"Duck Walks for Sports Physicals" text overlying an image of a woman in athletic gear in deep squat position, as if she is performing a duck walk

Why is duck walking part of the sports physical?

“Do I have to do the duck walk today?” Sometimes a returning high school athlete would ask this as they walked into the room for their sports physical. There are many parts of a sports physical, but the duck walk seems to be more memorable. Every year, across the country school-aged kids participate in organized sports….

bowl of fresh produce including sliced cucumber, chickpeas, lettuce, and tomatoes. Example of a meal from a variety of plants, ideal for improving gut microbiome
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How to Improve a Child’s Microbiome with Plants

Let’s talk about a child’s gut microbiome. The gut “microbiome” includes all the bacteria and tiny organisms that live in a child’s gut. And, it influences overall health, not just a child’s gut health. A baby or child’s microbiome may impact brain development and their immune system. It also may also affect their risks for…

black and white image of newborn baby hand grasping an adult thumb, typical of palmar grasp newborn reflex
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Why Do Babies Flail Their Arms? All About Newborn Reflexes

Newborns are full of snuggles, wails, and wrinkly skin. They also have a bunch of funny movements. For example, parents may wonder why babies flail their arms out when surprised. These movements relate to the developing nervous system. Newborn reflexes are involuntary movements or positions. And, they begin to develop even before a baby is…

phot of infant drinking from a bottle. black and white photo. bottle may contain infant formula
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Is Powdered Infant Formula Sterile? What Parents Need to Know About Formula Preparation

Infant formula is a medical marvel. It is safe and nutritious for babies who are unable to drink breastmilk (also known as human milk). Some infant formulas come as powders that are mixed with water for the baby to drink. So, is powdered infant formula sterile? Some parents are surprised to find that the powdered…

cup of coffee with milk being poured into the mug, emphasizing that some coffee is usually okay while breastfeeding
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How much coffee can you have while breastfeeding?

Is coffee okay while breastfeeding? How about other sources of caffeine? Many breastfeeding or nursing moms ask about coffee, so today’s post will go over the basics. I’ll go over caffeine in breastmilk, how it may affect a baby, and how it may affect milk supply. The take-away: Many breastfed babies do just fine if…

box of tissue and presumably saline nasal spray, both common safe treatments of the common cold in children

What Actually Helps Treat the Common Cold in Children

It’s that time of year. Or, these days, is it always that time of year? Cold and flu season. The season of upper respiratory tract infections. If your little one is feeling unwell, sometimes it’s hard to know what helps and what doesn’t. Today’s post will review the treatments that have evidence and science behind…

Branch of green leaves reaching from right side of frame, symbolizing pathway to eating disorder recovery
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Information to Help Parents Support Kids in Eating Disorder Recovery

Today’s post is about eating disorders. It’s meant for families with someone already diagnosed. Maybe they’re starting to think about eating disorder recovery. So, before I go on: if you think you or your child has an eating disorder, please see your physician. If you’re not sure, please see your physician. In the meantime, The…

adult hand holding infant hand. some parents worry about night weaning due to cavity concerns.
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Do you need to night wean to prevent cavities?

It’s a common question. A one-year-old wakes a few times a night to breastfeed. Perhaps this one-year-old has teeth. Should they stop night feedings? More specifically, is a baby’s dental health a reason to night wean? Many parents and babies aren’t ready to stop nighttime feeds, but may wonder about cavities, also called dental caries….

several bath toys are partially submerged in bubble bath

Vulvovaginitis in Young Kids: What Causes it and How to Help

Today’s post discusses something many young girls experience at least once before puberty: vulvovaginitis. With this, they may complain of pain or discomfort around their private parts. While many things can cause these symptoms, vulvovaginitis is one of the most common. This post will describe what it is, how to prevent it, and reasons to…

open road

Motion Sickness in Kids: Why it Happens and How to Help

“Are we there yet?” It’s the refrain of many road trips. The other refrain for some kids? “I’m going to throw up.” Motion sickness in children is pretty common and can feel hopeless in the moment. However, we can help our kids feel less queasy during car rides. Today’s article will cover what motion sickness means,…