“Your toddler produces growth hormones [while] sleeping. If they don’t get adequate sleep, they may have growth problems, including stunted or slow growth,” says Rebecca Michi, a pediatric sleep consultant in Seattle, Wash. While a few weeks of interrupted sleep during an illness or fearful phase may be no big deal, chronic sleep deprivation can not only affect growth but is also linked to concentration issues and health problems like diabetes....

Chocolate has even been lauded for having antioxidants and some heart-health benefits. But is it safe for babies and toddlers? Find out everything you need to know about chocolate and young children. Food Introductions and Allergies When it comes to allergies to chocolate and cocoa, scientists used to believe reactions to chocolate were related to other allergens in the chocolate, like nuts, peanuts, or milk. However, a study published in 2019 has found that—although rare—it is possible for children and adults to have a true food allergy to chocolate and cocoa....

When your child was a baby or toddler, growth spurts were kind of a big deal. Not only they did make your baby unusually grumpy or fussy, they also probably caused them to become hungrier and to sleep poorly. As they got older, though, growth spurts happened more gradually. You might not have even noticed how much your child was growing. All you knew was that sometimes they needed a new pair of jeans because theirs keep getting too short....

Doctors often advise women to have a preconception health visit with their doctor or midwife if they are thinking about getting pregnant. Your provider can help you devise a plan and ensure you are as healthy as possible in preparation for pregnancy. Post-Pill Symptoms It was once believed that once you stopped taking the pill, you should wait two to three menstrual cycles before becoming pregnant. Doctors also once believed that if you got pregnant right away, there was a higher chance of miscarriage....

That’s why many new moms find it helpful to discuss their experiences and seek advice from other new moms who’ve recently had babies. You’re able to relate on a very real level because they are dealing with or have dealt with the same things recently. Their knowledge is fresh and current, and they have a deep level of understanding and empathy. They are up to date with the newest guidelines and trends and are happy to share and connect....

Group B Strep (GBS) You will most likely be tested for Group B Strep at the end of your pregnancy, typically between weeks 34-36. If you are positive for GBS during that test you will most like receive antibiotics in labor via your IV or saline lock. You may also be given antibiotics if you have given birth to a baby who contracted GBS. Prophylactic for Just in Case In some birth situation, you may be given antibiotics just in case, an example might be for a cesarean section or c-section....

Causes If you’re experiencing ongoing nipple tenderness or if breastfeeding has become very painful, this is usually an indication that something is wrong. Here is an overview of common breastfeeding issues that lead to sore nipples. Incorrect Latch: If your baby isn’t latched on properly, sore nipples are often the result. Breast Engorgement: Hard, swollen breasts can be very tender, especially during latch on. Mastitis: Soreness can result from inflammation or infection of the breast....

Pay attention to mysterious marks or bruises, injuries, or sudden changes in your child’s demeanor or behavior. These can be signs of abuse, but they can also have other explanations. Abuse is a serious accusation that should not be taken lightly. However, it’s important to trust your gut, even when you don’t have tangible proof. If something feels off, it’s better to find a new nanny. If you aren’t sure and decide to keep the nanny on, be sure to lock up your valuables until you are certain your nanny is worthy of your trust....

The good news is that everyone has the ability to become a more authoritative parent. And you can match authoritative parenting strategies like these to your child’s unique temperament to ensure you aren’t using a cookie-cutter approach to parenting. So whether your child is telling you the same joke for the tenth time or sharing a long-winded story, be a good listener. Giving your child positive attention goes a long way toward preventing behavior problems....

Your 4-month-old’s vision is also drastically improving. “Your baby’s visual range has increased to several yards, which is crucial in this period of rapid early motor and cognitive development,” explains Florencia Segura, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician at Einstein Pediatrics in Vienna, Virginia. Being 4 months old comes with so many new, exciting achievements. From improved mobility to a more consistent sleep schedule and interest in solid foods, the developmental milestones at this age happen quickly—so it’s important to keep up!...

But have you ever considered how all this rhetoric is affecting our children? They are hearing and absorbing a lot more than most adults realize they are; and when the political speeches contain bullying and inflammatory language, it can have a huge impact on kids. Stop and think about it for a minute. Many young people will say they aspire to be president of the United States someday. And even if they don’t want to be president when they grow up, many kids are in awe of the country’s leader....

Induction of labor can be a positive experience. Having an understanding of what a labor induction entails will help you prepare for the big day. Understanding the process and having realistic expectations are key to helping you prepare. Know Your Cervix Once you and your provider have determined that your labor will be induced, you’ll need to know a bit about your cervix. Your doctor or midwife will do a vaginal exam and calculate a Bishop Score that estimates how likely an induction is to bring on labor....

Assuage your guilt by understanding that no parent is perfect and, sometimes, you do what you must to get through the day. Here are the top seven reasons parents feel guilty and tips for ways to deal with those feelings. Research shows that children’s language, social, and cognitive skills can be benefited by attending a quality daycare. If going to work makes you happy, then your going to work provides a world of benefit for the entire family....

Every care provider will have policies and suggestions about supplies, so find out what those are ahead of time. You will feel more confident when you follow a detailed daycare packing list for babies. Pack These Essentials The best way to pack for daycare is to have two bags. One bag will stay at the daycare with extras like diapers, wipes, clothing, and bedding, and it can get replenished as needed....

The physical and psychological benefits of athletic involvement are acknowledged, but there’s certainly an inherent risk in group activities. Still, parents and athletes alike hope that sports can take place as long as there’s a plan for adhering to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for face coverings, social distancing, and sanitizing equipment. Safety Considerations: Is It Safe to Play Sports During COVID? While many students are eager to get back onto fields, courts, gyms, and mats across the country, the AAP urges parents to be extremely cautious and informed when making their decision....

But the effects of being bullied are more than just emotional and psychological. In fact, research shows that there may be physical impacts as well, such as obesity, sleep issues, and structural changes in the brains of teens who are regularly victimized. What’s more, these physical changes to their brains could contribute to physical and mental health issues later in life. A 2018 study conducted by Erin Burke Quinlan of King’s College London in the U....

However, a new study has found that allowing your baby to safely play with household items—such as wooden spoons, cardboard boxes or plastic containers—can encourage their development just as much as toys. “Children are just as happy to play with tupperware and boxes and paper and pillows,” says Catherine Tamis-LeMonda, PhD, the study’s lead author and Professor of Applied Psychology at New York University. Far from being destructive or distractible, playing with a wide variety of “toys” in short bursts is hugely beneficial to a baby’s development, says Dr....