings both excitement and jitters for most children. Many children completed school virtually this past year and found themselves in the comfort of their homes with their families, while others who attended hybrid or in-person schooling may be excited to return to the classroom. No matter what your child’s recent school experience has been, he or she may be experiencing anxiety about the year ahead. Here are some tips to help your child with the transition back to school. 

#GiveMe5 and Kohl’s Cares Deliver Help to the Community as Food Insecurity Rises During Summer

June 08, 2021 – We want to help our patient families increase their intake of fruits and vegetables by doubling our food assistance program. It is important to consume five servings of fruit and vegetables every day to receive the necessary vitamins and minerals. Eating more fruits and vegetables can help prevent some types of cancers and chronic illnesses. Here are ten tips to help you eat more fruits and vegetables this summer.

From Nursing to Family Dinners

June 02, 2021 – They say that the kitchen is the heart of every home, but when you are a new parent, the kitchen may feel like just the opposite. While It may be hard now to imagine the day when your little ones will be able to plan and prepare their own meals and sit at the table conversing about their lives, that day is coming and sooner than you think! The truth is, the “simple act of eating” is not very simple after all. Whether your child is neuro-typical or neuro-atypical, establishing a healthy feeding relationship offers so many beautiful moments and challenges at the same time.

Mental Health Awareness Month: One Mother’s Journey with Postpartum Depression

June 01, 2021 – My personal experience with maternal mental illness was with postpartum depression (PPD) – a condition I describe as being like a slow-moving fog of darkness that sneaks up on you until it completely consumes you. PPD symptoms vary from person to person, so that also makes recognizing it very complicated when it happens to you. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to PPD.

New Guidelines Related to Infant Peanut Exposure

May 10, 2021 – If you or a loved one is living with a peanut allergy, then you know that it’s a condition that always needs to be taken seriously. For many years, allergy experts felt that the best way to prevent peanut allergies and their dangerous symptoms was to delay the age when children were first exposed to peanuts. However, more recent research has led to considerable changes to this advice.

Helping Children and Adolescents Manage their Anxiety

May 07, 2021 – The COVID-19 pandemic brought forth feelings of stress, sadness, worry and anxiety. Anxiety, in particular, has increased in the past year among children and adolescents due to changes in routine, schooling, social connections, time spent with extended family and future plans. The first step in helping your child manage his or her anxiety is knowing what types of situations may trigger those anxious feelings.

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.

Should Youth Athletes be Taking Dietary Supplements? Are They Necessary?

December 16, 2020 – The prevalence of supplement use among the young athletic populations is relatively high. The percentage of youth athletes, ages 11-18, using dietary supplements has been reported to vary from 22.3 percent to 71 percent.

Recovery Nutrition in Children and Teen Athletes

November 10, 2020 – Proper nutrition is key to ensure optimal recovery of young athletes after a long training, practice, or game day. Most athletes train for several hours a day, at least five days a week.

Pediatric Telehealth – Know the Facts

November 06, 2020 – The reality of COVID-19 has turned our world upside down in many ways. One positive outcome has been the consumer adoption of virtual doctor’s visits, also known as telehealth.

So Your Kids Are Heading Back to School… Now What?

October 02, 2020 – For months, we have learned new ways to protect ourselves and our children from COVID-19. We have learned guidelines for novel ways of socializing, we have worn our masks, compulsively cleaned our hands (and some of us – our groceries), stayed home, and learned how to complete our work virtually – all while taking on a new role as teachers to our children.

Transitioning Back Into Sports After a Long Break

October 02, 2020 – The start of the new school year typically also marks the start of the school sports season. Young athletes who have been sedentary for the last several months should slowly increase physical activity daily until their bodies adjust to prevent injury.

Jewish Holiday Celebrations During COVID-19

September 08, 2020 – The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely changed the world that we know it in all aspects. Our worlds have been turned upside down in so many ways.

Five Ways to Minimize Sibling Arguments When Virtual Schooling

September 02, 2020 – When this pandemic started, few of us could have imagined that this would last into the following school year. But here we are, settling into the 2020/21 academic year, with many of us in the midst of managing virtual school again. Although it’s not the most ideal situation, there are things we can do to make the process go a bit smoother.

Back to School & Back to a Sleep Routine

August 25, 2020 – For a lot of us, summertime means relaxed schedules and routines. In our house, this means being less strict with bedtimes for both kids and parents! With school starting up soon, I know many of us are thinking about those early morning routines yet again, and wondering how we can get our kids back on track. For a lot of us, summertime means relaxed schedules and routines. In our house, this means being less strict with bedtimes for both kids and parents!

Milestones in the Pandemic - Starting High School

August 24, 2020 – I remember almost every detail of my first day of high school. What I wore (no uniforms in public school back then), my first period French class and most of the kids in my class. I came from a relatively small private Catholic school, so entering a big public high school was a huge deal. My high school memories were (mostly) amazing, and I look back on those years fondly.

Managing COVID-19: Children with Cancer 

July 27, 2020 –

The global spread of COVID-19 has led to an increase in health and hygiene practices to reduce the risk of transmission. Children with cancer who have actively or recently received treatment have weakened immune systems that can increase the likelihood of contracting infections and developing associated health complications. 

Coping with COVID-19 for Children with Intellectual Disabilities

July 21, 2020 – As a parent or caregiver of a child with an intellectual disability during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, your family may be experiencing significant changes. You can help your child navigate these difficult times by taking into consideration 

Benefits of Farm Fresh, Locally Grown Produce is Always Trending

July 09, 2020 – Not only does buying fruits and vegetables that are in season offer you the best value for your money as well as more nutritious for you, but it also supports our local farmers, the environment, and will help boost our local economy.

Why are Walnuts Good for Me?

June 11, 2020 – Walnuts are tasty nuts that deserve a place at your table, with 13 grams of polyunsaturated fats, 4 grams of protein, 4 grams of total carbohydrate, 2 grams of dietary fiber, 130 mg of potassium and 30 mg of calcium per ounce.

Tech-Free Entertainment

June 08, 2020 – These days, most children are hooked on technology. With social distancing recommendations and shelter-in-place orders becoming our new normal, it’s a challenge to keep kids off electronics. They’re on Zoom video conferencing for virtual school, completing assignments on the web, playing with apps on their tablets, and TV has become a way to pass #quarantinelife.

Keeping Our Children’s Eyes Healthy During Prolonged Use of Electronic Devices

June 02, 2020 – We all have had to make several adjustments during this new era of COVID-19 restrictions and social distancing. One of the most significant and unique impacts on our children in particular has been the transition to virtual schooling and an increased use of computers and electronic devices. Children in South Florida, across the country and around the world have been attending school virtually for the past two months with no clear end in sight.

All Snacks are Not Created Equally

May 19, 2020 – Understanding why you are snacking is as important as knowing what to snack on. So, let’s take a closer look at the science behind snacking. Research says – We snack to satisfy cravings, relieve hunger, increase nutrient intake, boredom, to deal with emotions and sometimes to replace meals. The go-to-snacks are usually something like chocolate, chips and/or cheese. Mindful Snacking – Is about paying attention to what you eat, why you eat it, and how you eat it. Understanding the purpose and intention of the snack.

Foods to Help Manage Stress

May 05, 2020 – Good stress or short-term stress is a healthy natural response that enhances the immune system. It is the long-term chronic stress that affects our ability to make healthy choices and to fight infections. To maximize the effects of "good stress," we need to find ways to cope with it fast. Fortunately, there are many things that we can do. Staying active and getting the right amount of sun is essential in managing stress. Check out the following tips that can help next time you find yourself in a stressful situation.

Supporting Children with ADHD While Social Distancing

May 01, 2020 – Children who have transitioned to the home-school or virtual-school setting may experience difficulties focusing. This can be especially true for a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Through structure, tailored behavior management plans, and reinforcement strategies, children with ADHD can thrive in this “new normal.”

Tips for Ordering Restaurant Meals

April 28, 2020 – Making healthful choices from restaurant menus can be challenging, and online menus can be more difficult since nutrition facts are usually hidden within the site, if available at all. Understanding the menu language will help you make smart food choices.

Five Tips on Meal Planning and Healthy Eating on a Budget

April 24, 2020 – Sometimes deciding what to cook is just a matter of asking your tummy, “What do you want to eat?” and sometimes it takes a short trip to the pantry or fridge to get inspired.

CEO, mom and… TEACHER?

April 23, 2020 – Prior to this global pandemic, I would have never imagined home schooling my two daughters, ages 6 and 8. I am an entrepreneur who is used to multitasking, but now I find myself in the unique situation of managing a business, a household and virtual school all while trying to keep my sanity — I’m sure many of you are in the same boat!

Guidelines for Coping with Autistic Children During the Pandemic

April 10, 2020 – Coronavirus (COVID-19) has impacted all of our lives in varying ways, and families of children with autism spectrum disorder may have unique challenges in handling information about the virus and all the changes that come with it.

Make Mealtimes a Fun and Educational Activity

April 10, 2020 – Cooking meals together as a family is a great way to bond in a fun and educational way. Children of all ages can join their parents in creating meals by choosing side dishes, helping with mixing and preparation. Parents can use this opportunity to demonstrate how fruits and veggies can be incorporated to make a meal healthier and tastier.

Keeping Your Food Safe

April 07, 2020 – We all know the importance of washing our hands to stay healthy. But did you know that all fresh fruits and vegetables need to be washed just as thoroughly? Check out these steps that you can follow to ensure your fruits and veggies are fresh and ready to enjoy!

Keeping Kids Safe During Social Distancing

April 03, 2020 –

As the need for social distancing continues in our communities, many parents, myself included, want to keep our children happy, healthy and safe. To most kids, the current situation feels like freedom; they are physically out of school making it challenging to focus on schoolwork with all the distractions of being at home.

The Importance of Maintaining Children’s Daily Routines

April 02, 2020 – Routines are an important part of everyday life, for children and adults alike. Routines make us feel safe, secure, and confident. During times like these when many children are unexpectedly home, it is especially important to keep a routine going to promote physical health and structure.

How to Boost your Immune System with Nutrition

March 27, 2020 – A healthy immune system is your family’s best weapon to fight the common cold or the flu season, and our job is to keep you ready. Below is a list of six immune-boosting nutrients and the different foods they can be found in, recommended by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s #GiveMe5 program.

Adjusting to Home Learning

March 20, 2020 – We have all be thrust into a totally unexpected new normal, and for many of us, that now involves school-aged children at home with us 24/7. While many of our schools are sending out work and assignments, some of us are looking for things to do with kids who have not yet received assignments or who are on spring break already. In addition, some of us have to be able to work remotely while our children are hanging off of our arms or we need to be able to entertain them while we get said work done.

Navigating a New Virtual Learning World

March 20, 2020 – Like many parents around the U.S., this week we embarked on the brave new task of virtual learning with our kids. For many parents who homeschool their children, this may be just another day, but combined with social distancing recommendations, “parenting and living virtually” as I like to call it can present some unexpected challenges. It’s also an opportunity to show our children what’s possible through educational technology and how to reconnect as a family.

The Importance of Chores

October 28, 2019 – As a mompreneur who juggles all the things, it’s important for me to teach my kids the value of hard work.
I remember growing up with my grandparents and helping my grandma around the house. I don’t recall her ever handing me a list of specific things to do, but I always felt like it was something I needed to do. Sometimes she’d ask me to do specific tasks, but I think it was just understood that I should help around the house — even when I wasn’t asked. That’s just the way I was raised.

Why I Chose To Formula Feed

September 25, 2019 – I knew very early on, before kids actually, that I didn’t want to breastfeed. I was a formula fed kid myself and I turned out pretty good!
I was a healthy baby, child, and adolescent, so and as far as adulthood, I can say the same. I knew I wanted to formula feed my own kids, just like I was. I was confident in my decision then, confident when I was pregnant and confident when both my children were formula fed from day one; I wouldn’t change anything.

Stop Mowing the Lawn

September 16, 2019 – I’m sure you’ve all heard of “helicopter parenting.” This is when we as well-meaning parents hover over our children to step in when they need us. But have you heard of Lawnmower Parenting? Lawnmower Parenting is when parents literally, “mow down” problems for their children, so they don’t have to face them.

Nesting

June 10, 2019 –

Gently gliding back and forth in the rocking chair of my soon to be baby girl’s nursery. I remember the feelings of nervousness, excitement, curiosity and peace that this nightly ritual provided me. I also fondly recall the planning. The preparation. The detailed list of tasks I created and then embarked on with great zeal as I readied the nest for my newborn.

A Medical Mom’s Travel Checklist

June 05, 2019 –

As my son reaches three and a half, it’s safe to say he’s quite well traveled. He’s had probably 10 ambulance rides, and just as many road trips and plane rides. Now, the ambulance rides were not by choice — albeit necessary, but the other voyages were all in the name of visiting family and other personal life choices. No matter why you travel with your medically complex kiddo, you’ve got to bring a lot of baggage.

Transitions

May 08, 2019 –

It was just yesterday that I held you in my arms. You were the sweetest most beautiful little girls and truly a blessing in every way. How could I be so lucky as to have these amazing gifts? We had fun with Playdough, puzzles, dress up and watching the girls take flight on the playground swings.

Post Baby Blues are Real… And You Aren’t Alone

April 12, 2019 – They tell you that having a baby is the most magical time in your life. Words like, ‘unconditional love,’ ‘amazing,’ ‘pure bliss,’ are thrown around to describe that moment you become a mother, and it’s true you do feel all these amazing feelings. An exuberant joy descends upon you and transcends you into the most euphoric state, beginning the moment that baby is placed in your arms, and from that moment, you shall never feel sadness again.
Excuse me while I chuckle.

Prenatal Genetic Testing

January 31, 2019 – As a mom of a child with a rare diagnosis, the topic of prenatal genetic testing has come up more times than I can remember. When I was pregnant, I felt that knowing information about my child’s future ahead of time would set him up for the best care possible after birth. While there are many views on prenatal genetic testing, I would like to share mine in an effort to offer an opinion of a mom who actually does have a son with a genetic condition.

Imperfect Action

September 30, 2018 – One thing I hear a lot - and I’m sure many other special needs moms hear a lot — is “I don’t know how you do it all.” What has become so common and normal for us, seems insurmountable to the non-special needs parents. The truth is, if you were in our shoes, you’d just figure it out, like we do.

Follow the Leader

July 18, 2018 – My child is the one having the surgery, and while I am allowed to be anxious and nervous, I really should be following his lead. If I act and look scared around him, he’ll pick up on that energy and feel like he’s supposed to be scared.  If I treat him like he’s “sick” all the time, he’s going to act “sick” all the time. 

Fireworks Safety Tips for the Fourth of July

July 03, 2018 – Watching the Fourth of July fireworks is a family tradition in South Florida and across the country. It's a time when parents and children share the "oohs" and "aahs" of these colorful displays that light up the night and celebrate our nation's history. It's also a time to play it safe, particularly when lighting sparklers or setting off Roman candles or other fireworks at home.

Keeping Safe this Summer

July 02, 2018 – Making sure that someone is always paying attention to the water or to the children is a huge way to avoid a drowning event. To help you with this, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is distributing free Water Watcher badges to families in the community. 

From Babbling to Words: How to Stimulate Your Child’s Language During the First Year of Life

June 20, 2018 – The first year of a child’s life is full of wonderful firsts: The first nerve wracking car ride home after the hospital, the first time he or she smiles, the first time a child actually sleeps through the night (yay) and, of course, the first time you hear your child’s voice. Your child will begin to communicate with you and express himself long before you even hear his first word.

The Definition of Motherhood

May 18, 2018 – My family and I recently relocated to Birmingham, Al. One of the many things on my to do list was to find a counselor in this new city. In one of our first sessions together, she asked me this seemingly simple question. “What does it mean to you to be a mother?”  I started to answer by listing off things that I do as a mother, tasks that I assume as my son’s mother, but that’s not what she asked me. I had to stop, take a breath, and answer as honestly as I could.

Caring for Rare

February 27, 2018 – In honor of Rare Disease Day 2018, I’m sharing with you my experience so far in raising a child with a rare diagnosis. So rare, in fact, he shares the diagnosis with approximately 50 other people worldwide. For us, this means many things physically, and emotionally. It requires patience, the ability to acquire and hold on to new knowledge, the openness to learn how to care for your child in a way that does not come naturally, and making peace with unknowns. Let’s dive in.

No such thing as planning in parenting

January 31, 2018 – It’s always a good idea to educate yourself and try to prepare for the challenges that parenthood will inevitably bring. There are various parenting self-help books available and, of course, an experienced mom or dad may be able to offer a pointer or two. But even if you do access all your resources – guess what? You’re going to make mistakes because you’re human and child-rearing is not a perfect science. I promise that nobody has it completely figured out.

Ser mamá de 3

January 29, 2018 – Una pregunta bastante común en estos días es ¿qué se siente ser mamá de 3? Y con el corazón en la mano y muchas ganas de compartir esta aventura, les contaré lo maravilloso y lo complicado que es.
Yo soy hija única, crecí sin hermanos y sin primitos, por lo que siempre soñé con tener una familia grande. Después de tener a mi primera hija, estaba segura que quería tener otro bebé y sin dudas ni miedos, buscamos a mi pequeña Sabrina.

Holidays in the Hospital

January 23, 2018 – ’Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring because we were stuck in the Special Care Unit at our local children’s hospital fighting a terrible trifecta of pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and gastrointestinal issues. What a vacation, right? Five days of respiratory support, holding feeds, and sleeping on a couch did not really meet our expectations for a Christmas holiday this past year, but it’s where we ended up.

Tough Love

December 20, 2017 – Sometimes it seriously feels like my child hates me, and I know I am not the only mom to ever feel this way. I love that kid more than I could ever adequately express in words, and every single thing that I do, I do with the intention of providing the best possible childhood for him.

"Priorities"

December 13, 2017 – Having a kid with multiple chronic health conditions has given me a whole new outlook on prioritizing. And I don’t mean the more obvious “putting your children’s needs before your own” kind of priority, I’m talking about the minuscule tasks and goals that need to be prioritized each and every day. 

A Mother's Oath

November 22, 2017 – As mothers, we sometimes assume all responsibility for our children’s pain. We forget that it’s not only impossible to absorb or prevent all of their suffering, but it may also be detrimental to their well-being. Sure, we want to eliminate whatever stressors we can, but some obstacles will not be removable. And sometimes, just because a challenge can be avoided, doesn’t mean that it should be.

El amor por los primeros hijos

November 15, 2017 – Isa es mi primer amor, mi sueño de ser mamá hecho realidad; mi primera compañera de desvelos, de amamantadas con miedos y una pregunta constante cual es ¿Qué hago ahora con esta bebé? Con ella he aprendido a ser mejor persona y mejor mamá.  Es mi guía y maestra para entender que funciona, que no funciona y tal vez que puedo hacer diferente con sus hermanas Sabri y Mikis. Con ella he aprendido a superar miedos y obstáculos que me permiten estar más tranquila y segura cuando los vivo con mis otras dos chiquitas.

“But, He doesn’t Look Disabled…”

November 08, 2017 –

It’s the reason why I cringe as people walk past me after I’ve parked in the handicapped spot, the reason why I chose a bright blue hearing aid instead of one to match his hair, and the reason why I’d almost rather be using an adaptive stroller rather than an average one (though the cost of adaptive equipment will make you re-think that real quick). To the untrained eye, no, my son doesn’t look disabled/ handicapped/ abnormal, and I guess I am glad for that - although to say that is rather guilt-inducing because I don’t think that anyone with more obvious disabilities should be ashamed of that, either. 

¡Celebrar la vida!

October 26, 2017 – Mis hijas son lo mejor que me ha pasado en la vida y su vida hay que celebrarla. Porque además de eso, me encanta gozar, pasar rico y qué mejor oportunidad que juntar a los amigos y la familia para celebrar los “milestones” de los hijos.

Balancing Life

October 18, 2017 – Blogger Anais Grullon discusses the daily struggles with balancing everything in life, in addition to being the best parent possible.

To My Fellow Imperfect Parents

October 11, 2017 – I never imagined that I would have to transition into parenthood without my husband by my side. That was never the plan. The plan always included him, as far back as I can remember. Then, suddenly, without warning or my consent, the plan changed and I was forced to adjust. 

First Time Medical Mom

October 03, 2017 – My first experience as a parent was consenting to surgery, the first of quite a few that would take place in Oscar’s first year of life.  The decision was clear — of course, I would consent. The alternative to surgery was quite grim. The medical interventions that Oscar would endure in the first few days of life were life-saving and absolutely necessary, but that doesn’t take away from how scary and difficult they were to endure. 

Are we Hurting or Helping Our Children?

September 13, 2017 – How often do we judge ourselves on not being the parent we think we should be? Should being the key word here. This is the first lie we tell ourselves when judging our own parenting skills. There’s a big difference between the kind of parent we think we should be and the actual parent we are. And the first step in becoming a better parent is accepting the kind of species that we are when raising our little ones. 

¿Calidad o Cantidad?

September 01, 2017 – Hoy quiero invitarlas a que nos tomemos un buen tiempo para estar con nuestros hijos y tener más calidad al compartir con ellos. Y esto es no solo para las mamás que trabajan, a quienes entiendo, pues soy una de ellas, y me consta lo que sentimos al no poder estar con nuestros chiquitos como queremos. Sino también a las mamás que están 100% disponibles para atender sus pequeñitos. Todas, cada una en nuestra manera, queremos tiempo con estas personitas que nos llaman MAMÁ.

Parenting in a Social Media World

August 29, 2017 – Vlogger, local mom and business owner Annie Grullon discusses the pressures of social media on parents and children for Parents Connect. 

Play Dates. It's Complicated.

August 23, 2017 – Going on one’s first playdate almost feels like a right of passage. You dream of your child meeting their new best friend, and imagine them growing up together side by side. You’re hopeful to find a new best friend yourself, a new mom who understands what you’re going through, and start planning future dates for lunch, coffee, shopping, mommy and me classes, and maybe even double dates with your spouses before you’ve even really met. It will be perfect! But what if it’s nothing like that? What if you have absolutely nothing in common except the fact that you’ve birthed a child recently? What if you have completely different approaches in parenting? What if your child is developmentally delayed and their kid is running in circles around yours?

Living in the Now

August 16, 2017 – Earlier tonight, I was snuggled up behind Mason as I lay with him in his new car bed waiting for him to fall asleep. He was facing away from me and my arms were wrapped tightly around his delicious little body. Somehow my hand inadvertently ended up perfectly wedged between the mattress and his chest, and I could feel every beat of his tiny heart on my fingertips. I usually leave shortly after I'm sure he has dozed off into dream land. But tonight, I lingered for a while longer.

Welcome!

August 14, 2017 –

Welcome to Parents Connect, the official blog of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, written by parents for parents. Parents Connect is a space where families can 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.