Child and Teen Health: It's a Family Affair
Healthy Habits for Kids
You play an important role in helping your children develop healthy habits while they're young. Try to set a good example. Your children look to as a role model. Read More
Parents want what's best for their children, and good health is no exception. You know your children better than anyone, and you're usually the first to respond to their health needs.
Just like adults, children should have a personal physician for both routine and urgent care. Well-child visits are a great opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your pediatrician or family doctor. These are generally scheduled every few months from birth to age 2, then every year or two until age 18. If your children do not have a pediatrician or family doctor, we can help you choose one.
Teen Health
Parents often comment on how fast their kids grow up. Blink: your newborn's a toddler. Blink again: she's starting school. And before you know it, you've got a teenager on your hands!
The ages between 15 and 18 are a time of discovery for both teens and parents. However, these years can be as challenging as they are exciting. Many teens have periods of fluctuating emotions, as they have a tendency to base their worth on unrealistic comparisons, such as media images of the ideal body. Self-image is also influenced by success in sports and school, peer relationships, and how well they are meeting the expectations of their parents.
For parents, the teen years are a time to adapt to this growing young person. Teens, although maturing, still need a parent's love and guidance. Fortunately, most teens tackle these years with few problems, especially those who have done well up to this time and have had good support from their parents. Read More
Sports Checkups
Smart Tips for Playing Sports
- Warm up before you start. Warm muscles are less susceptible to strains, pulls, and other injuries.
- Drink lots of water, especially on warm days.
- Be sure to wear protective pads, mouth guards, helmets, gloves, and other equipment that fits you well.
It's a smart idea for your child to have a physical exam before joining in sports. Your doctor will get a complete picture of your child's health and growth. In addition, the doctor can answer any questions your child has about his or her body and health. A physical is not done to keep a child from playing sports. It is done to give the family, doctor, and coaches information that can protect the child's health and safety.
Before the exam, gather any records that your doctor might need. These might include information on injuries and health problems, as well as immunization and dental histories and records from earlier exams. If your child has been having an off-and-on problem, even one that does not seem important (such as a slight cough or backache), be sure to tell the doctor. The doctor also will want to know about any family history of serious illness. Finally, the doctor will want to know what sports your child does, since each sport calls for its own level of fitness. Read More