Weighted blankets and stuffed animals have become popular items. You might be wondering if you can safely use them with your kids. Dr. Jennifer Manning, neonatologist at Akron Children’s, explains what parents should know about weighted blankets and stuffed animals for kids. ‘They can be a complementary treatment’ “Weighed blankets have received a lot of […]
Archives for December 2025
Transnasal endoscopy (TNE) transforms testing for gastroenterology patients
Jackson Mead of North Canton, age 16, is on his high school robotics team and loves to figure out how things work. When he became the first Akron Children’s patient to undergo the TNE procedure, which doesn’t require anesthesia like a traditional “upper endoscopy,” he excitedly asked a lot of questions. Stomach issues start Jackson […]
Bernett L. Williams honored with local philanthropy award
On Friday, Nov. 14, Bernett L. Williams, chief engagement officer, received the “Impact Philanthropist” distinction at the inaugural Soul of Philanthropy Akron Awards. Eight local philanthropists were recognized at the awards, ranging from youth to memorial philanthropist. The “Impact Philanthropist” award “recognizes an outstanding individual whose acts in the community have transformed their space of […]
How food choices and cultural traditions affect kids living with inflammatory bowel disease
For many people, food is more than just nourishment – it’s an expression of who they are. What they eat reflects their traditions, identity and connection to their culture. But for families who have a child living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), navigating food choices can be stressful, especially when beloved cultural dishes trigger symptoms. […]
Woman shares how childhood cancer led to career helping kids
If you saw 25-year-old Molly Norris today, you’d never guess she’s been fighting serious health challenges since she was a toddler. Diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) at age 2, a biologic medication finally gave her relief. But in 2010, when she was in 5th grade, her health again took a turn for the worse. […]
Akron Children’s celebrates 32nd anniversary of Children’s Tree of Lights
Akron Children’s Perkins Square Park will light up again this year with thousands of blue and white lights on Friday, Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. as the Akron Children’s Women’s Board kicks off the holiday season with the annual Children’s Tree of Lights ceremony. The event takes place in the Rehabilitative Services Lobby, near the […]













