Precocious Puberty Predictor
Obesity is the biggest contributing factor for early onset puberty, according to a study published late last year in Pediatrics. Researchers at Cincinnati’s Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Ohio reported white, non-Hispanic girls have earlier breast development and maturation when their body mass index is high compared to other races.
Problem Elimination & ADHD
Children with ADHD are more likely to have bowel and bladder problems than other kids. Pediatric researchers at the F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine in Bethesda, MD, found children with ADHD were nearly three and a half times more likely to suffer from constipation than kids without ADHD. Incontinence was also more common.
Risky Play
A dangerous childhood game could lead to injury or death, warns the American Academy of Pediatrics. In “Knockout Challenge,” one child takes multiple quick breaths to become dizzy. A second child then presses on the participant’s chest for a few seconds until the participant loses consciousness. Since too much information could tempt children to try the game, parents are advised to warn children against doing anything that doesn’t sound safe. Parents should also be vigilant about monitoring social media sites, text messages, and phone conversations.
Healthy New Year’s Resolutions
- The American Academy of Pediatrics urges children, ages 5-12-years, to commit to healthy living with age appropriate New Year’s resolutions. Encourage your child to say I will…
- Drink reduced-fat milk and water every day
- Apply sunscreen before going outdoors on sunny days
- Find an activity or sport to play at least 3 times a week
- Wear a helmet when biking
- Wear my seat belt in the car
- Never give out personal information or photos on the Internet
