May 18, 2021
Why is family important in a child's development?As a child grows and develops, his or her first human interactions are typically with family members and associated caregivers. These first contacts are vital for the development of a child’s socialization skills as well as teaching children how to have a better understanding of themselves and of people around them.
May 4, 2021
How important is it to read to a young child?As parents and caregivers work hard to prepare their children for success in school—and in life—one of the most important things they can do is start reading to their child at an early age. By reading to a child, adults can help them get ready for formal education, open their mind to creativity and expose them to worlds they never could imagine on their own.
Nov 24, 2020
How do I know if my child has a food allergy?As a parent or caregiver, you constantly monitor your child as they grow and develop, checking off important milestones to ensure they are on the path to health and wellness. But what do you do if you suspect your infant or toddler may have a food allergy? According to Food Allergy Research and Education, about one out of every 13 children is allergic to at least one food item, with about 40 percent of those children having experienced a severe, life-threatening reaction.
Nov 11, 2020
Should I breastfeed my new baby or use formula?As any new mother knows, one of the most important things to consider in regards to her baby’s nutritional needs is whether to breastfeed or use formula. There are many factors to consider in both cases and, ultimately, it comes down to what is best for an individual mother and her child.
Oct 22, 2020
Is my child getting enough sleep?A good night’s rest is crucial for children because it is the primary activity of the brain during early development. Circadian rhythms, or the sleep-wake cycle, are regulated by light and dark and they take time to develop. That is why newborns have irregular sleep schedules. The rhythms begin to develop when a baby is six weeks old and by three to six months old, most infants begin to have a regular sleep-wake cycle. Overall, a child will spend 40 percent of his or her childhood asleep because sleep is an important factor that directly impacts mental and physical development.
Oct 6, 2020
How do I teach my child about diversity?As any adult and caregiver know, we live in a diverse, multicultural world. No one knows this fact more than children who become aware of, and are intrigued by, the way people look and behave at a very young age. In fact, some studies suggest that babies as young as six months old stare longer at photographs of people who look differently than their parents. This indicates that children notice differences in other people right from the beginning of life.
