Healthy Children

Getting Started

Normal Growth

Know Your Risks

A pregnant woman passes antibodies to her unborn baby through the placenta to protect against certain diseases. How long does this natural immunity last?

The Healthy Child See AllPhysical Development See AllNutrition and Eating See AllDental Care See AllHearing, Speech, and Language See AllVision Care See AllSports Safety and Injuries See AllActivities and Exercise See AllAbout Sleep See AllSafety and Injury Prevention See All

Normal Growth in Growth and Development

A child's growth not only involves the length and weight of his or her body, but also internal growth and development. ...more

Understanding the Teen Brain in Growth and Development

Parents need to realize the rational part of a teen's brain isn't fully developed and won't be until they are 25 years old or so. ...more

Stages of Play in Stages of Play

Children go through distinct stages of play as they grow. Each stage is critically important to the development of the next. ...more

Infant Play in Stages of Play

Read on for helpful suggestions for activities and toys for your baby, according to their age. ...more

Cognitive Development in Adolescence in Promoting Intellectual Growth

Cognitive development means the growth of a child's ability to think and reason. This growth happens differently from ages 6 to 12, and ages 12 to 18. ...more

Reading to Kids Helps Their Development in Promoting Intellectual Growth

Research shows that reading regularly to young children, especially those between ages 6 months and 5 years, is central to their overall growth and development. ...more

Healthy Diets Overview in Infant Nutrition, Nutrition for Adolescents

Eating healthy is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and is something that should be taught to children at a young age. ...more

Infant Nutrition in Infant Nutrition

Choosing how to feed your baby is an important decision that has life-long effects for your baby and for you. ...more

Preschooler Nutrition in Nutrition for Pre-school Children

Preschool children are still developing their eating habits and need encouragement to eat healthy meals and snacks. ...more

Toddler Nutrition in Nutrition for Pre-school Children

Read on to learn about healthy food choices, activity tips, and helpful feeding information for your toddler. ...more

Nutrition- School-Age in Nutrition for School-age Children

Helpful information and tips on healthy food choices for school-age children....more

Prevention of Heart Disease Starts in Childhood in Nutrition for School-age Children

You may think of heart disease as a problem for adults, not your young children. But diet and exercise habits started in childhood can begin a lifetime of heart health, or a lifetime of heart damage. ...more

Healthy Eating During Adolescence in Nutrition for Adolescents

Encourage your teen to eat three balanced meals a day, with fruits or vegetables as snacks. ...more

A Child's First Dental Visit Fact Sheet in Dental Hygiene

You can take your child at a younger age, but experts recommend taking your child by about 12 months at the latest. The dentist can provide or recommend preventative information regarding baby bottle tooth decay, infant feeding practices, mouth cleaning, teething, pacifier habits, and finger-sucking. habits. ...more

Dental Health for Children- Overview in Dental Hygiene

Generally, dental exams and cleanings are recommended every 6 months for children. Encourage good oral hygiene at home by helping your child brush their own teeth. ...more

Tooth Decay in Children in Common Dental Problems and Concerns

Tooth decay is the breakdown of tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard outer surface of a tooth. Tooth decay can lead to cavities. ...more

Teething in Common Dental Problems and Concerns

A baby's first tooth often appears between 5 and 7 months of age. Some babies get their first tooth a little earlier and others a little later. Here's what you need to know. ...more

Dental Fillings (Restorations) in Dental Procedures

Teeth that have tooth decay must be repaired. Advances in dental materials and methods provide new, effective ways to restore teeth. ...more

Sealants in Dental Procedures

Dental sealants are thin, plastic films painted on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. They are highly effective in preventing tooth decay. ...more

Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear in Hearing, Speech, and Language

The main parts of the ear are the outer ear, the eardrum (tympanic membrane), the middle ear, and the inner ear. ...more

Anatomy and Physiology of the Nose and Throat in Hearing, Speech, and Language

A helpful guide to the nose, the sinuses, and the throat....more

Anatomy of the Eye in Vision Care

The structures of the eye include the cornea, iris, pupil, macula, retina, and the optic nerve. ...more

Normal Vision in Vision Care

To understand how certain problems can affect your child's vision, it’s important to know how normal vision happens. ...more

Sports Safety—Identifying High-Risk Situations in Sports Safety

Playing sports has many benefits for a child. But the correct safety measures need to be taken. Read on to learn more. ...more

Preventing Sports Injury in Children in Sports Safety

Detailed information on sports safety for kids, including safety gear and equipment...more

Treating a Minor Sports Injury in Sports Injuries

Here's what you need to know about treating a minor sports injury, such as a twisted ankle, shin splint, or strained muscle. ...more

Sprains and Strains in Children in Sports Injuries

Sprains and strains are types of injuries. A sprain is an injury to a ligament while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. ...more

Sports and Music: Both Good for Kids in Promoting Intellectual Growth, Activities and Exercise

Organized sports for children offer obvious benefits such as physical fitness and sportsmanship, but did you know that a musical education program has many of the same benefits? Music education and participation in sports are both great ways to prepare your child for future success. ...more

Sports and Children with Special Needs in Sports Safety, Activities and Exercise

Children with special needs are sometimes not encouraged to exercise, because their parents or guardians fear they'll be injured. But physical activity is as important for children with special needs as it is for any child. ...more

Healthy Sleep Habits in Children in About Sleep

The normal amount of sleep varies depending on the age of your child. Read on for helpful tips to create healthy sleep habits, plus a chart of normal day and night sleep times by age. ...more

Infant Sleep in About Sleep

If you know anything about your baby's sleeping pattern, it's probably that it doesn't coincide with yours. But learning more about your baby's nighttime and daytime sleep needs can help you recognize what's normal, and what's not. ...more

When to Get Emergency Care for Your Child in Home Safety

In general, take your child to an emergency room after an injury any time you think the problem may need urgent care. ...more

Safety for You and Your Child in Home Safety

You can help your child by being prepared and preventing injuries from happening. It is important to take charge of your child's health and follow a program designed to help you and your family stay healthy and safe. ...more

Emergency Contact Information in Home Safety , Airway Obstruction

In an emergency, it is easy to "forget" even the most well-known information. That's why it is crucial to complete the information in this form for each member of your household. ...more

Airway Obstruction—Identifying High-Risk Situations in Airway Obstruction

Choking hazards in the home: round, firm foods, such as grapes and popcorn, and small nonfood items, such as coins, balloons, and marbles. ...more

Bicycling, Inline Skating, Skateboarding, and Scooter Safety—Prevention in Bicycle & Skating Safety

Read on for specific safety and injury prevention tips for wheel sports--from biking and inline skating to skateboarding and scooters. ...more

Buying a Bike for Your Child in Bicycle & Skating Safety

Learn helpful tips on what type and size of bike is right for your child, depending on their age, size, and ability. ...more

Installing and Using Child Safety Seats and Booster Seats in Airway Obstruction, Car Safety

As part of your preparation for your new baby, you probably got an infant safety seat for the car. But do you know how to make sure it’s installed correctly? And when do you switch to a child safety seat? Learn the ins and outs of safe car travel for your little one. ...more

Car Seat Safety and Distracted Driving in Car Safety

Detailed information on car safety....more

Fire Safety and Burns—Identifying High-Risk Situations in Fire and Firearm Safety

Children are at increased risk for serious fire and burn injuries and death because they have thinner skin than adults. This results in burns at lower temperatures. ...more

Fire Safety in Fire and Firearm Safety

Detailed information on fire and burn safety....more

Toy Safety—Identifying High-Risk Situations in Toy and Product Safety

Small toys or toys with small removal parts are not appropriate for children ages 3 and younger. ...more

Toy Safety—Prevention in Toy and Product Safety

Most toys today are safe. But injuries still happen. Read this article for helpful tips on preventing toy-related injuries. ...more

Preventing Falls in Falls and Water Safety

Falls are the most common cause of injury visits to the emergency room for young children. Falls cause more open wounds, fractures, and brain injuries than any other cause. Read on to learn about safety steps you can take to prevent a fall for your child. ...more

Water Safety for Parents in Falls and Water Safety

Read on to learn preventive steps to protect children from drowning in homes, pools, and open waters, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. ...more

Children and Healthcare See AllChildhood Injuries, Poisons, and Burns See AllDisease Prevention See AllWhen Your Child Is Sick See AllWhen Your Child Has Surgery See AllChildhood Illnesses See AllMedications See All

Abrasions in Minor Cuts, Scrapes, and Skin Wounds

An abrasion is a superficial rub or wearing off of the skin, usually caused by a scrape or a brush burn. Abrasions are usually minor injuries that can be treated at home. ...more

Blisters in Children in Minor Cuts, Scrapes, and Skin Wounds

Detailed information on blisters, including cause, first aid, and treatment....more

Superficial Injuries to the Face and Head in Superficial Injuries to the Face and Head

Children are more likely to end up with a cut or scrape on the head or face. One reason is that children's sense of balance isn't completely adjusted....more

Cuts and Wounds of the Face in Superficial Injuries to the Face and Head

Most minor cuts or wounds to the face can be handled at home with simple first aid treatment. But there are also times when these injuries need medical care. Here's what you need to know. ...more

Preventing Eye Injuries in Children in Eye Trauma

Children should wear protective eyewear during sports and recreational activities. In the classroom, they should wear eye protection when doing lab experiments. ...more

Corneal Abrasions in Children in Eye Trauma

A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the cornea. This is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Learn details about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. ...more

Sprains and Strains in Children in Muscle and Joint Injuries

Sprains and strains are types of injuries. A sprain is an injury to a ligament while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. ...more

Nursemaid’s Elbow in Children in Muscle and Joint Injuries

Nursemaid's elbow is a type of elbow injury. It's when a forearm bone (radius) slips out of place from where it normally attaches to the elbow joint. ...more

Facts About Animal Bites and Scratches in Animal and Human Bites

Whether the bite is from a family pet or an animal in the wild, scratches and bites can become infected and cause scarring. Animals can also carry diseases that can be transmitted through a bite. ...more

Treatment for Dog and Cat Bites and Scratches in Animal and Human Bites

When your child is bitten or scratched by an animal, remain calm and reassure your child that you can help. Here's what you need to know. ...more

Flea, Mite, or Chigger Bites in Children in Insect Bites

Fleas, mites, and chiggers are different kinds of small insects. They are also parasites. This means they feed off the blood, skin, or both of animals and humans. These insects are more common in the warm weather. They bite skin and cause symptoms such as bumps, redness, pain, or itching. ...more

Tick Bites in Insect Bites

Ticks attach themselves to the scalp, behind the ear, in the armpit and groin, and also between fingers and toes. Find out what to do if you find a tick on your child. ...more

Facts About Poisons in Poisons

Medicines are the leading cause of poisoning in children. Poisoning by makeup and personal care products is the next most common cause. ...more

First Aid for Poisonings in a Child in Poisons

Sometimes accidental poisonings can be treated in the home under the direction of a poison control center or your child's healthcare provider. At other times, emergency medical care is necessary. ...more

Fire Safety and Burns Overview in About Burns

Know the types of burns you can get and how to keep you and your family safe....more

Anatomy of the Skin in About Burns

The skin is the body's largest organ. It serves as a protective shield against heat, light, injury, and infection. ...more

Classification and Treatment of Burns in Types of Burns

Burns are classified as first-, second-, or third-degree, depending on how deep and severe they penetrate the skin's surface....more

First-Degree Burn in Children in Types of Burns

A burn is damage to tissues of the body caused by contact with things such as heat, radiation, or chemicals. A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). ...more

Nutrition and Burns in Care of Burns

A child who has been burned needs additional calories and protein to help them heal and grow. ...more

Burns: Symptom Management in Care of Burns

Most children with burns have pain, which can be controlled with medicine. They also usually experience itching at some point during the healing process. ...more

Teaching Kids to Wash Their Hands in Disease Prevention

How can you get your kids into the handwashing habit? We've got a few tips for you below. ...more

A Simple Way to Keep the Flu Away in Disease Prevention

You can prevent the flu this season by taking 1 simple step: Get a flu shot....more

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) in Immunizations

Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus are serious illnesses. A combination vaccine is given to babies and children to provide protection against all 3 diseases. ...more

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine in Immunizations

The MMR vaccine is given in 2 doses--at 12 to 15 months and at 4 to 6 years, or at least 1 month after the first dose. ...more

Determining Body Mass Index for Teens in Preventing Childhood Obesity

Although it is not a perfect measure, BMI gives a fairly accurate evaluation of how much of your teen's body is made up of fat. ...more

Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides in Children and Adolescents in Preventing Childhood Obesity

The cholesterol in blood comes from 2 sources: the foods your teen eats and their liver. The liver, however, makes all of the cholesterol your teen's body needs. ...more

Fever in Children in When Your Child Is Sick

Read on to learn all about fever and children--from symptoms and treatment to how to take your child's temperature. ...more

Help for a Child with a Cold in When Your Child Is Sick

You want to help a child with cold symptoms feel better, but choosing among countless over-the-counter (OTC) cold medicines can be daunting. Here are some guidelines that can help. ...more

Types of Surgery for Children in Before Surgery

Surgery doesn't always mean large incisions. Minimally invasive surgery is often used today. This uses small cuts, and allows a child to recover faster and with less pain. ...more

Methods of Surgery in Before Surgery

A look at how open surgery compares to minimally invasive surgery, including different types of procedures. ...more

Preoperative Visit with Your Child's Surgeon in Preoperative Management

This is the time to ask questions: What are the expected results? What are the possible risks and complications? How long will the surgery take? ...more

Hospital Visit/Preoperative Clinic in Preoperative Management

Touring the hospital before surgery can help your child see the sights, sounds, and events they will experience the day of surgery. It is a nonthreatening, often reassuring, way to learn about the hospital. ...more

Preparing the Infant for Surgery in Preparing a Child for Surgery

It's important to keep your baby's routine the same before the day of surgery. Make sure you, your baby, and your family are well rested. ...more

Preparing the Toddler for Surgery in Preparing a Child for Surgery

Read books to your toddler about going to the hospital. Keep any explanations simple and be careful of the words you use. ...more

The Day of Surgery in Surgery and Intraoperative Care

Read on for helpful information about what to expect before and after your child's surgery. ...more

The Operating Room in Surgery and Intraoperative Care

Your child will need to know that people in the operating room will be wearing surgical clothes to help prevent germs from infecting the surgical incision. ...more

Appendectomy for Children in Before Surgery, Types of Surgery

An appendectomy is surgery to remove a child’s appendix. An appendectomy may be done as an open surgery or as laparoscopic surgery. Read on to learn what to expect before, during, and after the surgery. ...more

Hypospadias in Children in Types of Surgery

Hypospadias is a problem where the opening of the urethra is not at the tip of the penis. With hypospadias, the end of the tube is lower down on the underside of the penis. Or it may be in the scrotum. ...more

Recovery Room/Post-Anesthesia Care Unit in Post-operative Care

Once surgery is done, your child will be brought to the recovery room, also called the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). ...more

Intensive Care in Post-operative Care

Intensive care is needed for children who have had certain types of major surgery: heart operations, organ transplants, or neurosurgery. ...more

Blocked Tear Duct (Dacryostenosis) in Children in Eye and Ear Conditions

In some children, the openings into the tear duct don’t form the right way. This causes a blockage. The tears have no place to drain. Learn more about how this condition can affect your child, and how it's treated. ...more

Conjunctivitis in Children in Eye and Ear Conditions

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye. The conjunctiva is the membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the eyeball. Conjunctivitis is also known as “pink eye.” ...more

Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy for Children in Types of Surgery, Allergies, Asthma, Respiratory Problems

A tonsillectomy may be recommended if your child has throat infections that keep coming back. Adenoidectomy is recommended if your child has a lot of trouble breathing through the nose. Often the tonsils and adenoids are removed at the same time. ...more

Allergic Rhinitis in Children in Allergies, Asthma, Respiratory Problems

Allergic rhinitis can happen on a seasonal basis or year-round. There is often a family history of allergic rhinitis, eczema, asthma, or food allergy. Read on to learn details about treating and managing this condition. ...more

Acne in Children in Skin Conditions

Acne is a disorder of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Hair follicles are the areas around the base or root of each hair. Sebaceous glands are the tiny glands that release oil (sebum) into the hair follicles. The sebum moistens the skin and hair. The sebum and hair get to the skin surface through tiny holes called pores. ...more

Fifth Disease in Children in Skin Conditions

Fifth disease is a viral illness that causes a rash. It occurs most often in the winter and spring. ...more

Diagnosing and Evaluating Heart Disease in Children in Preventing Childhood Obesity, Diabetes and Blood Pressure Problems

Detailed information on diagnosing and evaluating heart disease in children...more

Overview of Diabetes Mellitus in Diabetes and Blood Pressure Problems

Diabetes occurs when not enough insulin is made. Or when the body is unable to use the insulin that is made. The 3 main types of diabetes are type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. ...more

Osgood-Schlatter Disease in Children in Bone Conditions

Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition in children. It's when the tendon in a knee becomes injured and inflamed. ...more

Fractures in Children in Bone Conditions

A fracture is a partial or complete break in the bone. When a fracture happens, it is classified as either open or closed. ...more

Chickenpox in Immunizations, Infectious Diseases

Chickenpox is a common childhood disease that causes an itchy, blistering rash and is easily spread to others. ...more

Hepatitis in Children in Infectious Diseases

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It can damage and destroy liver cells....more

Treat Children's OTC Medicines With Care in Medications

Over-the-counter medicines can help ease a child's aches and pains, but you should know a few things before you pop open a bottle. ...more

What to Look for on OTC Medicine Labels in Medications

Always read the label. All OTC medicine labels have detailed usage and warning information to help you choose and use the products. Here's a helpful guide to reading these labels. ...more

Emotions and Behavior See AllMood Disorders See AllAnxiety Disorders See AllEating Disorders See AllDevelopmental Disorders See AllMental Health Evaluation See All

Disciplining Your Child at Any Age in Emotions and Behavior

Each child is different, but most children need to be given clear rules about behavior. Read on for some discipline tips by age group. ...more

Relationship Development in Emotions and Behavior

The teen years bring a focus on social interactions and friendships. This includes same-gender friends, same-gender groups of friends, and cross-gender groups of friends. In addition, sexual maturity triggers teens' interest in dating and sexual relationships. ...more

Lying and Stealing in Emotions and Behavior

Lying and stealing are common, but inappropriate, behaviors in school-aged children. Most of the time these behaviors will be outgrown. Here's what you should know. ...more

Time-Out in Emotions and Behavior

Time-out is a type of discipline that is used to stop bad behavior in a child. It takes the child out of the situation and gives them time to calm down. ...more

Temper Tantrums in Emotions and Behavior

Temper tantrums are a normal part of childhood development. They often happen only with a parent. They are a way for the child to communicate their feelings. Read on to learn more. ...more

Age-Specific Concerns See AllInfants and Toddlers See AllPre-Schoolers and School-Age See AllAdolescents and Teens See All

Many Youngsters Suck Their Thumbs in Infants and Toddlers

Young children often suck on their thumbs. It's perfectly normal. But some parents worry about it. ...more

An Early Start to Good Nutrition in Infants and Toddlers

With childhood obesity on the rise, should parents worry about the weight of their babies? ...more

Acquired Hypothyroidism in Children in Infants and Toddlers, Pre-Schoolers and School-Age

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. The condition is more common in adults. But it’s the most common thyroid disorder in children. Not enough thyroid hormone leads to signs, such as slow growth, lack of activity, and poor performance in school. ...more

Graves Disease in Children in Infants and Toddlers, Pre-Schoolers and School-Age

Graves disease is an autoimmune disease. With this disease, antibodies cause the thyroid gland to make too much thyroid hormone. This is known as hyperthyroidism. Excess thyroid hormone in the bloodstream leads to the body's metabolism being too active. It can cause problems such as weight loss, nervousness, fast heartbeat, tiredness, and other issues. It’s an ongoing (chronic) condition that needs lifelong treatment. ...more

Anatomy of the Breasts in Female Sexual Development

A closer look at the structure of the breast....more

Normal Breast Development and Changes in Female Sexual Development

Breast development happens in certain stages during a woman's life: first before birth, and again at puberty and later during the childbearing years. Changes also happen to the breasts during menstruation and when a woman reaches menopause. ...more

Stop Dating Abuse Before It Starts in Female Sexual Development , Male Sexual Development

Teen dating violence is worrisome. But it's not inevitable. Here's how you and your teen can prevent possibly unsafe situations and reduce the risk for problems. ...more

Overview of the Male Anatomy in Male Sexual Development

The male reproductive anatomy includes the bladder, epididymis, penis, scrotum, and prostate gland. ...more

Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Adolescents in Sexually Transmitted Diseases

A detailed look at STIs and teens, from protection and treatment to different types of STIs. ...more

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Women suffer more frequent and severe symptoms from STDs. Some STDs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to both infertility and ectopic pregnancy. ...more

Bulimia Nervosa in Children in Eating Disorders

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder. A child with bulimia overeats or binges uncontrollably. This overeating may be followed by self-induced throwing up (purging). ...more

Anorexia Nervosa in Children in Eating Disorders

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder. It is a form of self-starvation. Children and teens with this health problem have a distorted body image. They think they weigh too much. ...more

Major Depression in Teens in Mood Disorders

Major depression goes beyond the day's normal ups and downs. It involves a teen's body, mood, and thoughts. It can affect and disrupt eating, sleeping, or thinking patterns. ...more

Bipolar Disorder in Teens in Mood Disorders

Bipolar disorder is a type of depression. A teen with bipolar disorder often has extreme mood swings. These mood swings go beyond the day's normal ups and downs. ...more

The Dangers of Binge Drinking in Alcohol and Tobacco

On college campuses across the U.S., many students ages 18 to 24 are taking part in a dangerous activity called binge drinking. This means drinking alcohol to the point of getting drunk. Read on to learn more about the risks. ...more

Binge Drinking Dangers for Young People in Alcohol and Tobacco

Binge drinkers are most likely found on college campuses, where many students consider a big game or fraternity party an excuse to drink all weekend. ...more

The Facts About Recreational Marijuana in Drugs

Knowing about marijuana can help you tell if your child or someone else is using it, and help them to get treatment. ...more

The Menace of Methamphetamine in Drugs

Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly addictive drug. It is related to the legal stimulant amphetamine, but has stronger effects. ...more

Parenting See AllAdvice for Parents See AllChildren and the Media See AllChildren and Difficult Times See AllFamily Matters See AllJust for Grandparents See All

Disciplining Your Child at Any Age in Advice for Parents

Each child is different, but most children need to be given clear rules about behavior. Read on for some discipline tips by age group. ...more

Parents-to-Be Must Communicate in Advice for Parents

Few parents-to-be receive training for the much more challenging and long-term tasks--becoming good parents and remaining close and loving partners in the face of new stresses and strains as their family grows. ...more

Television and Children in Children and the Media

Many children watch too much digital media, which includes TV, the internet, and smart devices. Learn why too much screen time is not good for kids--and how to set limits and establish good viewing habits. ...more

Helping Kids Cope with a Divorce in Children and Difficult Times

Anger, fear, separation anxiety, a sense of abandonment, self-blame, sadness, and embarrassment are common reactions to divorce for most children. ...more

When a Family Grieves in Children and Difficult Times

Learning about grief and how it affects your family can help you get through the difficult times together. It may even help your family grow stronger. ...more

Tips to Keep Your Anger Under Control in Advice for Parents, Family Matters

While getting angry from time to time is inevitable, the way you express it isn't. Control your anger in a way that's better for both you and the people around you. ...more

How to Juggle Demands at Work and Home in Advice for Parents, Family Matters

Juggling the demands of work and home can be quite stressful. For your health and well-being, it is important to find a good balance between work and home responsibilities ...more

A Safety Checklist for Parents in Just for Grandparents

You can help keep your children safe by following these precautions....more

Parenting Déjà vu: Raising Your Grandchildren in Just for Grandparents

About 4.9 million children live in households headed by grandparents. These are commonly called "grandfamilies" or "second families." Two out of three of your fellow grandparents handling this responsibility are older than 50, and the children are often under age 6. ...more

Interactive Tools See All

Children's BMI Calculator

BMI, or body mass index, uses weight and height to calculate weight status for adults. BMI for children and teens also takes into account gender and age because healthy body fatness differs between boys and girls and changes as they grow. This BMI calculator will help you determine if your child is at a healthy weight....more

Acne Quiz

Learn about acne with this multiple-choice quiz. You'll learn, for example, which factors promote blackheads....more

Child Development Quiz

Answer this one: When riding in a motor vehicle, how tall should a child be to sit in a regular seat and use an adult seat belt instead of a being strapped into a car safety seat or booster seat?...more