In Sickness and Health: Early Detection of Hearing Problems

What causes hearing problems? There are many different causes, such as defects present at birth, infection or fluid in the ear, or abnormalities within the ear canal.

Can you detect hearing problems through observation? While some problems may be observable, screening tests are more reliable and accurate.

What are risk factors for hearing problems? Family history, use of certain medications, illnesses such as mumps, or infants who are born premature or low birth weight are a few of the risk factors.

Safety First: Preventing Bullying

When can bullying behavior begin? While it is more common in the elementary and secondary grades, it can begin during preschool years.

What is the difference between conflict and bullying? Conflict is a natural discussion or argument that is part of developing negotiation skills. Bullying is an unequal balance of power and one child repeatedly and deliberately intimidates or abuses the other child.

Why do young children bully? Many reasons, such as desire for adults’ attention, means to get something they want, or jealousy.

Should the caregiver intervene? Yes. Bullying requires immediate intervention. Young children cannot cope with bullying alone.

Nutrition Action: Wiggle into Exercise

Why do young children wiggle and move around so much? Movement is inherent in children. It is their way of learning about their bodies and how they fit into the world around them.

Why is movement important? It is nature’s way of building strength and agility, skill development, and promoting healthy growth and weight management.

What are some simple and inexpensive tools to promote movement while indoors? Exercise balls, old couch cushions, balance boards

Medicine Chest: Pacifier Use

Are there benefits to pacifier use? Infants and young children use sucking as a means of soothing themselves. Also, some research shows pacifier use may help protect against SIDS.

Does pacifier use interfere with breastfeeding? Possibly. AAP recommends that pacifiers not be used until breastfeeding is firmly established

Does pacifier use cause dental abnomalities? No, unless the child uses the pacifier after age of 5 years.

Should the caregiver take the pacifier away from the child? No, but you can begin teaching the child other techniques for self soothing, such as verbalizing stress or frustration.

Health & You: Laughter and Play

I’m not happy. Should I fake it? Yes. Just putting on a smile can improve your mood.

What are benefits of laughter? Some studies show laughter helps the body’s natural immune system. It also decreases blood pressure and stress hormones.

List three ways to add fun to your life. Examples: read the comics, tell yourself a “good time” story, do something spontaneous and silly, play with your children, read funny quotes, etc.