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Parents & Caregivers
October, 2007
Halloween is almost here, and you might be wondering how to handle the piles of trick-or-treating candy kids bring home. Check out these candy-management ideas, plus articles about keeping your family healthy during the coming cold-weather months.
Teens
In the News: Drinking at an Early Age Associated With Alcoholism
People who start to drink in their early teens are much more likely to become dependent on alcohol, researchers say.
Acne Myths
About 17 million people in the United States have acne. Help your child separate acne fact from fiction with the information in this article.
For Teens: How Much Food Should I Eat?
Lots of us don't realize that we're eating too much because we've become so used to seeing (and eating!) large portions. Here's how to take control of your plate!
General Health
A Safe and Spooktacular Halloween
From the candy to the costumes, Halloween is a fun-filled time for kids and parents alike. But it's also a holiday that can pose dangers to young revelers. To help make this year's festivity a trick-free treat, follow these simple safety tips.
Natural Childbirth
Some women choose to give birth using no medications at all, relying instead on relaxation techniques and controlled breathing for pain. Get more information on natural childbirth.
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 for you and your child.
Fitness & Nutrition
Halloween Candy Hints
For health-conscious parents, Halloween can be tricky. Do you set limits? Do you let kids decide how much to eat? There isn't just one right answer.
Fiber and Your Child
Although the thought of fiber might elicit groans from kids, many appetizing foods are actually good sources of fiber - from fruits to whole-grain cereals. And kids are probably eating them without even knowing it.
Preventing Children's Sports Injuries
Participation in sports can teach kids to stretch their limits and learn sportsmanship and discipline. But sports also carry the potential for injury.
Emotions & Behaviors
Helping Your Child Deal With Death
When someone dies, it can be difficult to know how to help your child cope with the loss, particularly as you work through your own grief. But here are a few important things to consider.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an emotional condition that often occurs after direct or indirect exposure to a terrifying event in which physical harm was threatened, witnessed, or actually experienced.
For Teens: School Counselors
School counselors can give you all sorts of tips and support on solving problems and making good decisions. But how do you meet with a counselor and what's it like? Find out here.
Allergies & Asthma
Nut and Peanut Allergy
If your child is allergic to nuts or peanuts, it's essential to learn what foods might contain them and how to avoid them.
For Kids: Learning About Allergies
During an allergic reaction, your body's immune system goes into overdrive. Find out more in this article for kids.
For Teens: How Do Asthma Medicines Work?
There are two different types of medicines for treating asthma: rescue medications and controller medications. Read about their benefits - and differences - in this article.
Diabetes
Hyperglycemia and Diabetic Ketoacidosis
When blood glucose levels (also called blood sugar levels) are too high, it's called hyperglycemia. Learn why too much glucose in the blood can be unhealthy.
Carbohydrates and Diabetes
Carbohydrates should be part of a healthy diet for all kids, including kids with diabetes. Following a meal plan can help kids balance carbohydrates with medications and exercise so that they maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
For Teens: When Blood Sugar Is Too Low
The blood glucose level is the amount of glucose in the blood. When blood glucose levels drop too low, it's called hypoglycemia. Very low blood sugar levels can cause severe symptoms that need to be treated right away.
Until Next Time!
Be sure to stay tuned for next month's Growing Great Girls newsletter where we talk about the hustle and bustle of the approaching holiday season and provide lots of helpful information for busy families on the go.
Important Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
Content last updated March 15, 2008
