The Ohio chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics recently launched a parent driven advocacy group for vaccinating. "Ohio PA4V will be centered around a social media campaign designed to spread factual information and share real-life stories that will help parents understand the importance of vaccines...PA4V is a free group that parents can join to share the facts and share their stories. Over the next 6 months, PA4V will be collecting stories from families who not only

With the weather in the 60's and all this rain, it finally feels like spring! Here are some quick tips regarding several spring wellness concerns. If you have questions, or want more information, don't hesitate to ask us! #healthtopics

"While the risk of smoke exposure exacerbating asthma symptoms is well known, fresh evidence on the extent of the danger posed to children may help convince some parents to abandon their cigarettes." One of our providers brought this recent study conducted by the Mayo Clinic to our attention, and we wished to share the story with you all. It is of vital importance that we are always mindful of how our own habits affect those around us, especially children! Click here to read

We understand it's sometimes difficult to remember the differences between a cold and the flu. Here is a helpful, easy to understand chart on the basics of the common cold. If you're looking for more information, visit our Resources page! #healthtopics

Unfortunately, it's approaching that time of year again, flu season. Here is a helpful, easy to understand chart on the basics of the flu. If you're looking for more information, visit our Resources page! #healthtopics

Although it's hard to believe (where did summer go?) we are almost in fall, which brings a whole new set of health topics. We've created this fun and simple info-graphic to highlight areas we want our patients to be mindful of, and as always, if you have any questions, just ask! #healthtopics

Summer is a great time for kids to be outside playing and having fun. But it's important to be aware of the potential illnesses and injuries that can accompany these months. These are just a few tips to stay safe and healthy! #healthtopics

One of the more common questions patients' parents ask is "How do I know if I should bring my kid to you or the ER?" Here's a quick info sheet laying out in what situations you should take your child to the ER, and when you should call our office for an appointment. Feel free to share this as the basic principles apply regardless of whether or not you bring your child to our practice! #healthtopics

Trends in Increasing Portion Size Whether at home or at your favorite restaurant, oversized portions are everywhere. Restaurant meals, snacks, desserts, and beverage amounts have increased steadily over the past two decades. Oversized portions = Excess Calories (which get in the way of maintaining a healthy life) What Your Family Can Do: Divide up contents of one large package into smaller containers so that your food is in portion friendly servings Instead of eating straight

Physical Activity is Important for Good Health Physical activity, along with healthy eating habits, is a sure path to maintain good health. For kids, doctors recommend 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Being active increases endurance, flexibility, and strength. Active children usually have improved coordination, feel better about themselves, and can do better in school. Physical activity burns calories and exercises the muscles. Active children

Limiting Screen Time is Important for Good Health Many kids spend over four to six hours a day involved in screen time (TV, computer, video games, phone use). But doctors recommend that total screen time be limited to two hours or less daily. This allows for more time to be physically active and limits unhealthy snacking. Limit Screen Time: What Your Family Can Do Remove TV's, computers, and video games from bedrooms Make one area in your home for family media Plan screen tim

Family Meals are Important for Good Health Research shows that children who eat with their family make better health choices Regular family meals help kids have better nutrition and do better in school It's a time to interact with family after a hectic work or school day Make family meals a stress free time Family meals can be an opportunitiy to involve everyone working together What Your Family Can Do: Make family meals a top priority Ask the whole family to help plan, cook

Why Limit Sugar-Sweetened Beverages? Because... They offer no nutrition but do add lots of extra calories and sugar They raise the risk of cavities and dental damage They often replace milk at a meal or snack, which contains many nutrients for good health Energy drinks in particular contain sugar plus caffeine and other harmful ingredients Energy drinks are not recommended for children and teens What Your Family Can Do: Drink milk, water, and other low calorie beverages inste

Why Fruits and Vegetables? Fruits and veggies are nutrient rich, which helps keep you healthy and energized. Fruits and veggies are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that help to reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and some cancers. What Your Family Can Do: Eat a variety of colorful fruits and veggies each day. Try crunchy veggies, raw or lightly steamed. Cut up veggies and serve with a low fat dip or hummus for a

Eating Breakfast Daily is Important for Good Health A healthy breakfast gives you important nutrients to start your day with many benefits: Starts your metabolism Makes you less likely to snack Reduces health risks for diseases Results in a better diet overall Increases attention What Your Family Can Do: Plan ahead - prepare breakfast the night before Mix and match low-fat dairy products, lean meats, eggs, nuts or reduced fat peanut butter with fruits, vegetables, whole grain

There is much talk of Ebola and the current cases being treated in the US. We thought it might be helpful to provide some information on this situation, since topical education is important. As usual, practice careful hygiene, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and avoid contact with blood and body fluids. Remember, Ebola is not airborne, you must have contact with bodily fluids of an infected person. The following information comes from