Health — Children & Kids — October 26th, 2025

Combining two brain scans uncovers hidden clues to future teen anxiety
When you're a teenager, it's easy to feel like the world is watching your every mistake. For some kids, that sense of self‐consciousness fades as they grow up. For others, it deepens into full‐blown anxiety.
October 26, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 24th, 2025

Physical fitness, physical activity and screen time are tied to adolescents' brain function
Physical fitness, physical activity and screen time are associated with brain mechanisms underlying mental health and learning, according to two recent studies from the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital. Research into the effects of lifestyle and physical fitness on adolescent brain function remains limited to date.
October 24, 2025 — Source

Successful career women still shoulder the majority of the 'mental load' at home
Women do the majority of "thinking work" in households, regardless of their employment status or how much they earn, new research has confirmed.
October 24, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 20th, 2025

Bribing kids to eat vegetables might backfire—here's what to do instead
It's a tactic many parents know well: "Eat two bites of broccoli, and then you can have dessert."
October 20, 2025 — Source

College students who experienced family dysfunction as children sometimes turn to alcohol to cope
College can be a joyful time—of learning, forming lifelong friendships and having fun. But it's not without its challenges. National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week, Oct. 19--25, brings attention to the struggles faced by students on campuses across the U.S., calling for increased education and resources.
October 20, 2025 — Source

How epigenetics links parents' habits to long-term health outcomes in their children
Epigenetic mechanisms, influenced by parental diet, environment, and lifestyle before and during pregnancy, can modify gene expression in offspring, affecting their long-term risk for conditions such as obesity and diabetes. These changes may persist across generations but can be mitigated by healthy habits and potentially targeted with emerging epigenetic therapies.
October 20, 2025 — Source

Prenatal air pollution exposure may slow newborn brain development
A new study from Spain reveals that babies born to mothers exposed to higher air pollution levels in pregnancy show signs of slower brain myelination, a subtle but telling shift in how early brain wiring unfolds.
October 20, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 17th, 2025

Global study shows why the songs from our teens leave a lasting mark on us
Music from adolescence, especially around age 17, is most likely to hold lasting emotional significance, a phenomenon known as the reminiscence bump. This effect peaks earlier for men (around 16) and later for women (after 19), reflecting differences in identity formation and social influences. Connections to music continue to evolve with age, and younger people often form strong bonds with music from previous generations, termed the cascading reminiscence bump.
October 17, 2025 — Source

LGBTQ+ community groups fill gaps in youth mental health care
Community-based organizations play a crucial role in supporting LGBTQ+ youth mental health by providing counseling, safe spaces, case management, and educational resources. Effective delivery relies on inclusive practices and adequate resources, yet many organizations remain underfunded, limiting their capacity to meet growing needs. Increased investment is essential for expanding their impact
October 17, 2025 — Source

Remotely located technician noninferior for car seat installation
Remote assistance by a certified technician for child car seat installation results in accuracy rates noninferior to those achieved with on-site technicians. The adjusted difference in correct installation and usage was within a 2.5% noninferiority margin, supporting virtual presence as an effective alternative for professional guidance.
October 17, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 15th, 2025

Climate change taking toll on teen mental health, study finds
Thirty-seven percent of Canadian adolescents report that climate change negatively affects their mental health, with common experiences including anxiety, stress, and worry about the future. Some teens also describe physical symptoms during events like wildfires. These impacts are observed across diverse communities, highlighting the need for targeted mental health support and resilience strategies.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Epigenetic 'scars': Unveiling how childhood trauma affects our genes
Child maltreatment, which includes abuse and neglect, is one of the most serious public health concerns worldwide. These adversities leave a lasting impact on the emotional well-being, memory, and social development of affected individuals. The problem, however, reaches far beyond its psychological impact, affecting the brain and biological processes through genetic changes, which have remained unclear until now.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Giving parents the tools (without the guilt) to support a teenager's sleep
A supportive family environment, characterized by warmth, open communication, and low conflict, is linked to better adolescent sleep quality and timing. Parental mental health and family stress can negatively impact teen sleep, often through increased screen use and poorer emotion regulation. Addressing family dynamics and emotional well-being is more effective than strict screen limits for improving teen sleep.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Study links online racism, including algorithmic bias, to negative impacts on Black adolescents' mental health
Black adolescents in the U.S. encounter frequent online racism, including algorithmic bias and exposure to manipulated media, averaging over three incidents daily. These experiences are linked to increased next-day anxiety and depressive symptoms, while positive race-related content shows no such association. The findings highlight the urgent need to address algorithmic bias to protect mental health.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 13th, 2025

Early screening identifies suicidal thoughts in children as young as 5, study reveals
The idea of a child dying by suicide is unimaginable. Yet, according to recent data, a significant number of children will seriously consider or attempt suicide, even at ages as young as 5. For Adam Bryant Miller, Ph.D., a UNC School of Medicine researcher and father of two, this statistic is deeply alarming. He believes it's critical to identify warning signs early, and he's made it the focus of his current research.
October 13, 2025 — Source

FAU launches transformative community initiative to prevent substance use among youth
Florida Atlantic University has received a $3 million, five-year grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a division of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, to lead a transformative community initiative designed to prevent substance use among South Florida's youth.
October 13, 2025 — Source

How short school closures hit Japan's low-income boys hardest in math
A new study reveals that even brief class closures in Japan can widen learning gaps, with low-income boys losing the most ground in math, while strong teachers help bridge the divide.
October 13, 2025 — Source

Millions of children face sexual violence as AI deepfakes drive surge in new cases—latest global data
Approximately 7% of children in western Europe and 12% in parts of south Asia report sexual assault by age 18. Online abuse is widespread, with 19.6% of western European children experiencing unwanted sexual interactions. AI-generated child sexual abuse material surged 1,325% from 2023 to 2024. Prevention and legislative measures show promise but require urgent, coordinated action.
October 13, 2025 — Source

New method brings growth charts to children with rare genetic condition
A new method, LMSz, enables the creation of growth charts tailored to children with rare genetic conditions, even with limited data. Using information from nearly 600 children with six rare disorders, the approach provides condition-specific growth references, improving clinical decision-making and offering families clearer expectations about their child's development.
October 13, 2025 — Source

Pediatrician explains body odor in kids and teens
Body odor in children typically begins with puberty, often as early as age 8 or 9, due to increased apocrine gland activity and bacterial breakdown of sweat and oils. Regular washing with soap, daily showers, use of deodorants or antiperspirants, and wearing breathable fabrics help manage odor. Persistent or excessive sweating may require medical evaluation for underlying conditions.
October 13, 2025 — Source

PFAS levels in mothers' blood associated with children's brain structure and functional outcomes
Researchers from the University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland, and Örebro University, Sweden, have discovered that the levels of PFAS in mothers' blood during pregnancy are associated with their children's brain structure and function.
October 13, 2025 — Source or Source

Youth screen use can cause family conflict, exacerbate mental health problems
The presence of cellphones can have a negative impact on family relationships and youth mental health, according to two new studies from the University of Georgia.
October 13, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 10th, 2025

Inspection confirms mold damage in schools does not increase students' risk of developing asthma
Long-term monitoring of over 30,000 students in 110 Finnish schools found no link between the extent of mold damage in school buildings and the risk of developing asthma. Despite extensive or very extensive mold damage in many schools, asthma incidence rates were similar among exposed and unexposed students, indicating that school mold exposure does not increase asthma risk.
October 10, 2025 — Source

Screen time linked to lower academic achievement among elementary students in Ontario, Canada
Increased screen time in early childhood is associated with lower reading and mathematics scores on standardized tests among Ontario elementary students. Each additional hour of daily screen time corresponds to a 10% decrease in the likelihood of achieving higher academic levels. The association is consistent for both genders and is more pronounced for video game use among girls. Writing achievement is less affected.
October 10, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 8th, 2025

Asthma and multiple allergies raise the risk of failed oral food challenges
Researchers uncover why children with asthma or multiple allergies face higher odds of reacting during oral food challenges, and how better screening can make testing safer.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Breastfeeding for at least six months strengthens immunity in babies, study suggests
Breastfeeding until at least six months helps babies to fight off infections and reduces chronic inflammation, according to a new study. And better understanding the way specific nutrients in breast milk impact the immune system will improve health outcomes for all infants, including those not breastfed.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Children burn energy and enjoy exercise with InPACT at Home program
New research reveals that brief, fun workout videos created during the pandemic still get kids moving, burning energy, boosting fitness, and keeping exercise enjoyable right from home.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Child malnutrition in Kenya: AI model can forecast rates six months before they become critical
A machine learning model using clinical and satellite data can forecast acute child malnutrition rates in Kenya up to six months in advance with 89% accuracy, outperforming traditional methods. The model enables more precise targeting of interventions, especially in high-risk regions, and its approach is adaptable to other countries and public health challenges using DHIS2 data.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Children of parents with mental disorders may face higher risk of early death
Research led by the Karolinska Institutet reports that offspring of parents with mental disorders face increased mortality, with the highest risks for unnatural deaths and when both parents had diagnoses.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Japan's registry transforms outcomes for infants with biliary atresia
Biliary atresia (BA) is the leading cause of liver failure in infants, marked by progressive destruction of the bile ducts. Until the late 1950s, the disease was universally fatal, with no effective treatments. The development of the Kasai portoenterostomy brought new hope, but outcomes varied widely, and many patients still required liver transplantation (LTx). Early diagnosis has remained a pressing challenge, since jaundice can be subtle and late surgery severely compromises outcomes.
October 8, 2025 — Source

New type of diabetes discovered in babies
Advanced DNA sequencing technologies and a new model of stem cell research have enabled an international team to discover a new type of diabetes in babies.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Number of children needing mental health care rises by 11% in a year, UK report finds
The number of children and young people accessing NHS-funded mental health services has increased by nearly 80,000 in the past year, sparking renewed concern over a system already under strain.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Toxic e-waste pollution linked to rising childhood hypertension
A new study reveals that children in e-waste regions face a fourfold higher risk of hypertension, as toxic metals and VOCs alter gut-related metabolic pathways and disturb the body's blood pressure regulation.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — October 3rd, 2025

Even short school breaks can affect student learning unevenly across socioeconomic backgrounds
Short-term class closures, such as those due to influenza, negatively affect student achievement, with the impact being greater for economically disadvantaged students, particularly elementary school boys in mathematics. The adverse effects are more pronounced for students with lower initial scores and during closures late in the school year. Smaller class sizes and experienced teachers can help mitigate these effects.
October 3, 2025 — Source

Experts urge vaccination during pregnancy to prevent infant whooping cough deaths
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is on the rise and incidence now exceeds pre-pandemic numbers. While in adults and older children the cough can be bothersome and last for months, pertussis in young infants can be life-threatening. Most children under 2 months of age with pertussis in the United States are hospitalized.
October 3, 2025 — Source

FDA approves Tremfya for pediatric plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Johnson & Johnson's Tremfya (guselkumab) for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis in children 6 years of age and older.
October 3, 2025 — Source

Report highlights pediatric influenza-associated encephalopathy in 2024--2025 season
During the 2024-2025 influenza season, 109 children experienced influenza-associated encephalopathy (IAE), including the severe form, acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE).
October 3, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 29th, 2025

2-in-1 budesonide-formoterol inhaler reduces children's asthma attacks by 45%
Findings from a trial comparing the real-world effectiveness of asthma inhalers could reshape how children with asthma are treated.
September 29, 2025 — Source

A study claiming vaccines cause chronic illness is severely flawed—a biostatistician explains
The study claiming vaccines increase chronic illness risk in children is undermined by major methodological flaws, including unequal follow-up times, surveillance and detection biases, and inadequate adjustment for confounding factors. These issues prevent reliable conclusions about vaccine safety, and the reported associations do not establish causation.
September 29, 2025 — Source

Childhood overeating can be a harbinger of later mental health struggles in girls
Girls who overeat regularly in the preschool years are more likely to experience anxiety, impulsivity and hyperactivity in adolescence, according to a new study led by researchers at McGill University and the Douglas Research Center.
September 29, 2025 — Source

FDA approves Opzelura for atopic dermatitis in children
The approval is the first topical Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor for the short-term, noncontinuous chronic treatment of mild-to-moderate AD in nonimmunocompromised children (age 2 years and older) whose disease is not well controlled with topical prescription therapies or when topical therapies are not recommended.
September 29, 2025 — Source

Motivational support and text messages boost proper child car seat use, clinical trial finds
A clinical trial found motivational support and text messages significantly improved parents' adherence to proper child car seat guidelines. The intervention used tailored content and feedback.
September 29, 2025 — Source

Risk for behavioral problems elevated for children with allergic rhinitis
Shiyin Yang, from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and colleagues recruited 18,316 children aged 6 to 12 years from 34 primary schools in China. The association between self-reported AR and BPs was examined in logistic regression models with adjustment.
September 29, 2025 — Source

RSV vaccine uptake in pregnancy linked to perinatal outcomes and health inequities
Uptake of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine during pregnancy is not linked to increased risk of adverse perinatal health outcomes among vaccinated women, according to research at City St George's and published in BMJ Open.
September 29, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 26th, 2025

Children with chronic conditions may face higher risk of food insecurity, study suggests
Food insecurity is more common among children with a chronic medical condition than those without one, a new study suggests.
September 26, 2025 — Source

COVID pandemic disrupted sex ed for middle school students, research suggests
Researchers taught two different groups of 7th grade students about their sexual health over an eight-lesson course—once during the 2018--2019 school year and again in the 2023--2024 school year. After the courses were completed, each group of students was given a questionnaire on what they learned and their attitudes about sexual health topics.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Emergency calls for opioid exposures rise among middle-school aged children
The research, "EMS Calls for Pediatric Patients Ages 11-18 years with Opioid Exposures using NEMSIS data," examined calls for services due to suspected pediatric opioid exposure reported to the National Emergency Medical Services Information System, which tracks emergency medical service data from across the United States. Authors reviewed the data from 2019 through 2023, breaking it down into two categories: middle school aged children and high school aged teens.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Food outreach specialists make positive impact on childhood food insecurity
The research, titled "Addressing Childhood Food Insecurity: An Integrated and Community-Based Approach," placed a food outreach specialist from a local community organization in an urban Midwest clinic to serve as a liaison for connecting families in need with available resources. The specialist had expertise in food-related resources and the ability to enroll families in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The specialist also helped troubleshoot challenges families had with access to food-related resources.
September 26, 2025 — Source

In-home gun homicides of children has more than doubled since 2010: Study
In-home firearm homicides among children and adolescents more than doubled from 0.18 to 0.38 per 100,000 between 2010 and 2021. Nearly 24% of child firearm homicides occurred at home in 2020--2021, with 63% of victims aged ≤12 killed at home. Many cases involved intimate partner violence or child abuse, with parents as the most common assailants.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Mandate for backup cameras in new vehicles associated with 78% fewer deaths in small children
Following the 2018 federal mandate requiring backup cameras in new vehicles, deaths from backover incidents in children under 5 decreased by 78%, with overall event rates reduced to about one-third and severe injuries nearly halved. The findings support prioritizing backup camera installation in older vehicles to further enhance child safety.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Over 20% of sexual health-related TikToks found to contain inaccurate information
Researchers created a TikTok account representing a 15-year-old and examined the top 10 videos that appeared under 10 keywords related to sexual and reproductive health. Data showed that 21.4% of the videos created by non-medical professionals contained inaccurate information compared to 3.4% created by medical professionals. The types of misinformation varied but included dangerous advice such as inducing an abortion.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Pediatric golf cart injuries are on the rise
Researchers found that children under the age of 12 represented nearly half of all reports of pediatric golf cart injuries with a majority (53%) being white and an overwhelming majority (90%) being males.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Research shows significant association between emergency department visits for firearm and motor vehicle-related crashes
The authors of an abstract, "Associational Analysis for Pediatric Firearm Injury Risk," found that children and youth with firearm, non-firearm violent, and motor vehicle crash injuries visited a Midwest hospital system's emergency department on multiple occasions within a four-year period. They will present their findings during the AAP national conference at the Colorado Convention Center from Sept. 26--30.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Smoking decline linked to fewer newborns with gastroschisis, research finds
Authors of an abstract, "A Declining Incidence of Gastroschisis Parallels Trends in Maternal Smoking Rates in the United States," point to the success of public health efforts to discourage smoking within the general population.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Social media challenges linked to dangerous misuse of over-the-counter antihistamines by teens
Noelia Swymeler, study author and pediatric resident physician at the University of Oklahoma at Tulsa School of Community Medicine, said trends such as the "Benadryl Challenge" circulating on social media are fueling the rise in these dangerous activities.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Sodium nitrite and nitrate increasingly used in youth suicide attempts, study finds
Frank Pleban, Ph.D., associate professor at Tennessee State University and research author, said that the chemicals, which when ingested may cause hypoxia and eventual death, are often readily available for purchase online. He said his findings indicate the need for a robust system with collaboration between public health officials, emergency responders and health care workers to address this growing concern.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Stricter gun laws associated with decreased in-home pediatric firearm homicides
Stronger state gun control laws, particularly extreme risk protection orders, are linked to lower rates of in-home pediatric firearm homicides. Data from 14 states between 2005 and 2021 show that states with stricter regulations experience fewer such incidents, suggesting that state-level legislation may be more effective than federal measures in reducing these deaths.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 25th, 2025

Babies can get hepatitis B at birth. Here's why Trump is wrong about delaying the vaccine
United States President Donald Trump this week claimed children should not be vaccinated against hepatitis B until they are 12 years old, rather than at birth. He also said the viral liver infection was a sexually transmitted disease.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Brain activity grows increasingly variable during development before stabilizing in adolescence, study shows
Fluctuations in brain activity, also known as neural variability, enable us to be flexible in adjusting our behavior to the current situation. A new study shows that neural variability increases throughout development before stabilizing in adolescence. And deviating from this trajectory is associated with worse executive functioning.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Childbirth linked to increased depression and psychosis but lower suicide risk in mothers
Depression and psychosis are more common in women after childbirth than before, but the risk of suicide attempts decreases. This is shown by two new studies from Karolinska Institutet. The results suggest that national guidelines for screening can help women get help earlier.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Childhood concussions may trigger long-term brain changes
A new study in mice reports that concussions sustained early in life can cause subtle brain changes that re-emerge later in life. The findings, published in Experimental Neurology, may have significant implications for understanding the long-term impact of head injuries in children.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Exclusive colostrum intake linked with reduced peanut allergy risk
New research has found that newborns exclusively fed colostrum, the breastmilk produced in the first 72 hours following birth, were five times less likely to develop a peanut allergy by 12--18 months, and 11 times less likely to develop multiple food allergies, such as egg or cow's milk, compared with infants who also received formula during that period.
September 25, 2025 — Source

RFK Jr. wants an answer to rising autism rates: Scientists say he's ignoring some obvious ones
This week, the Trump administration announced that it was taking "bold action" to address the "epidemic" of autism spectrum disorder—starting with a new safety label on Tylenol and other acetaminophen products that suggests a link to autism. The scientific evidence for doing so is weak, researchers said.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Relationships help determine whether students report hazing, study shows
College students' relationships with friends, professional staff members, faculty and other members of their campus community are an important factor in their willingness to report hazing to their institutions, according to a new study from University of Maine researchers.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Stark inequalities revealed in children's in-school physical activity
A large-scale study by the University of Bath of more than 17,000 primary school pupils and 2,300 teachers across England has revealed dramatic differences in levels of physical activity in children during the school day, despite all schools following the same national curriculum.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Survival rates rise for extremely premature infants as active treatment increases
Survival rates rise for extremely premature infants as active treatment increases
September 25, 2025 — Source

Trump claims 'no downside' to avoiding Tylenol during pregnancy
"Don't take Tylenol," Trump said during an hourlong White House press conference that included his leading health appointees. "There's no downside. Don't take it. You'll be uncomfortable. It won't be as easy, maybe, but don't take it. If you're pregnant, don't take Tylenol."
September 25, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 22nd, 2025

Childhood plastic exposure could be fueling obesity, infertility, and asthma
A sweeping review from NYU Langone Health reveals that everyday exposure to plastics—especially during childhood—poses lasting risks for heart disease, infertility, asthma, and even brain development issues. These chemicals, found in packaging, cosmetics, and common household items, can disrupt hormones, ignite chronic inflammation, and lower IQ.
September 22, 2025 — Source

Helping a child with constipation: A pediatrician's advice
When a child struggles with constipation, it can be a source of frustration and discomfort for the whole family. But a leading pediatric expert offers a clear guide to understanding and treating this common issue.
September 22, 2025 — Source

Inflammation in life-threatening malformation of infant lungs
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is one of the deadliest malformations in newborns. The main problem is the underdevelopment of the lungs. The condition also involves a hole in the diaphragm, which pediatric surgeons repair during the first week of life. However, even after a successful operation, many children with diaphragmatic hernia still die as a result of their underdeveloped lungs.
September 22, 2025 — Source

Naming and categorizing objects is part of how young kids develop executive function skills: New research
Parents of young children probably recognize the hectic mornings filled with reminding the kids to eat breakfast, brush their teeth and put on their shoes—and hurry up, you're gonna be late!
September 22, 2025 — Source

Plain packaging may help tackle teen vaping
Plain packaging of vape pods reduces young people's interest in trying them, but does not reduce interest among adults, according to a new study led by UCL and King's College London researchers.
September 22, 2025 — Source

Study finds few teens follow pre-bed guidelines, sees minimal effect on sleep
Sleep guidelines suggest no screens, no exercise, and no food in the hour before bed, but do they work and how many young people follow them?
September 22, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 19th, 2025

CDC advisers limit MMRV combo vaccine, delay hepatitis B vote
Top vaccine advisers hand-selected by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. voted Thursday to limit the use of a combination shot that protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.
September 19, 2025 — Source

CDC vaccine panel votes against Merck shot for kids under 4
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s hand-selected vaccine advisers voted to change the way immunizations are given to millions of U.S. children each year, recommending a tweak to the standard schedule that cast a large shadow over the safety of the shots.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Most donor-conceived children are told of their biological origins, research reveals
The researchers surveyed 374 parents of children aged from seven to 18 years, and conceived through donor eggs, embryos or sperm, asking whether they had told their children they were donor-conceived.
September 19, 2025 — Source

New study may help uncover the true impact of childhood lead exposure
Lead exposure in childhood may be even more dangerous for cognitive development and school performance than previously thought, according to a new analysis led by data scientist Joe Feldman.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Study finds no extra benefit from well-known children's mental health program
A new study from The University of Manchester has found that a well-known mental health intervention for children may be no more effective than the usual social and emotional learning (SEL) programs already being taught in primary schools.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination at Birth Is Safe, For Now
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices delayed its vote on changing the current policy, which CDC experts warned could erode the safety net keeping children from being born with the dangerous viral infection.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Vitamin D and multivitamins in pregnancy may be linked to lower ADHD and ASD traits
New research from the Generation R study suggests that what mothers eat and what supplements they take during pregnancy could have lasting effects on children's brain structure and behavior, offering some clues to reducing ADHD and autism traits.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 16th, 2025

Agreeing to a tracheostomy for your sick baby is traumatic—but it's not the hardest decision families have to make
Pam Thomson-Kai's son Sawyer was just 7 months old when he stopped breathing. He was rushed to hospital, where he was revived and put on a breathing machine. Then the doctors asked his parents whether they could give him a tracheostomy—a surgical procedure to create an opening in the windpipe and allow air to flow to his lungs.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Decline in pediatric rescue breathing increased deaths during the pandemic
Cardiac arrest happens when the heart stops pumping blood properly, cutting off oxygen to the brain and other vital organs. In these emergencies, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can help keep blood and oxygen moving until medical help arrives. For children, CPR usually needs both chest compressions and rescue breaths, because many cases are caused by breathing problems such as drowning, choking, or serious illness.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Integrating behavioral health services in pediatric primary care could reduce psychosocial symptoms
Research led by the Transforming and Expanding Access to Mental Health Care Universally in Pediatrics (TEAM UP) Scaling and Sustainability Center of Boston Medical Center (BMC) finds that children who receive behavioral health services delivered through the TEAM UP Model of integrated behavioral health care have fewer behavioral health symptoms.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander adolescents face highest sexual violence risk in Hawai'i
Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) adolescents, especially girls, face disproportionately high rates of sexual violence compared to their peers in Hawaiʻi, according to a new University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa study.
September 16, 2025 — Source

One in three young people surveyed expect to need mental health support in coming year
The majority (64%) of young adults in Britain say they have experienced mental health difficulties, with a third (32%) expecting to need support in the coming year, according to polling commissioned from YouGov by UCL's Grand Challenge of Mental Health & Wellbeing.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Parents of children with health conditions face added worries as school year begins
As the new school year begins, some parents may be feeling more nervous than excited - especially those whose children have different health needs.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Survey shows high levels of mental health difficulties among young adults
The majority (64%) of young adults in Britain say they have experienced mental health difficulties, with a third (32%) expecting to need support in the coming year, according to polling commissioned from YouGov by UCL's Grand Challenge of Mental Health & Wellbeing.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Why so many young kids with ADHD are getting the wrong treatment
Preschoolers with ADHD are often given medication right after diagnosis, against medical guidelines that recommend starting with behavioral therapy. Limited access to therapy and physician pressures drive early prescribing, despite risks and reduced effectiveness in young children.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 9th, 2025

Biofeedback improves speech in children at a faster rate than traditional methods
Run. Red. World. Pronouncing the "r" sound in these words requires precise control of the tongue. For most children, this happens naturally, but many children struggle with residual speech sound disorder (RSSD) in which speech errors persist past the age of eight.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Combined alcohol and cannabis use linked to adverse consequences in young adults
A new longitudinal study led by York University's Department of Psychology published today finds that young adults experiencing periods of high stress, anxiety and depressed mood more frequently combined binge drinking with cannabis use in order to get more high and drunk, and were also likely to report more adverse life consequences when combining these substances. Lead author Jeffrey Wardell, Associate Professor in York University's Faculty of Health, says that since cannabis use among young adults has increased after Canada legalized the drug, understanding why people combine the drug and outcomes when they do is important.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Fatty acid composition of blood predicts bone density from childhood to adolescence
A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland is the first to report that the fatty acid composition of blood and the enzyme activity associated with it predict the development of bone mineral density from childhood to adolescence. The results of the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) study were published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.
September 9, 2025 — Source or Source

How regular check-ins and behavior awareness can support K-12 students' mental health
The start of an academic year can bring a lot of changes into a student's life: New teachers, different classes and assignments, and updated school day routines.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Microbiome instability linked to poor growth in kids
Malnutrition is a leading cause of death in children under age 5, and nearly 150 million children globally under this age have stunted growth from lack of nutrition. Although an inadequate diet is a major contributor, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found over a decade ago that dysfunctional communities of gut microbes play an important role in triggering malnutrition.
September 9, 2025 — Source

More evidence that school phone bans help students' well-being
On the heels of wider acceptance of school phone bans and taking "digital breaks," South Australian experts have produced more evidence of the potential benefits to student well-being, mental health outcomes and their overall lived experience.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Parenting role found to be key factor in mothers' mental health
In Germany, approximately 1 in 3 women is affected by a mental disorder. This includes many mothers. What are the causes of these problems in this particular group of people?
September 9, 2025 — Source

Research shows how Mediterranean-style diet in pregnancy can lead to improved mother and infant health
A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fiber, vegetable proteins and healthy fats, benefits maternal health during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition to improving intestinal function and mucosal immunity, it also prevents fat accumulation and optimizes the composition of the microbiota in the digestive system. In babies, this maternal dietary pattern helps to reduce the incidence and severity of infections.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Study finds no sign of toxic effects of inhaled anesthesia in young children
Preliminary findings from a new clinical trial show no adverse neurodevelopmental effects after brief inhaled anesthesia and surgery in infants and young children, reports Anesthesiology.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Teens less defiant when parents model values and show understanding, study finds
Adolescence is a period when some teenagers begin experimenting with risky or rule-breaking behaviors such as skipping school, drinking, lying, or staying out past their curfew. When parents find out, their natural response is often to warn their child: Continue with the behavior and you'll incur stricter rules, less freedom, and the loss of privileges.
September 9, 2025 — Source

U.S. Students Just Scored Their Lowest Marks in History
The latest results from the Nation's Report Card offer little reason for optimism.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Vaccine Injuries, Violent Video Games, and Infertility Challenge: RFK Jr. Releases New MAHA 'Strategy' Report for Children
"Our young men have sperm counts that are half what they ought to be," Kennedy said.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Why listening to stories and talking about them is so important for young children
Story time—at home, at nursery and at school—is where young children encounter the magic of books. Reading stories to young children is a pleasurable activity in itself, but it also lays the foundation for language and literacy development and has social and emotional benefits.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 4th, 2025

Compassionate decision-making approaches for families with critically ill children
When a child is critically ill, families often face one of the most heartbreaking questions imaginable: how should a medical team intervene when a patient's heart stops beating or they are unable to breathe independently?
September 4, 2025 — Source

FDA calls for child-resistant packaging on nicotine pouches
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is urging nicotine pouch manufacturers to adopt child-resistant packaging to help prevent children from accidentally ingesting the pouches.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Healthy—or unhealthy—childhood habits could shape adult habits
A person's strength and cardiovascular fitness in adulthood may be traced back to behaviors established during childhood, according to a new University of Georgia study.
September 4, 2025 — Source

'I want to get some bad-ass tattoos': Study reveals why suicidal teens choose to keep living
Family connections, personal dreams and simple joys were among the reasons given by at-risk adolescents.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Not getting enough iodine? Pediatric endocrinologist reveals why iodine deficiency is on the rise
Doctors and researchers are puzzled by a recent rise in what might seem like an antiquated problem: iodine deficiency.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Physical education is important for academic success—here's how it benefits kids' cognition
There were 45,000 fewer hours45,000 fewer hours of physical education (PE) delivered in UK schools during the last academic year compared to 15 years ago. This is concerning, given how important PE and physical activity are not only for children's physical health, but their cognitive health too. As the new school year begins, it's essential that PE hours in UK schools aren't further cut given its importance for academic success.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Students with overprotective parents more vulnerable to anxiety during their transition to university, researchers find
First-year undergraduates who grew up with overly cautious or controlling parents tend to experience increased anxiety when faced with stresses associated with the transition to university, researchers from McGill University and the University of California (Los Angeles) have found.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — September 1st, 2025

Binge gaming in kids associated with adverse mental, social and academic outcomes
Binge gaming in kids associated with adverse mental, social and academic outcomes
September 1, 2025 — Source

How pediatric brain tumors grow: Blocking a chemical messenger could offer new route to treatment
The most common type of brain tumor in children, pilocytic astrocytoma (PA), accounts for about 15% of all pediatric brain tumors. Although this type of tumor is usually not life-threatening, the unchecked growth of tumor cells can disrupt normal brain development and function.
September 1, 2025 — Source

My baby versus the world: Postpartum activity in first-time fathers' brains may prepare them for parenting
University of Southern California psychologists report that first-time fathers show stronger brain activation to their own infant than to unfamiliar infants or their romantic partner, with links to bonding and parenting stress.
September 1, 2025 — Source

Should I limit how often my child eats nuts because they contain fat?
When I mention kids and nuts in the same sentence, some parents react like I've dropped the F-bomb, thanks to the association of nuts with two other F-words: fat and fear.
September 1, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 29th, 2025

ADHD drugs are being prescribed too quickly to preschoolers, study finds
Young children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder often receive medication just after being diagnosed, which contravenes treatment guidelines endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, a Stanford Medicine-led study has found.
August 29, 2025 — Source

Disrupting protein quality control slows tumor growth in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma
In this study led by first author Kristen Kwong and corresponding author Amit J. Sabnis from the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology, University of California San Francisco, researchers discovered that disrupting the protein quality control system in cancer cells slows tumor growth in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), the most common pediatric soft tissue cancer.
August 29, 2025 — Source

New study reveals how child neglect impacts critical brain pathways
When we think of child abuse, physical violence or emotional cruelty often comes to mind first. However, the most common form of maltreatment is actually much quieter: neglect. Affecting three out of four children in substantiated abuse cases worldwide, child neglect involves the failure to provide basic necessities like adequate food, shelter, supervision, or protection.
August 29, 2025 — Source

RFK Jr. Stares at Kids, Claims Their Mitochondria Are All Out of Whack
At an event Wednesday, RFK Jr. argued that children's dysfunctional mitochondria are responsible for a bevy of chronic health and behavioral issues.
August 29, 2025 — Source

Sex-selective abortion bans harm maternal and infant health, according to study
Sex-selective abortion bans (SSABs)—which prohibit the seeking of abortions based on the fetus' sex—increase the likelihood of low birth weight and preterm births among infants born to Asian immigrant mothers, according to a new study by Yale sociologist Emma Zang.
August 29, 2025 — Source

Study highlights insufficient GP health checks for children on antipsychotics
Australian GPs are not adequately monitoring for adverse health outcomes in children and adolescents who are prescribed antipsychotic drugs, according to a new study by University of Adelaide researchers.
August 29, 2025 — Source

Study in mice reveals a link between maternal stress during pregnancy and childhood eczema
While past epidemiological studies have linked the two, this is the first time scientists have found a biological mechanism that explains the connection.
August 29, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 25th, 2025

29% of infants immunized against RSV in 2023 to 2024 season
Overall, 29% of infants born during October 2023 to March 2024 were immunized against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during the 2023 to 2024 respiratory virus season, according to research published in the Aug. 21 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
August 25, 2025 — Source

Majority of Washington state school districts will limit student access to cellphones, smart devices
A majority of school districts in Washington state will have policies in place this school year to limit students' use of cellphones and other devices such as smart watches.
August 25, 2025 — Source

Mississippi declares public health emergency over infant deaths
Mississippi has declared a public health emergency after reporting its highest infant death rate in more than a decade.
August 25, 2025 — Source

Polysubstance involvement in youth opioid overdoses increases with age
Most research suggests that opioid overdoses involving multiple substances in the United States typically occur among people aged 25--54. However, a new study led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) and Mass General Brigham for Children indicates that polysubstance-involved opioid overdoses are also prevalent among youth.
August 25, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 22nd, 2025

New data examines health spending among children with autism
Families with a child receiving treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) incur almost 10 times more in health care costs than those of other children, including those diagnosed but not receiving any ASD treatment.
August 22, 2025 — Source

Rethinking phototherapy: Why skin color matters for infant jaundice
Jaundice is one of the most common medical issues in newborns, affecting nearly 80% of full-term infants in their first days of life. The condition occurs when excess bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed as red blood cells break down, builds up in the body. While mildcases usually resolve on their own, dangerously high bilirubin levels can cause brain damage or even death. The standard treatment, phototherapy, uses blue light to break bilirubin down into forms the body can excrete.
August 22, 2025 — Source

Sleep apnea increases sudden cardiac arrest risk in children with epilepsy
Po-Ming Wu, M.D., from National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan, and colleagues examined the incidence and risk for SCA and cardiac dysrhythmia in pediatric patients with epilepsy and SA. Propensity scores were used to match two cohorts: patients with epilepsy with and without SA. During five- and 10-year follow-up periods, SCA and cardiac dysrhythmia were assessed.
August 22, 2025 — Source

Urban heat dome may be programming behavioral problems in children prior to birth
Individuals living in urban cities are experiencing the combined effect of increasing temperatures and poor air quality, often referred to as the urban heat dome. Pregnant mothers and their unborn children are especially at risk. New research from the City University of New York and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai suggests that the combined effect of summer heat and urban air pollution may trigger hormonal changes in children, with long term consequences on their behavioral development.
August 22, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 21st, 2025

Pediatricians' association recommends COVID-19 vaccines for toddlers and some older children, breaking with CDC guidance
For 30 years, vaccine recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have aligned closely with those from the American Academy of Pediatrics, or AAP. But on Aug. 19, 2025, the AAP published new vaccine recommendations that diverge from those of the CDC.
August 21, 2025 — Source

Urgent need to restrict unhealthy marketing to children
University of Otago--Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka researchers are calling for restrictions on unhealthy food, alcohol, and gambling marketing, after a new study found children are exposed to it 76 times every day.
August 21, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 19th, 2025

New treatment provided for young patient with rare neurological disorder
Texas Children's is pleased to announce that a three-year-old girl has been successfully treated with the first-ever FDA-approved gene therapy treatment for AADC deficiency.
August 19, 2025 — Source

Texas Children's successfully treats AADC deficiency using FDA-approved gene therapy
Texas Children's is pleased to announce that a three-year-old girl has been successfully treated with the first-ever FDA-approved gene therapy treatment for AADC deficiency.
August 19, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 16th, 2025

Better control of childhood EoE inflammation linked to less esophageal stiffening
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Children's Hospital Colorado have found that better control of chronic eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)-associated inflammation during childhood leads to less stiffening of the esophagus, resulting in fewer disease complications. Using Endoluminal functional imaging (FLIP), the study team suggests this could be a key marker for assessing disease severity and progression.
August 16, 2025 — Source

Meta under fire over AI rules that allow romantic roleplay with children and false medical advice
AI chatbots producing inappropriate and inaccurate content... no way
August 16, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 11th, 2025

In utero brain surgery for vein of Galen malformation shows continued promise
Building upon the success of the first in utero brain surgery for vein of Galen malformation (VOGM) reported in 2023, new data published in JAMA provides further evidence for the potential use of fetal embolization for this condition.
August 11, 2025 — Source or Source

Predicting risk in children with heart defects
A multi-center study has identified critical risk factors that increase the likelihood of death in children with a heart defect who are awaiting or have recently undergone heart transplantation, according to findings published in Circulation.
August 11, 2025 — Source

Study reveals troubling gaps in accuracy, fairness of mental health screenings for incarcerated youth
Approximately 70% of incarcerated youth in the United States have a mental disorder. The challenges in this population are profound -- about 30% report suicidal thoughts, 12% have attempted suicide and 25% experience solitary confinement, a condition strongly associated with increased suicide risk. Depression is also widespread, affecting 10% to 25% of youth with moderate to severe symptoms.
August 11, 2025 — Source

Study urges reform in mental health screening for incarcerated youth
Approximately 70% of incarcerated youth in the United States have a mental disorder. The challenges in this population are profound—about 30% report suicidal thoughts, 12% have attempted suicide and 25% experience solitary confinement, a condition strongly associated with increased suicide risk. Depression is also widespread, affecting 10% to 25% of youth with moderate to severe symptoms.
August 11, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 9th, 2025

Parental workplace chemical exposure linked to autism severity and behavior in children
A new study in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health finds parents' workplace chemical exposure may be linked to a range of behavioral challenges and developmental delays in their children with autism.
August 9, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 8th, 2025

Did you walk or cycle to school as a child? Your children are likely to follow in your footsteps
If you used physically active modes of commuting to school, your children are likely to do the same. A study published in the European Journal of Public Health by the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, reveals an intergenerational link between parents' and their children's school commuting habits. The researchers emphasize that active commuting to school is a simple and practical way to incorporate more physical activity into daily life.
August 8, 2025 — Source

Gut bacteria may connect pregnancy diet to childhood autism
Scientists are uncovering how what mothers eat during pregnancy could influence gut microbes and shape brain development in their children, potentially influencing autism risk in the next generation.
August 8, 2025 — Source

High-dose vitamin D strengthens bones in very low birth weight infants
Doubling the vitamin D dose for premature, very low birth weight infants can safely give their tiny bones a big advantage, offering hope for a stronger start in life.
August 8, 2025 — Source

Hope for Strep A vaccine: Scientists identify antibodies that protect children from infection
Scientists have discovered how some children develop natural immunity to a bacterial infection, a vital breakthrough which could help develop vaccines to save up to half a million lives globally each year.
August 8, 2025 — Source

How many Kentuckians are opting out of childhood vaccines?
State data for the 2024--25 school year puts the overall percentage of kindergarten students fully caught up on required vaccines at 82%. That's behind the national rate of 92.1% for the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine and 92.5% for the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and polio vaccines, according to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.
August 8, 2025 — Source

Report ties to child mental health crisis to immigration enforcement
Aggressive immigration practices—such as detention, deportation, and workplace raids—are contributing to widespread emotional trauma among both immigrant and U.S.-born children living in mixed-status households, according to a report published by a team of mental health professionals in the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside.
August 8, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 4th, 2025

How children learn to read emotions: Study reveals distinct cognitive shift
Why do young children often miss the emotions behind adult expressions? A pioneering study led by researcher Xie Wanze from Peking University's School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, in collaboration with professor Seth Pollak from the University of Wisconsin, reveals that the answer lies in a cognitive shift.
August 4, 2025 — Source or Source

Idaho has become the wild frontier of vaccination policy and public health
Idaho charts a new path as trust in public health craters.
August 4, 2025 — Source

Presidential fitness test returns to US schools
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday to bring back the program, which aims to improve physical fitness among students. The test was launched in 1956 and ended in 2013.
August 4, 2025 — Source

Study finds persistent barriers keep adolescents from achieving better oral health
While overall dental health among young children in the U.S. has improved over the last two decades, adolescents have not experienced the same gains. A recent study in Western New York led by Rubelisa Oliveira, DDS, assistant professor at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, is uncovering the reasons why.
August 4, 2025 — Source

Supermarket promotions of baby and toddler foods are misaligned to national dietary guidelines
A Monash University-led study into commercially available foods for infants and young children has found them to be promoted as low-cost and "healthy," despite often not conforming to nutritional guidelines.
August 4, 2025 — Source

Unstable surroundings have lasting effects on youth well-being
The more unpredictable an environment is for children, the more likely they are to exhibit mental and physical health issues when they hit their teenage and early adulthood years, according to new University of Georgia research.
August 4, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 2nd, 2025

Five children see HIV viral loads vanish after taking antiretroviral drugs
The first widespread success in curing HIV may come from children, not adults.
August 2, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — August 1st, 2025

An Ohio couple welcomes a baby boy from a nearly 31-year-old frozen embryo
A baby boy born last week to an Ohio couple developed from an embryo that had been frozen for more than 30 years in what is believed to be the longest storage time before a birth.
August 1, 2025 — Source

Peers learn strategies to support communication for minimally speaking autistic classmates
A new study published in Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools explores how elementary school--aged peers can be taught to support classmates with autism who are minimally speaking. The research was conducted by Vanderbilt Kennedy Center member Elizabeth Biggs, Ph.D., and demonstrates that peers can learn and apply responsive interaction strategies—called the "Ways to Talk and Play"—to foster play and communication using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).
August 1, 2025 — Source

The power of play in early childhood
Play is how young children make sense of the world. Whether with dolls, blocks, trains, or playdough, children use play to explore, experiment, and learn. In early childhood, it is essential that children have at least an hour of open-ended play each day, as recommended by research. During this time, they should be encouraged to ask questions, test ideas and engage in creative thinking. Play is not just fun — it is foundational.
August 1, 2025 — Source

Study identifies three inflammatory pathways behind asthma attacks in children
Eosinophilic asthma is characterized by high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response. While eosinophils typically help fight infections, in eosinophilic asthma, they accumulate in the lungs and airways, causing chronic inflammation, swelling and damage to the respiratory system.
August 1, 2025 — Source

Trump Revives the Presidential Fitness Test to Torment a New Generation of Kids
Boy, we truly are living in the era of reboots. This week, President Donald Trump announced the return of the Presidential Fitness Test, the program intended to promote physical activity in schoolchildren through twice-yearly exercise assessments like a one-mile run.
August 1, 2025 — Source

Vaping may be reversing decades of progress against youth smoking
Despite decades of progress, vaping has reignited teen smoking risk, putting today's e-cigarette users back where youth started in 1974.
August 1, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 29th, 2025

Fed up with brands that use corn syrup and skim milk, this mother developed her own 'clean' baby formula
When Esther Hallam welcomed her daughter, Nara, into the world, she faced the challenge of searching for trustworthy brands that offered high-quality organic infant formula in the U.S.
July 29, 2025 — Source

First malaria treatment for babies is a major step to ending the disease in Africa
The first malaria treatment for babies and very young children of 2 months up to 5 years was approved for use by Swiss agency for therapeutic products, Swissmedic, in early July 2025. Until now, babies and very young children have been treated with medicines formulated for older children.
July 29, 2025 — Source

My child is always losing and forgetting things. How can I help—without making it worse?
As school returns, parents and teachers might each be faced with the familiar chorus of "I can't find my school jumper" and "I left my hat at home." For parents of older kids, the stakes may be even higher: lost mobile phones or laptops left on the bus.
July 29, 2025 — Source

'No filter can fix that face': How online body shaming harms teenage girls
These are the sorts of comments teenage girls see online daily, via social media, group chats, or anonymous messages. While some may dismiss this as teasing, these comments constitute appearance-related cyberbullying.
July 29, 2025 — Source

Risk of deadly diarrheal diseases in children could worsen as climate changes
Diarrhea remains one of the most serious health threats to young children in the Global South, and new research shows that climate change is set to worsen the risk substantially. However, improved access to education and targeted health policies could help families protect their children from this deadly disease.
July 29, 2025 — Source

RNA scissors precisely target and remove mutant gene in rapid aging condition in children
Children who develop deep wrinkles, stunted growth, and rapidly aging bones and blood vessels as early as 1 to 2 years of age may be suffering from Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), a rare and incurable genetic disorder that affects approximately one in eight million people. The average life expectancy for patients is just 14.5 years, and to date, no curative treatment exists.
July 29, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 25th, 2025

Automated speed enforcement significantly reduces speeding in Toronto school zones
Despite lower speed limits in school zones, child pedestrian injuries are most common near schools. Now, a new study led by researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) has found that automated speed enforcement (ASE) cameras reduced the number of speeding vehicles by 45 percent in urban school zones.
July 25, 2025 — Source

Congenital syphilis remains a threat to healthy births despite screening
A 15-year study of nearly 60,000 births shows that congenital syphilis and other STIs continue to endanger babies, as healthcare barriers in remote Australia undermine otherwise effective screening programs.
July 25, 2025 — Source

Fearing Medicaid Coverage Loss, Some Parents Rush To Vaccinate Their Kids
For two decades, Washington, D.C., pediatrician Lanre Falusi has counseled parents about vaccine safety, side effects, and timing. But this year, she said, the conversations have changed.
July 25, 2025 — Source

First graders who use more educational media spend more time reading
An estimated 12% of first graders' most-used media at home is educational, a new study suggests.
July 25, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 22nd, 2025

Access to green spaces may be linked to lower risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children
Living near green spaces before and during pregnancy as well as in early childhood is associated with a reduced risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, according to Rutgers Health researchers.
July 22, 2025 — Source or Source

Childhood gastrointestinal disorders may be predictive for interstitial cystitis
Noting that early-life conditions such as GI disorders, urological anomalies (UA), psychiatric disorders, and autoimmune diseases (AD) have been hypothesized as potential risk factors for developing IC in childhood, Mohammad Alipour‐Vaezi, from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, and colleagues examined these associations in a retrospective cohort analysis using data encompassing 118 million patient records. Study and control groups were established across four categories of childhood disorders; the incidence of IC was monitored over a 14-year period.
July 22, 2025 — Source

Digital model based on noninvasive factors shows accuracy for identifying inflammatory bowel disease in children
Hailin Wu, from the Children's Hospital of Fudan University in Shanghai, and colleagues sought to establish and validate the optimal model of noninvasive evaluation tests to help clinicians with the early identification of pediatric IBD. The analysis included data on noninvasive features from 314 pediatric patients (IBD, 103 participants; non-IBD, 211 participants).
July 22, 2025 — Source

Extreme childhood obesity drives liver and diabetes risks
New research reveals that extreme obesity in US youth, although still rare, has more than tripled since 2008, placing older teens and minority children at higher risk for serious metabolic complications.
July 22, 2025 — Source

Over 14 million children miss lifesaving vaccines threatening global goals
More than 14 million children missed out on lifesaving vaccines against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough last year, putting global goals off track, new UN data shows.
July 22, 2025 — Source

Teenagers aren't good at spotting misinformation online—research suggests why
Misinformation is found in every element of our online lives. It ranges from fake products available to buy, fake lifestyle posts on social media accounts and fake news about health and politics.
July 22, 2025 — Source

US adolescents with cannabis use disorder failing to complete rehabilitation
Cannabis use disorder in adolescents in the United States remains a growing threat despite declines in cannabis use. Many adolescents begin using cannabis before high school, during crucial stages of brain development, which may pose short- and long-term risks for cognitive, academic and social challenges.
July 22, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 18th, 2025

One-third of US public schools screen students for mental health issues
Nearly one-third of the nation's K-12 U.S. public schools mandate mental health screening for students, with most offering in-person treatment or referral to a community mental health professional if a student is identified as having depression or anxiety, according to a new study.
July 18, 2025 — Source

Research helps kids with acute gastroenteritis recover at home
Most children seeking emergency department (ED) care due to vomiting are discharged home. Although they usually feel better when they leave the ED, the vomiting recurs in nearly one-third of children.
July 18, 2025 — Source

Scientists develop new tool to identify NF1 cognitive signs earlier
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a rare genetic condition that affects approximately 100,000 Americans. Children diagnosed with the disorder often have motor delays and learning disabilities. Many are also diagnosed with autism or brain tumors.
July 18, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 17th, 2025

Aluminum vaccines cleared of long-term health risks
In the largest study of its kind, researchers examined aluminum exposure from vaccines in 1.2 million children, and found no increased risk of autism, asthma, or autoimmune disease.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Children living near oil and gas wells face higher risk of rare leukemia, studies show
Acute lymphocytic leukemia is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in children, although it is rare. It begins in the bone marrow and rapidly progresses.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Communication is a two-way street, even if you're talking to a four-month-old
A new study from Western Sydney University reveals that even from a very young age—as early as 4-months-old—babies are active participants in "conversations" with their parents.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Extremely severe obesity is on the rise in kids—along with a barrage of health problems
Obesity rates in children have been on the rise for decades, having quadrupled from 1990 to 2022, and along with the rise in obesity, comes a rise in health risks. However, obesity can be broken down further into categories based on severity.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Few babies getting RSV antibody shot, study says
A new antibody shot that protects babies against RSV infection could be struggling to gain traction, researchers report.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Impact of sociodemographic factors, treatment compliance, age of diagnosis in amblyopia treatment outcomes
Amblyopia, commonly referred to as "lazy eye," is the leading cause of vision loss in one eye in children, affecting around 2% of the population. Treatment success varies based on sociodemographic factors, with previous studies showing that Black children and those with Medicaid insurance are at higher risk for unsuccessful treatment.
July 17, 2025 — Source

New technique could increase infant heart transplants by 20%
Duke Health has pioneered a world's-first technique that could expand the donor pool for pediatric heart transplants in the U.S. by up to 20%—offering new hope to families on the waitlist.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Under the influence: How digital media use affects teens
EU researchers are shedding light on how digital media use is impacting teenagers and what parents, teachers and policymakers can do about it.
July 17, 2025 — Source

Wednesday's child is not 'full of woe,' new study finds, debunking popular nursery rhyme
A University of York study has found no link between a child's day of birth and their destiny, reassuring parents that the age-old verse is simply "harmless fun."
July 17, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 14th, 2025

Aluminum exposure from childhood vaccines not linked to increased risk of certain chronic disorders
A nationwide cohort study of Danish children examined the association between cumulative aluminum exposure from early childhood vaccination and the risk for the development of autoimmune, atopic or allergic, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
July 14, 2025 — Source

Children are forming emotional bonds with AI chatbots, report says
AI chatbots are rapidly becoming a fixture in children's digital lives thanks to their integration into platforms kids already use such as search engines, games, and social media. A report from the internet safety organization, Internet Matters, has found that two-thirds of kids in the UK, between the ages of nine and 17 in the UK, have used AI chatbots; usage has significantly grown in the last 18 months.
July 14, 2025 — Source

Early antibiotic exposure weakens infant immune development
A new study led by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) found that early-life exposure to antibiotics can impair an infant's developing immune system, and that a naturally occurring metabolite may hold the key to reversing that damage.
July 14, 2025 — Source

Feeling confident and in control when they're active boosts children's well-being
The well-being of children is under the spotlight in the UK, after a 2025 report from Unicef ranked the UK at 21 out of 36 wealthy countries in child well-being. With growing concerns about mental health, rising screen time, and fewer chances to play—as well as the well-known links between physical activity and better mood—one solution seems obvious: Get kids moving more.
July 14, 2025 — Source

Short videos, long questions: Is there any link with children's attention?
Short-form video isn't new. Before TikTok, there was Vine—a platform that popularized 6-second video clips and helped redefine what it meant to go viral. The "Only a spoonful" of ice cream skit lives rent-free in many netizens' heads. But Vine arrived before mobile internet and algorithmic feeds fully matured. Though the site did not stand the test of time, newer platforms built on its legacy and further refined this engaging media format.
July 14, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 12th, 2025

It's never too late: Just moving more could add years to your life
But upping physical activity level still linked to 20--25% lower risk of death from any cause; Switching to a more active lifestyle at any point in adulthood may extend lifespan.
July 12, 2025 — Source

School smartphone bans reflect growing concern over youth mental health and academic performance
By banning smartphones in schools, New York is joining states across the country. The bans are happening in both traditionally liberal and conservative states.
July 12, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 11th, 2025

Dealing with extreme heat is a full-time job for parents of young kids—and their schools
According to survey data from the Stanford Center on Early Childhood, families—across all income levels, races, ethnicities and regions—are increasingly considering how extreme weather conditions affect them. More than half of families with young children across the state are worried about its effects, according to data from the center's RAPID Survey Project, which examines early childhood and family well-being. Heat, in particular, is a significant concern.
July 11, 2025 — Source

Early-onset neonatal sepsis linked to childhood epilepsy
Mads Andersen, M.D., from Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark, and colleagues examined the association between early-onset neonatal infection and childhood epilepsy in a nationwide, population-based, register-based cohort study of all Danish live-born singletons between 1997 and 2013 with at least 35 completed gestational weeks at birth without major congenital anomalies.
July 11, 2025 — Source

Effects of poor sleep may contribute to alcohol problems in college students
Certain behavioral effects of not getting enough sleep may explain why people who have insomnia are at risk for problems with alcohol. A study of college students, published in Alcohol: Clinical and Experimental Research, found that sleep problems may increase negative mood and worsen impulse control, factors which, in turn, lead to more problems with alcohol.
July 11, 2025 — Source

Floor video projection enhances cognitive functions during exercises for neurodiverse adolescents
The shuttle run (a round-trip endurance run) test measures physical fitness by having subjects run back and forth for a certain distance. This test has been adopted as part of a new physical fitness test formulated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, and it is conducted in many schools as part of physical fitness training.
July 11, 2025 — Source

The Foster Care System Has a Suicide Problem. Federal Cuts Threaten To Slow Fixes.
Elliott Hinkle experienced depression and suicidal thoughts even before entering the foster care system in Casper, Wyoming, at age 15.
July 11, 2025 — Source

Toxic metals linked to impaired growth in infants in Guatemala
Research led by the University of Arizona Health Sciences found a potential link between growth problems among infants and high levels of toxic metals and other elements in the breast milk of Mayan women in Guatemala's Lake Atitlán watershed region.
July 11, 2025 — Source

Uncovering behavioral clues to childhood maltreatment
Childhood maltreatment leaves deep and lasting marks that have far-reaching consequences, extending beyond immediate trauma and affecting survivors in ways that are often invisible and misunderstood. Many survivors often face a complex mix of challenges that have an impact not only on their mental well-being but also on their physical health, social development, and overall quality of life.
July 11, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 10th, 2025

Exercise can greatly benefit teenagers' mental health—here's what the evidence says
Exercise can greatly benefit teenagers' mental health—here's what the evidence says
July 10, 2025 — Source

Healthy diet could help infants fight off effects of maternal obesity
Maternal obesity doesn't just affect the health of a pregnant woman. It can also have effects on her child, increasing their risk of developing obesity and its associated complications. According to a recent study published in The FASEB Journal, an early-in-life dietary intervention in mice can potentially reverse one of those complications—a reduction in the number of innate immune cells in the gut. The findings suggest that a healthful diet in infancy could help children of obese mothers start off on the right foot.
July 10, 2025 — Source

Majority of children who die in England have life-limiting conditions; inequities in palliative care provision exposed
New research shows the majority of child deaths in England were among children with life-limiting conditions and highlights key shortcomings with their end-of-life care, prompting calls for urgent reform to tackle inequities in care.
July 10, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — July 7th, 2025

App in development to help young children fall asleep
Bedtime can be tricky for parents, especially when their child is experiencing behavioral sleep problems, but help is on the way with an app in development designed to help parents manage their child's sleep problems.
July 7, 2025 — Source

Preventing heat-related illness in children as temperatures rise
The arrival of summer should mean more outdoor playtime for children, but the lessons of last summer warn of a different experience. Pediatricians see that as climate change leads to higher temperatures each year and longer stretches of hot days, parents increasingly need to be aware of the risks of heat-related illness on children.
July 7, 2025 — Source

Screen time may slow learning skills, study finds
Screens are a part of daily life for many families—but too much screen time in the early years could slow a child's language development, a new study suggests.
July 7, 2025 — Source

Study reveals power of shared mealtimes for children in hospital
A new study led by the University of Hertfordshire for the East of England's first specialist children's hospital has found that shared mealtimes in hospital settings can significantly improve the health and well-being of children and young people.
July 7, 2025 — Source

Twin study reveals genetic influence on infant crying and sleep
How much an infant cries is largely steered by their genetics and there is probably not much that parents can do about it. This has been shown in a new Swedish twin study from Uppsala University and Karolinska Institutet in which researchers investigated how genetics and environment influence infants' crying duration, sleep quality and ability to settle during the first months of life.
July 7, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 30th, 2025

Economic downturns increase childhood malnutrition risks
Even small drops in national income can significantly increase the risk of various forms of childhood malnutrition- not only undernutrition but also overweight and obesity, shows a study led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), an institution supported by "la Caixa" Foundation.
June 30, 2025 — Source

Long periods of parental leave after childbirth associated with higher risk of unhealthy behavior
A new study by the University of Vienna shows that particularly long periods of parental leave around the birth of a child are associated with a higher risk of unhealthy behavior - specifically smoking - in the long term. The research team around Sonja Spitzer analyzed the effects of maternity and parental leave on the smoking behavior of mothers in 14 European countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and The Netherlands. The study was recently published in the renowned Journal of Health Economics and is based on a collaboration with the Hertie School Berlin and the TU Vienna.
June 30, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 28th, 2025

Rising summer heat increases risk of child deaths in hot cars
A record heat wave that spread across the East Coast of the United States during the first week of summer has child advocates warning parents and caretakers about the risks of heatstroke to children left inside hot vehicles.
June 28, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 25th, 2025

Brief online therapy may potentially reduce mental health problems in young people
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed two brief, low-threshold digital interventions aimed at preventing and reducing mental health problems among adolescents and their parents. A pilot study published in JAMA Network Open indicates that the interventions are well-received and potentially effective for adolescents experiencing mental health issues and their caregivers.
June 25, 2025 — Source

Culture is key for understanding and treatment of adolescent aggression
A recent study out of Vietnam, published in Research on Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, offers important insights into how culture affects adolescents' aggressive responses to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). ACEs include child abuse and neglect, exposure to domestic violence, and other damaging experiences.
June 25, 2025 — Source

Exposure to particulate matter during pregnancy linked to increased risk of childhood obesity
Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy, specifically to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), may increase the risk of childhood overweight or obesity. This is the conclusion of a large, pan-European meta-analysis study led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) and published in Environment International.
June 25, 2025 — Source

More than half of US teens have had at least one cavity, but fluoride programs in schools help prevent them
Fluoride varnish is a liquid that is applied to the teeth by a trained provider to reduce cavities. It does not require special dental devices and can be applied quickly in various settings.
June 25, 2025 — Source

Neurodiverse kids at camp: How programs can become places where all children belong
For many families, summer camp is a rite of passage representing friendship, fun and freedom. But for families of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, it can be a season of rejection, stress and exclusion.
June 25, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 23rd, 2025

AI system predicts early childhood cavities in individual teeth with high accuracy
Early childhood caries (ECC)—the world's most prevalent chronic childhood disease—disproportionately targets specific teeth, a mystery that has remained unresolved until now.
June 23, 2025 — Source

CBD might help children with autism, but more research needed
Researchers at the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research at University of California San Diego School of Medicine have found that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis, could help reduce problematic behaviors in autistic boys. The results provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and limitations of CBD as a therapeutic intervention for autism.
June 23, 2025 — Source

Genetic cause for rare childhood brain developmental disorder found
University of Otago–Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has led international research uncovering a new genetic cause for a rare developmental disorder that profoundly impacts brain growth and function in children.
June 23, 2025 — Source

My kids only want to eat processed foods. How can I get them eating a healthier and more varied diet?
If it feels like your child's diet consists entirely of breakfast cereal, chicken nuggets and snacks that'd outlast the apocalypse, you're not alone.
June 23, 2025 — Source

New machine learning model brings transparency to risk prediction in medulloblastoma
Medulloblastoma the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor with a high risk of metastasis and poor survival outcomes. To delineate the metastatic microenvironment,, researchers in China have developed an explainable machine learning model that identifies key immune cells and cytokine markers linked to tumor dissemination and prognosis. Their model offers a transparent, data-driven approach that could help clinicians better assess risk and personalize treatment for children with this life-threatening disease.
June 23, 2025 — Source

Teen depression? Study finds clues in screen use and sleep quality
In this digital era, both kids and adults are often glued to smartphone screens. Digital technology keeps users entertained, connected to friends, and in tune with important news. But some reports suggest that, particularly for adolescents, excessive time on these screens can be linked to mental health problems and even depression.
June 23, 2025 — Source

US children who eat more fruit have less abdominal fat
A new study of over 1,700 US children reveals that higher fruit intake is linked to smaller waistlines, highlighting the role of fruit in fighting childhood obesity.
June 23, 2025 — Source

What kids need—and adults need to know—to combat the youth mental health crisis
Starting this fall, students in New York will join those in other states like California in not being able to access cellphones during the day. These bans are the culmination of years of education and activism by parents, teachers and researchers concerned about the effect of technology not only on academic performance but also on children's mental health.
June 23, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 21st, 2025

Genetics of cardiomyopathy risk in childhood cancer survivors differ by age of onset, study shows
The relationship between genetic variants and the risk of late-onset cardiomyopathy remains poorly understood in survivors of childhood cancer despite being otherwise well established. Scientists from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have helped address this gap, assessing whether variant trends seen in the general population also apply to late-onset cardiomyopathy in five-year survivors of childhood cancer.
June 21, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 20th, 2025

Experts explain how skipping screen time, studying infants' brain growth may improve health, long-term learning
The connections a baby's brain forms during the first two years of life, coupled with a baby's genetic makeup, offer a window into their development. Cedars-Sinai pediatric neurologists, developmental neuroscientists and brain imaging experts are working to better understand infant brain connections and genetics to improve health outcomes for future generations.
June 20, 2025 — Source

Six things Australia must do if it's serious about tackling school bullying
Bullying is arguably one of the most serious issues facing Australia's schools.
June 20, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 18th, 2025

Genetic testing for children with autism and intellectual disabilities remains rare in Medicaid, despite guidelines
A new national study reveals that most Medicaid-enrolled children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or intellectual disability (ID) are not receiving recommended genetic testing despite clinical guidelines urging its use.
June 18, 2025 — Source

How to make sure the new grooming gangs investigation is the last
Louise Casey's recent report on grooming gangs and child sexual exploitation in the UK lays bare institutional failings. It highlights that, at present, victims cannot rely upon the criminal justice system—and that it has badly let them down in the past.
June 18, 2025 — Source

Interferon pathway genes linked to treatment success in juvenile arthritis
A set of genes that could be used to help doctors predict which children will respond well to treatment for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) have been identified by researchers at UCL and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH), who are part of the CLUSTER Consortium.
June 18, 2025 — Source

Study finds children with adverse childhood experiences are more likely to miss school due to illness or injury
A new study led by researchers at UCLA Health finds that children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are significantly more likely to miss school due to health-related issues.
June 18, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 16th, 2025

Bugaboo recalls 18,000+ Giraffe high chairs due to fall risk
Parents, take note: Bugaboo is recalling more than 18,000 of its Giraffe high chairs following reports of the legs separating from the frame.
June 16, 2025 — Source

Childhood weight gain leads to taller adults without increasing obesity risk
In children with undernutrition, increasing weight in a child's first decade of life can lead to significantly taller adults—with no increase in the risk of obesity or high blood pressure later in life, according to a new University of Michigan study.
June 16, 2025 — Source

Exposure to low levels of arsenic in public drinking water linked to lower birthweight and preterm birth
Babies born to mothers potentially exposed to low levels of arsenic in public drinking water—even at levels below the federal safety standard—were more likely to be born preterm, with lower birthweight, or be smaller than expected, according to a study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.
June 16, 2025 — Source

Father's mental health plays key role in child development, researchers say
Experts from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago affirm the need to screen new fathers for mental distress, recognizing the mounting research that underscores the importance of fathers in child development.
June 16, 2025 — Source

Physical activity is critical for children's happiness, study finds
PE, school sports and physical activity (PESSPA) are critical tools in fostering healthier, happier and more resilient children and young people, concluded a recent study from University of Manchester experts in collaboration with the Youth Sport Trust who have included it in their new annual report.
June 16, 2025 — Source

Study links gestational hypertension to increased seizure risk in offspring
A new study led by researchers at University of Iowa Health Care has revealed a significant association between high blood pressure during pregnancy (gestational hypertension) and an increased risk of seizures in children.
June 16, 2025 — Source or Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 13th, 2025

Decline in youth physical fitness seen in association with pandemic
During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a decline in the physical fitness of U.S. youth, according to a study published online June 4 in JAMA Network Open.
June 13, 2025 — Source

Infant with rare, incurable disease is first to successfully receive personalized gene therapy treatment
NIH-supported gene-editing platform lays groundwork to rapidly develop treatments for other rare genetic diseases.
June 13, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 9th, 2025

Suspended children are twice as likely to be involved in violence, even when accounting for their behavior
A new study report has found that, even while controlling for a range of factors including measures of behavioral difficulties, children who are suspended or excluded from school are still nearly two and a half times more likely to become involved in violence and four and a half times more likely to offend compared to those who have not been suspended or excluded.
June 9, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 6th, 2025

Disadvantaged backgrounds can leave a lifelong accelerated aging marker in children
Economic disadvantage leaves a biological imprint on children which could last throughout their lifetime, reducing their quality and length of life. These are the findings of a study of more than 1,000 European children led by researchers at Imperial College London. The research finds evidence that the impacts of socioeconomic status can be seen in the blood cells of children, with those from less privileged backgrounds having shorter telomeres—an established biomarker for aging.
June 6, 2025 — Source

Obesity linked to subsequent neoplasms in childhood cancer survivors
Lenat Joffe, M.D., from Northwell in New Hyde Park, New York, and colleagues examined associations between time-varying BMI/physical activity and subsequent neoplasm risk among childhood cancer survivors in a retrospective cohort analysis. Five-year childhood cancer survivors diagnosed at younger than 21 years of age between 1970 and 1999 were enrolled and followed through September 2019.
June 6, 2025 — Source

Schools need better systems to support students experiencing family and domestic violence
Australian schools need comprehensive support systems to address the learning and safety needs of young people experiencing family and domestic violence, a Monash University study recommends.
June 6, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — June 3rd, 2025

APA calls for guardrails, education, to protect adolescent AI users
The effects of artificial intelligence on adolescents are nuanced and complex, according to a report from the American Psychological Association that calls on developers to prioritize features that protect young people from exploitation, manipulation and the erosion of real-world relationships.
June 3, 2025 — Source

Gut fungi in very-low-birthweight infants modulate oxygen-induced lung damage, study finds
Extremely preterm newborns who weigh less than 3.3 pounds have immature lungs that often require high levels of ventilation oxygen in the hospital. This contributes to the chronic lung disease bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or BPD, the most common cause of death for these tiny infants. BPD exacts a devastating toll on the immature lung.
June 3, 2025 — Source

Public health study explores how vaccines may help prevent hearing loss in children
Over 1.5 billion people worldwide are affected by some degree of hearing loss. While it is often linked to aging, a lesser-known but significant cause is infections contracted during childhood and adolescence, many of which are preventable.
June 3, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 28th, 2025

Children and young people are waiting longer than necessary for cancer diagnosis, according to new research
A study, led by experts at the University of Nottingham, has found that young people suffering from certain types of cancer, such as bone tumors, are experiencing lengthy times to diagnosis. The Childhood Cancer Diagnosis Study is published in The Lancet Regional Health—Europe.
May 28, 2025 — Source

Fire safety tips for families: Prevent burns around campfires
Campfires are a beloved part of summer—whether roasting marshmallows, telling stories or just enjoying the warmth. But for families with young children, it's important to be aware of the risk of burns and know how to prevent and respond to such injuries.
May 28, 2025 — Source

Infant-directed singing shown to boost emotional health
Researchers advertised for study participants through in-person visits to baby fairs, distribution of flyers at local daycare centers, preschools, and delivery hospitals, and an announcement on public radio in New Haven, Connecticut. Online recruitment efforts targeted social media groups for expecting and new parents, along with online communities related to early childhood education.
May 28, 2025 — Source

Mother's warmth in childhood can influence teen health by shaping perceptions of social safety
Parental warmth and affection in early childhood can have life-long physical and mental health benefits for children, and new UCLA Health research points to an important underlying process: children's sense of social safety.
May 28, 2025 — Source

Paracetamol to poisoning: When medicines harm children instead of heal
Every day, nearly 100 children present to Australian emergency departments with suspected medicine poisoning. It's a startling statistic, but a reality that could be avoided, according to new research from the University of South Australia.
May 28, 2025 — Source

Researchers identify key symptoms of long COVID in young children
Long COVID—symptoms that linger long after the initial viral infection—can affect people of every age, including children. But the lasting symptoms in an infant, toddler, or pre-school-aged child may be different than symptoms in adults and older children.
May 28, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 27th, 2025

Boys who are overweight in their early teens risk passing on harmful epigenetic traits to future children
A new study suggests that boys who become overweight in their early teens risk damaging the genes of their future children, increasing their chances of developing asthma, obesity and low lung function.
May 27, 2025 — Source or Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 23rd, 2025

CDC can no longer help prevent lead poisoning in children, state officials say
Under Trump, the CDC's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program was cut.
May 23, 2025 — Source

Long-term study confirms safety and effectiveness of rivaroxaban for children
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a life-threatening complication in children with serious underlying conditions such as heart defects or cancer. Treatment or prevention of thrombosis poses an additional challenge in everyday clinical practice. A therapy using the active ingredient rivaroxaban specifically tailored to children was successfully tested for the first time in 2020.
May 23, 2025 — Source

Sound insulation tiles at school may help calm crying children
When children are dropped off at a school or daycare for the first time, there can be a lot of feelings and sometimes meltdowns caused by being separated from parents, meeting new people, and hearing new noises. Could the architecture of the room help to soothe at least some of the children's concerns?
May 23, 2025 — Source

Tropical cyclones increase infant mortality in developing countries
Tropical cyclones, including storms below hurricane and typhoon strength, were associated with a sharp rise in infant mortality in low- and middle-income countries during the first two decades of this century, according to new research published in Science Advances. The findings point to a critical need for stronger disaster response and child health protections in vulnerable regions, especially as climate change increases the frequency and severity of these storms.
May 23, 2025 — Source

Wayne State research team tracks effects of bullying from high school to college
With funding from the Spencer Foundation, a private foundation focused on funding education studies, a Wayne State University research team is examining the long-term effects of bullying and mental health on social and academic progress in adolescents.
May 23, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 22nd, 2025

Blood test identifies biological markers for teen depression and severity
Using a novel lab method they developed, McGill University researchers have identified nine molecules in the blood that were elevated in teens diagnosed with depression. These molecules also predicted how symptoms might progress over time.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Childhood cancer survivors have increased risk for chronic kidney disease and hypertension: Study
Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) have an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension, according to a study published online May 19 in JAMA Network Open.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Childhood financial hardship linked to anxiety and loneliness 20 years later
Stress about money doesn't just weigh on us in the moment. According to a new study published in Aging and Mental Health and led by a researcher at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, it can echo across decades—leaving a measurable imprint on emotional health well into older age.
May 22, 2025 — Source

China donates $500M to WHO as US pulls back support
China has promised to give $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next five years, positioning itself to become the group's top donor.
May 22, 2025 — Source

DNA patterns provide key insights in the diagnosis of childhood leukemia
The treatment of leukemia among children could be made more precise with fewer side effects with the help of more accurate methods of diagnosis. A new study led by Umeå University, Sweden, reveals that analyzing methylation patterns in the child's leukemic cells DNA can enhance risk assessment, helping to ensure that only the children who need the most intensive treatment receive it.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Even weak tropical cyclones raise infant mortality in poorer countries, finds research
Tropical cyclones, including storms below hurricane and typhoon strength, were associated with a sharp rise in infant mortality in low- and middle-income countries during the first two decades of this century, according to new research published in Science Advances. The findings point to a critical need for stronger disaster response and child health protections in vulnerable regions, especially as climate change increases the frequency and severity of these storms.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Half of youth-serving clinicians screen for substance use disorder at every well visit
Just over half of youth-serving clinicians report that they routinely screen adolescents for substance-use disorders (SUDs) at every well visit, according to a study published online May 20 in JAMA Network Open.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Increase in number of young patients with anorexia nervosa found in Japan after COVID-19 pandemic
A research group analyzed large-scale clinical data to examine the association between the COVID-19 pandemic and the incidence of anorexia nervosa (ICD-10 classification: F50.0) in young patients in Japan. Their study revealed that the number of patients with anorexia nervosa increased after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Overimitation begins in infancy, but is not yet linked to in-group preference: Study
Humans are by nature social creatures, far more so than other primates. Our desire to be accepted by our in-groups is universal and innate. It also comes early. Multiple studies have demonstrated how preschool-age imitation of adult behavior leads to acquiring new skills, sharing cultural knowledge and fostering a sense of affiliation.
May 22, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 13th, 2025

Better support needed for teenage contraception in rural and regional areas, Australian study says
Teenagers in rural and regional areas may not be receiving the level of contraceptive support they need, according to GPs interviewed in a new study from Monash University's SPHERE Center of Research Excellence.
May 13, 2025 — Source

Breastfeeding provides health benefits to both babies and their mothers, according to new UF/IFAS guides
Both the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that infants exclusively breastfeed during their first six months of life, but only 24.9% in the United States do, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. In Florida, the rate is 18.2%, above only Mississippi (15.6%) and West Virginia (13.8%).
May 13, 2025 — Source

Nearly 19 million children live under same roof as parent with substance use disorder
In 2023, nearly 19 million children in the United States were estimated to be living in a household with at least one parent or primary caregiver with a substance-use disorder (SUD), according to a research letter published online May 12 in JAMA Pediatrics.
May 13, 2025 — Source

Survey shows privacy and safety top list of parental concerns about screen time
As kids spend more time on screens, a new national survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of The Kids Mental Health Foundation, founded by Nationwide Children's Hospital, identifies parents' greatest fears for their children around screen time.
May 13, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 9th, 2025

Improving newborn genetic screening
More than a decade ago, researchers launched the BabySeq Project, a pilot program to return newborn genomic sequencing results to parents and measure the effects on newborn care. Today, over 30 international initiatives are exploring the expansion of newborn screening using genomic sequencing (NBSeq), but a new study highlights the substantial variability in gene selection among those programs.
May 9, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 6th, 2025

Adolescents with mental health conditions show different social media habits
Young people with a diagnosable mental health condition report differences in their experiences of social media compared to those without a condition, including greater dissatisfaction with online friend counts and more time spent on social media sites.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Are kids resilient? Societies and families need to offer supports and relationships to nurture resilience
"Kids are resilient." You have heard this before, right? You might have even said it, with the best of intentions.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Can learning cursive help kids read better? Some policymakers think it's worth a try
Recently, my 8-year-old son received a birthday card from his grandmother. He opened the card, looked at it and said, "I can't read cursive yet."
May 6, 2025 — Source

Early caregiver coaching before age 1 boosts infants' social communication, research shows
A new trial from the Kennedy Krieger Institute reveals a promising path forward for infants showing early signs of social communication delays.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Mobility meets energy: Unlocking new roles for electric scooter batteries in smart cities
As cities around the world strive toward net-zero carbon emissions, one key challenge remains: how to integrate clean transportation with smart energy systems.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Parental loss can impact biological and emotional mechanisms, fostering long-term growth and resilience
A new study explores how the loss of a parent in childhood impacts biological and emotional mechanisms. These changes pave the way for resilience and personal growth through the regulation of the body systems involved in attachment and exploration.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Shifting nicotine product preferences observed in US high school students
University of Southern California and University of Michigan researchers report expanded use of non-tobacco nicotine products among U.S. adolescents. While exclusive e-cigarette use has declined, dual use of nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes has risen.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Sleep products for kids: Do they really help?
We spoke to the experts.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Wearable X-ray technology makes respiratory scans more comfortable for young children
Light conversion technology developed by University of Queensland researchers will be used for wearable X-ray devices that make respiratory scans more comfortable for young children.
May 6, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 5th, 2025

Adolescents with mental health conditions use social media differently than their peers, study suggests
Young people with a diagnosable mental health condition report differences in their experiences of social media compared to those without a condition, including greater dissatisfaction with online friend counts and more time spent on social media sites.
May 5, 2025 — Source

Children in military families face unique psychological challenges, and the barriers to getting help add to the strain
The origin of the statement: "When one person joins the military, the whole family serves" is unknown, but it captures the reality that military families confront in 2025. One member's service shapes the lives of the entire family.
May 5, 2025 — Source

CEPI and University of Bergen collaborate on global vaccine mapping project
Supported by CEPI funding of up to $ 1.5 million over three years, researchers at Norway's University of Bergen will maintain an up-to-date overview of every vaccine candidate being developed around the globe for CEPI's priority pathogens as well as other emerging viral threats identified by CEPI.
May 5, 2025 — Source

Preterm infant with drug-resistant seizures responds to antisense oligonucleotide treatment
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München-led researchers have induced a greater than 60% reduction in seizure frequency in a preterm infant with early-onset SCN2A developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE). Seizures initially occurred at a rate of 20 to 25 per hour and declined to five to seven per hour following repeated intrathecal dosing with elsunersen, an antisense oligonucleotide therapy.
May 5, 2025 — Source

Physical punishment leads to exclusively negative outcomes for children in low- and middle-income countries: Study
Physically punishing children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) has exclusively negative outcomes—including poor health, lower academic performance, and impaired social-emotional development—yielding similar results to studies in wealthier nations, finds an analysis published in Nature Human Behaviour.
May 5, 2025 — Source

Stress, not identity, drives riskier cannabis use among sexually diverse youth, new study finds
Cannabis is undoubtedly a polarizing substance. On one side: a century of restrictive laws made cannabis illegal. This was based on little science. On the other side: a torrent of wellness claims encourage consumers to buy cannabis products. These claims are also based on little science.
May 5, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — May 2nd, 2025

Gluten-free diet for celiac disease found to increase arsenic exposure in children
Children with newly diagnosed celiac disease have increased arsenic exposure shortly after transitioning to a gluten-free diet, according to a study published in the April issue of the American Journal of Gastroenterology.
May 2, 2025 — Source

Schools today also teach social and emotional skills: Why is this important? And what's involved?
The school curriculum has changed a lot from when many parents and grandparents were at school.
May 2, 2025 — Source

Trump administration releases report critical of youth gender care
President Donald Trump's administration on Thursday released what it described as a comprehensive review of gender-related medical interventions for children and adolescents, warning of "significant risks" associated with puberty blockers and surgeries.
May 2, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 28th, 2025

Best Bassinets of 2025
The MaxiCosi Iora and Starling, the Snoo, the BabyBjorn Baby Cradle, and other bassinets stood out in our tests for ease of assembly, convenience, and smart features
April 28, 2025 — Source

Children with liver disease face dramatically higher risk of early death
Researchers from the University of California San Diego have found that children diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are at significantly increased risk of premature death and serious long-term health complications. The findings, published April 22, 2025 in Hepatology, come from the Longitudinal InVestigation Evaluating Results of Steatosis (LIVERS) study, which followed 1,096 children over an average of 8.5 years. Nearly half of all deaths in the cohort were liver-related, and the overall mortality rate was 40 times higher than that of similar peers in the general U.S. population.
April 28, 2025 — Source

How online gambling hurts teens: Advice from a pediatrician
Not long ago, teens had only a handful of ways to be exposed to gambling. Some might see a caregiver buy lottery tickets, others might watch a family member join fantasy sports leagues and some might encounter gambling on a family trip. Gambling was a behavior that had clear boundaries around it as "adults only."
April 28, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 25th, 2025

Children born before 34 weeks show lasting cognitive lag behind peers
Karolinska Institutet researchers report that children born before 34 weeks of gestation show persistent deficits in cognitive abilities at ages 9 to 10. Impairments appear independent of socioeconomic status, genetic predisposition, and prenatal or child-specific risk factors. Lower scores were observed in vocabulary, working memory, episodic memory, and recall tasks. Children born late preterm (34--36 weeks) or early term (37--38 weeks) performed comparably to those born full term.
April 25, 2025 — Source

Early antibiotic use linked to higher childhood BMI
Taking antibiotics within the first two years of life is linked to a higher body mass index (BMI) in childhood, according to a new study. The research will be presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) 2025 Meeting, held April 24-28 in Honolulu.
April 25, 2025 — Source

Study shows significant increase in mental health diagnoses among publicly insured children
In the first comprehensive investigation into the trends of mental health diagnoses among children with public health insurance, a new study reports the percentage of mental health and neurodevelopmental disorder diagnoses increased substantially in the decade before the COVID-19 pandemic.
April 25, 2025 — Source

Telehealth in pediatric primary care linked to responsible antibiotic use
Children treated with primary care telehealth visits were less likely to receive antibiotics for acute respiratory tract infections than those examined in person, according to a new study. The research will be presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) 2025 Meeting, held April 24-28 in Honolulu.
April 25, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 22nd, 2025

Adolescents who sleep longer can perform better at cognitive tasks
Adolescents who sleep for longer—and from an earlier bedtime—than their peers tend to have improved brain function and perform better at cognitive tests, researchers from the UK and China have shown.
April 22, 2025 — Source

Female children may face greater emotional and immune challenges from prenatal stress, study finds
A new study led by Prof. Hermona Soreq and Shani Vaknine Treidel from the Edmond and Lily Safra Center of Brain Science, uncovers how stress experienced during pregnancy can affect newborns at the molecular level—with significant differences between male and female babies.
April 22, 2025 — Source

Researchers examine mental impact of Girl Scouts' interactions with nature: Q&A
New research from the University of Washington, published in the Journal of Environmental Education, examined whether children's interactions with nature that are embodied, rather than just visual, are associated with being in the moment and feeling connected to something beyond the self.
April 22, 2025 — Source

Social Media Apps Blamed by Many Teens for Mental Health Struggles
New Pew data shows nearly half of the 1,400 teens surveyed believe social media is harmful to their generation.
April 22, 2025 — Health — Diabetes — April 22nd, 2025

New noninvasive method for early diabetes risk detection
The highs and lows of blood glucose aren't just an energy rollercoaster; they could be a key to detecting diabetes risk early and spare you a needle prick or two.
April 22, 2025 — Source

No needles needed: Wearable glucose monitors could reveal early diabetes warning signs missed by blood tests
The highs and lows of blood glucose aren't just an energy rollercoaster; they could be a key to detecting diabetes risk early and spare you a needle prick or two.
April 22, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 20th, 2025

Child concussion: What to know if your child takes a blow to the head
by Jeffrey Lo, MD, Attending Physician, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Department, Boston Children's Hospital
April 20, 2025 — Source

The lasting impact of paternal depression on children
In popular culture, dads are stoic, sensitive and strong. So powerful is the mystique of the happy dad that celebrities, joke books -- even hard seltzers -- carry the label.
April 20, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 11th, 2025

Breaking the cycle: How childhood trauma affects parental empathy and perpetuates abuse
Childhood maltreatment (CM) is a complex issue that is often passed on through generations. Studies have shown that parents who were abused as children may perpetuate a similar pattern of mistreating their children, creating a vicious cycle of abuse.
April 11, 2025 — Source or Source

Conversation catalysts: Study shows English-speaking robots can enhance parent-child dialogue
Over the past decades, researchers have developed a wide range of advanced social and assistance robots that could soon be introduced into households worldwide. Understanding how the introduction of these systems might impact the lives of users and their interactions with others living in their homes is crucial, as it could inform the further improvement of robots before their widespread deployment.
April 11, 2025 — Source

Families of Transgender Youth No Longer View Colorado as a Haven for Gender-Affirming Care
n recent years, states across the Mountain West have passed laws that limit doctors from providing transgender children with certain kinds of gender-affirming care, from prohibitions on surgery to bans on puberty blockers and hormones. Colorado families say their state was a haven for those health services for a long time, but following executive orders from the Trump administration, even hospitals in Colorado limited the care they offer for trans patients under age 19. KFF Health News Colorado correspondent Rae Ellen Bichell spoke with youth and their families.
April 11, 2025 — Source

Medical complexity seen in 12% of military-connected children
The cumulative incidence of children with medical complexity (CMC)-defining diagnoses in military-connected children is 12.0% by age 60 months, according to a study published online April 8 in Pediatrics.
April 11, 2025 — Source

More psych hospital beds are needed for kids, but neighbors say not here
If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting "988."
April 11, 2025 — Source

School-based asthma therapy can improve student health and lower medical costs
Nearly 5 million children in the U.S. have asthma, a disease that narrows the airways. While there's no cure, it can be controlled with anti-inflammatory medications. However, it can be tough for kids to take their daily medication on schedule, especially while they're in school.
April 11, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 7th, 2025

Childhood experiences shape the brain's white matter with cognitive effects seen years later, study shows
Mass General Brigham investigators have linked difficult early life experiences with reduced quality and quantity of the white matter communication highways throughout the adolescent brain. This reduced connectivity is also associated with lower performance on cognitive tasks. However, certain social resiliency factors like neighborhood cohesion and positive parenting may have a protective effect.
April 7, 2025 — Source

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders found to be negatively impacted if their mothers had difficult childhoods
Difficult childhood experiences of mothers, rather than fathers, appear to have a negative impact on children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. This has been shown in a study conducted at the University of Gothenburg. The researchers call for a broader approach and more parental support.
April 7, 2025 — Source

Full recovery after a child's concussion may take longer than previously thought
University of Montreal-led research has found that children who sustain concussion may need three months or longer to be considered optimally recovered across physical, cognitive, socioemotional, and resilience domains.
April 7, 2025 — Source

Research finds two-thirds of US adolescent minors are impacted by state abortion restrictions
More than 7 million American adolescent girls ages 13 to 17 live in states with abortion bans, restrictive gestational limits or parental involvement requirements, according to Rutgers Health researchers.
April 7, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — April 4th, 2025

Fear of rejection shapes children's peer group behavior
Imagine you're a child in a classroom, and your teacher tells everyone to form groups for a project. You sit and wait, watching as other kids pair up and wondering if anyone will pick you.
April 4, 2025 — Source

Outdoor time and multisport activities develop children's motor competence
A study followed the development of children's motor skills over a three-year period, from early childhood education to school age. The study showed that independent outdoor time and multisport activities support the development of motor competence. Even 30 minutes of outdoor time after a day at childcare makes a difference.
April 4, 2025 — Source

Sex stereotypes shape children's play in Australian homes
The types of play equipment found in Australian households is associated with the sex of the children living there, a University of Queensland study has found.
April 4, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 31st, 2025

High-resolution maps show anemia's impact on children in Africa and Asia
Children living in poverty often suffer from anemia, a condition linked to serious health risks. A research team led by statistical experts from the University of Innsbruck has now provided high-resolution estimates of anemia prevalence among children in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Their model-based analysis draws on a dataset comprising about 750,000 observations from 37 countries.
March 31, 2025 — Source

Pediatrician offers advice on what to do if a child catches norovirus
Norovirus is a common illness that spreads quickly—especially during winter—but it can make people sick anytime. Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis in the United States and is also the leading cause of food-borne illness.
March 31, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 28th, 2025

Delivering accessible health care to children in need
Embedding nurse practitioners into specialist homeless services can help to improve health care access for vulnerable children, a unique pilot program has shown.
March 28, 2025 — Source

'In the midst of a crisis': Teens wait months for critical mental health help
The average wait time for the first session of treatment in Australia could be further harming the mental health of teens, a study has found, prompting calls to introduce national standards.
March 28, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 24th, 2025

Conquer your child's headaches: A parent's guide
Is your child complaining of frequent headaches? Are they missing school days or activities they love? Headaches in children are a common issue, but understanding the causes and how to manage them can make a significant difference.
March 24, 2025 — Source

Depression prevention program shows unequal effectiveness among youth
A depression prevention program that has helped white youth wasn't effective for Black youth, raising concerns about the need for more research to help racially diverse groups, according to new research published by the American Psychological Association.
March 24, 2025 — Source

Digital tool gives kids with ADHD real-time feedback on their brains
After teachers explain an assignment, children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder might struggle to turn those instructions into action. It's one of several pathways by which ADHD can impair a young student's academic performance.
March 24, 2025 — Source

How a gaming program is giving neurodivergent kids a power up
In recent years, awareness and celebration of neurodiversity has been increasing.
March 24, 2025 — Source

Keep your child's heart healthy: Pediatrician suggests some habits to start early
When it comes to your child's health, do you think much about their risks of developing heart disease? Probably not, since so much of keeping kids healthy means dealing with sore throats, scraped knees and other ailments. But recent research has prompted doctors and parents to take a second look at heart health in children.
March 24, 2025 — Source

Teachers need more support to deliver key health lessons to kids
Graduate teachers need more information to promote physical activity, sun safety, and sleep health to school children across Australia and New Zealand, according to new research.
March 24, 2025 — Source

The prevalence and severity of pediatric astigmatism are found to have increased after the pandemic
Ka Wai Kam, from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and colleagues reported the prevalence of refractive astigmatism and corneal astigmatism in schoolchildren from 2015 to 2023 in a population-based cross-sectional study. Schoolchildren aged 6 to 8 years who underwent comprehensive ocular examinations at two academic medical centers in Hong Kong from 2015 to 2023 were included; the cohort was composed of 21,655 children.
March 24, 2025 — Source

Wide system changes needed for Australian schools to reach equity goals
Social segregation in Australia's education system is creating barriers for disadvantaged students, according to new research from Murdoch University, and wide systemic change is needed if Australia is to achieve its goal of creating a high equity system that supports all students to reach their full potential.
March 24, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 21st, 2025

FDA announces 'Operation Stork Speed' to improve infant formula
In an effort to guarantee "the ongoing quality, safety, nutritional adequacy, and resilience of the domestic infant formula supply," the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced a new program called Operation Stork Speed.
March 21, 2025 — Source

We Tested 41 Baby Formulas for Lead and Arsenic
While some formulas had concerning levels, there are safer choices. After seeing our results, the FDA is pledging further action.
March 21, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 17th, 2025

Adolescents with mental health symptoms more likely to use multiple nicotine products, international research finds
A recent study led by Emily Hackworth, a 2024 graduate of the Arnold School's Ph.D. in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, and co-authors has found that youth (ages 16--19) with internalizing mental health symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, sadness, loneliness) are more likely to turn to nicotine products (particularly electronic cigarettes) than their peers. Published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research, the study also revealed that the pandemic and its aftermath has likely played a role in this relationship.
March 17, 2025 — Source

Boosting mental muscle can lead to better performance for elementary school students
If lifting weights to build muscle can improve performance for weightlifters, can increased stamina in learning lead to smarter students?
March 17, 2025 — Source

Building blocks for healthy self-esteem in kids
Self-esteem plays a central role in a child's motivation and achievements in school, social relationships and their ability to bounce back from setbacks.
March 17, 2025 — Source

Early surgical intervention shown to be effective in children with sleep-disordered breathing
An estimated 6--17% of children have sleep-disordered breathing, ranging from snoring to sleep apnea, which can cause behavioral, neurocognitive, cardiovascular, and cardiometabolic issues. A randomized trial from Mass General Brigham researchers reveals that adenotonsillectomy—the surgical removal of tonsils and adenoids—is an effective early intervention for these children.
March 17, 2025 — Source

Eating healthy doesn't have to break the bank
Rising food costs can make healthy eating a challenge for many families. A June 2024 public opinion poll from the American Heart Association and Research found about 60% of Americans cite the cost of healthy food as their single biggest barrier to achieving better nutrition. The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, has some simple tips and delicious recipes to help you enjoy your favorite meals while keeping both your heart and wallet happy.
March 17, 2025 — Source

Maternal diet and infant allergies: The avocado connection
The Hass Avocado Board teamed up with the University of Eastern Finland researchers to examine the relationship between maternal avocado consumption during pregnancy and allergic outcomes in infants. Findings suggest that consuming avocados during pregnancy is associated with a 43.6% lower likelihood of food allergy development in children by 12 months of age.
March 17, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 13th, 2025

For Nairobi's informal settlements, diverse school lunches make a big difference, study shows
For residents of Kibera, one of Nairobi's largest informal settlements, access to nutritious food is often scarce. School meals are a lifeline for many families. But the case study of one small school is proving that—with the right ingredients—school meal programs can become even more beneficial.
March 13, 2025 — Source

Q&A: Developing disaster education to protect children's lives
Professor Sakurai Aiko of the Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies has a unique background, pursuing a career in international cooperation before expanding her research to include disaster education.
March 13, 2025 — Source

Study shows the pandemic set kindergartners back developmentally
Post-pandemic kindergarten students on average scored significantly lower in language and thinking skills, social competence, and communication and general knowledge, when compared to pre-pandemic kids, researchers report in JAMA Pediatrics.
March 13, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 11th, 2025

A call for federally funded pediatric firearm injury prevention research
Firearm-related injuries are the leading cause of death among children and adolescents in the United States, yet research on firearm injury prevention receives significantly less federal funding compared to other major pediatric health concerns.
March 11, 2025 — Source

Early-life responsive parenting intervention yields lasting but diminishing benefits on child weight, finds study
Early life-responsive parenting can lead to healthier weight outcomes for children in their earliest years, with effects lasting but diminishing into middle childhood, according to a new study. Conducted by the Penn State College of Medicine and the Center for Childhood Obesity Research at Penn State University, this research is part of the INSIGHT study, a long-term interdisciplinary collaboration focusing on preventing obesity during the first two years after birth.
March 11, 2025 — Source

Pediatric chronic disease prevalence has risen to nearly 30% in the last 20 years, study suggests
The prevalence of chronic conditions has risen to unprecedented levels over the past 20 years, with nearly one in three young people estimated to now be living with pediatric-onset conditions that significantly affect their lives, new research suggests.
March 11, 2025 — Source

Rule change reduced concussion risk for soccer kids
Banning or limiting headers—plays where the head is used to pass or shoot the ball—is linked to a nearly 26% reduction in soccer-related concussions treated in emergency rooms, researchers are scheduled to report at a meeting of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons in San Diego.
March 11, 2025 — Source

Seafood consumption linked to prosocial behavior in children
Children who consumed the least amounts of seafood at 7-years-old were likely to be less 'prosocial' at ages 7 and 9 years than those who regularly consumed seafood, according to a new study. 'Prosocial' behaviour includes friendly interactions, altruism, and sharing.
March 11, 2025 — Source or Source

Study reveals teenage girls' own views on why low mood and anxiety are increasing
New research published in BMC Women's Health has shed light on adolescent girls' own views on why their demographic is experiencing increasing rates of low mood and anxiety.
March 11, 2025 — Source

Understanding children's subjective experiences through color
In psychology and neuroscience, the relationship between subjective experience, such as how we perceive color, and physical brain activity has remained an unresolved problem. Furthermore, due to their limited language abilities, studying conscious experiences in children has posed a particular challenge.
March 12, 2025 — Source

Waist-to-height ratio more accurate than BMI for detecting childhood obesity
Body mass index (BMI) was almost three times more likely to classify children as overweight than waist circumference-to-height ratio, according to a new study. Published in Obesity and Endocrinology, the study was based on collaboration between the University of Eastern Finland and the Universities of Bristol and Exeter in the UK.
March 12, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — March 10th, 2025

1 in 3 kids has dental problems, poll finds
More than one in three parents say their child has struggled with cavities, stained teeth, gum problems or tooth pain in the past two years, a new national poll shows.
March 10, 2025 — Source

Enhancing pediatric health evaluations through improved PROMs
Children's health assessments differ significantly from adults due to varying cognitive abilities, language skills, and developmental stages. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), which are self-reported questionnaires, offer valuable insights into a child's health status, but their design and implementation in pediatrics are complex. Challenges include determining the appropriate age for self-reporting and ensuring the reliability of proxy reports from parents or caregivers.
March 10, 2025 — Source

Hard evidence of soft teeth: The oral symptoms of hypophosphatasia
Hypophosphatasia is a relatively common skeletal disease that primarily affects bone and tooth strength. In the third national dental survey of hypophosphatasia in Japan, recently published in Scientific Reports, researchers analyzed the dental issues faced by Japanese patients in their largest survey to date. Their findings provide valuable information for dentists and medical doctors who treat this often misunderstood disease.
March 10, 2025 — Source

Individualized treatment strategies may be the key to managing pediatric POTS
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a form of chronic orthostatic intolerance that primarily affects children and adolescents, leading to debilitating symptoms like lightheadedness, blurred vision, and fatigue upon standing. Unfortunately, the condition is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, complicating its management. While current treatments range from physical therapies to pharmacological options, their effectiveness can vary significantly between patients.
March 10, 2025 — Source

Limiting screen time and promoting physical activity may help safeguard children's mental health
A recent Finnish study suggests that limiting screen time and promoting physical activity from childhood may help safeguard mental health in adolescence. The findings are particularly significant given that mental health problems affect up to 30% of young people and pose a growing societal challenge.
March 10, 2025 — Source

Twins or triplets face higher risk of maltreatment than single children, Japan study suggests
An Osaka Metropolitan University-led research group evaluated the prevalence and risk factors for child maltreatment in multiples aged 3 years and compared them to singletons in Japanese population-based data.
March 10, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 28th, 2025

Genetic testing offers hope for targeted childhood cancer therapies
New research has looked into a comprehensive and structured approach to genetic testing, matching children and young people with cancer to targeted treatments. The study aimed to advance precision medicine in the UK to help young cancer patients receive more targeted cancer treatments, an important step towards increasing survival rates and reducing the side-effects of treatment.
February 28, 2025 — Source

How many languages can babies learn? Study shows how Ghanaian babies grow up speaking two to six languages
Africa is a multilingual continent and many adults speak several languages fluently. An empirical study by a research team led by the Potsdam psycholinguists Prof. Dr. Natalie Boll-Avetisyan and Paul O. Omane now shows that the roots of this multilingualism can be found in infancy: In Ghana, most babies grow up multilingually, with most of them coming into contact with two to six languages and just as many regular speakers of each language.
February 28, 2025 — Source

Omitting race from lung function equations increases detection of asthma in Black children, study shows
Despite ongoing progress, structural racism and health disparities continue to shape health care practices in ways health care providers may not even realize. A recent study in JAMA Network Open, published Feb. 28, 2025, shows that continued use of race-specific equations in the diagnostic process of children with asthma symptoms limits the identification of reduced lung function in Black children.
February 28, 2025 — Source

Severe flu season raises concerns about brain complications in kids
As this year's severe flu season rages across the country, federal health officials are investigating a rise in rare but life-threatening brain complications in children.
February 28, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 18th, 2025

New study evaluates public policy preferences for limiting children's access to energy drinks
Energy drinks are becoming an increasingly important topic in public health, nutrition and food policy, with global sales more than doubling from 2018--2023 and product selection expanding by 20% since 2021.
February 18, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 17th, 2025

1 in 6 parents support teens getting non-surgical cosmetic procedures with parental consent, national poll reveals
For teens who may be self-conscious about issues such as acne scarring or discolored teeth, non-surgical cosmetic procedures are an increasingly popular way to address their concerns.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Authentic communication can reduce risky teen drinking
While fear-based messaging around alcohol aimed towards teens is common practice, new research suggests a key to curbing adolescents' risky drinking behavior is through authentic and open communication that acknowledges some of the positive aspects while warning of the negative consequences of drinking.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Biological clock linked to teens' late-night eating habits
A new study by investigators from Mass General Brigham and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University reveals a distinct relationship between circadian rhythms, weight, and eating habits in teens, a vulnerable age group whose eating patterns influence their life-long health.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Children with ARFID at higher risk for long-term health conditions
Children with avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) have an elevated risk of developing psychiatric and physical conditions, a new study from Karolinska Institutet published in JAMA Pediatrics reports. The study highlights the importance of early identification to improve care of these children.
February 17, 2025 — Source or Source

MRI could reduce the mystery of brachial plexus injuries in infants
About one in 1,000 children are born with brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI), upper extremity weakness or paralysis resulting from trauma to the brachial plexus nerves during childbirth.
February 17, 2025 — Source

New MRI study reveals altered brain activity in depressed adolescents while watching 'Despicable Me'
The brains of adolescents with depression process information about how others are feeling in a way that is different to those without depression.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Parents can soon use QR codes to reveal heavy metal content in baby food
Parents across the U.S. should soon be able to determine how much lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury are in the food they feed their babies, thanks to a California law, the first of its kind, that took effect this year.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Speech therapist highlights reading gap's impact on vulnerable students
Reading ability among young people is declining, and it is the most vulnerable students who are hardest hit, according to speech therapist and researcher Anna Eva Hallin. In her research, she aims to understand how best to support students with language and reading difficulties.
February 17, 2025 — Source

The exercise program improving the lives of children with autism
An innovative exercise program co-designed by Murdoch University researchers, children with autism and their families, is breaking down barriers for enjoyable movement.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Timing and regularity of sleep may be key for adolescent heart health
There is a truth universally acknowledged that kids need sleep, a lot of sleep. Yet, most adolescents fall short of the eight-to-ten hours of shut-eye recommended by the National Sleep Foundation. However, the total amount of sleep isn't the only thing that matters for adolescent health and development. Late nights and erratic sleep schedules can impact young people's heart health in later life, according to a team led by researchers from Penn State College of Medicine.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Umbilical cord blood biomarkers may improve preterm infant care
Northwestern Medicine investigators have discovered how proteins expressed in umbilical cord blood at birth evolve during gestational development and could serve as biomarkers to inform new precision care strategies for infants born prematurely, according to a recent study published in Scientific Reports.
February 17, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 14th, 2025

Ride of a Life Time 2025: Life Time's Charity Workout Event for Kids' Health
Life Time, the nation's leading healthy lifestyle brand, is gearing up for its annual Ride of a Life Time charity indoor workout event, set to take place nationwide on March 8, 2025. Now in its fifth year, the event continues to raise funds for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and the Life Time Foundation, supporting children's health and well-being. This year, Life Time is expanding the event beyond cycling, incorporating its signature training formats and group fitness classes to engage even more participants.
February 14, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 7th, 2025

Excessive screen time linked to lower language development in toddlers
A collaboration of researchers from 20 nations has found that toddlers exceed recommended screen time limits, with television and smartphones being the most frequently used devices. Higher screen exposure was associated with lower language development scores, while book exposure and shared screen time with adults were linked to better language skills.
February 7, 2025 — Source

Mind reading: Do brain scans foretell your baby's social skills?
"A really big question that, at least I ask myself, is, 'How do we become who we are?'" University of Virginia psychology graduate student Olivia Allison said. New work she is conducting in UVA's Baby Lab is aiming to find an answer to that question.
February 7, 2025 — Source

Some Incarcerated Youths Will Get Health Care After Release Under New Law
Valentino Valdez was given his birth certificate, his Social Security card, a T-shirt, and khaki pants when he was released from a Texas prison in 2019 at age 21. But he didn't have health insurance, mental health medications, or access to a doctor, he said.
February 7, 2025 — Source

Teen sleep troubles explained
Many teens have a hard time winding down at bedtime. This can prevent them from getting the recommended amount of sleep they need every night. Many teens report difficulty concentrating at school, daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
February 10, 2025 — Source

Texas county reports measles outbreak among unvaccinated children
All cases have been identified among unvaccinated school-aged children who are residents of Gaines County. Symptom onset began within the last two weeks.
February 10, 2025 — Source

Therapy helps peanut-allergic kids tolerate tablespoons of peanut butter, clinical trial finds
Eating gradually increasing doses of store-bought, home-measured peanut butter for about 18 months enabled 100% of children with peanut allergy who initially could tolerate the equivalent of at least half a peanut to consume three tablespoons of peanut butter without an allergic reaction, researchers report.
February 10, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 5th, 2025

Classical music found to stabilize fetal heart rate patterns
Playing music has long been a way for expectant parents to connect with their children in the womb, but a group of researchers has found evidence it can calm fetal heart rates, potentially providing developmental benefits.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

Early childhood stressful life events linked to increased eczema activity
For children with atopic dermatitis (AD), early childhood stressful life events are associated with an increased risk for disease activity, according to a study published online Jan. 28 in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

How dangerous are nanoplastics for babies in the womb?
Asthma, hay fever or chronic skin conditions: The occurrence of allergic reactions is diverse and on the rise. Among other things, environmental factors during the child's early development in the womb are suspected, which lay the foundation for later illnesses.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

New Kids First datasets offer insights into genetics of childhood disorders
The new Kids First datasets advance our understanding of how genetics contribute to childhood cancers and congenital disorders, opening new doors for prevention and treatment.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

Stress caused by war in Ukraine can affect children's eating behavior
Professor of Nutrition Maijaliisa Erkkola's research group investigated the prevalence of disruptions in eating behavior in children living in Ukraine in cooperation with the O.M. Marzieiev Institute for Public Health of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine. A total of 4,854 parents participated in the survey.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

Study finds Black, Hispanic kids less likely to get migraine diagnosis in ER
Children and young people who are Black or Hispanic are less likely to be diagnosed with migraine than those who are white when being seen for headache in a pediatric emergency department, according to a study published in the February 5, 2025, online issue of Neurology. The study also found they received fewer tests and less intensive treatment.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

Study in India shows kids use different math skills at work versus school
Students can excel at mental math in marketplace jobs but struggle with formal math in the classroom, and vice versa
February 5th, 2025 — Source

Supportive co-parenting may help secure infant attachment development
The World Health Organization recommends that babies should exclusively breastfeed for at least the first six months of their lives and continue alongside the introduction of other foods for at least two years, as breastmilk contains the nutrients and antibodies needed to help infants thrive.
February 5th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — February 3rd, 2025

1 in 4 children receive services from children's social care services before turning 18
The research, published in the International Journal of Population Data Science, casts a new light on the extent to which children's social care intervenes across the population by exploring how many children are ever classed as being "in need" before the age of 18.
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Adolescents spend 1.5 hours daily on smartphones during school
In January, New York Governor Kathy Hochul released a report, titled "More Learning, Less Scrolling," to prohibit smartphone use during the school day. A team of public health and pediatric researchers, led by Lauren Hale, Ph.D., of Stony Brook University, are working to understand not just screen time use by adolescents but the duration and content of that use, particularly during a typical school day (8:00 AM to 2:30 PM). In a new study that monitored smartphone data, they found that adolescents (aged 13 to 18) spent an average of 1.5 hours each school day on their smartphones.
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Lurie Children's launches campaign to raise awareness of newborn screening
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago launched a newborn screening awareness campaign, with signage on public transit and billboards across Chicago urging parents to contact their child's pediatrician immediately if results are out of normal range. For some conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, that are included in newborn screening, timely diagnosis and early treatment are key to optimal health, while delays can lead to more severe disease.
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Novel study uncovers molecular basis of eosinophilic esophagitis food allergy
Novel study uncovers molecular basis of eosinophilic esophagitis food allergy
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Sexual pleasure in teens: Yes, gender matters
Among cisgender Quebec teenagers—that is, those whose gender identity matches their sex assigned at birth—girls are significantly less likely than boys to achieve orgasm, either through masturbation or with a partner.hole
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Ultra-processed foods linked to obesity risk in preschool children
Researchers at the University of Toronto are sounding the alarm about the high consumption of ultra-processed foods among preschool-aged children in Canada and its association with obesity development.
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Uncovering the molecular drivers of B-cell lymphoma tumor
Northwestern Medicine scientists have uncovered a key pathway controlling tumor growth in B-cell lymphomas, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
February 3rd, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 24th, 2025

In Australia, swimming is a national pastime, but too many kids aren't learning how
For a country with 34,000 kilometers of coastline, it may not come as a surprise that swimming is the most popular form of recreation and physical activity for Australian children aged 0 to 14 years old.
January 24th, 2025 — Source

Nature exposure in schools boosts student attention and memory
The fast pace of modern urban living can be mentally and physically draining. Add the strains of a pandemic, and these challenges can multiply.
January 24th, 2025 — Source

School-based program for newcomer students boosts mental health, research shows
The first randomized control trial of the school-based intervention called Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups (STRONG) shows significant reductions in depression, anxiety and behavior problems among refugee and immigrant students.
January 24th, 2025 — Source

Targeting potassium channel shows promise for treating brain tumors
Researchers find blocking the KCNB2 gene can slow tumor growth, paving the way for next-gen treatments for childhood brain cancer.
January 24th, 2025 — Source or Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 22nd, 2025

A psychiatric assessment was recommended for my child—what now?
There can be a lot of mental health stigma in our culture, and some parents may worry that a child psychiatric assessment means they're a bad parent. In truth, it's the opposite—it's an act of love. Overcoming a difficult decision to have your child be evaluated by strangers is a sign of love and care. It means you're an advocate for your child, showing up to help support your child despite any worries or concerns you may have. My job as a psychiatrist is to offer companionship in that journey—for both the child and the parents.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Childhood epilepsy linked to late-onset brain amyloid disorders
Researchers from the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University in Finland and the University of Wisconsin in the United States demonstrated that individuals who had childhood epilepsy have an increased accumulation of brain amyloid later in life, potentially predisposing them to late-onset brain amyloid disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source or Source

Children born into poverty face higher risk of behavioral problems
Children born into poor families are more likely to exhibit aggressive, impulsive behaviors throughout childhood, according to a new study from the University of Georgia.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Civil organizing persisted during Syrian civil war, finds study
Where, when and how did civilians organize during the Syrian civil war that started in the aftermath of the Arab Spring in 2011 and lasted until the toppling of President Bashar Assad in late 2024? According to new research co-written by a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign political scientist, civil organizing persisted during Syria's armed conflict but also shifted to "translocal organizations" operating in rebel-held territory inside Syria and in neighboring countries.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Discovery reveals birth's impact on neural stem cell maintenance
Birth is one of the most significant life events for animals. The transition from the intrauterine to the extrauterine environment causes various metabolic changes in individuals. Despite its significance, the role of birth in the developmental process remains incompletely understood.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Excess intestinal protein responsible for food allergy in children, study finds
When is food simply nourishing and enjoyable, and when does it provoke an allergic reaction? The answer appears to lie in the balance of microbes that live in our intestine—and a specific protein secreted by intestinal goblet cells that influences that balance.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Experts call for clear framework to study AI's impact on youth mental health
A new paper from experts at the Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford, highlights the need for a clear framework when it comes to AI research, given the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence by children and adolescents using digital devices to access the internet and social media.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Exposure to stress during early pregnancy affects offspring into adulthood, long-term monkey study reveals
Maternal stress hormone levels during early pregnancy can have a lasting effect on the stress system of the offspring. The results of a long-term study on wild Assamese macaques in Thailand indicate that maternal stress in the first half of pregnancy is particularly relevant.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Parents have big influence on children's anxiety, says psychologist
How do parents communicate anxiety to their child via body language and words? Psychologist Cosima Nimphy studied this question for her Ph.D. research. Experiments show that children of anxious parents are not more sensitive to their parents' signs of anxiety.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Research highlights racial disparities in children's sleep, calls for systemic change
Researchers from Michigan State University's Department of Human Development and Family Studies have revealed that sleep patterns may vary across different racial and ethnic groups—notably for non-white and multiracial children.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Sports boost academic performance in teens, research shows
Boys and girls are both more likely to earn a high school diploma if they take part in team sports like soccer or artistic sports like dance or gymnastics, researchers reported in a study published in the journal Children.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Study estimates 1 in 12 children subjected to online sexual exploitation or abuse
A new study from researchers at the Georgia State University School of Public Health and the Childlight Global Child Safety Institute estimates that 1 in 12 children worldwide have been subjected to online child sexual exploitation or abuse.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Study reveals diverse perceptions of vaping dangers among students
From 2012 to 2021, the use of e-cigarettes by adults in the United States increased from 2.2% to 4.5%. During the same time frame, there was a stark increase in use among young adults, ages 18 to 24 years old, from 2.4% to 11%.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Study uncovers blood signatures linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
New University of Virginia School of Medicine research revealing the fingerprints of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome within blood samples could open the door to simple tests to identify babies at risk.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source or Source

Universal suicide screening crucial for children with developmental disorders
A study conducted at Kennedy Krieger Institute has revealed insights into the reality of suicide risk among children with neurological, developmental, and behavioral disorders. The research shows the importance of universal suicide risk screening in pediatric outpatient settings, with findings suggesting that children as young as eight years old may be at risk.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Years of experience support the safe use of fine-needle aspiration for pediatric thyroid nodules
Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) has long been used as a safe and effective way to evaluate thyroid nodules in adults, usually without sedation. Less is known about the safety and tolerability of FNA in children, although small studies suggest that the approach can be performed without sedation and with minimal complications. Now, a report by the team in Boston Children's Thyroid Center bolsters those findings.
January 22nd, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 20th, 2025

Antibacterials are everywhere: For the sake of our microbiome, we need to control their use
In a world increasingly obsessed with cleanliness, antimicrobial chemicals have become a staple in everyday life. From soaps and cosmetics to cleaning sprays and period products, they promise to protect us by "killing 99.9% of bacteria." But these products come at a hidden cost: they don't just target harmful germs, but also the beneficial bacteria that are vital for our health.
January 20th, 2025 — Source or Source

How childhood trauma impacts our brains, bodies, and even our genes
In 1966, Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu introduced extreme policies to increase the country's birth rate. This led to the widespread abandonment of children, who ended up in orphanages in appalling conditions where they received no care, attention or love. Though tragic, this infamous "natural experiment" has allowed us to learn a great deal about the effects of early-life trauma on the brain.
January 20th, 2025 — Source

Investing in adolescent mental health delivers long-term economic and social benefits
New research highlights the cost-effectiveness of preventive policies in reducing mental distress and improving labor force participation, income, and health outcomes.
January 20th, 2025 — Source

Study highlights hair satisfaction's role in Black girls' mental health
For teenage girls, researchers have found that the ways they perceive and feel about their own physical appearance are important components in their emotional well-being.
January 20th, 2025 — Source

Violence on TV: What happens to children who watch?
Boys exposed to violent screen content in the preschool years were more likely to become antisocial and violent themselves a decade later, in their mid-teens, a new study shows.
January 20th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 17th, 2025

ACIP immunization schedules issued for children, adults
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)-approved immunization schedules for children and adolescents and for adults for 2025 have been published in the Jan. 16 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
January 17th, 2025 — Source

Children with congenital heart defects found to have poorer survival following cancer diagnosis
For children battling both congenital heart defects (CHD) and cancer, the road to recovery is far more precarious than previously understood, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
January 17th, 2025 — Source

Study reveals how birth order and personality influence parental favoritism
Siblings share a unique bond built from shared memories, family rituals and the occasional argument. But ask almost anyone with a brother or sister and you'll likely find a longstanding debate: who's the favorite? New research from BYU sheds some light on that playful rivalry, revealing how parents might subtly show favoritism based on birth order, personality and gender.
January 17th, 2025 — Source

The power of cinema: Study shows film intervention reduces violence against children
A new study shows that screenings of a locally-produced narrative film about parenting led to a significant reduction in physical violence against children.
January 17th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 13th, 2025

Does the social media ban for Australian children go too far, or not far enough?
Under a controversial new law, which comes into force in Australia at the end of 2025, children under 16 will not be permitted to hold an account on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, Tiktok and Snapchat.
January 13th, 2025 — Source

Pediatrician offers advice on what to do if an infant or toddler hits their head
Just like older kids, babies and toddlers can get concussions. In fact, little ones face some extra risks. But it can sometimes be harder to recognize the signs of concussion, a type of mild traumatic brain injury, in infants and toddlers. They may not have the language skills yet to tell you how they feel.
January 13th, 2025 — Source

Study finds preschool wheeze diagnosis and treatment need improvement
A study led by Aston University's Dr. Gemma Heath and Dr. Prasad Nagakumar from Birmingham Children's Hospital has shown that treatment and diagnosis for preschool wheeze requires more effective evidence-based guidelines.
January 13th, 2025 — Source

Study suggests incentivizing parents to join support groups
A systemic review from the University of Warwick's Medical School shows that financial incentives can increase the number of parents who attend parenting skills groups focused on disruptive behavior in children.
January 13th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 10th, 2025

Study: 15.4% of 0- to 35-month-olds receive invalid vaccine dose
Overall, 15.4% of children aged 0 to 35 months receive an invalid vaccine dose, receiving a vaccine earlier or later than recommended, according to a study published online Jan. 10 in Pediatrics.span>
January 10th, 2025 — Source

United States sees significant increase in orphanhood
There has been a significant increase in orphanhood in the last two decades in the U.S., according to a new study. The research, published in Nature Medicine, estimates that in 2021, 2.9 million children in the United States, or 4.2% of all U.S. children, had experienced the death of at least one parent or a grandparent caregiver responsible for most of the basic needs of the child.
January 10th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 9th, 2025

Parvovirus B19 myocarditis cases reported in preschoolers from Northern Greece
Myocarditis is a rare yet serious condition known for the inflammation of the heart muscle, also known as the myocardium. In severe cases of myocarditis, the heart muscle becomes extremely weak and fails to pump blood effectively. This, in turn, can lead to heart failure and death. A thorough and timely intervention is important for ensuring the effective treatment of myocarditis.
January 9th, 2025 — Source

Procalcitonin test fails to shorten antibiotic use in hospitalized children
A groundbreaking UK study led by the University of Liverpool has examined whether an additional blood test called procalcitonin (PCT) could safely shorten the time children spend on intravenous (IV) antibiotics in hospitals.
January 9th, 2025 — Source

Research shows 8 in 10 infants received RSV protection in the 2023 to 2024 season
Karen B. Jacobson, M.D., M.P.H., from Kaiser Permanente Northern California in Oakland, and colleagues investigated the uptake of RSVpreF among pregnant women at 32 to 36 weeks of gestation and nirsevimab among infants aged younger than 8 months, as well as sociodemographic factors associated with uptake within the early period of availability.
January 9th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 8th, 2025

Childhood maltreatment may alter sperm, affecting future generations' brain development
Childhood stress can impact the epigenetic profile of sperm. These results may also have practical implications for future generations through epigenetic inheritance, as many of the observed epigenetic associations are related to brain development.
January 8th, 2025 — Source

Climate Change Threatens the Mental Well-Being of Youths. Here’s How To Help Them Cope
We’ve all read the stories and seen the images: The life-threatening heat waves. The wildfires of unprecedented ferocity. The record-breaking storms washing away entire neighborhoods. The melting glaciers, the rising sea levels, the coastal flooding.
January 8th, 2025 — Source

Collaborative effort targets better nutrition for pregnant women and children
Poor nutrition during pregnancy can have serious consequences for both maternal and child health. A new research collaboration – 'Mother's Micronutrient Supplement for Pregnancy and Lactation' (MoMS) – between researchers in Kenya, Norway and Denmark aims to develop and test a new, improved dietary supplement to reduce incidences of low birth weight, improve maternal and child health, and enhance growth and cognitive development in children. MoMS is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Novo Nordisk Foundation with a total of DKK 68 million ($ 9.87 million / € 9.5 million).
January 8th, 2025 — Source

CPR coach training boosts coach presence on code teams in pediatric ICU
Coach presence on code teams is significantly increased following a quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) coach training intervention within a pediatric intensive care unit, according to a study published in the American Journal of Critical Care.
January 8th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 7th, 2025

Health advocates are unhappy with FDA guidance on lead levels in baby food
The U.S. Food and Drug Association (FDA) released the first-ever guidelines for levels of lead in processed baby foods this week. However, many health and safety advocates say they are not satisfied with the guidance.
January 7th, 2025 — Source

Home-based training aids muscle preservation in young liver transplant patients
In a recent pilot study, researchers tested the feasibility and effects of a 12-week home-based resistance training program. Their target patient population was children who have had a liver transplant and subsequently suffered with sarcopenia, a condition wherein there is loss of muscle mass and function.
January 7th, 2025 — Source

Personal interests can influence how children's brains respond to language
A recent study from the McGovern Institute for Brain Research shows how interests can modulate language processing in children's brains and paves the way for personalized brain research.
January 7th, 2025 — Source

Pertussis cases surging in the United States
Rates of pertussis in the United States are surging, with more than 32,000 cases reported as of mid-December—about six times more than at this time last year and more than have been reported since 2014, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
January 7th, 2025 — Source

Sex differences in brain structure are present from birth, research shows
Gray matter is made up of neuron cell bodies and dendrites and is responsible for processing and interpreting information, such as sensation, perception, learning, speech, and cognition. White matter is made up of axons, which are long nerve fibers that connect neurons together from different parts of the brain.
January 7th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 6th, 2025

Acoustic sensors find frequent gunfire on school walking routes
Study documents toll on kids in one Chicago community
January 6th, 2025 — Source or Source

Augmented triage tool can better assess children with traumatic injuries
West Virginia University pediatric trauma specialists and statisticians have formulated a measure to more accurately assess children with traumatic injuries to ensure they receive the most effective life-saving treatment.
January 6th, 2025 — Source

Divisive study finds link between fluoride and childhood IQ loss
A controversial new study out Monday in a US medical journal could reignite debate over fluoride's safety in water, linking higher exposure levels to lower IQ in children.
January 6th, 2025 — Source

Gestational exposure to NSAIDs tied to childhood chronic kidney disease
Gestational exposure to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with an increased risk for childhood chronic kidney disease (CHD), although the association is not seen in sibling comparisons, according to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics.
January 6th, 2025 — Source

Pediatrician offers tips and tools on helping children use new technology safely
The American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health has introduced a Glossary of Digital Media Platforms that provides detailed information (including control settings) about social media, video sharing and gaming apps that might be available on a child's new device.
January 6th, 2025 — Source

Risk of domestic abuse increases over time for those exposed to childhood maltreatment, twins study suggests
The risk of experiencing intimate partner violence may accumulate over time among people who experienced childhood maltreatment when they were younger, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.
January 6th, 2025 — Source

Study confirms brief apnea risk after vaccination of hospitalized preemies
Hospitalized premature infants who received recommended two-month vaccinations had an increased risk of a short episode of apnea, but no serious complications arose, according to a study led by Duke Health researchers.
January 6th, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — January 3rd, 2025

Feeling self-conscious is linked to teen binge drinking
Socially awkward young adults are more prone to regularly binge drink, but they back off their boozing bouts as they become older and more secure.
January 3rd, 2025 — Source

Q&A: Babies and toddlers get sunburned easily—how to keep them safe
Getting just two blistering sunburns in childhood doubles the risk of getting the most dangerous skin cancer later in life. Dermatologist Bianca Tod explains what makes young children's skins sensitive and how to make sure they are protected from the sun.
January 3rd, 2025 — Source

Study finds 25% of youth experienced homelessness in Denver in 2021, significantly higher than known counts
A first-of-its-kind study, published in Pediatrics, has provided a full-picture assessment of youth homelessness in Denver, Colorado. The findings reveal that nearly 25% of youths in Denver experienced homelessness or housing insecurity in 2021, with rates increasing almost every year since 2017.
January 3rd, 2025 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 31st, 2024

'A powerful connection': Researchers create choir of children born with heart condition
Each child had already undergone at least three open-heart surgeries. They'd endured countless hours in doctors' offices and hospitals after being born with a serious heart condition.
December 31st, 2024 — Source

Breastfeeding initiation rates increased during 2022 infant formula crisis
Average breastfeeding-initiation rates increased during the 2022 infant formula crisis and remained elevated at the end of the crisis, according to a study published online Dec. 30 in Pediatrics.
December 31st, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 30th, 2024

40 years of research into genetic causes of childhood and adolescent cancers
Cancer in children and adolescents is rare. Nevertheless, malignant diseases are still one of the most common causes of death in this age group. Survivors of childhood or adolescent cancer often suffer chronic health problems with increased morbidity and mortality rates.
December 30th, 2024 — Source

Brain structure differences are associated with early use of substances among adolescents
Many differences appeared to exist prior to any substance use, pointing to the role brain structure may play in substance use risk, NIH-supported study suggests.
December 30th, 2024 — Source or Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 29th, 2024

Why splash pools can be an infection risk for kids
In the heat of summer, many parents take their children to splash pools or splash pads and other recreational water parks to cool down. But indoor aquatic facilities—with their fountains and spraying jets of water—can often be just as popular over the festive period, once children have got over the novelty of their Christmas gifts and are looking to burn off some energy.
December 29th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 27th, 2024

Black children suspected of experiencing child abuse at higher rates, suggests study
Black children are suspected to have experienced child abuse at higher rates than children of other racial and ethnic backgrounds, according to a study published online Dec. 18 in JAMA Network Open.
December 27th, 2024 — Source

Pediatrician suggests eight parenting goals to start the new year strong
New Year's resolutions are typically sweeping and grand. But you can often reap the biggest rewards by building off strengths already in place. Helping to make your family safer, stronger and more harmonious in the coming year may not require a complete overhaul, but rather a few strategic tweaks.
December 27th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 26th, 2024

2020 to 2023 saw increase in buprenorphine dispensing for teens
Buprenorphine dispensing increased among adolescents and decreased among young adults between 2020 and 2023, according to a research letter published online Dec. 23 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
December 26th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 16th, 2024

Autologous cord-blood-derived cell administration in extremely preterm infants
Australian researchers have discovered a potential new lifeline for the tiniest and most vulnerable newborns. Scientists at Monash Children's Hospital have successfully collected and reinfused umbilical cord blood cells in extremely premature babies, offering a glimmer of hope for preventing brain injuries.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Parents rely on threats to address young children's misbehavior
When young children's behavior becomes challenging, many parents resort to threats – from taking away toys to threatening that Santa will skip their house, a national poll suggests.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Pediatrician offers advice on school attendance, truancy and chronic absenteeism
Missing a day here or there may not seem like a problem. But school absences add up quickly. Missing two days a month—excused or unexcused—can add up to a child being considered chronically absent.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Problems developed faster among gamers who started early
People who started playing video games at an early school age developed problematic gaming more quickly compared to those who started playing a few years later.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Pakistan begins last anti-polio vaccination campaign of the year after a surge in cases
Pakistan on Monday began its last nationwide vaccination campaign for the year to protect 45 million children from polio after a surge in new cases hampered efforts to stop the disease, officials said.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Study finds parents more open to racially diverse media for children than previously thought
New research from the University of Kansas has found that most parents recall watching media with diverse racial and ethnic portrayals of characters with their children and that their own racial-ethnic identity predicted their attitudes toward such content, but not necessarily their beliefs.
December 16th, 2024 — SourceWintertime is prime time for head lice: What parents need to know
Head lice can be a wintertime headache for families and schools, but simple precautions can stop the spread of these pesky parasites.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Young gamers face faster path to problematic gaming, study finds
People who started playing video games at an early school age developed problematic gaming more quickly compared to those who started playing a few years later. This has been shown by a study by the University of Gothenburg.
December 16th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 10th, 2024

CDC study shows nirsevimab effective in reducing RSV hospitalizations among young children
Research led by the CDC and conducted at seven academic pediatric medical centers in the United States finds nirsevimab (sold as Beyfortus) highly effective in reducing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) related hospitalization in children under 5 years old.
December 10th, 2024 — Source

Could US-style summer holiday programs boost Aussie kids' health?
As the school year winds up, thousands of Aussie kids are looking forward to the summer holidays. But hand-in hand with this freedom comes an abundance of screentime, unhealthy snacks, and a lack of routine, and it has the potential to affect children's physical and mental health.
December 10th, 2024 — Source

Death toll from contaminated infant IV feeding bags in Mexico rises to 17
Authorities in Mexico said Tuesday that a total of 17 children have died in central Mexico from suspected contamination of IV feeding bags after four more deaths were confirmed.
December 10th, 2024 — Source

New study reveals social factors in pediatric cardiac arrest survival
The odds on whether a child survives a cardiac arrest may depend on where they live, according to a new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine.
December 10th, 2024 — Source

Study finds key brain markers for gaming addiction in adolescents
Playing video games is a rite of passage for many adolescents, but for some, it could also be the first step to a gaming addiction.
December 10th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 6th, 2024

Drug offers cost-effective protection for newborns with genetic bleeding disorder
Severe hemophilia A is a genetic disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly, posing a constant risk of dangerous bleeding episodes. Infants with severe hemophilia A (HA) are at risk of brain bleeds, which can lead to serious long-term brain damage. Emicizumab (Hemlibra) was approved by the FDA in 2018 to prevent and reduce bleeding for patients who suffer from hemophilia A.
December 6th, 2024 — Source

Newborn screening by genome sequencing shown to be safe and effective in two clinical studies
wo studies published in the American Journal of Human Genetics show the potential for genomic screening in newborns to address high rates of infant hospitalization and mortality in the United States. Presently, hundreds of genetic diseases are either preventable or treatable but currently are detected only after a child falls ill and endures a years-long "diagnostic odyssey," often receiving diagnoses too late to achieve the best outcomes.
December 6th, 2024 — Source

Quality of parent-child relationships predicts adulthood well-being, 21-country finds
The link between early life experiences and mental health has been widely explored by psychology researchers. One key aspect of human early life experiences is the relationship that people develop with their parental figures, which is at the center of attachment theory and various other psychological models.
December 6th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — December 1st, 2024

How our public spaces can be safer and more welcoming for children
A Georgia mother was recently arrested for reckless endangerment after her 10-year-old son was seen walking outside alone. The warrant for her arrest claimed she "willingly and knowingly" endangered her son's safety.
December 1st, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 29th, 2024

Australia bans under-16s from using social media -- platforms criticize decision
Other countries have expressed interest in following suit
November 29th, 2024 — Source

New insights into risk assessment of rare, aggressive tumors in children
An international research team including researchers from Augsburg University Medicine has made significant progress in the risk assessment and treatment of extracranial malign rhabdoid tumors. Recently published in the journal Clinical Cancer Research, the study, "Clinical and Molecular Risk Factors in Extracranial Malignant Rhabdoid Tumors: Toward an Integrated Model of High-Risk Tumors," shows how clinical and molecular factors can influence disease progression and contribute to improvements in individual treatment.
November 29th, 2024 — Source

Ransom gang claims attack on NHS Alder Hey Children's Hospital
Second alleged intrusion on English NHS org systems this week
November 29th, 2024 — Source

STAG₂ loss linked to increased aggression in Ewing sarcoma
Ewing sarcoma is a tumor of the bones and soft tissues that occurs in children and young people. Like all childhood cancers, it is rare -- 9 to 10 cases per million inhabitants per year -- but it is very aggressive. 25% of patients do not respond well to regular therapy and they often experience relapses.
November 29th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 27th, 2024

Health care disparities are tied to worse outcomes for kids with multiple sclerosis, study suggests
People who develop multiple sclerosis (MS) as children and grow up in less advantaged neighborhoods may have a larger volume of inflammation and brain tissue loss on imaging than those who grow up in more advantaged neighborhoods, according to a study published in the November 27, 2024, online issue of Neurology.
November 27th, 2024 — Source

Newer epilepsy medications used during pregnancy do not affect neurological development in children
NIH-funded study provides clarity on safety of two common antiseizure drugs lamotrigine and levetiracetam.
November 27th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 25th, 2024

Adolescents with self-harming behavior found to react more strongly to images of self-harm on social media
A recent study by the Medical University of Vienna shows that adolescents with a history of non-suicidal self-injurious behavior (NSSI) show increased attention to images of self-harm on social media. This attention bias—the increased and faster fixation on such content—increases the urge to self-harm.
November 25th, 2024 — Source

Alcohol use identified as most common predictor of escalated cannabis vaping among youths in Texas
Alcohol use was the most common predictor of escalating cannabis vaping among youth and young adults, independent of demographic factors, according to research by UTHealth Houston published in the journal Social Science & Medicine.
November 25th, 2024 — Source

Beyond screen time: Complex factors shaping child development
New Curtin University research challenges views on screen time, revealing factors such as parental mental health and the type of screen being used may have some impact on child development.
November 25th, 2024 — Source or Watch Video

FDA approves Nerivio for migraine treatment in children aged 8 years and older
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has expanded the age indication for Theranica's Nerivio, making it the first and only remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) wearable for migraine treatment for children aged 8 years and older.
November 25th, 2024 — Source

Is video tech effective for children with speech-related disabilities?
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices are tools that help people with speech or language impairments communicate. Visual scene displays (VSDs) enhance these tools with interactive pictures and videos and appear to improve the effectiveness of communication support for children with speech-related disabilities, but the use of VSDs was not designated as an "evidence-based practice."
November 25th, 2024 — Source

Making pediatric health equity research truly equitable: An EDI review process
A burgeoning number of studies are examining pediatric health equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). But if not done right, health equity research can do a disservice, perpetuating biases and wrong assumptions that actually exacerbate inequities.
November 25th, 2024 — Source

Severe pregnancy complications reduce likelihood of having more children
Women who suffer severe complications during their first pregnancy or delivery are less inclined to have more babies, a study published in JAMA by researchers at Karolinska Institutet reports. Given the recent steady decline in birth rate in Sweden, the researchers propose monitoring in antenatal care to address the problem.
November 25th, 2024 — Source

The future looks bright: Study shows optimistic youth lead healthier lives
If you've ever told your child to look on the bright side, or taught them to see the glass as half full, you might wonder if there are real benefits to positive thinking.
November 25th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 24th, 2024

Clinical microbiologist explains why you should never kiss a baby
There is a cognitive bias called "the curse of knowledge" (sometimes also called "the curse of expertise"). It happens when you incorrectly assume that everyone knows as much as you do on a given topic. As a clinical microbiologist, I assumed everyone knew that it was a terrible idea to kiss a newborn baby anywhere on its head.
November 24th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 21st, 2024

Australia banning social media use by kids; 9to5Mac readers want the same in the US
The impact of social media use by kids is perhaps one of the hottest topics in tech. There's significant evidence that social media apps like Instagram can be harmful to the mental health of children, while others argue that it can also enable social connection.
November 21st, 2024 — Source or Source or Source

Australia Introduces Bill to Ban Social Media Use for Under 16s
Michelle Rowland, Australia's Minister for Communications, proposed a groundbreaking law on November 21 to ban social media access for users under 16.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Child safety org flags new CSAM with AI trained on real child sex abuse images
AI will make it harder to spread CSAM online, child safety org says.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Children with coordination challenges may avoid physical activity. Here's how to help them become active
Children are born to play! And yet, despite our best efforts, many parents and professionals find that some children are not motivated to get moving and prefer watching television instead. Among the potential causes of this, several studies (PDF) have revealed that clumsy children, i.e., those with poor motor skills, have a tendency to withdraw from physical, sports and leisure activities.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Experiments reveal a grasp of grammar helps young children figure out when they must acquire new words
As young children, how do we build our vocabulary? Even by age 1, many infants seem to think that if they hear a new word, it means something different from the words they already know. But why they think so has remained subject to inquiry among scholars for the last 40 years.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Experts reach consensus on the most important physical fitness tests for children and adolescents
Researchers from the University of Granada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have identified the most important physical fitness tests and the corresponding protocols to be used with children and adolescents. The degree of scientific agreement (consensus) around such evidence was more than 85% in different regions of the world.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Experts recommend cascade screening over universal lipid screening for familial hypercholesterolemia
The German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) was commissioned by the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) to assess the benefit of universal blood lipid screening for the early detection of familial hypercholesterolemia in children and adolescents. Based on the available studies, no benefit can be derived from universal screening of all children and adolescents.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Kids' injuries in sports and at home: When is it right to seek medical attention?
A sprain on the soccer field. A tumble to the floor at home. Kids get injured, but as a parent, when's the right time to take them to a doctor or ER?
November 21st, 2024 — Source

More physical education in schools could reduce future health care costs
Children have become increasingly inactive over the past two decades, as shown by a long-term study involving 3,500 schoolchildren in Austria. Professor Dr. Jan Wilke, a sports scientist at the University of Bayreuth, was involved in the project. He and his colleagues are calling for an expansion of sports activities, particularly in schools, as a way to reduce future strain on the health care system.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Promethazine for children under 6 is now banned in Australia due to hallucination fears. Here's what to use instead
Australia's drug regulator has issued a safety warning over the medicine Phenergan and related products containing the antihistamine drug promethazine.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Social media has complex effects on adolescent well-being, and policymakers must take note
In late 2024, more than 20 years after the birth of Facebook, the impact of social media on our lives cannot be overstated. Initially underestimated by many in business, social media eventually came to be recognized for its power to enable workers to share solutions, ideas and perspectives. While companies took time to see its potential, younger generations have been living part of their lives through social platforms for years.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Tantrums in children could be linked to ADHD
Preschool children who struggle to control their emotions and behavior have more symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder—known as ADHD—at age seven, a study suggests.
November 21st, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 18th, 2024

After Congress ended extra cash aid for families, communities tackle child poverty alone
If you bring a baby into the Hurley Children's Center clinic in downtown Flint, Michigan, Mona Hanna will find you. The pediatrician, who gained national prominence for helping uncover the city's water crisis in 2015, strode across the waiting room in her white lab coat, eyes laser-focused on the chubby baby in the lap of an unsuspecting parent.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Clinical trial finds daily tablet increases growth in children with achondroplasia
A promising daily tablet is effective at increasing height and improving proportional limb growth in children with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism, according to a new study. And the findings could spare these children from needing to have a daily injection to boost growth.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Daily tablet shows promise in treating achondroplasia in children
A promising daily tablet is effective at increasing height and improving proportional limb growth in children with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism, according to a new study. And the findings could spare these children from needing to have a daily injection to boost growth.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Hormone therapy reshapes the skeleton in transgender individuals who previously blocked puberty, study finds
Skeletal size may be altered by gender-affirming hormone therapy only if puberty has also been suppressed during adolescence, according to research presented at the 62nd Annual European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology Meeting in Liverpool.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

National poll suggests some parents need support managing children's anger
Many parents are all too familiar with angry outbursts from their children, from sibling squabbles to protests over screen time limits.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Oropouche virus transmission to unborn child confirmed
The first confirmed case of vertical transmission of Oropouche virus (OROV) has been reported by 23 researchers from eight distinct institutions in Brazil.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Some parents may struggle with managing children's anger, poll suggests
Many parents are all too familiar with angry outbursts from their children, from sibling squabbles to protests over screen time limits.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Study explores the pandemic's impact on breastfeeding practices in historically marginalized communities
COVID-19 provided the elements for an organic experiment, researchers say
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Swedish study discovers link between delayed puberty in boys and increased hospital visits
Swedish young men who went through late puberty during adolescence are more likely to use health care services later in life, according to research presented at the 62nd Annual European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology Meeting in Liverpool. The findings of this long-term study suggest that delayed puberty in boys may have harmful effects on their health in adulthood and could potentially lead to new follow-up health care routines in the future.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Understanding neonatal infectious diseases in low- and middle-income countries: New insights from a 30-year study
Researchers from Peking University have conducted an in-depth study on the epidemic status, secular trends, and risk factors of 15 common neonatal infectious diseases across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) from 1990 to 2019.
November 18th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 17th, 2024

11 Pieces Of Tech Every New Parent Should Know About
New parents everywhere are in a visceral struggle to provide their little ones with the best life has to offer (from concerns over screen time to entertainment technology in the bleakest of venues). Culturally, we've all been raised to yearn for a better life for our children, even if our own upbringing was marked by nothing but happiness.
November 17th, 2024 — Source

Best Vitamins and Supplements for Joint Health in 2024
To support your joint health as you age, talk to your doctor about these vitamins and supplements.
November 17th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 16th, 2024

Excessive social media use tied to substance experimentation in US pre-teens
As teens continue to spend more time on screens and social media, a new study finds that among 11-12-year-olds, excessive time online is associated with early experimentation with substances like alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis.
November 16th, 2024 — Source

Traditional Mayan practices have long promoted unique levels of family harmony. But what effect is globalization having?
A new paper in the journal Child Development shows how some aspects of family interaction among Indigenous people in Guatemala have fundamentally shifted with rapid globalization, yet families have still maintained a unique level of harmony in their interactions.
November 16th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 15th, 2024

Children exposed to antiseizure meds during pregnancy face neurodevelopmental risks, study finds
Children born to mothers who take antiseizure medications to manage seizures and psychiatric conditions during pregnancy may face increased risks of neurodevelopmental conditions, according to new data from researchers at Drexel's Dornsife School of Public Health.
November 15th, 2024 — Source

Exploring the Impact of Motorcycle Sports on Students' Personal Development and Writing Skills
Despite some risks, particularly the possibility of injury, motorcycle sports have several advantages for healthy student body development. In this article, we will identify the positive effects that motorcycle sports have on students.
November 15th, 2024 — Source

Study finds cannabis-users would reduce use the most for job interviews, caring for children
People who use cannabis at least once a month may consume the drug before low-stakes activities, but what if they had other responsibilities, such as taking care of their children?
November 15th, 2024 — Source

Study uncovers first evidence of resistance to standard malaria treatment in African children with severe malaria
An international team of researchers has uncovered evidence of partial resistance to artemisinin derivatives -- the primary treatment for malaria -- in young children with severe malaria.
November 15th, 2024 — Source

Time in nature benefits children with mental health difficulties, researchers find
A team of researchers from McGill and Universite de Montreal's Observatoire pour l'education et la sante des enfants (OPES, or observatory on children's health and education), led by Sylvana Côte, found that spending two hours a week of class time in a natural environment can reduce emotional distress among 10 to 12 year olds who had the most significant mental health problems before the program began.
November 15th, 2024 — Source

Using AI to advance child development and learning
Can artificial intelligence-powered tools help enrich child development and learning?
November 15th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 12th, 2024

AI can detect serious neurologic changes in babies in the NICU using video data alone
A team of clinicians, scientists, and engineers at Mount Sinai trained a deep learning pose-recognition algorithm on video feeds of infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to accurately track their movements and identify key neurologic metrics.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Animated movie characters with strabismus are more likely to be villains, study finds
Strabismus, a misalignment of the eyes that occurs especially in children, has no bearing on intelligence or personality, but animated movies tend to use the condition to signify a villainous, dopey, or clumsy character, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Boredom, relaxation and experimentation are among top reasons teens vape
Nicotine vapes are sometimes marketed as aids for cigarette smoking cessation. However, teens do not typically turn to electronic nicotine vapes to curb smoking habits, according to University of Michigan research.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Fetal monitoring can be essential during labor—but many women don't realize they have choices
So, you're about to have a baby. You've been to the birth classes—you learned how being upright and moving around can help you be as comfortable as possible. Perhaps you've even learned some acupressure or hypnotherapy to help with pain management.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Grandparents help grandkids in many ways—but the reverse may be true too, poll suggests
As many Americans prepare to gather with their families for the holidays, a new poll shows the importance of grandchildren in grandparents' lives.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Mixed reality gaming may help kids be more active
Mixed reality gaming may be the motivation kids need to stay active, according to a new study from the University of Georgia. Children participating in the study saw a significant increase in physical activity.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Our new study shows teen vaping is linked to childhood trauma—here's why it might be harder to quit
If you experience trauma during childhood, there's a greater chance you'll use substances such as alcohol, tobacco and other drugs later. But what does the evidence say about vapes?
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Study challenges popular belief that children are quicker at picking up new motor skills than adults
Contrary to popular belief, children aren't better at learning new skills than adults. Indeed, young adults seem to learn faster than kids—but also tend to forget more quickly. Here, better sleep seems to advantage children. This is the conclusion of a new study from the University of Copenhagen.
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Treatment to preserve sight in children with rare genetic disorder shows promise in clinical trial
A new treatment that could prevent blindness in children with the CLN2 type Batten disease has been trialed by clinicians and researchers at UCL and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).
November 12th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 9th, 2024

New data map highlights disparities in children's mental health across the UK
A new data map produced by Centre for Mental Health in collaboration with Kooth has revealed stark disparities in children and young people's mental health across the four UK nations and between local areas.
November 9th, 2024 — Source

Research reveals how children develop understanding of words
A unique study has thrown fascinating new light on how young children begin to understand the meaning of words.
November 9th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 8th, 2024

Study finds child immunization program helped combat meningitis and blood poisoning
The number of cases of meningitis and blood poisoning is decreasing, and this is clearly due to the inclusion, since 2006, of pneumococcal disease into the child immunization program.
November 8th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 7th, 2024

A quick return to school and light exercise may help kids recover from concussions
During cheerleading practice in April, Jana Duey's sixth-grade daughter, Karter, sustained a concussion when she fell several feet headfirst onto a gym floor mat. Days after, Karter still had a headache, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and noise.
November 7th, 2024 — Source

Children with intellectual disabilities at greater risk of sexual abuse, finds study
Children with intellectual disabilities are not only more likely to be victims of sexual abuse but are also more susceptible to its harmful effects.
November 7th, 2024 — Source

Many moms fall asleep while feeding, endangering their babies, study finds
More than a quarter of new mothers have fallen asleep recently while feeding their babies, putting the infants at increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), research from the University of Virginia School of Medicine reveals.
November 7th, 2024 — Source

Potty training: How to get the job done
Potty training is a major milestone. Get the facts on timing, technique and handling accidents.
November 7th, 2024 — Source

Research fills the gap in evidence-based infant feeding guidelines
Imagine you are a parent of a 6-month-old and are looking to introduce solid foods to your baby. You are not sure what and how much to introduce first, so you look to dietary guidelines for help. You discover that the guidelines provide evidence-based dietary recommendations for all age groups except one—children under 2.
November 7th, 2024 — Source

Health — Children & Kids — November 1st, 2024

Exposure to certain pollution sources harms children's learning and memory, study shows
A new USC study involving 8,500 children from across the country has revealed that a form of air pollution, largely the product of agricultural emissions, is linked to poor learning and memory performance in 9 and 10 year-olds.
November 1st, 2024 — Source

Infant brains are like sponges—predictable caregivers can make them even spongier, research finds
It's a scientific truth many in the field of early childhood development like to parrot: children's brains are like sponges. But getting to see a child's sponge-like learning in action, from the perspective of a scientist, requires state-of-the-art imaging and some human subjects—young and old.
November 1st, 2024 — Source

Investment in pediatric emergency care could save more than 2,100 young lives each year
In emergencies, children have distinct needs because of their unique physiological, emotional and developmental characteristics. But 83% of emergency departments nationwide are not fully prepared to meet those needs—which can be life-threatening for a child in cases of severe illness or injury.
November 1st, 2024 — Source or Source

New study links childhood BMI trajectories to adult lung health
Early childhood BMI patterns play a crucial role in shaping adult lung health, with both high and low BMI linked to distinct respiratory outcomes, according to a long-term Swedish study.
November 1st, 2024 — Source

Study reinforces the benefits of beginning with behavioral therapy for kids with ADHD
Research by ADHD pioneer William E. Pelham, Jr., who passed away last year, found that behavioral therapy—when used first—was less expensive and more effective than medication in treating children with ADHD.
November 1st, 2024 — Source

Study reveals disparities in cleft lip surgery for non-White children
Children of non-White racial/ethnic backgrounds experience significant disparities in access to and outcomes of surgery to repair cleft lip, reports a study in the November issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The journal is published in the Lippincott portfolio by Wolters Kluwer.
November 1st, 2024 — Source

Unifying systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis and Still's disease
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology, in partnership with the Pediatric Rheumatology European Society (PReS), has developed new recommendations for the diagnosis and management of Still's disease, comprising the two diseases formerly known as systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) and adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD).
November 1st, 2024 — Source

Health — Children and Kids — Resources

Adlerian Counselling & Consulting Group
for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Provides a Service — Source

Breastfeeding rooms hidden in health care law
With her 5-week-old daughter crying in a bathroom at Nordstrom, and not knowing how to get the baby to latch on to her breast, Garima Nahar found herself surrounded by other women. some offered tips, but one woman told the new mother to cover up or turn the other way.
April 9, 2010 — Source

Chickenpoxinfo.com
Consumer information site from Merck.
Provides Information — Source

Child Safety in the Home
In a world made by the point-of-view of grown-ups, there are inadvertent hazards to small children all over the place. Home is no exception. According to Safe Kids USA (an organization that educates parents, policy makers, and the general public in creating safe environments for children) a child dies every 101 minutes as a result of an unintentional injury, making iuse of accidental death and permanent disability for America's kids.
April 1, 2010 — Source

First baby given xenon gas to prevent brain injury
A newborn baby has become the first in the world to receive xenon gas treatment, pioneered in Bristol in a bid to prevent brain injury.
April 9, 2010 — Source