Dec 10, 2017
The Tampa Bay Times – Brentney Hamilton
When I became a parent last year, it seemed likely my marathon running days were behind me. Running had made me a grittier person. It had given me the very specific self-assurance that comes from calmly enduring 26 miles on foot, a quality that would prove useful in the frightful early months of caring for an infant. You see, marathons can add much to any parent’s toolbox: experience with pureed foods in hard-to-open packets, spit and spitup among other questionable bathroom habits, and the persistent whine of a tired and cranky internal monologue. (more)
Dec 10, 2017
The Miami Herald – Eugene R. Hershorin, M.D.
Do these scenarios sound familiar to you? They very well might, as approximately one out of every 10 children in the world suffers from a condition called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This is a confusing name because there are three subtypes. One of them has no hyperactivity at all and is called ADHD of the inattentive type. The other two types are ADHD of the hyperactive/impulsive type and ADHD of the combined type. These children are frustrating to deal with because they are obviously bright, but can’t seem to control their attention to academic things. But they can focus for hours on things they enjoy. They want to behave, but just can’t seem to sit still and be quiet like other kids. And they do silly, impulsive things that get them in trouble over and over again. (more)
Dec 9, 2017
CBS News – Dennis Thompson
American toddlers are more likely to eat french fries than green vegetables on any given day, according to a new national survey on children’s eating habits. Many young kids also go without any vegetables at all, the survey found. One in four 6- to 11-month-olds and one in five 1-year-olds had no reported vegetable consumption at all on days they were surveyed, the researchers reported. (more)
Dec 9, 2017
Medical News Today – Tim Newman
As innocent as children’s movies may seem to be, new research investigated whether or not they promote positive attitudes toward healthful food and the issues surrounding obesity. However, the opposite seems to be the case. (more)
Dec 8, 2017
Life Hacker – Catherine Pearlman
This week, after only two practices, my 11-year-old son quit basketball. Before the season, he was genuinely excited to play (which is sort of remarkable when one considers his three-year lifetime record is 0-27), so I paid the money and requested his uniform. And still, I practically encouraged him to quit. Three years ago, I signed my daughter up for water polo. She had never been on a team in her life, but with puberty impending I thought she should get some exercise. Through tears, anxiety attacks and a good deal of nudging, my daughter was made to push through a tough start. Although she wanted to quit many times, I wouldn’t allow her to ditch the team. Now, three years later, water polo is her life. Why the different approaches for my kids? (more)