Childhood obesity puts kids at risk for poor health and chronic medical problems as they grow into adulthood. Akron Children’s Healthy Active Living program team sheds light on childhood obesity, COVID-19’s impact on the problem and what we as parents can do to help curb a widening obesity epidemic. Why is childhood obesity on the […]
Akron Children’s answers parents’ top questions about the delta variant
The delta variant has become the predominant cause of COVID-19 infection in Ohio and throughout the country. With cases and hospitalizations on the rise, our children are vulnerable to infection. Dr. Eric Robinette, a pediatric infectious disease physician at Akron Children’s, answers parents’ top questions about the COVID-19 delta variant, the vaccine and ways to […]
Is it necessary to get this year’s flu shot? Find out why docs say absolutely.
Cases documented during last year’s flu season were the lowest in recorded history — by a wide margin. Medical professionals alike have never seen anything like it. Last winter, mandates were enforced to help stop the spread of COVID-19: from masks and social distancing to virtual school to cancelled large events. An unforeseen positive side […]
How parents can help kids build resilience in uncertain times
This past year has been anything but easy for parents and families alike. With an ongoing pandemic, there’s no better time than now to begin practicing self-care and wellness strategies to promote resilience in children. Resilience teaches kids the skills to cope, how to recover from hardships with confidence and optimism, and better prepares them […]
Do’s and don’ts when talking to kids about weight
No doubt, the pandemic has set us back in the fight against weight gain. Many children — like adults — packed on extra pounds this past year. Organized sports, extracurriculars and play dates were cancelled, playgrounds closed, daily routines relaxed and kids home with more time for screens. Combine these factors and you end up […]
No more excuses: The COVID-19 vaccine is your best defense
Myth: COVID-19 has a 99% survival rate, so it is safer to skip the vaccine. Fact: Surviving and thriving are very different. COVID-19 can linger for months and cause long-term damage to major organs, including the lungs, heart and brain. Even young, healthy individuals who had mild symptoms suffered from organ damage. The vaccine is […]