Growth & Development
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Communication and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
Your toddler is probably saying a few first words now, but you may not be able to understand them all. Learn about how your child is communicating.
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Communication and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old
Your baby is learning to communicate through facial expressions like smiling or frowning as well as crying, squealing, babbling, and laughing. And those sounds are early attempts to speak!
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Communication and Your 13- to 18-Year-Old
Teens spend much of the day outside the home, but it's important that you take time every day to talk with your teen to share opinions, ideas, and information.
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Communication and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old
Communicating with a child is one of the most pleasurable and rewarding experiences for both parent and child. Learn how to connect with your 2- to 3-year-old.
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Communication and Your 4- to 5-Year-Old
Communicating with our kids is one of the most pleasurable and rewarding parts of parenting. Learn how to connect with your 4- to 5-year-old.
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Communication and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old
Your baby's range of sounds and facial expressions continues to grow, and your baby is also imitating sounds, which are the first attempts at speaking.
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Communication and Your 6- to 12-Year-Old
Communicating with a child is one of the most pleasurable and rewarding experiences for both parent and child. Learn how to connect with your 6- to 12-year-old.
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Communication and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old
Babies this age might be about to say their first words, and communicate using body language. Read more about communicating with your baby.
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Communication and Your Newborn
From birth, your newborn has been communicating with you. Crying may seem like a foreign language, but soon you'll know what your baby needs - a diaper change, a feeding, or your touch.
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Delayed Speech or Language Development
Knowing how speech and language develop can help you figure out if you should be concerned or if your child is right on schedule.
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Does My Toddler Have a Language Delay?
Find out what the experts have to say.
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Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are the main treatment for a type of hearing loss called sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). They work by making sounds louder.
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Hearing Loss
Kids who have hearing loss, or hearing impairment, have trouble hearing or understanding some or all sounds. It’s best to catch hearing problems right away, because treatment is more successful if it starts early.
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Managing Your Toddler's Behavior (Video)
Learn how to encourage good behavior, handle tantrums, and keep your cool when parenting your toddler.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Getting Started
Here are answers to common questions about getting started with breastfeeding.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: How Much and How Often
Here's info about how often to breastfeed your baby, how long it takes to nurse, and much more.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Out and About
Here are answers to some common questions about going out in public as a breastfeeding mom - from how to do it discreetly to taming sneaky leaks.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Pain and Discomfort
Here are answers to some common questions about preventing and reducing breastfeeding discomfort, such as nipple and breast pain.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Pumping
Here are answers to some common questions about pumping your breast milk - from buying a pump to making the process a little easier.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Safely Storing Breast Milk
Here are answers to some common questions about how to keep breast milk and how to clean and sterilize supplies, from bottles to nipples to breast pump parts.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Sleep — Yours and Your Baby's
Here are answers to some common questions about breastfed babies and sleep - from where they should snooze to when they'll finally start sleeping through the night.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Solids and Supplementing
Here are answers to some common supplemental feeding questions - from when to introduce solids to offering breastfed babies formula.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Some Common Concerns
Here are answers to some questions about common breastfeeding concerns - from biting to spitting up.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Supply and Demand
Here are answers to some common questions about your milk supply - from having too much to having too little.
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Breastfeeding FAQs: Your Eating and Drinking Habits
Here are answers to some common questions about what breastfeeding moms should and shouldn't eat and drink.
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Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding
Making a decision to breastfeed or formula feed your baby is a personal one. There are some points to consider to help you decide which option is best for you and your baby.
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Caffeine
Caffeine is in many foods and drinks, but it's wise to keep caffeine consumption to a minimum, especially in younger kids. Here's why.
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Calcium
Milk and other calcium-rich foods help build strong, healthy bones. But most kids and teens don't get enough calcium. Here's how to make sure that yours do.
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Carbohydrates and Sugar
Carbs are the body's most important and readily available source of energy. The key is to eat healthy ones, like whole grains, and avoid foods with added sugar.
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Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate: Feeding Your Child
Babies born with a cleft may need some feeding help from special bottle systems. Find out what's available and how they work.
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Fats
Some fats are good for kids and an important part of a healthy diet. Here's what parents should know.
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Feeding Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
Toddlers have little tummies, so serve foods that are packed with the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong, and limit the sweets and empty calories.
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Feeding Your 1- to 3-Month-Old
Whether you've chosen to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby, your infant will let you know when it's time to eat.
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Feeding Your 4- to 7-Month-Old
Is your baby is ready for solid foods? Learn how and when to get started.
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Feeding Your 8- to 12-Month-Old
At this age, babies start to explore table foods.
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Feeding Your Family on a Tight Budget
Everyone needs enough healthy food, but many people can't get it all the time. Here are programs that can help.
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Feeding Your Newborn
These guidelines on breastfeeding and bottle feeding can help you know what's right for you and your baby.
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Fiber
Many appetizing foods are also good sources of fiber - from fruits to whole-grain cereals. Here are ways to help kids get more fiber in their everyday diets.
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Food Allergies
Food allergies can cause serious and even deadly reactions in kids, so it's important to know how to feed a child with food allergies and to prevent reactions.
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Formula Feeding FAQs: Getting Started
Shopping for formula-feeding supplies can be daunting. Here are answers to some common questions about formula feeding.
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Formula Feeding FAQs: How Much and How Often
Get answers to some common formula-feeding inquiries, from how much newborns eat to what their diapers might look like.
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Formula Feeding FAQs: Preparation and Storage
Check out these formula-feeding bottle basics, from how to mix bottles to how to store them safely.
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Formula Feeding FAQs: Some Common Concerns
Read about how to manage common formula-feeding concerns, from spitting up and fussiness to gas and milk allergies.
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Formula Feeding FAQs: Starting Solids and Milk
Find answers to common inquiries about introducing solids and whole milk to formula-fed babies.
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Iron
Iron is an important ingredient needed to make hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying part of every red blood cell.
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Nutrition Guide for Toddlers
While growth slows somewhat during the toddler years, it's a new era where kids will eat and drink more independently.
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Weaning Your Child
Weaning is when children make the transition from breast milk to other sources of nourishment. Here's how to make this change easier on you and your child.
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What Should I Feed My Baby if I Can’t Find Baby Formula in Stores?
There is a national shortage of baby formula. Here are tips on how to handle it.
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A Parent's Guide to Surviving the Teen Years
You've lived through 2 AM feedings, toddler temper tantrums, and the back-to-school blues. So why is the word "teenager" causing you so much anxiety?
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Breath-Holding Spells
Kids who have these spells hold their breath until they pass out. Although upsetting to watch, the spells are not harmful and do not pose any serious, long-term health risks.
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Colic
Colic is common in babies, but that doesn't make it easier for parents to handle. Learn what colic is, what causes it, and what you can do about it.
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Deodorant Use for Kids and Teens
For most kids, body odor is part of growing up. So parents might wonder if it’s time for their child to start using deodorant.
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Disciplining Your Toddler
Reeling in your active little one can be tough. But setting limits now helps prevent bigger problems down the road.
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Managing Your Toddler's Behavior (Video)
Learn how to encourage good behavior, handle tantrums, and keep your cool when parenting your toddler.
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PMS, Cramps, and Irregular Periods
Most period problems are common and normal. But some might be a sign that there's something else going on.
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Potty Training Your Child (Video)
Get tips and advice on helping your child make the switch from diapers to big-kid underwear — for good!
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Signing Kids Up for Sports
Organized sports can help kids grow in many ways. Consider your child's age, personality, and abilities to help make sports fun.
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Talking to Your Child About Periods
Kids reaching puberty should already know what's going to happen to their bodies. Here are some tips for talking to your daughter about menstruation.
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Talking to Your Child About Puberty
Talking to kids about puberty is an important job for parents, especially because kids often hear about sex and relationships from unreliable sources. Here are some tips.
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Teaching Kids About Their Bodies
Teaching kids about their bodies and what is private can help them develop healthy feelings about their bodies in age-appropriate ways.
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Teething Tots
Teething can be a tough time for babies and parents. Here are the facts on teething, including tips for baby teeth hygiene and relieving pain.
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Understanding Puberty
Puberty was awkward enough when you were the one going through it. So how can you help your kids through all the changes?
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When Your Baby's Born Premature
Premature infants, known as preemies, come into the world a few weeks earlier than full-term infants. They can have special needs that make their care different from that of other babies.
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Your Child's Changing Voice
Along with obvious changes in physical appearance that come with puberty, your child’s voice will start sounding a whole lot different too.
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Your Child's Growth
From the moment parents greet their newborn, they watch the baby's progress eagerly. But how can they tell if their child is growing properly?
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A to Z: Failure to Thrive
Failure to thrive refers to a child's inability to gain weight and grow as expected for kids of the same age and gender. Most diagnoses are made in the first few years of life.
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Body Mass Index (BMI)
Doctors use body mass index (BMI) measurements to assess a child's physical growth in relation to other kids the same age. Here's how to calculate BMI and understand what the numbers mean.
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Delayed Puberty
Puberty usually begins in girls 8-14, and in boys 9-15. If kids pass this normal age range without showing any signs of body changes, it's called delayed puberty.
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Dwarfism
Dwarfism is a condition that is characterized by short stature. Many of the possible complications of dwarfism are treatable, and people of short stature lead healthy, active lives.
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Failure to Thrive
Most kids grow well but some have ”failure to thrive.” This means they don't gain weight as expected and may not grow as tall as they should.
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Flat Feet
Most babies and toddlers have flat feet. As they grow, an arch usually develops. But some kids have flat feet for life.
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Growing Pains
Growing pains are leg pains and soreness that happen to kids at night, usually when they're 3 to 12 years old.
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Growth and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
You're in for a year of changes! Midway through this year, most babies are walking and starting to lose that "baby" look.
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Growth and Your 13- to 18-Year-Old
Kids entering puberty will undergo many changes in their developing bodies. Find out more about what to expect.
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Growth and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old
During the third year of life, toddlers are extremely active and mobile, and are learning in very physical ways.
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Growth and Your 4- to 5-Year-Old
Kids who are 4 to 5 years old continue to learn in a very physical way, but are more focused than when they were younger.
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Growth and Your 6- to 12-Year-Old
As kids grow from grade-schoolers to preteens, there continues to be a wide range of "normal" as far as height, weight, and shape.
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Growth Charts
Doctors use growth charts to figure out whether kids' height and weight measurements are "normal" and whether they're developing on track. Here are some facts about growth charts.
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Your Baby's Growth: 1 Month
Put away those newborn clothes. This month your baby will grow at a surprising rate!
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Your Baby's Growth: 10 Months
Your baby continues to grow quickly. All this activity and the foods your baby eats affect growth and weight.
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Your Baby's Growth: 11 Months
Your baby continues to grow quickly. All this activity and the foods your baby eats affect growth and weight.
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Your Baby's Growth: 12 Months
Your baby is almost a toddler! Here's what to expect with your little one's growth and weight this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 2 Months
Your baby continues to grow at a rapid pace. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 3 Months
This month, your baby will continue to grow quickly. Find out what to expect.
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Your Baby's Growth: 4 Months
Your baby is growing in many ways. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 5 Months
Babies this age are growing in many ways. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 6 Months
Babies this age are growing in many ways. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 7 Months
Your baby continues to grow in many ways. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 8 Months
Your baby is growing by leaps and bounds, and may even be crawling or cruising. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Baby's Growth: 9 Months
Your baby is growing by leaps and bounds. Here's what to expect this month.
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Your Child's Development (Birth to 5 Years Old)
Doctors use milestones to tell if a child is developing as expected. There's a wide range of what's considered normal, so some kids gain skills earlier or later than others. Here's what to expect as your child grows.
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Your Child's Development: 1 Month
Doctors use milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here are some things your baby may be doing this month.
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Your Child's Development: 1.5 Years (18 Months)
Doctors use milestones to tell if a child is developing as expected. Here are some things your toddler may be doing this month.
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Your Child's Development: 15 Months
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a child is developing as expected. Here are some things your toddler may be doing this month.
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Your Child's Development: 2 Months
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here's what your baby may do this month.
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Your Child's Development: 6 Months
Doctors use milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here are some things your baby might be doing this month.
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Your Child's Development: 9 Months
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here are some things your baby might be doing this month.
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Your Child's Development: Newborn
Doctors use milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here are some things your baby may be doing this month.
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Your Child’s Development: 1 Year (12 Months)
Doctors use milestones to tell if a toddler is developing as expected. Here are some things your little one might be doing this month.
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Your Child’s Development: 2 Years (24 Months)
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a child is developing as expected. Here are some things your toddler may be doing this month.
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Your Child’s Development: 2.5 Years (30 Months)
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a child is developing as expected. Here are some things your toddler may be doing this month.
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Your Child’s Development: 3 Years
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a child is developing as expected. Here are some things your toddler may be doing.
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Your Child’s Development: 3-5 Days
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here are some things your baby may be doing.
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Your Child’s Development: 4 Months
Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a baby is developing as expected. Here are some things your baby might be doing this month.
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Your Newborn's Growth
A newborn's growth and development is measured from the moment of birth. Find out if your baby's size is normal, and what to expect as your baby grows.
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10 Ways to Help Your Child Succeed in Elementary School
Kids do better in school when parents are involved. These early years of schooling are an important time for parents to be informed and supportive about their child's education.
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10 Ways to Help Your Child Succeed in Middle School
As students grow more independent during middle school, it can be a challenge for parents to know how to stay involved. Here are 10 tips.
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10 Ways to Help Your Teen Succeed in High School
Even though teens are seeking independence, parental involvement is still an important part of academic success.
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Choosing Safe Toys
Toys are a fun and important part of any child's development. And there's plenty you can do to make sure all toys are safe.
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Choosing Safe Toys for School-Age Kids
Is your 10-year-old crying for a pellet gun? How about that used scooter? For help figuring out what toys are safe and appropriate for older kids, read these tips.
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Choosing Safe Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
How can you tell if a small toy poses a choking risk? What types of unsafe toys should you avoid for your baby, toddler, or preschooler? Find out here.
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Cooking With Preschoolers
It may take a little flexibility and prep work, but time in the kitchen with your preschooler can be a culinary adventure you'll both enjoy.
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Gifted Education
About 6% of all U.S. K-12 students are considered academically gifted. Here are some ways to tell the difference between bright students and gifted students.
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Help Your Child Get Organized
Most kids generate a little chaos and disorganization. But if you'd like yours to be more organized and to stay focused on tasks, such as homework, here are 3 steps that make it possible.
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Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Some kids may be eligible for individualized education programs in public schools, free of charge. Understanding how to access these services can help you be an effective advocate for your child.
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Learning, Play, and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
Kids go from babies to toddlers during this time, from first steps to walking well. They also make major strides in language and communication.
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Learning, Play, and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old
After learning to recognize your voice, your face, and your touch, your baby will start responding more to you during these months and even give you a smile!
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Learning, Play, and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old
Your infant will learn to sit during this time, and in the next few months will begin exploring by reaching out for objects, grasping and inspecting them.
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Learning, Play, and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old
Your baby is learning more about the world through play and is beginning to use words. Keep those toys and games coming!
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Learning, Play, and Your Newborn
Play is the primary way that infants learn how to move, communicate, socialize, and understand their surroundings. And during the first month of life, your baby will learn by interacting with you.
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Managing Your Toddler's Behavior (Video)
Learn how to encourage good behavior, handle tantrums, and keep your cool when parenting your toddler.
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Rainy Day Fun
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained and off the couch when the weather's bad? These quick-and-easy ideas will keep them happy and busy.
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Safe Exploring for Preschoolers
Kids ages 3-5 have tons of energy and are eager to walk, run, dance, and play. It's a great age for exploration too.
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Safe Exploring for Toddlers
Toddlers are learning to talk, to walk and run, and to assert their independence. For many in this age group, "outside" and "play" are common requests.
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School-Age Readers
From kindergarten through third grade, kids' ability to read will grow by leaps and bounds. Although teachers provide lots of help, parents continue to play a role in a child's reading life.
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Smart Toys for Every Age
An age-wise guide on play and the toys that encourage learning, promote motor skill development, and spark imagination.
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Story Time for Preschoolers
Reading aloud to your preschooler is a great way to encourage learning development and to help prepare your child for independent reading down the line.
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The Magic of Play: How It Inspires & Aids Early Development
Learn why play is so important during the preschool years, and what you can do to foster your child's imagination.
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Toddler Reading Time
Reading to toddlers lays the foundation for their independent reading later on. Here are some tips.
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Toddlers: Learning by Playing
It might look like just child's play, but toddlers are hard at work learning important physical skills as they gain muscle control, balance, and coordination.
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Getting the Most From a Doctor's Visit
Here are tips on the best ways to communicate with your child's doctor and get the most information during a visit.
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Going to the Emergency Room
Knowing what to expect when you need to take your child to the emergency room can help make it a little less stressful.
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Health Screening Tests
Health screening tests are routine tests that check for problems before signs show up. When problems are found early, the care is often simpler and may work better.
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How Can I Comfort My Baby During Shots?
Try these things to make the shots less painful and stressful for your baby.
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Medical Care and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
The toddler months might bring colds, bruises, and other minor emergencies. But you'll also find yourself dealing with your toddler's growing independence.
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Medical Care and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old
You probably have lots of questions about your baby's health. When should you call the doctor, and what medical care should you expect for your baby at this age?
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Medical Care and Your 13- to 18-Year-Old
Regular visits help your teen's doctor keep track of changes in physical, mental, and social development. The doctor can also help your teen understand the importance of choosing a healthy lifestyle.
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Medical Care and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old
Regular well-child exams are essential to keeping kids healthy and up-to-date with vaccines against dangerous diseases. Here's what to expect at the doctor's office.
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Medical Care and Your 4- to 5-Year-Old
Regular well-child exams are an important part of keeping kids healthy and up to date on vaccines against serious diseases. Find out what to expect at the doctor's office.
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Medical Care and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old
Because your baby begins to show their personality during these months, your questions might focus on physical and social development.
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Medical Care and Your 6- to 12-Year-Old
Regular well-child exams are essential to keep kids healthy and up-to-date with vaccines. Find out what to expect at the doctor's office.
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Medical Care and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old
As your baby becomes more independent, you may have questions about how to prevent bumps and bruises. Here are some other topics you'll cover with your doctor.
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Medical Care and Your Newborn
You'll see your baby's doctor often during your little one's first year. Here's what to expect right after your baby arrives.
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Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy can help improve kids' cognitive, physical, and motor skills and build their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.
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Physical Therapy
Doctors often recommend physical therapy for kids who have been injured or have movement problems from an illness, disease, or disability. Learn more about PT.
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Preventing Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout happens when you try to do it all without having access to the help or rest you need. Learn the signs, how to prevent burnout, and get support.
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School-Based Health Centers
School-based health centers provide a range of services to meet kids' and teens' health care needs. Centers usually are inside a school building or right next door.
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Speech-Language Therapy
Working with a certified speech-language pathologist can help a child with speech or language difficulties.
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Teaching Your Child How to Swallow Pills
Swallowing a pill is something that many of us take for granted. But just like any skill, learning to swallow a pill takes practice.
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Vaccine Schedule
Which vaccines does your child need and when? Use this schedule as a handy reference.
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Well-Child Visit Schedule
These age-specific guides can help you be prepared for and keep track of your well-child visits.
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Well-Child Visit: 1 Month
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the first month.
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Well-Child Visit: 1 Year (12 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the first birthday.
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Well-Child Visit: 1.5 Years (18 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your toddler might be doing by 18 months.
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Well-Child Visit: 10 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by age 10.
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Well-Child Visit: 11 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your child is 11.
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Well-Child Visit: 12 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your child is 12.
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Well-Child Visit: 13 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 13.
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Well-Child Visit: 14 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 14.
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Well-Child Visit: 15 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your toddler might be doing by 15 months.
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Well-Child Visit: 15 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 15.
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Well-Child Visit: 16 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 16.
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Well-Child Visit: 17 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 17.
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Well-Child Visit: 18 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 18.
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Well-Child Visit: 19 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your son or daughter is 19.
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Well-Child Visit: 2 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the second month.
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Well-Child Visit: 2 Years (24 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the second year.
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Well-Child Visit: 2.5 Years (30 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your toddler might be doing at this age.
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Well-Child Visit: 20 Years
Find out about medical visits as your teens moves into adulthood.
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Well-Child Visit: 21 Years
Find out about medical visits as your teens moves into adulthood.
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Well-Child Visit: 3 to 5 Days
Find out what this well-child visit will involve a few days after your baby is born.
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Well-Child Visit: 3 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the third year.
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Well-Child Visit: 4 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the fourth month.
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Well-Child Visit: 4 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the fourth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 5 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the fifth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 6 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by 6 months.
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Well-Child Visit: 6 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the sixth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 7 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the seventh year.
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Well-Child Visit: 8 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the eighth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 9 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by 9 months old.
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Well-Child Visit: 9 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the ninth year.
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Well-Child Visit: Newborn
Find out what this well-child visit will involve after your baby arrives.
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What's a Primary Care Physician (PCP)?
PCPs are health care providers that offer routine checkups, vaccines, and non-emergency medical care. Learn more about PCPs and how to choose a great one.
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When and Where to Get Medical Care
Should you head to the ER when your child is hurt or ill? What about an urgent care center? Different problems need different levels of care, and you have many options.
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Wound Healing and Care
How well a wound heals depends on where it is on the body and what caused it. Good home care is an important part of healing.
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Your Daughter's First Gynecology Visit
The idea of going to the gynecologist may make your daughter feel nervous. Here's how to make her feel more comfortable about a well-woman visit.
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Assistive Devices: Positioning Aids (Slideshow)
Kids with special needs have many options when it comes to supportive seats. View this slideshow to see what's available.
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Assistive Devices: Walking and Mobility (Slideshow)
Kids who have trouble walking have many options when it comes to getting around. View the slideshow below to learn more.
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In-Toeing
In-toeing is when feet point inward while walking. It happens in a lot of kids who are learning to walk. Sometimes people call it walking "pigeon-toed."
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Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)
Kids often have knock knees (when knees touch but the ankles are apart). They usually go away without on their own by the time a child is 7 or 8 years old.
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Movement, Coordination, and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
Most toddlers this age are walking and gaining even more control over their hands and fingers. Give your child lots of fun (and safe) things to do to encourage this development.
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Movement, Coordination, and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old
The reflexes they had just after birth start to disappear as babies this age gain more control over movements and interact more with their environment.
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Movement, Coordination, and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old
At this age, kids are learning to roll over, reach out to get what they want, and sit up. Provide a safe place to practice moving and lots of interesting objects to reach for.
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Movement, Coordination, and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old
From scooting to crawling to cruising, during these months, babies are learning how to get around.
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Movement, Coordination, and Your Newborn
It may seem like all babies do is sleep, eat, and cry, but their little bodies are making many movements, some of which are reflexes.
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Out-Toeing
Out-toeing is when feet point outward while walking. It happens to a lot of kids when they are learning to walk.
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Toe Walking
Toe walking is when kids walk on the balls of their feet, with their heels off the ground. Most children stop toe walking on their own by age 2.
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Tummy Time
Tummy time helps babies strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles and prepare them for crawling. Here's how to do it.
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What Are Forearm Crutches?
Some kids who have trouble walking use forearm crutches to help them get places.
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What Are Leg Braces?
Some kids who have trouble walking wear leg braces to help them get places.
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What's a Gait Trainer?
Some kids who have trouble walking use a gait trainer to help them get places.
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What's a Manual Wheelchair?
Some kids who have trouble walking use a manual wheelchair to help them get places.
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What's a Power Wheelchair?
Some kids who have trouble walking use a power wheelchair to help them get places.
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What's a Walker?
Some kids who have trouble walking use a walker to help them get places.
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What's an Adaptive Bicycle?
Some kids who have trouble walking use an adaptive bicycle to help them get places.
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What's an Adaptive Stroller?
Some kids who have trouble walking use an adaptive stroller to help them get places.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 1 Month
Your baby is experiencing the first sights, sounds, and smells of the world through all five senses. What are your baby's responses to light, noise, touch, and familiar faces?
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 10 Months
Here's how you can stimulate your baby's senses and provide a safe environment for exploration.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 11 Months
Here's how you can stimulate your baby's senses and provide a safe environment for exploration.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 12 Months
Here's how you can stimulate your baby's senses and provide a safe environment for exploration.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 2 Months
Your baby experiences sights, sounds, and smells with the five senses. Here's what your baby is experiencing at 2 months.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 3 Months
Your baby experiences sights, sounds, and smells with the five senses. Here's what your baby is experiencing at 3 months.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 4 Months
Your baby is working on all five senses, understanding and anticipating more and more. How can you stimulate your baby's senses?
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 5 Months
Your baby is working on all five senses, understanding and anticipating more and more. How can you stimulate your baby's senses?
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 6 Months
Your baby is working on all five senses, understanding and anticipating more and more. How can you stimulate your baby's senses?
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 7 Months
The senses help your baby learn about the world. Here's what your baby is experiencing at 7 months.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 8 Months
Here's how you can stimulate your baby's senses and provide a safe environment for exploration.
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Your Baby's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses: 9 Months
Here's how you can stimulate your baby's senses and provide a safe environment for exploration.
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Your Newborn's Hearing, Vision, and Other Senses
Your newborn is taking in first sights, sounds, and smells while learning to explore the world through the senses. What are your baby's responses to light, noise, and touch?
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Birth Control: Abstinence
Abstinence is the only form of birth control that is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Abstinence also protects people against STDs.
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Birth Control: Birth Control Rings
Talking to your kids about sex can be daunting. But discussing issues like abstinence, STDs, and birth control can help lower teens' risk of unintended pregnancy or contracting an STD.
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Birth Control: Cervical Caps
The cervical cap covers the cervix so sperm can't get in and fertilize an egg. It's not usually recommended for most young women and teens because it can be very hard to insert correctly.
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Birth Control: Condoms
Condoms are thin pouches that keep sperm from getting into the vagina. There are male condoms and female condoms.
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Birth Control: Diaphragms
A diaphragm may be a birth control good option for young women who can take responsibility in advance. Find out more.
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Birth Control: Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex; for example, if a condom breaks or slips off during sex.
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Birth Control: Fertility Awareness
Fertility awareness is a way to try to prevent pregnancy by not having sex around the time of ovulation. It is not a reliable birth control method for most people.
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Birth Control: Implantable Contraception
Learn what implantable contraception is, how well it works, and more.
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Birth Control: IUDs
An IUD is a piece of T-shaped plastic placed inside the uterus. It's a good birth control option because it lasts for many years, needs no daily care, and is very effective at preventing pregnancy.
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Birth Control: Spermicide
Spermicides should be used with another birth control method, such as condoms or a diaphragm. They be used alone but are not very effective that way.
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Birth Control: The Birth Control Shot
The birth control shot is an injection a female gets every 3 months to help prevent pregnancy. Find out more.
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Birth Control: The Patch
Find out about this method of birth control, including how well it works and possible side effects.
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Birth Control: The Pill
The birth control pill (also called “the Pill”) is a daily pill taken to help prevent pregnancy. Help your teen by getting answers to common questions.
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Birth Control: What Parents Need to Know
Talking to your kids about sex can be a challenge. But discussing issues like birth control can help lower teens' risk of unintended pregnancy or getting an STD.
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Birth Control: Withdrawal
Even for people who think they are doing it correctly, withdrawal is not an effective way to prevent pregnancy.
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Delayed Puberty
Puberty usually begins in girls 8-14, and in boys 9-15. If kids pass this normal age range without showing any signs of body changes, it's called delayed puberty.
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Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive system is made up of the parts inside and outside a female’s body that help make a baby. Learn about them and how they work.
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Labial Adhesions
Labial adhesions happen when the inner folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening become fused together. They will go away on their own during puberty if not well before that.
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Sexual Development
Big physical and emotional changes happen during puberty and the teen years. These articles can help you become a source of information, comfort, and support for your kids.
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Sexual Orientation
During the teen years, sexual feelings are awakened in new ways because of the hormonal and physical changes of puberty. It takes time for many kids to understand who they are and who they're becoming. Part of that understanding includes a person's sexual feelings and attractions.
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Should Kids & Teens Who Aren't Sexually Active Be Vaccinated Against HPV?
The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is now recommended for girls and boys both. Here's why.
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Talking to Your Kids About STDs
Your kids need to understand how STDs spread and how to protect themselves. Here's how to talk to them about sexually transmitted diseases.
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When Should My Daughter First Go to the Gynecologist?
Find out what the experts say.
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10 Ways to Help Your Child Get a Better Night’s Sleep
Many kids have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night. Here's how to help them sleep better.
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Flat Head Syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly)
Babies can develop a flat spot on the back of their heads, usually from sleeping in the same position too long. Alternating your baby's sleep position and providing lots of "tummy time" can help.
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Helping Your Teen Get Enough Sleep (Video)
Not getting enough sleep can lead to physical and mental health problems in teens. By making a plan together, you can help your teen sleep better.
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Insomnia in Teens: What Parents Should Know
Teens with insomnia have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Here’s how parents can help.
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Kids and Sleep
Getting enough sleep can be a problem for children of any age. Here's how to know if your kids get enough sleep.
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Melatonin Supplements
If your child has trouble sleeping, you may wonder if melatonin can help. Here's why you should probably avoid it.
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Naps
A good nap can keep kids from becoming overtired, which not only takes a toll on their moods but might make it harder for them to fall asleep at night.
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Night Terrors
A night terror seems similar to a nightmare, but it's far more dramatic. Night terrors can be alarming, but aren't usually cause for concern or a sign of a medical issue.
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Nightmares
It’s normal for kids to have nightmares occasionally. You can't completely prevent nightmares, but you can help make them less likely and help your child get back to sleep.
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Sleep and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
Nighttime feedings may be a thing of the past, but in this second year of life your tot might be rising for other reasons. Learn more.
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Sleep and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old
At this age, babies generally have their days and nights straightened out. Many infants even "sleep through the night," which means 5 or 6 hours at a time.
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Sleep and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old
By this age, your baby should be on the way to having a regular sleep pattern, sleeping longer at night, and taking 2 or 3 naps during the day.
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Sleep and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old
Sleep problems are common in the second half of a baby's first year. It's best to respond to your baby's needs with the right balance of concern and consistency.
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Sleep and Your Newborn
Newborn babies don’t yet have a sense of day and night. They wake often to eat – no matter what time it is.
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Sleep and Your Preschooler
Preschoolers sleep about 10 to 13 hours during each 24-hour period, and it's important to help them develop good habits for getting to sleep.
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Sleep and Your School-Aged Child
School-age kids need 9–12 hours of sleep a night. If they don't get it, they may be cranky or moody, hyper, and have behavior problems.
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Sleep and Your Teen
Teens need about 8–10 hours of sleep a night, but many don't get it. Keeping these tips in mind can help your teen get a good night’s sleep.
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Sleepwalking
Although it can be unnerving to see, sleepwalking is actually very common in kids. Here's how to keep your young sleepwalker safe.
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Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants 1 month to 1 year old. Though SIDS remains unpredictable, you can help reduce your infant's risk.