It's not perfect. It's parenting.
Sometimes you need answers to the little everyday things that parents encounter. And sometimes, you just need someone to encourage you through all of the craziness and challenges of parenthood. Welcome to Parent-ish, a blog from the experts at Children's Mercy.
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What every parent should know about preventing child abuse
Everyone deserves to be respected, nurtured and loved. But many children and teens face a different reality. Caring adults need to be aware of the signs of child abuse and how they can help prevent it.
Favorite children’s books for all ages
The saying goes “reading is good for the mind and soul.” Books can expand your imagination and transport you to new places, take you on adventures and teach lessons along the way. Below, see some favorite books from elementary to high school, including some well-loved classics, and new favorites to add to your “to be read” list.
Siblings helping siblings thrive
A sibling is often called a built-in best friend. The hope for parents is that the bond will continue with your children through all phases of life. But a new addition to the family also means a new role for your oldest child. The oldest is there to show them ropes and the youngest is there to follow along and learn. However, in some families, that isn’t always the case.
Constipation: every parent’s favorite topic
It’s amazing how once you become a parent you begin to realize that talking about poop is just part of everyday conversation. Has your child pooped today? What was the consistency? What was the color?
4 things to know about seasonal allergies
We may still be seeing some chilly days, but allergies are in full effect. Chances are, if you’re not sneezing and itching, someone in your family is. Despite how common seasonal allergies are, many people still have questions about them. We hope to answer some of those so you and the kids in your life can find some relief.
8 frequently asked questions about breastfeeding and pumping
Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn’t mean it comes without questions. Whether you’re breastfeeding for the first time or looking for answers because this experience is different from the last, Lactation Consultant Andrea Sanmiguel answers some of the most asked questions.
End the dinner table battles: How to help your picky eater
It's not uncommon for toddlers and preschoolers to resist trying new foods. Even children who were adventurous foodies as infants can go through a picky phase. If your child puts up a fight at meal times, try to remember it's a normal occurrence for many kids and, most of the time, it doesn't mean anything is wrong. That said, we'd like to give you some tried and true tips to make feeding your kid more enjoyable for everyone involved.
The ABCs of sleep training: Let’s talk myths, tips and what ’sleeping through the night’ really means
Parenthood can feel like a rollercoaster in the first few months with broken sleep, learning your baby’s cries and cues and navigating your new role as a parent. One of the most common struggles new parents face is getting their baby to sleep! The value of sleep becomes priceless as you navigate weeks of broken sleep with your new baby. Enter the realm of sleep training - a term that might evoke various opinions and myths.
Attending large events following a tragedy
Our community is still processing the events of the post-Super Bowl parade. A day meant for celebration quickly turned into a nightmare for families who were in attendance, or even watching it on TV. As your family considers attending large events – sporting events, concerts, shows – that you once enjoyed, planning these activities now comes with extra concern.
Penicillin allergies: What parents need to know
Antibiotics in the penicillin family are among some of the best treatments for common childhood infections. But, penicillin is also the most commonly reporting drug allergy. Keep reading to learn answers to frequently asked questions about penicillin allergies you may want to know for your child.
When to go: Emergency Room vs. Urgent Care
The inevitable has happened - your child came down with an unforeseen illness or injury. And of course, it always happens when your doctor’s office is closed. So, the dilemma every parent faces …do you go to the Emergency Room (ER) or Urgent Care?
Burn awareness tips for the whole household
Whether it’s in the kitchen or another part of your home, follow these tips to keep your children safe from potential burns.
Talking with teens about healthy relationships
Relationships are a vital part of life no matter what age we are. They help us learn about ourselves and the world around us, teach us valuable lessons and help us feel a sense of belonging. Teenagers are especially focused on peer relationships because they help build an individual’s sense of identity and are an important part of to their normal, healthy development. Whether they are engaging in friendships or romantic relationships, teens need guidance from trusted adults.
Resources for helping kids process the tragedy of the Super Bowl parade shootings
It’s never easy to talk about senseless violence with our kids. With your guidance, though, they can find a safe space to process what’s happened. To assist you in these tough conversations, we’ve outlined key ways you can help them, things to look for in your child and additional resources for support.
Safe sleep tips so the whole family can get good zzz’s
When expecting a new baby, you’re prepared to get less sleep. But be sure to also prepare a safe sleep environment for baby – so when they are sleeping soundly, you can too. Safe sleep goes beyond the newborn stage, with standards to follow for toddlers and “big kids,” too.