• In the Exam Room – Let Me Count the Ways

    October 21, 2020
    In the Exam Room – Let Me Count the Ways

    Taking a diet history of a young child can be a great way to assess and promote early numeracy. Early numeracy refers to the foundations of mathematical understanding. It’s promoted through everyday discussion and exposure to basic mathematical ideas, such as different quantities, the relationship between large and small amounts, and actual number naming. Ask…Read More

  • The Power of Affirmations

    October 14, 2020
    The Power of Affirmations

    Recognizing positive behavior not only makes parents and children feel good, it motivates them to repeat that behavior in the future. At each visit, try and find one specific thing to notice and affirm! Could it be how well a child answered your questions? How well a parent comforted their child in distress? A child’s…Read More

  • Emotional and Behavioral Effects of COVID-19

    October 7, 2020
    Emotional and Behavioral Effects of COVID-19

    This week we are bringing you evidence to support what you may have suspected in the exam room – that emotional and behavioral health difficulties in children have increased significantly due to COVID-19. In the September issue of The Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, “Supporting the Mental Health of Parents and Children During and After Coronavirus,” demonstrates…Read More

  • Why “Don’t cry, be brave” Can Backfire

    September 30, 2020
    Why “Don’t cry, be brave” Can Backfire

    You may hear parents tell their children not to cry during stressful moments in the visit. Parents are often embarrassed that their child is upset, and feel pressure to get them to stop crying. In those instances, you can label and validate a child’s emotions and let the parents know that it is OK for…Read More

  • Thinking About Food Insecurity

    September 23, 2020
    Thinking About Food Insecurity

    Food Insecurity is the lack of reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable and nutritious meals. Childhood food insecurity may lead to poor health status, developmental risks, mental health problems, and poor educational outcomes. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all providers screen patients for food insecurity at scheduled health maintenance visits or sooner, if indicated. According to the…Read More