POSTED BY:
Larissa Hirsch, MD

You’ve probably heard about respiratory syncytial virus or RSV a lot lately. That’s because cases of this illness have increased since last year. RSV mainly causes cold symptoms, and most people who get it get better on their own. But when babies or toddlers get RSV, it can turn into something more serious called bronchiolitis. Bronchiolitis causes the lung’s tiny airways (bronchioles) to swell and fill with mucus. This makes it hard to breathe. Bronchiolitis usually gets better on its own, but sometimes kids need treatment in the hospital. With the winter season upon us, it’s good to know what to look for — and when to get help — the next time your child comes down with a nasty cold. Why are RSV cases on the rise?  Doctors aren’t exactly sure why, but it may be because fewer people are wearing masks now. RSV is a common childhood illness, […]

Showing kids how to turn empathy into helpful action, they learn they can make a difference. You and your children may be anxious about the war in Ukraine. It’s important to answer any questions your kids may have. But you can also turn your family’s empathy into meaningful action by finding ways to support the people of Ukraine. Exploring how to help and explaining that our country is supporting relief efforts can make it easier for children to process these tragic events. Here are a few ways that families can offer support: Donate to a Verified Charity Kids can feel more of a connection to aiding in relief efforts if they understand who they are helping and how. Families can read about the charities that are accepting donations and choose one together. Below are a few organizations that are specifically assisting Ukrainian children and families. UNICEF: This humanitarian organization works to […]

As conflicts in Ukraine escalate, children may see and hear things about the crisis through news headlines, social media, friends discussing the topic at school, or overheard conversations from adults. Situations like this can lead to feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. Children might have questions about the images, stories, and conversations they are seeing and hearing. Parents and caregivers should address them. Here are some tips on how to approach these conversations with children: Find Out What They Know Ask your kids questions to find out what information they already know about. They may have formed a completely different picture of the situation than you have. Take the time to listen to what they think, and what they have seen or heard. Consider your child’s age and development. Younger kids may not grasp the difference between fact and fantasy. For most kids, it’s not until they are 7 or […]