Health and Safety Information

An informed parent can make better decisions about their child's care. Learn about the latest topics in children's health.

Our Latest Posts on Children and Teens Health Topics

It's Kids Eat Right Month

August 27, 2020 – It’s Back-to-School time again, and while it may look a little different this year, the challenges are the same. “What to make for lunch and snacks?” is on every parent’s mind.

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

March 17, 2020 – We understand that news related to the international spread of COVID-19 has raised concerns in our community. As part of our commitment to the region’s children and families, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is in daily contact with local, state and federal agencies to monitor the situation, and is prepared to evaluate and care for patients with COVID-19 or suspected COVID-19.  

Weight Management for Children and Teenagers

January 14, 2020 – Obesity has become one of the most significant threats to the well being of our nation’s children. It is estimated that nearly 32 percent of children and adolescents are overweight and that 16 percent or more can be categorized as obese.

The Risks of Vaping – What Parents Need to Know

September 24, 2019 – Until recently, the severity of e-cigarette use or “vaping” has been minimized. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is currently investigating an outbreak of lung disease in connection with e-cigarette use following the deaths of six people as a result of e-cigarette use or “vaping.”

Flood Emergency Readiness

August 29, 2019 – Some basic steps to take to prepare for storms and floods while under a flood watch or warning.

Hurricane Survival Tips for Families

August 29, 2019 – Hurricanes are considered natural disasters. In order to safeguard your family, it is essential that you prepare accordingly with information involving pre-hurricane readiness and post-hurricane recovery efforts. The information below will help you and your family cope with the realities of such an emergency.

Natural Disaster Preparation for Families with Children

August 29, 2019 – During preparation time, at the occurrence of, and in the aftermath of natural disasters such as hurricanes, children are likely to experience fear and anxiety, manifested by moderate to intense periods of hyperactivity, distraction, clinging to parents, excessive talking and sometimes regression of learned behaviors such as toilet training and sleeping in their own bed.

Preparing your Child for a Hurricane

August 29, 2019 – Children and teenagers can become anxious when their routines are disrupted by natural disasters such as a hurricane or tropical storms. Parents should try to address those fears in a factual, reassuring manner.  If you remain calm, your children will often follow your behavior.

Sports Nutrition in Kids and Teens

May 13, 2019 – Exercising and being active is only half the battle. In order for children and adolescents to have the best chance at becoming successful athletes they need to fuel their bodies appropriately. A common misconception is that because a child may be very active, he or she can eat anything because it will burn off in practice. While the child may burn many calories in practice or competition, he or she will not be playing at an optimal level if health foods are not being consumed.

Recommendations for juice consumption in children

March 29, 2019 – Consumption of fruit juice has increased drastically within recent years as children and adolescents continue to be the highest consumers. An excessive amount of juice consumption can lead to not only an increase in calories, but also an increased risk for childhood obesity and dental caries.

Immune “Boosters” for Children

March 27, 2019 – A healthy immune system is your family’s best weapon to fight the common cold or the flu season, and our job is to keep you ready. Below is a list of six immune-boosting nutrients and the different foods they can be found in, recommended by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s #GiveMe5 program. 

Medical Care During Pregnancy

March 06, 2019 – The sooner in pregnancy good care begins, the better for the health of both moms and their babies. Here's what to expect.

Child-Friendly Veggies

March 05, 2019 – Vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet, but getting kids to eat an adequate amount can be challening. Here are helpful tips to introduce more veggies into a child's diet. 

Guide for First Time Parents

March 01, 2019 – If you're a first-time parent, put your fears aside and get the basics in this guide about burping, bathing, bonding, and other baby-care concerns.

Birth Plans: Preparing for Labor and Delivery

February 28, 2019 – In the happy haze of early pregnancy, you're probably already thinking of baby names and planning to shop for baby clothes. The reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off — which makes this the perfect time to start planning for the arrival of your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes.

Newborn Screening Tests

February 27, 2019 – Newborn screening tests look for harmful or potentially fatal disorders that aren't apparent at birth. Find out which tests are done and which disorders they're designed to detect.

Natural Treatments for Pain Relief

September 06, 2018

Natural pain treatments, like herbal remedies, are generated from parts of a plant that may treat health problems. Many natural remedies have been used for thousands of years by all major cultures and are still used today by 80% of the earth’s population.

Managing Pain: Stress Response & Relaxation Response

September 05, 2018 – When you are in pain, learning to relax takes practice. It's best to practice the relaxation techniques when you are not in pain or when the pain is of lower intensity.

Dental Health in Children with Asthma

August 10, 2018 – The medications that an asthmatic child uses could have effects on the oral mucosa.

 

Dental Health in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

August 10, 2018

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may present with behavioral management problems in the dental setting due to increased anxiety, fear and increased sensory stimulation.