The current COVID-19 surge and its increase in testing has left many parents with questions. This list of common FAQs around COVID testing is designed to help families better understand the testing process. PCR vs. rapid COVID test: Which one does my child need? Currently, there are two primary tests for COVID-19: Rapid antigen tests […]
Doctors address parents’ COVID-19 vaccine concerns in young kids during panel discussion
Are you wondering if your child should receive the newly approved COVID-19 vaccine? As children ages 5 to 11 are now eligible to receive it, we want parents to have all the information they need. Critical care physicians Drs. Michael Bigham and Michael Forbes, and infectious disease physician Dr. Eric Robinette recently participated in a […]
How to determine if it’s the cold, flu or COVID-19
Your child has a sore throat, cough and fever. Is it COVID-19? Could it be the flu, or maybe just a cold? Viruses that infect the respiratory tract can cause any of these illnesses. All are contagious and share similar symptoms. Eric Robinette, MD, MPH, pediatric infectious disease physician at Akron Children’s Hospital, recommends parents be aware not only of […]
5 Tips for managing kids’ COVID-related anxiety when re-entering public spaces
As young people return to public spaces and social situations, an Akron Children’s Hospital child psychiatrist cautions parents and caregivers to be mindful of new stressors that trigger anxiety-related responses. “With any age child, the anxiety can present with undesired behaviors, including significant tantrums,” said Dr. Laura Markley, medical director, Consultation/Liaison Psychiatry. “It is important […]
Gun safety: Keeping guns out of children’s hands
Today, nearly 2 million kids nationwide live in homes with unlocked, loaded guns, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Not to mention, gun sales have increased amid the recent COVID-19 pandemic. There’s no doubt gun safety is paramount — perhaps now more than ever. Parents may not realize the risk of serious injury […]
10 tips for a safe return to playgrounds
While playgrounds offer kids vital physical, cognitive and social interaction crucial for their development, they also offer an opportunity for injuries. As kids race back to playgrounds, here are 10 tips to help keep them safe – from germs and injuries. 1. Know the park rules. Before heading out, and to avoid disappointment, review updates from […]
