Selena Magalotti, MD, approaches patients much like her inspiration “Hamilton’s” Lin-Manuel Miranda approaches audiences: with a positive, energetic demeanor, impressive insight and incredible drive to lift people’s spirts—or kids’, in her case. It’s these personality traits that better help her establish good rapport, provide comfort and create trustworthy relationships with children and families—key components to […]
Busy schedule? The benefits of daily downtime for kids may surprise you
Technology has played a major role in wiring our kids’ brains for instant gratification. From fast-paced video games to interactive toys that flash and play music to streaming TV shows and other entertainment, kids are used to constant stimulation and getting their desires met quickly. It’s a product of our fast-paced society and stimulating environment, […]
New baby? 7 ways to set healthy boundaries with loved ones
Whether you’re becoming a parent for the first time or the fourth, your baby’s birth can be just as overwhelming as it is joyful. Parents must navigate a new normal, while balancing the needs of mom’s own healing with the new baby’s needs. On top of that, they’re also managing the expectations of well-meaning family […]
Patient Experience Spotlight: Nancy Blanchard
Every day at Akron Children’s, we strive to deliver compassionate care and create positive experiences for our patients and families. This month, we’re spotlighting Nancy Blanchard, a parent partner in Akron Children’s inpatient behavioral health unit, who recently received the following feedback from a patient family: “I appreciate the parent partner (Nancy Blanchard). Finally, I […]
Kent State University student describes how she overcame depression, panic disorder and social anxiety
Melaina Uhrig, age 19, has always been a singer. She enjoyed it so much that she joined her church choir and later, the Summit Choral Society children’s choir program. Being in front of and among people never bothered Melaina until she started high school. That’s when she lost joy in almost everything that previously gave […]
Helping teens tame their negative inner voice
If your teen struggles to shut down the pessimistic voice inside their head, you can help them view things differently by teaching them to challenge their negative thoughts. “In times of stress, we don’t always think rationally,” said Dr. Kevin Triemstra, pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s. “For example, thinking you’re going to fail a test, […]
