FEED Validator

for Atom and RSS and KML

Congratulations!

This is a valid RSS feed.

Recommendations

This feed is valid, but interoperability with the widest range of feed readers could be improved by implementing the following recommendations.

line 212, column 0: style attribute contains potentially dangerous content: max-width (23 occurrences) [help]
```
<hr class="print">
```
line 213, column 0: content:encoded should not contain aria-hidden attribute (65 occurrences) [help]
```
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-cont ...
```
line 310, column 0: content:encoded should not contain fetchpriority attribute [help]
line 310, column 0: content:encoded should not contain decoding attribute (37 occurrences) [help]
line 310, column 0: content:encoded should not contain sizes attribute (29 occurrences) [help]
line 438, column 0: content:encoded should not contain data-type attribute (8 occurrences) [help]
line 438, column 0: content:encoded should not contain data-id attribute (10 occurrences) [help]
line 547, column 0: content:encoded should not contain style tag (2 occurrences) [help]
```
<a href="https://health.choc.org/handout/the-easy-3-step-skin-care-routine-f ...
```
line 712, column 0: content:encoded should not contain loading attribute (29 occurrences) [help]
line 900, column 0: content:encoded should not contain script tag (2 occurrences) [help]

Source: http://blog.chocchildrens.org/feed/

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
>
<channel>
<title>CHOC – Children's health hub</title>
<atom:link href="https://health.choc.org/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
<link>https://health.choc.org/</link>
<description>brought to you by CHOC Children's Hospital of Orange County</description>
<lastBuildDate>Wed, 24 Apr 2024 16:48:36 +0000</lastBuildDate>
<language>en-US</language>
<sy:updatePeriod>
hourly </sy:updatePeriod>
<sy:updateFrequency>
1 </sy:updateFrequency>
<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2</generator>
<image>
<url>https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/cropped-CHOC_Favicon_512px-32x32.png</url>
<title>CHOC – Children's health hub</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/</link>
<width>32</width>
<height>32</height>
</image>
<item>
<title>Colic in babies: Tips for soothing your child from a pediatrician</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/colic-in-babies-tips-for-soothing-your-child-from-a-pediatrician/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Mary Ann Wilkinson]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=30040</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC pediatrician explains the causes of colic in babies, and offers tips to parents for helping their colicky baby. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/colic-in-babies-tips-for-soothing-your-child-from-a-pediatrician/">Colic in babies: Tips for soothing your child from a pediatrician</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is colic? Tips for helping your colicky baby</h2>
<p>Colic is the term used to describe uncontrollable crying in an otherwise healthy infant. It’s a common issue that typically begins within the first few weeks of life and peaks around six to eight weeks, but it usually resolves on its own by around three to four months of age.</p>
<p>“We typically diagnose colic if the baby is crying at least three hours a day, for three or more days per week, and for three weeks or more,” says <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/pediatrics/mary-ann-wilkinson-md/">Dr. Mary Ann Wilkinson</a>, CHOC pediatrician. </p>
<p>“We don’t know exactly why colic occurs, but we think that these babies are unusually sensitive to stimuli or may be having trouble digesting breastmilk or formula. and are unable to self-console or regulate their nervous systems.”</p>
<p>Colic doesn’t mean your baby has health problems, and it will typically go away on its own. Here, Dr. Wilkinson offers tips to help soothe your colicky baby.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Possible causes of colic in babies: Breastfeeding, food intolerance and overstimulation</h3>
<p>Doctors aren’t sure what causes colic. There are several theories about why colic may or may not occur, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Breastmilk sensitivities</strong>. A colicky baby can be sensitive to foods in the mother’s breast milk, so it may be helpful for mothers to eliminate milk products, caffeine, spicy and gas-producing foods to see if this improves the baby’s digestion, Dr. Wilkinson suggests.</li>
<li><strong>Bad digestion</strong>. Sometimes colicky babies cry as a response to discomfort when digesting. If you are using a formula to feed your baby, try switching to a hypoallergenic formula to decrease gas and ease digestion, she adds.</li>
<li><strong>Overstimulation</strong>. Colic may occur if your baby is sensitive to their environment. Newborns are trying to adjust to the world they are living in, and not all babies have the same temperament. Some adjust to lights, loud noises and all the other stimulation around them with no trouble, while others are not able to self-console or adapt as well to their environments.  </li>
<li><strong>Oversensitivity to gas</strong>.  While some people think that gas may be to blame for colic, there is little evidence to support this. In fact, treating gas has no effect on colic in babies. Doctors do not think that babies with colic produce more gas than others. If a baby with colic seems to pass more gas than other babies do, it is probably due to swallowing more air while crying for prolonged periods.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Colic signs and symptoms in babies</h3>
<p><strong>The main colic symptom is inconsolable crying that:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Occurs at the same time every day.</li>
<li>Lasts for more than three hours a day.</li>
<li>Happens more than three days a week.</li>
<li>Occurs for more than three weeks.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Other colic symptoms in babies may include:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Screaming.</li>
<li>Extending or pulling up legs.</li>
<li>Clenched fists.</li>
<li>Often will close eyes or open them very wide.</li>
<li>Eating and sleeping are disrupted by the crying.</li>
<li>Gas from swallowing too much air while crying.</li>
<li>Enlarged or distended stomach.</li>
<li>Arched back.</li>
</ul>
<p>If your baby’s crying seems excessive or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea or poor weight gain, call your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical conditions.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Coping with colic: Tips for parents</h3>
<ul>
<li>Don’t over-feed or under-feed your baby.</li>
<li>Make sure to burp the baby well after each feeding.</li>
<li>Breastfeeding moms can try to avoid caffeine, milk products, gassy and spicy foods from their diet to avoid passing these onto the baby in the breast milk. Formula-fed babies can be given a hypoallergenic formula.</li>
<li>Offer your baby a pacifier.</li>
<li>Try various “motion” techniques to soothe the infant, such as walking them around in a baby carrier or stroller, driving them around in the car in their car seat, putting them in a swing or bouncy seat that vibrates, or using “white noise” from a fan or white noise machine to soothe them.</li>
<li>Swaddle the baby to give them the feeling of being in the womb.</li>
<li>Decrease environmental stimuli by turning off TVs, phones, music and by turning down the household lights.</li>
<li>Take a break. Ask a relative, neighbor, friend or babysitter to watch the baby and get away for a while.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Are over-the-counter colic medications (like gripe waters) safe for babies?</h3>
<p>Over-the-counter gas drops, such as Simethicone, may be used to help relieve gas but other over-the-counter gripe waters are not normally recommended to treat colic, says Dr. Wilkinson.</p>
<p>Because gripe water is an herbal remedy and not a medicine or food, it is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That means it hasn’t been evaluated to be safe or effective and there aren’t any set standards that manufacturers need to follow when making it. Various brands of gripe water have been recalled in the past because they have posed certain dangers to babies.</p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/colic-in-babies-tips-for-soothing-your-child-from-a-pediatrician/">Colic in babies: Tips for soothing your child from a pediatrician</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Siblings who share rare heart condition celebrate lives daily</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/siblings-who-share-rare-heart-condition-celebrate-lives-daily/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Heart / Cardiology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Gira Morchi]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Joanne Starr]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Pierangelo Renella]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Richard Gates]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=30081</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>When siblings Julissa and Joseph were diagnosed with the same rare congenital heart disease, CHOC stepped in to treat them both. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/siblings-who-share-rare-heart-condition-celebrate-lives-daily/">Siblings who share rare heart condition celebrate lives daily</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>When they were toddlers, siblings Julissa and Joseph looked at each other’s chests and compared their scars.</p>
<p>The narrow lines of fibrous tissue were remarkably similar, owing to the remarkably rare chance of both of them having the same type of <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/congenital-heart-defects/">congenital heart disease (CHD)</a> that required them to undergo three surgeries and other procedures by the time they were 4 years old.</p>
<p>The special bond Julissa and Joseph share as they continue to thrive following their grim diagnoses before they were born has them celebrating life, and each other, daily.</p>
<p>“We always prank and argue with each other,” says Julissa, now 10.</p>
<p>Joseph, 9, brags that he can run faster than his sister.</p>
<p>Their mother, Hortensia, is grateful.</p>
<p>“I felt like my world was closing in on me,” she recalls of enduring two babies born with a rare heart defect in which they have one pumping chamber instead of two.</p>
<p>“My family and my faith got me through this,” Hortensia says, “and everyone at CHOC on every shift, from the doctors and nurses to the EVS workers, were amazing.”</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Confusion, fear</strong></h3>
<p><a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/cardiology/pierangelo-renella-md/">Dr. Pierangelo Renella</a>, a pediatric cardiologist and director of CHOC’s cardiac MRI program who detected Julissa’s condition before birth, could hardly believe it when he saw a similar condition – complex single ventricle with <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/congenital-heart-defects/pulmonary-atresia-pa/">pulmonary atresia</a> – in her younger brother.</p>
<p>“It was like lightning striking twice,” Dr. Renella says. “Just a couple of details were different in each of them. Hoping to be able to reassure her this time around, I thought ‘I can’t believe I have to break this news to her again.’”</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="700" height="525" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings-700x525.jpg" alt="Siblings Julissa and Joseph smile with Dr. Pierangelo Renella " class="wp-image-30083" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings-700x525.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings-360x270.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings-320x240.jpg 320w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings-768x576.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings-702x526.jpg 702w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Renella-siblings.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Julissa, Dr. Pierangelo Renella and Joseph</figcaption></figure>
<p>Hortensia has three healthy older children, all girls ages 16 through 27.</p>
<p>She was confused and frightened when, while five-months pregnant with Julissa, Dr. Renella delivered the CHD diagnosis.</p>
<p>“Wondering what would come next was the hardest part,” says Hortensia, a single mother.</p>
<p>Because the structures on the right side of Julissa’s heart were small and underdeveloped, there was no stable connection for blood to flow from her heart to her lungs.</p>
<p>Approximately one in 20,000 newborns have this condition, which cannot be cured but only managed with a minimum of three heart surgeries during infancy and early childhood, as well as lifelong surveillance.</p>
<p>The three surgeries help to rearrange the blood flow to Julissa’s lungs, and allow the single pumping chamber to pump to her body.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Care team</strong></h3>
<p>Julissa had the first of her three surgeries at 1 week old, the second when she was 3 months old, and the third – known as a Fontan procedure – when she was 4.</p>
<p>Her CHOC surgical care team that performed Julissa’s heart surgeries included <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/thoracic-surgery/joanne-starr-md/">Dr. Joanne Starr</a>, congenital heart surgeon and the director of CHOC’s Extracorporeal Life Support Program (<a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/critical-care/extracorporeal-life-support/">ECMO</a><u>)</u> and <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/thoracic-surgery/richard-gates-md/">Dr. Richard Gates</a>, congenital heart surgeon, co-medical director of the <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/">CHOC Heart Institute</a> and director of cardiothoracic surgery at CHOC.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2-700x934.jpg" alt="Hortensia, Julissa and Joseph with Dr. Joanne Starr - CHOC Heart Institute" class="wp-image-30087" style="width:701px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Starr-siblings-2.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hortensia, Julissa and Joseph with Dr. Joanne Starr </figcaption></figure>
<p>In addition to an entire team of CHOC experts, interventional cardiologist <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/cardiology/gira-morchi-md/">Dr. Gira Morchi</a> also cared for the siblings. </p>
<p>Hortensia says she enjoyed the warm touches CHOC staffers made in Julissa’s room, including a heart-shaped pillow with the names of her nurses etched on it.</p>
<p>Julissa spent nearly a month in the <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/nicu/">Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)</a> and was on oxygen for six months after she was sent home. Other than an infection, she progressed well through her series of surgeries and other procedures.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Her first boy</strong></h3>
<p>When Hortensia became pregnant with Joseph, she was overjoyed.</p>
<p>“I was very excited to be having my first boy,” she says.</p>
<p>Then came the eerily familiar news from Dr. Renella, who specializes in advanced cardiovascular imaging, including <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/fetal-cardiology/">fetal echocardiography</a>.</p>
<p>“I immediately started crying in disbelief,” Hortensia recalls.</p>
<p>But in many ways, she was comparatively better prepared to deal with the diagnosis because of her medical journey with Julissa.</p>
<p>Still, the familiar emotions of fear and anxiety were difficult to navigate.</p>
<p>Like Julissa, Joseph’s three surgeries were performed by Drs. Starr and Gates. However, Joseph’s journey was a little more complicated than that of his sister and included undergoing <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/rehabilitation/speech-language-pathology/">speech therapy</a>.</p>
<p>“Hortensia is one of strongest and most resilient mothers I have ever met,” Dr. Starr says.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Regular kids</strong></h3>
<p>Hortensia says Julissa and Joseph, who return to CHOC every six months for check-ups, don’t like to be defined by their shared medical condition.</p>
<p>“I want to learn to speak French,” declares Julissa, a fifth-grader who loves to dance, take art classes, and play video games.</p>
<p>She wants to be a dentist someday.</p>
<p>Joseph, a third-grader, loves playing basketball and playing Nintendo.</p>
<p>He wants to be a doctor.</p>
<p>And he wants his sister to know who’s better at running.</p>
<p>“I run faster than her!” he declares.</p>
<p>Julissa rolls her eyes.</p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s Heart Institute</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>At CHOC, our highly specialized and board-certified pediatric cardiology team and cardiothoracic surgeons provide patients and families with advanced cardiac services.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/heart/">Explore CHOC’s Heart Institute</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/siblings-who-share-rare-heart-condition-celebrate-lives-daily/">Siblings who share rare heart condition celebrate lives daily</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Preteens and skincare: What parents should know</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/preteens-and-skincare-what-parents-should-know/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Dermatology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sun Safety and Skin Protection]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Brandie Metz]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=30007</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Should teens and preteens be using so many skincare products with fancy ingredients? A pediatric dermatologist answers parents' questions. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/preteens-and-skincare-what-parents-should-know/">Preteens and skincare: What parents should know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Do preteens and teens need to use fancy skin care products? Get answers from a pediatric dermatologist </h2>
<div style="height:19px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<p><em>By <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/dermatology/brandie-metz-md/">Dr. Brandie Metz</a>, pediatric dermatologist at CHOC </em></p>
<p>As a pediatric dermatologist, I have seen an increasing number of kids — some as young as 8 years old — who come to my office asking for advice about skincare, toting bags of fancy, expensive products. There has been a recent trend amongst teens and tweens to be drawn to purchase high-end skin care products from beauty stores.</p>
<p>You may be asking yourself: <em>How did we get here? </em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why are fancy skincare products so trendy for preteens and teens?</h3>
<p>Young people are increasingly exposed to beauty and skincare trends through <a href="https://health.choc.org/guide/social-media/">social media</a>, where they are inundated with videos by influencers who share their beauty routines and are paid to promote products. </p>
<p>In addition, the fun, colorful packaging makes these products seem “cooler” than common skin care brands carried in drug stores.</p>
<p>“I would like to think that there is a positive side to this trend … young people are taking care of their skin earlier and are more willing to adhere to a skincare routine,” says Dr. Metz. “I see this interest in beauty and skincare as a great opportunity to educate younger generations about their skin, and to encourage them to build healthy habits — especially <a href="https://health.choc.org/preventing-sun-related-skin-reactions-in-kids/">sun protection</a>.”</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>At what age should kids start a skincare routine?  What should be part of it?</strong></h3>
<p>Daily cleansing of the face becomes important in the pre-puberty years when kids become prone to clogging of the pores and breakouts. This most commonly begins to occur between the ages of 8 to 10 years.</p>
<p>No age is too young to implement daily sunscreen, a practice that can prevent cumulative damage from regular UV exposure and ultimately decrease the risk of developing skin cancer. But it doesn’t hurt that this excellent habit can also prevent aging and keep skin glowing.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="700" height="700" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-700x700.png" alt="Graphic: 3-step skincare routine for preteens and teens " class="wp-image-30009" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-700x700.png 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-360x360.png 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-240x240.png 240w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-768x768.png 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-75x75.png 75w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1-600x600.png 600w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Preteens-skincare-1.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></figure>
<a href="https://health.choc.org/handout/the-easy-3-step-skin-care-routine-for-preteens-and-teens/" class="link-to-handout">
<img decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/printer.png" alt="printer icon"> <strong>Print this for your preteens and teens </strong></a> <style>a.link-to-handout {
text-decoration: none;
}</style>
<div style="height:19px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<p>Young people starting a skincare regimen don’t need pricey products or overly complicated routines: </p>
<ul>
<li>In the morning, preteens and teens should wash their faces with a gentle cleanser. </li>
<li>Then, they should apply a noncomedogenic (which means it won’t clog pores) sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.  </li>
<li>In the evening, they can use that same gentle cleanser and apply a light, oil-free moisturizer.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Can using too many skincare products be harmful to a preteen’s skin?</strong></h3>
<p>It is important for parents to know that piling on too many active ingredients might do more harm than good for young skin. Ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids can over dry the skin and damage the skin barrier, causing skin irritation, breakouts and even long-term damage.</p>
<p>Skin concerns are different at different ages, and using the wrong products can result in rashes, allergic reactions, or worsening of <a href="https://health.choc.org/teenage-acne-prevention-and-treatment-an-ultimate-guide/">acne</a>. For example, retinoids can be used for both acne and anti-aging, but anti-aging products contain additional ingredients such as oils which can clog pores and exacerbate acne.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What is not appropriate for a preteen’s skin? Any products or ingredients to avoid?</strong></h3>
<p>Preteens and teens should avoid products containing:</p>
<ul>
<li>Retinol.</li>
<li>Vitamin C.</li>
<li>Alpha- and beta- hydroxy acids.</li>
<li>Peptides.</li>
</ul>
<p>Additionally, Preteens should avoid products labeled with words like: anti-aging, wrinkle-reducing, brightening and firming, all of which may be signs of active ingredients not meant for young kids. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>How can parents guide their kids to practice a safe, healthy and easy skincare routine?</strong></h3>
<p>Parents can encourage their kids to stick with a simple skincare routine consisting of a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. The importance of sunscreen and sun protection should be emphasized, both as part of a daily skincare routine and for swimming or sports.</p>
<p>Parents should make sure that their children have products which are age-appropriate. </p>
<p>Lastly, if they have specific skin concerns such as acne or eczema, it may be best to consult a <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/dermatology/">dermatologist</a>.</p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/preteens-and-skincare-what-parents-should-know/">Preteens and skincare: What parents should know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>CHOC’s rehab team helps patient heal: Isa’s story</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/chocs-rehab-team-helps-patient-heal-isas-story/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Epilepsy / Seizures]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Neurology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Amy Gaultney]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Andrew Shulman]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. David Adams]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=30013</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>11-year-old Isa had to relearn everything after treatment for FIRES, a rare epilepsy disorder. With help from CHOC rehab, he's thriving. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/chocs-rehab-team-helps-patient-heal-isas-story/">CHOC’s rehab team helps patient heal: Isa’s story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Occupational therapy aids patient’s recovery after rare epilepsy diagnosis</h2>
<p>Isa was a pretty typical 10-year-old until he suddenly suffered from a seizure at school.</p>
<p>He was quickly transported to CHOC Hospital in Orange, where he and his family embarked on a long medical journey that was full of ups and downs – leading to an eventual diagnosis of a rare seizure disorder that requires ongoing care. </p>
<p>Despite all the challenges and scary moments, Isa’s family celebrates his triumphant recovery.</p>
<p>“We advocated for Isa to receive occupational therapy while he was in the <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/pediatric-intensive-care-unit/">pediatric intensive care unit (PICU)</a>,” says Iram, Isa’s mom. “The CHOC occupational therapy team helped us navigate the journey and connect as a family even while Isa was in a critical state.” </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro-700x934.jpg" alt="Isa and brother play on playground and smile " class="wp-image-30019" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Bro.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rafay, Isa’s brother, and Isa </figcaption></figure>
<p>The occupational and physical therapists and speech and language pathology specialists that make up <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/rehabilitation/">CHOC’s rehabilitation (rehab) services team</a> are dedicated to providing complete care to patients, guiding them to the best possible recovery.</p>
<p>Paired with the expert and compassionate care from CHOC’s <a href="https://www.choc.org/neuroscience/">neurology</a>, <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/rheumatology/">rheumatology</a>, <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/child-life/">child life</a> and <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/critical-care/">critical care</a> teams, CHOC’s rehab team helped Isa find his way back to his creative and funny self.</p>
<p>“One of the greatest moments of Isa’s entire medical journey was seeing Isa feel OK enough to bicker again with his brother, just like they always had,” says Iram.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A long journey, a rare FIRES diagnosis</h3>
<p>After that first sudden seizure, Isa had several more and even suffered from cardiac arrest — causing his family to fear that they would lose him. Isa was transferred to the <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/pediatric-intensive-care-unit/">pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at CHOC</a> under the care of Dr. Feras Hares, critical care fellow, where he continued to have <a href="https://www.choc.org/neuroscience/epilepsy-program/epilepsy/">tonic-clonic seizures</a> every few hours.</p>
<p>The team at <a href="https://www.choc.org/neuroscience/">CHOC’s Neuroscience Institute</a> advised Isa’s family that he should be intubated (when a tube is placed in a patient’s throat to breathe for them) so he could receive stronger medications to calm his brain.</p>
<p>“One of the scariest days in Isa’s whole CHOC journey was watching him be intubated,” says Iram.</p>
<p>Isa remained intubated for a few weeks and was monitored via <a href="https://www.choc.org/neuroscience/neurodiagnostics-lab/eeg/">electroencephalogram (EEG)</a> – a test that records the brain’s continuous electrical activity by using wires placed on the child’s head. Unfortunately, the test showed that Isa was continuing to have frequent seizures during this time, but the CHOC team didn’t know why.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs-700x934.jpg" alt="Iffers, Isa and Lauren smile together in front of Epilepsy Awareness Month banner " class="wp-image-30017" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_OTs.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">From left: Iffers (Jennifer), occupational therapist, Isa and Lauren, registered nurse</figcaption></figure>
<p>Experts from seven CHOC specialties banded together to run every test possible to discover what was causing Isa’s sudden seizures, but they all came back negative.  </p>
<p>Eventually, CHOC experts diagnosed Isa with febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES), an extremely rare condition that affects approximately one in one million children. Because of this condition’s rareness, there are a lot of unknowns about its treatment and long-term impacts. </p>
<p>Fortunately, with medications and care, Isa was able to get off his intubation tube. But because Isa’s brain had been under so much stress for weeks, he had to overcome many obstacles when he started waking up and getting oriented with his surroundings. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rehab plays a huge role in recovery</h3>
<p>That’s when CHOC rehab stepped in.</p>
<p>CHOC’s physical, speech and occupational therapy teams were instrumental in Isa’s recovery.</p>
<p>The physical therapy team helped Isa regain his walking skills after his legs weakened from being in bed for so long.</p>
<p>The speech therapy team helped him slowly relearn how to swallow, feed, remember and process.  </p>
<p>The occupational therapy team helped facilitate Isa’s therapies so he could relearn how to care for himself again.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="525" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois-700x525.jpg" alt="Isa and Lois cuddle on hospital bed at CHOC Hospital in Orange" class="wp-image-30018" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois-700x525.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois-360x270.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois-320x240.jpg 320w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois-768x576.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois-702x526.jpg 702w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Isa_Lois.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Isa cuddles with Lois, CHOC’s resident therapy dog</figcaption></figure>
<p>Iram remembers being amazed by Isa’s progress. While still at the hospital, he went from not being able to sit up unassisted, to using a walker to go to the bathroom, to walking unassisted to play foosball in the recreation room.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Credit to CHOC’s occupational therapy team</h3>
<p>“The CHOC occupational therapy team holds a special place in our hearts. They helped us navigate Isa’s recovery journey,” says Iram. “They reassured us that everything was going to be OK if we just met Isa where he was at.”</p>
<p>The team helped make Isa’s recovery fun so he wouldn’t realize he was working. Iram remembers when Iffers (Jennifer), one of Isa’s occupational therapists, encouraged him to ride his scooter board along the hospital’s hallways to help regain his core and arm strength.  </p>
<p>“We also have to credit CHOC’s child life specialists for bringing Isa games and toys he would enjoy,” says Iram. “Lois the therapy dog also played a big role in bringing comfort to him.”</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="473" height="1000" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-473x1000.png" alt="Isa poses with his bearded dragon " class="wp-image-30020" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-473x1000.png 473w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-227x480.png 227w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-114x240.png 114w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-768x1623.png 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-727x1536.png 727w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32-969x2048.png 969w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-32.png 1908w" sizes="(max-width: 473px) 100vw, 473px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Isa poses with his bearded dragon</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>Today, Isa is thriving. He has adjusted well to his new lifestyle of daily medications and will continue to visit CHOC for monthly infusions and appointments with <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/neurology/david-adams-md/">Dr. David Adams</a>, pediatric neurologist, and Drs. <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/rheumatology/andrew-shulman-md/">Andrew Shulman</a> and <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/rheumatology/amy-gaultney-md/">Amy Gaultney</a>, pediatric rheumatologists.</p>
<p>Isa just celebrated his 11<sup>th</sup> birthday and is proud to show off his new pet — a bearded dragon. He also has gotten back to the activities he enjoys like playing golf and board games and telling a good joke.</p>
<p>“As scary as this has all been, I am so grateful for the staff at CHOC that helped us get through this,” says Iram. “Every doctor, nurse and rehab therapist that was invested in Isa’s recovery helped us in their own way.”</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s rehabilitation services </strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>Using a comprehensive team approach, our physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech and language pathology specialists work together to provide complete care for children of all ages.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/rehabilitation/">Visit CHOC.org</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/chocs-rehab-team-helps-patient-heal-isas-story/">CHOC’s rehab team helps patient heal: Isa’s story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Taking care of you: 5 coping strategies for parents and caregivers</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/taking-care-of-you-5-coping-strategies-for-parents-and-caregivers/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Sheila Modir]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29996</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC mental health expert demonstrates five coping tips for parents and caregivers through video, and discusses the importance of self-care. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/taking-care-of-you-5-coping-strategies-for-parents-and-caregivers/">Taking care of you: 5 coping strategies for parents and caregivers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>By <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/psychology/modir-sheila-ph-d/">Dr. Sheila Modir</a>, pediatric psychologist at CHOC</em></p>
<p>Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.  </p>
<p>As parents, our initial instinct is to prioritize the needs of our children over our own, often at the expense of our own mental health and well-being. But it is important for us to remember what flight attendants remind us on airplanes, that we must secure our own oxygen masks before assisting our child with theirs. Taking care of ourselves enables us to be better equipped to care for our children.  </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Five coping strategies for parents and caregivers  </h3>
<p>In the following video, you will find practical self-care techniques for parents and caregivers. Choose just one of these strategies to practice! By caring for yourself, you will then be able to care for your family. </p>
<script src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/EaXvdgqg-KfZkOwgg.js"></script>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>1. Fill your cup </strong></h4>
<p>This video provides some tips to help begin filling your own cup. First, finding time for activities that replenish you are important for your well-being, whether it simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea, asking for help from others, or setting boundaries around your time and saying no to one more thing that could overwhelm you. Find the things that will recharge your battery.  </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>2. Practice deep breathing </strong></h4>
<p>In moments of stress, taking a deep breath in and out can work wonders. It’s a skill that takes less than a minute, and can be done without anyone noticing, other than yourself! When we focus on our breathing, we can help our bodies calm down and regain a sense of control. Inhale slowly and deeply through the nose four to six seconds, and exhale slowly through the mouth four to six seconds.  </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>3. Communicate and solve conflicts </strong></h4>
<p>Communicating effectively with our child is important because it models healthy communication techniques for our children.  </p>
<p>When we feel blamed, it is natural for us to feel defensive. A good “I” statement helps us take responsibility for our own feelings. A formula to follow is “I feel X when Y happened.” For example, “I feel worried when you come home late.”  </p>
<p>One of the most important types of communication is providing validation. When we validate someone’s feelings, we are acknowledging their emotions. We can do that by using words that we have heard our child express when they are telling us about their day.</p>
<p> For example, if your child says, “My day was hard,” you can say “You had a really hard day. Why don’t you tell me what happened?” If your child isn’t telling you how they feel, then you can read their body language and provide an educated guess – “It seems like you’re feeling frustrated about what happened at soccer practice today.” Finally, let them know that you understand: “It makes sense that you feel that way based on what happened during the last soccer game.” </p>
<p>It is also important to be clear about our expectations with our children. Sometimes when we are not clear it can lead to confusion and conflict. When children know what is expected of them, they are more likely to adhere to the rules. For example, if there are rules to follow in your house, write it down and place it somewhere where your child can see it and understands it. Praise your child whenever you see them following a rule.  </p>
<p>Finally, when communication gets heated, take a time-out. You may say, “What do you think if we take a 5-minute break and then come back so we can talk about it?” By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, we can cultivate stronger connections and healthier relationships. </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>4. Manage your stress </strong></h4>
<p>Finding healthy outlets for stress can help us manage daily challenges more effectively. The stress busters listed in the video – quality sleep, balanced nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness practices, experiencing nature, mental healthcare, supportive relationships – have been shown to improve our health on all levels. Is there one that speaks to you the most? Ask yourself:  </p>
<ul>
<li>How is your sleep? </li>
<li>Are you eating a balanced diet? </li>
<li>Are you taking breaks to go on a walk or exercise? </li>
<li>Are you taking time to be mindful?  </li>
<li>Have you spent time outside today? </li>
<li>Do you feel like you need mental health support? </li>
<li>Are you making time to be social?  </li>
</ul>
<p>Now, take a moment and pick one that you can work on. Perhaps it is getting better sleep. Are you able to get to bed earlier? Even an extra 15 minutes of sleep can help make a difference! </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Cultivate a positive mindset </h4>
<p>Our thoughts have a powerful impact on how we feel and how we act. These short, uplifting phrases can make you feel better. Every morning, add a positive mantra to your ritual. </p>
<p>Ask yourself: what is one nice thing I can say to myself? Reminding ourselves of our strengths and capabilities can empower us to tackle challenges with confidence and grace. </p>
<p>Other mantras include:  </p>
<ul>
<li>I am going to get through this. </li>
<li>It’s okay to make mistakes. </li>
<li>I am strong and determined.  </li>
<li>I am calm and relaxed.  </li>
<li>I choose my own attitude.  </li>
<li>I am important.  </li>
<li>Today I will spread positivity.  </li>
<li>I can take it one step at a time. </li>
</ul>
<p>In the journey of parenthood and caregiving, it can be easy to forget ourselves during the demands of our daily life. But remember that when we take care of ourselves, we are also taking care of our children because we are setting a positive example for our children. So take a moment, and fill your own cup today. </p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Get mental health resources from CHOC pediatric experts</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>The mental health team at CHOC curated the following resources on mental health topics common to kids and teens, such as depression, anxiety, suicide prevention and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://choc.org/mental-health/">View the mental health guides</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/taking-care-of-you-5-coping-strategies-for-parents-and-caregivers/">Taking care of you: 5 coping strategies for parents and caregivers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Supporting your child after the death of a pet</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/supporting-a-child-after-the-death-of-a-pet/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Miranda Wichelns]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29993</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC mental health expert helps parents guide their kids and teens through the loss of a family pet, and offers tips for dealing with grief. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/supporting-a-child-after-the-death-of-a-pet/">Supporting your child after the death of a pet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to help your child grieve the loss of their pet</h2>
<p><em>By Miranda Wichelns, licensed clinical social worker at CHOC, certified grief specialist</em></p>
<p>Pets are cherished family members. The heartbeat at our feet, the warm spot on our lap, the joyful greeting at the door whether we are coming back from a long trip or just coming out of the bathroom. They are always there, with unconditional love and constant, comforting companionship. </p>
<p>Their soothing presence is grounding throughout the daily stresses of life, whether enormous or small. The connection between a pet and their person is incredibly deep and reliable, and serves as an in-the-moment, immediate comfort. </p>
<p>For a child, the death of a pet may be the first time they are experiencing the death of a loved one, and their first time experiencing grief. A pet may be like a sibling or a best friend to a child, perhaps there for the child’s whole life or their formative years. </p>
<p>Your family’s daily routine may be jarringly altered without the daily rituals of walks, meals, playtime and companionship throughout so many areas and milestones of life. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Signs of grief in kids and teens when coping with the loss of a pet  </h3>
<p>After a pet dies, you may notice some changes in the way that your child acts as they try to cope with their grief. These changes may include some of the following:  </p>
<ul>
<li>Young children may not understand that death is permanent and may repeatedly ask the same questions or be very curious about what happened to their pet. </li>
<li>You may notice that your young child might temporarily lose skills they’ve mastered, like dressing themselves. </li>
<li>Grieving children and teens may have changes in their eating and sleeping patterns and their energy levels.  </li>
<li>You may notice that your child has difficulty focusing on tasks or mood swings. </li>
<li>Grieving children may be clingier than they were before, whereas teens may be more reserved in showing their emotions. </li>
<li>Grieving children and teens may experience many different emotions, including sadness, irritability, fear, frustration, or numbness. Others may have little emotional reaction at all. Teens may be hard on themselves, judging their emotional reactions negatively, for example feeling that they are “a mess” or “should” be strong, “over it,” etc. They may experience strong emotions or have behavior outbursts about situations that seem minor to you. </li>
<li>Grieving children and teens may feel regret about how they treated their pet or if they did not have a chance to say goodbye. </li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Activity ideas to comfort kids after the loss of a pet </h3>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="563" height="1000" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1-563x1000.png" alt="Graphic depicting 5 ways that kids and teens can honor their lost pet" class="wp-image-30119" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1-563x1000.png 563w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1-270x480.png 270w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1-135x240.png 135w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1-768x1365.png 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1-864x1536.png 864w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/StepPath-Story-1.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></figure></div>
<a href="https://health.choc.org/handout/for-kids-and-teens-5-ways-to-honor-your-pet/" class="link-to-handout">
<img decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/printer.png" alt="printer icon"> <strong>Print this to share with your kids</strong></a>
<div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<p>Here are some ideas for activities that can be comforting and meaningful for your child and your family, to memorialize your pet: </p>
<ul>
<li>Gather to honor and celebrate your pet’s life. Whether it is soon after the pet’s death or after some time has passed, consider having a ritual, such as gathering in a place that was special for the pet, or for your family, or in a special place your child chooses. Everyone can share memories and reflections about the pet and what they meant to them.  </li>
<li>Have your child choose their favorite pictures of their pet and frame them. </li>
<li>Write down special memories of the pet and place them in a jar or in the pet’s food or water dish. </li>
<li>Hang an ornament with their pet’s name, picture or pawprint on the Christmas tree. </li>
<li>Create a scrapbook, poem, song or video to capture memories and express how they feel. </li>
<li>Plant a tree or a garden. Placing a painted rock, a plaque or a statue with the pet’s name there. </li>
<li>Allow your child to choose and keep mementos of their pet like their collar, a toy, etc. if they would like. </li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How to help your child cope with grief after losing a pet  </h3>
<p>Here are some additional strategies to support your child in coping with their grief: </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Practice clear communication </h4>
<p>While it may be natural to want to shield your child from sad, difficult situations, honesty is important for many reasons. Telling your child that the pet “ran away” or “went on a trip” may be distressing when your child learns later that their pet died. </p>
<p>Telling your child that the pet was “put to sleep” or “crossed the rainbow bridge” may sound comforting to you, but those statements can be confusing, and potentially scary, for kids. </p>
<p>Instead, tell your child what happened, using clear, developmentally-appropriate language. Invite their questions, and answer them truthfully. </p>
<p>For example, “Maggie had a disease called cancer that caused her to have pain. You can’t catch cancer from pets or from people. She was weak and losing weight because fighting cancer used up her energy. When a pet is in pain, it is very stressful for them. Our family and our vet did everything we could to help her, but she was not going to get better. Our vet gave her a special medicine to help her fall asleep and make her heart stop beating once she was asleep. That is different than regular sleeping, and it didn’t hurt her. It was a kind way to take her pain away. When her heart stopped beating, her body stopped working, and she died. She isn’t in pain anymore, but we are very sad because we love and miss her.” </p>
<p>Honesty shows it is not wrong to talk about death or painful feelings, which will help your child cope with other losses in the future.  </p>
<div id="featured-content">
<hr>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/mental-health-2.png" alt="featured content" class="featured-icon" width="64" height="64" />
<h6 style="margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom: 0;text-transform: uppercase"><strong>Mental Health Education Program (MHEP) webinars</strong></h6>
<p><a href="https://www.choc.org/mental-health-webinars/?_gl=1*18yjmw4*_ga*MTEyMjI1MDE0OC4xNjY4MTEyMTc1">Get practical advice about mental health topics with webinars from CHOC’s team of pediatric mental health specialists</a></p>
<hr>
</div> <style>@media only screen and (min-width: 350px) {
img.featured-icon {
float: left;
padding-right:30px;
}
}
@media only screen and (max-width: 350px) {
img.featured-icon {
float: none;
padding-bottom:30px;
}
}</style>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Care for yourself </h4>
<p>One of the most loving, most helpful ways to support your child in their grief is to care for yourself in your grief, too. </p>
<p>Explain your feelings, share your memories, and model compassionate self-care practices to teach your child that we all feel painful things, we honor our feelings and our grief, and we take care of ourselves and each other to get through it in the best ways we can. </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Channel your grief into good </h4>
<p>Your family might consider donating some of your pet’s unused food, toys or beds to your local animal shelter to help other animals. Pick up litter along a trail where you used to walk your pet. Raise money or volunteer for a cause that supports animals. </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Read books together </h4>
<p>Here are some books to support children grieving a pet: </p>
<ul>
<li><em>Goodbye, Brecken</em> by David Lupton  </li>
<li><em>Heart Dog:  Surviving the Loss of Your Canine Soul Mate</em> by Roxanne Hawn  </li>
<li><em>Goodbye, Mousie </em>by Robert H. Harris  </li>
<li><em>Ida, Always</em> by Caron Levis  </li>
<li><em>The Tenth Good Thing About Barney</em> by Judith Viorst  </li>
<li><em>Remembering Blue Fish</em> by Becky Friedman  </li>
<li><em>Jasper’s Day </em>by Marjorie Blain Parker  </li>
<li><em>Kate, the Ghost Dog: Coping With the Death of a Pet</em> by Wayne L. Wilson  </li>
</ul>
<p>For more information about supporting a child who is grieving, please visit <a href="https://health.choc.org/guide/grief/">CHOC’s guide to coping with grief</a>.   </p>
<p>I hope these ideas may be helpful and comforting to your child during this difficult time, and to you while supporting your child. Lastly, if you are reading this article, I want to honor that you may be going through grief of a pet yourself; my heart goes out to you. </p>
<p>May the knowledge that your pet experienced great love from you, your child and your family throughout their life be of some solace in this very painful time.  </p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Get mental health resources from CHOC pediatric experts</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>The mental health team at CHOC curated the following resources on mental health topics common to kids and teens, such as depression, anxiety, suicide prevention and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://choc.org/mental-health/">View the mental health guides</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/supporting-a-child-after-the-death-of-a-pet/">Supporting your child after the death of a pet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>8 superfoods to boost your child’s diet</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/8-superfoods-to-boost-your-childs-diet/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition and Lactation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29983</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC dietitians explains superfoods, and how adding them to your child's diet can benefit their health and nutrition. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/8-superfoods-to-boost-your-childs-diet/">8 superfoods to boost your child’s diet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A CHOC dietitian explains the benefits of superfoods for kids</h2>
<p><em>By Joyelle Temming, registered dietitian at CHOC</em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What are superfoods?</h3>
<p>“Superfood” is a nickname given to a food that offers exceptional health benefits and is packed with nutrients. There is no regulated definition for superfood, so there is no specific set of criteria that a food must meet.</p>
<p>Superfoods generally contain high amounts of:</p>
<ul>
<li>Antioxidants (natural compounds that protect cells from damage and may lower the risk of certain diseases).</li>
<li>Flavonoids (found in plants and have anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties).</li>
<li>Vitamins.</li>
<li>Minerals.</li>
<li>Fiber.</li>
<li>Healthy Fats.</li>
</ul>
<p>Superfoods are associated with improving the immune system and heart health, reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol and overall disease prevention.</p>
<p>While no <em>one</em> superfood can provide all the nutrients that your child needs, providing a variety of colorful foods will help keep them healthy. Incorporating superfoods with a healthy diet that is balanced in fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and protein will help provide all the essential nutrients.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">8 superfoods with superpowers for kids</h3>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Berries (strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries)</h4>
<ul>
<li>High in antioxidant-rich vitamins A, C, and folate.</li>
<li>High in soluble fiber.</li>
<li>Contains flavonoids, which reduce the risk of certain heart conditions.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Tomatoes </h4>
<ul>
<li>High in antioxidants.</li>
<li>Contains lycopene, a carotenoid that has been proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and protect the skin from sun damage.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Sweet potatoes</h4>
<ul>
<li>Contains beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off cell-damaging free radicals and improves immunity.</li>
<li>Contains phytonutrients known to lower blood pressure.</li>
<li>High in vitamin A, which is vital for creating the pigment in the retina responsible for night vision.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Dark leafy greens, such as kale and broccoli </h4>
<ul>
<li>High in vitamins A, C, E, K, and folate. </li>
<li>Good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants that promote healthy vision.</li>
<li>Gets its color from chlorophyll, which plays a role in hindering the growth of bacteria.</li>
<li>High in fiber.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Avocados </h4>
<ul>
<li>Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.</li>
<li>Contains more potassium than a banana.</li>
<li>High in fiber.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Salmon </h4>
<ul>
<li>High in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.</li>
<li>Contains essential fats that growing kids need for development.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Eggs </h4>
<ul>
<li>Contains high-quality protein for muscle growth.</li>
<li>Loaded with B vitamins and other minerals.</li>
<li>High in antioxidants that have protective effects on the eyes.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Whole grain oatmeal </h4>
<ul>
<li>High in soluble fiber which helps with cholesterol absorption and keeps blood sugar levels stable</li>
<li>Contains prebiotic fiber, which can positively alter certain bacteria in the gut and improve constipation</li>
<li>High in antioxidants</li>
</ul>
<p>Try to focus on a variety of foods and include as many different colors of fruits and vegetables as possible in your child’s diet to keep them healthy.  No single superfood can give you all the nutrition you need! </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Superfood recipes for families</h3>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Berry Smoothie Bowl</strong></h4>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>1 cup berries (frozen)</li>
<li>4 ice cubes</li>
<li>Splashes of milk of choice (1%, Coconut, Almond)</li>
<li>1 tablespoon almond butter</li>
<li>A handful of spinach</li>
<li>Sweetener of choice (honey, agave, maple syrup)</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Toppings</strong></p>
<p>Fresh blueberries/strawberries/banana, flaxseed, coconut flakes, granola</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>Place the frozen berries, ice cubes, milk, almond butter and spinach in a blender. Blend until smooth, adding additional milk as needed to make a thick consistency. Add sweetener to taste, if desired. Blend again. Pour into bowls and top with desired toppings.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Basic Overnight Oats</h4>
<ul>
<li>Oats. Old-fashioned oats work best for overnight oats. For a shorter soaking time, use quick oats, and for a longer one, use steel-cut oats.</li>
<li>Milk<strong>.</strong> Use cow’s milk or a fortified, unsweetened, plant-based milk of your choice at a 1:1 ratio with the oats. For example, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of milk per 1/2 cup (120 ml) of oats.</li>
<li>Chia seeds (optional)<strong>.</strong> Chia seeds act like glue to bind the ingredients. Use 1/4 part chia seeds per 1 part oats. For instance, use 1/8 cup (30 ml) chia seeds per 1/2 cup (120 ml) oats.</li>
<li>Yogurt (optional)<strong>.</strong> Yogurt adds extra protein and creaminess. Use a dairy or plant-based yogurt and adjust the amount to your preference.</li>
<li>Vanilla (optional)<strong>.</strong> A dash of vanilla extract or vanilla bean adds a touch of flavor to your overnight oats.</li>
<li>Sweetener (optional)<strong>.</strong> A little maple syrup, 2 to 3 chopped dates, or half a mashed banana can sweeten your overnight oats.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Preparation:</strong></p>
<p>To prepare your overnight oats, simply combine all the ingredients and refrigerate them overnight in an airtight container.</p>
<p>The oats and chia seeds soak up the milk and soften overnight, yielding a pudding-like texture come the next morning.</p>
<p>Overnight oats keep for up to four days when refrigerated in an airtight container. That means you can easily batch-prepare larger portions of the base recipe and add your favorite toppings to individual portions throughout the week for variation.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/overnight-oats-recipes#1.-Basic-overnight-oats"><em>7 Tasty and Healthy Overnight Oats Recipes (healthline.com)</em></a></p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s Clinical Nutrition Program</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>At CHOC, we specialize in providing a full continuum of pediatric nutrition services, including inpatient and outpatient services, depending on our patients’ needs.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/nutrition/">Visit CHOC.org</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/8-superfoods-to-boost-your-childs-diet/">8 superfoods to boost your child’s diet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Mononucleosis (mono) myths debunked </title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/mononucleosis-mono-myths-debunked/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Infectious Disease]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Delma Nieves]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29962</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC expert addresses common myths and facts about mononucleosis (mono) or "the kissing disease" in kids and teens. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/mononucleosis-mono-myths-debunked/">Mononucleosis (mono) myths debunked </a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Myths and facts about mononucleosis (mono) </h2>
<p>Have you ever heard of mononucleosis, or mono, called “the kissing disease?”</p>
<p>There’s some confusion and misinformation about exactly how kids and teens get mono, says <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/infectious-disease/delma-nieves-md/">Dr. Delma Nieves</a>, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at CHOC.   </p>
<p>Here, she clears up some truths and falsehoods about mono and offers treatment and prevention tips.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Myths about mononucleosis (mono)</h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Myth: You can be vaccinated against mono.</h3>
<p>There is no vaccine for mononucleosis. Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), for which there is no vaccine.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Myth: Kids and adolescents get mono only from kissing.</h3>
<p>Mono can be spread in a few different ways, not just from kissing.</p>
<p>Because Epstein-Barr is an airborne virus, it is passed by “droplet spread,” Dr. Nieves says.</p>
<p>Specifically, mono is spread by contact with the saliva of an infected person by kissing, coughing, sneezing, sharing eating utensils or sharing beverages.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Myth: Antibiotics will knock out mono.</h3>
<p>There are no antibiotics that work well against the mono virus, says Dr. Nieves.</p>
<p>Instead, someone with mono should treat their symptoms with lots of rest; salt water gargling and throat lozenges to soothe a sore throat; and acetaminophen or ibuprofen to aid associated aches and pains if needed.</p>
<div id="featured-content">
<hr>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Pill.png" alt="featured content" class="featured-icon" width="64" height="64" />
<h6 style="margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom: 0;text-transform: uppercase"><strong>Featured article</strong></h6>
<p><a href="https://health.choc.org/acetaminophen-vs-ibuprofen-a-guide-for-parents/">Acetaminophen vs. ibuprofen and how to administer both safely </a></p>
<hr>
</div>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Myth: Mono is a mild disease that you can ignore.</h3>
<p>Mono can be fairly mild, but rarely it can have complications which can be very serious, Dr. Nieves says.</p>
<p>Mono is a common cause of prolonged fevers. Mono can cause hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver. It may also enlarge the spleen, making contact sports off-limits until the patient is cleared by a doctor. Rarely, Mono can also cause inflammation of the heart, which could lead to heart failure.</p>
<p>If your child exhibits symptoms of mono, contact your pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Facts about mononucleosis (mono)</h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fact: Mononucleosis is a viral infection.</h3>
<p>Mononucleosis is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It’s a common virus most children and teens get exposed to at some time while growing up.</p>
<p>Most people first become infected through household transmission, such as from parents or siblings. In the United States, about 90% of adults have been infected. Most people have a mild infection but some people, especially teens and young adults who become newly infected, can develop a more serious case, says Dr. Nieves.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fact: Symptoms of mono can be mistaken for other illnesses.</h3>
<p>Signs of mono usually show up one to two months after someone is infected with the virus. The most common symptoms may be mistaken for strep throat or the flu, says Dr. Nieves.</p>
<p>Most people go in to see their healthcare provider because of the fatigue and sore throat from the <a href="https://health.choc.org/kids-and-tonsils/">tonsils</a> getting inflamed. Mono can be confused with other viruses like strep throat.</p>
<p>If you suspect your child has mono symptoms, call your pediatrician. They can do an exam to rule out other illnesses.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fact: Mono symptoms are usually mild, but can also be severe.</h3>
<p>Common symptoms of mononucleosis include high fever, severe sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and tonsils and muscle weakness or fatigue. </p>
<p>Infants and young kids infected with EBV virus usually have very mild symptoms or none at all. But infected teens and young adults often develop the symptoms that define mono.</p>
<p>Additional symptoms may also be seen in severe mono cases, such as skin rashes or belly pain with a larger-than-normal liver or spleen (an organ in the upper left part of the belly).</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fact: The best treatment for mono is rest.</h3>
<p>The best treatment for mono is rest and plenty of fluids. That’s all you can do, and to avoid contact sports because the spleen may be enlarged making it more likely to get injured, says Dr. Nieves.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fact: Mono prevention is just like flu prevention.</h3>
<p>You can do the same things to prevent mono as you would to prevent the flu, like washing your hands, practicing good hygiene, getting plenty of sleep and avoiding close contact with anyone who has it.</p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/mononucleosis-mono-myths-debunked/">Mononucleosis (mono) myths debunked </a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Pectus excavatum surgery sparks a passion for helping others: Avery’s story</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/pectus-excavatum-surgery-sparks-a-passion-for-helping-others-averys-story/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Child Life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Pediatric Surgery]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Troy Reyna]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29945</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>After receiving the Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum at CHOC, Avery was inspired to become a mentor to help other teen patients. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/pectus-excavatum-surgery-sparks-a-passion-for-helping-others-averys-story/">Pectus excavatum surgery sparks a passion for helping others: Avery’s story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Having any kind of surgery can be nerve-wracking, and former CHOC patient Avery knows the feeling well.</p>
<p>19-year-old Avery received <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/pediatric-general-surgery/pectus-excavatum-sunken-chest-nuss/">pectus excavatum (“sunken chest”) surgery</a> at CHOC when she was 15.</p>
<p>Today, she’s a healthy, active college student who participates in virtual CHOC Hospital tours and connects with other <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/pediatric-general-surgery/pectus-excavatum-sunken-chest-nuss/">pectus excavatum (PE)</a> patients from her dorm room in Seattle, Washington.</p>
<p>Avery is a teen mentor participating in <a href="https://inside.choc.org/teen-mentorship-program-for-pectus-excavatum-and-scoliosis-patients-provides-valuable-support/">CHOC’s P.S. You’re Not Alone Mentorship Program</a>, a program designed to support the mental and emotional health of patients undergoing pectus excavatum and scoliosis surgeries at CHOC.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1919" height="2560" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-scaled.jpg" alt="Avery before her pectus excavatum surgery at CHOC Hospital in Orange " class="wp-image-29953" style="width:464px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-scaled.jpg 1919w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-768x1025.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-1151x1536.jpg 1151w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_-pre-surgery-1-1535x2048.jpg 1535w" sizes="(max-width: 1919px) 100vw, 1919px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Avery is all smiles before her surgery at CHOC Hospital in Orange</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>The mentorship program represents a fruitful collaboration between CHOC’s surgery, orthopaedic, Child Life and nursing teams.</p>
<p>As part of the program, a formally-trained tmentor who has also experienced PE surgery is paired with a patient to attend a pre-operative tour of CHOC Hospital in Orange, answer questions, offer encouragement and provide tips.</p>
<p>In honor of March’s Child Life Month, Avery shares how this program helped her through her surgery at CHOC and inspired her to help others — both personally and professionally.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Avery’s experience with pectus excavatum, or “sunken chest” syndrome</h3>
<p>Avery has always had a slight indentation in her chest, but she assumed it was just a unique part of her.</p>
<p>An avid swimmer, Avery was first diagnosed with pectus excavatum after having to take frequent breaks to catch her breath during practice.</p>
<p>She and her parents sought care from several healthcare institutions and were told she’d need to undergo painful surgery, spend two to four weeks at the hospital and months of recovering at home. Avery was overwhelmed; she feared she’d never be able to swim competitively again.</p>
<p>Avery’s parents took her to CHOC to meet with <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/general-surgery/troy-reyna-md/">Dr. Troy Reyna</a>, pediatric general and thoracic surgeon.</p>
<p>“After talking with Dr. Reyna for five minutes, I immediately felt at ease,” says Avery. “He always made sure that we left his office without any fears or worries by addressing any questions and concerns that my family had.”</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="933" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_Reyna.jpg" alt="Avery smiles with Dr. Troy Reyna " class="wp-image-29947" style="width:471px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_Reyna.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_Reyna-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_Reyna-180x240.jpg 180w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr. Reyna and Avery </figcaption></figure></div>
<p>Dr. Reyna discussed the <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/pediatric-general-surgery/pectus-excavatum-sunken-chest-nuss/">Nuss Procedure</a> with Avery and her parents, a minimally invasive surgery option for pectus excavatum that enables patients to return home and get back to their daily activities sooner than ever before.</p>
<p>Avery was scheduled to for the Nuss Procedure just a few months later. She’d receive the surgery in the morning and stay for one night at CHOC Hospital for optional monitoring.  </p>
<p>Because this was her first-ever surgery, Avery was anxious about the process and recovery was going to look like for her.  </p>
<p>That’s when her P.S. You’re Not Alone mentor stepped in.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mentor offers support and tips for pectus excavatum surgery recovery</h3>
<p>“I learned so much from my mentor, as well as Amanda Sanchez, Child Life specialist. They took us through the hospital and mimicked what my actual surgery day was going to look like,” says Avery. “I learned so many tips and tricks that helped me during my time at CHOC, as well as at home.”</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="525" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_fam.jpg" alt="Avery and family " class="wp-image-29949" style="width:700px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_fam.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_fam-360x270.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_fam-320x240.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Avery and family </figcaption></figure>
<p>“My mentor even told me to bring a pillow to protect my chest from my seat belt on the car ride home and some fuzzy socks to keep my feet warm at the hospital,” she says.</p>
<p>Because of the support that Avery received from her CHOC Child Life and surgical care teams, she describes her CHOC experience as the best she could have in a hospital setting.</p>
<p>A few months after her surgery, Amanda asked Avery if she was interested in becoming a mentor herself. She responded with a resounding, “Yes!”</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Inspired to help others with pectus excavatum</h3>
<p>Now, even while living out of state, Avery mentors patients virtually.</p>
<p>She joins Shaylin Schultz, child life specialist, on virtual hospital tours and sends encouraging messages before and after her mentee’s surgeries. Avery even created her own pectus surgery “cheat sheet” with tips and tricks to share with her mentees – including the tips she received from her mentor about bringing a pillow and fuzzy socks to the hospital.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="524" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_recovery.jpg" alt="Avery recovers from surgery at CHOC Hospital in Orange" class="wp-image-29948" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_recovery.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_recovery-360x269.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Avery_recovery-321x240.jpg 321w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Avery recovers from surgery </figcaption></figure>
<p>“My favorite part about being a mentor is making new friends and being able to make a future surgical patient’s surgery as smooth as possible,” says Avery. “One mentor sharing advice to the next is like a domino effect, and I find an immense amount of gratification in knowing that through every tour, I am setting up another domino who may use their experience to help someone else.”</p>
<p>To other patients going through PE surgery, Avery says that while the surgery can feel daunting, they have a whole team at CHOC that has their back.</p>
<p>“I like telling patients that no matter how lonely or scared they are feeling, they are not going to be alone throughout this process,” says Avery. “You got this! Plus, with a titanium bar in your chest, you basically become Iron Man.”</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="990" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-700x990.png" alt="A graphic with pectus excavatum surgery recovery tips " class="wp-image-29956" style="width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-700x990.png 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-339x480.png 339w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-170x240.png 170w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-768x1086.png 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-1086x1536.png 1086w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pectus-Advice-Sheet-1448x2048.png 1448w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Avery’s tips for pectus excavatum surgery recovery</figcaption></figure>
<p>Avery’s CHOC surgery experience even played a role in inspiring her future career. Avery is studying public health and intends to become a physician’s assistant.</p>
<p>“A spark has been set off within me as I now constantly seek ways to help others through hardship,” she says.</p>
<p>Because of CHOC’s compassionate care, Avery not only has a positive CHOC surgery experience to remember, but she also has new friends and a new passion for helping others.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s pediatric surgery services </strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>At CHOC, we have specialized in pediatric surgery since we welcomed our first patients in 1964. Our nationally recognized surgeons perform the latest procedures, using equipment that is customized to pediatric patients all the way from newborns to young adults.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/surgery/">Visit CHOC.org</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/pectus-excavatum-surgery-sparks-a-passion-for-helping-others-averys-story/">Pectus excavatum surgery sparks a passion for helping others: Avery’s story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Weight loss medications for treating teen obesity: What parents should know</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/weight-loss-medications-and-treating-teen-obesity-what-parents-should-know/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:54:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Alexandra Roche]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29918</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC expert offers advice to parents about the safety and effectiveness of weight loss medications for treating obesity in teens. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/weight-loss-medications-and-treating-teen-obesity-what-parents-should-know/">Weight loss medications for treating teen obesity: What parents should know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Anti-obesity medications for teens: Considerations for families </h2>
<p>Childhood obesity rates are rising in the U.S., affecting nearly <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/childhood.html">1 in 5 kids and teens ages 2 to 19 years</a>.</p>
<p>For parents of teens struggling with obesity, it can be difficult to know how to help your child lose weight, while also protecting their mental health and self-image.</p>
<p>Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) — the largest professional association of pediatricians in the U.S.— included anti-obesity medications in their recommended <a href="https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2023/american-academy-of-pediatrics-issues-its-first-comprehensive-guideline-on-evaluating-treating-children-and-adolescents-with-obesity/">guidelines for treating childhood obesity</a> for the first time.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/pediatrics/alexandra-roche-md/">Dr. Alexandra Roche</a>, pediatrician and division chief of <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/adolescent-medicine/">adolescent medicine at CHOC</a> and an AAP member, is excited to have four anti-obesity medications in her toolbox to help tackle teen obesity.</p>
<p>In this Q&A, Dr. Roche discusses the benefits and risks of anti-obesity medications for teens, and how parents help their teens develop healthy habits and a positive self-image.</p>
<p><em>Please note: This information about anti-obesity medications should not replace the expertise of your child’s physician.</em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">When are weight loss (anti-obesity) medications recommended for teens to treat obesity?</h3>
<p>I’m excited to have access to four anti-obesity medications to help tackle obesity in teens, says Dr. Roche. However, it is important to recognize that there are specific indications for when to use them — and they should be used responsibly.</p>
<p>The newest anti-obesity medications are called Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist medications. These medications are recommended for teens 12 years and older struggling with obesity.</p>
<p>GLP-1 agonists may also be used for teens who are overweight and have other conditions related to obesity such as hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, <a href="https://health.choc.org/what-to-expect-from-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-in-teens/">polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)</a>, pre-diabetes or <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/pulmonology/sleep-disorder-center/sleep-apnea/">obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)</a>.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What kind of weight loss (anti-obesity) medications can be used to treat obesity in teens? Are there side effects?</h3>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Liraglutide and Semaglutide (commonly known as brand names include Saxenda and Wegovy)</h4>
<p>Liraglutide and semaglutide are both injection medications that work like natural hormones by slowing down the process of digestion in the stomach. They also increase the release of insulin which impacts the nutrition center of the brain. These medications cause teens to have fewer food cravings and feeling fuller sooner, resulting in more significant weight loss than with lifestyle changes alone.</p>
<p>Although they show very promising results, these medications do have common side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain and low blood sugar.</p>
<p>Significant but less common side effects include: the development of gallstones and pancreatitis (signs and symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea and abdominal pain).</p>
<p>Other important medications that can be used to treat obesity in teens include Orlistat and Phenteremine/Topiramate. These medications are not GLP1 agonists. </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Orlistat (also known as brand names Alli and Xenical)</h4>
<p>Orlistat, which is approved for use in teens 12 and older, has been available for many years. It is essentially a fat blocker—instead of absorbing the fat, it exits the body through waste. Orlistat may not lead to significant weight loss and can have uncomfortable side effects.</p>
<p>Orlistat side effects include stomach pain, bloating, indigestion, excessive gas, diarrhea and oily stools. It can also interfere with the absorption of some vitamins.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Phentermine / Topiramate (also known as brand name Qysmia)</h4>
<p>A medication combining phentermine and topiramate has also been approved for teens 16 years and older. This medication works as an appetite suppressant, meaning that the patient won’t be as hungry while taking it.</p>
<p>Dr. Roche says that while this medication is effective, it can lead to congenital malformations if taken while pregnant, may decrease the effectiveness of contraceptives, and should be avoided in those with thyroid disease, kidney stones and glaucoma.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Are there any special considerations parents should have about weight loss (anti-obesity) medications for teens?</h3>
<p>Yes. Always provide a complete personal and family medical history to your healthcare provider before starting medications. Some teens with certain medical conditions family history should avoid some medications for obesity. This includes teens who may, for example, have <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/endocrinology-diabetes/diabetes-type-1/">Type 1 diabetes</a> or family history of pancreatitis or thyroid cancer.</p>
<p>While anti-obesity medications are effective, availability and supply may be limited. Some health plans may offer limited coverage and some may require intensive weight loss program participation before starting the medication. These medications can be expensive when paid for out of pocket.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How long should teens take weight loss (anti-obesity) medications to treat obesity?</h3>
<p>This is one area where we still do not have clear answers, says Dr. Roche. If your teen doesn’t see a weight loss response after 12 weeks on the medication, then they should stop taking it.</p>
<p>In adults, there is often weight regain after discontinuing GLP1-agonists. We do not yet have data on the long-term effects these medications have on adolescents, and they may need to be lifelong medications.  </p>
<p>However, we do know that obesity can cause significant long-term health consequences for teens like: high blood pressure, heart disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Type 2 diabetes, breathing problems (obstructive sleep apnea), trouble sleeping, joint pain, hormonal changes, low self-esteem or even <a href="https://health.choc.org/guide/depression/">depression</a>.</p>
<p>It’s important to discuss the benefits and risks with your family and your doctor.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Should teens still practice healthy diet and exercise while taking weight loss (anti-obesity) medications?</h3>
<p>Absolutely! Exercising and eating a balanced diet is still the foundation for supporting a healthy weight, says Dr. Roche. Various studies have shown that a combination of exercise and medications has improved results over medications alone.</p>
<p>Exercise supports heart health and muscle development, which maximizes metabolism. It also supports the development of strong bones and has a positive impact on sleep and brain health. It’s recommended for teens to have one hour (60 min) of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily. Teens can start slowly and work up to this recommendation over time, if needed, advises Dr. Roche.</p>
<p>A balanced diet provides the essential nutrients a teen’s body needs and teaches them how to maintain a long-term healthy lifestyle, even when not on medications. Focusing on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins with occasional treats allows teens to continue to enjoy food with friends and family.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Are there alternative treatments to medications to help treat obesity in teens?</h3>
<p>The most effective way to treat obesity in teens – without the use of medication – is balanced, consistent nutrition, exercise, hydration and sleep.</p>
<p>Some teens with severe obesity may find success with bariatric surgery. Although these surgeries are not offered at CHOC, they can be effective for weight loss, as well as the improvement or reversal of obesity-related health conditions like high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.</p>
<p>These surgeries can be a big decision, and require serious thought and discussion between the teen, their family and their doctor.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Can obesity in teens be prevented?</h3>
<p>Yes. A healthy, balanced lifestyle with healthy meals and exercise can help prevent obesity in teens.</p>
<p><a href="https://health.choc.org/10-quick-tips-for-helping-kids-and-teens-maintain-a-healthy-weight/">Get Dr. Roche’s 10 quick tips to help kids and teens maintain a healthy weight</a>.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Can anti-obesity medications cause eating disorders and negative self-image in teens?</h3>
<p>Any child or teen struggling with excess weight and medical complications due to excess weight is at risk for poor self-image, <a href="https://health.choc.org/guide/depression/">depression</a> and <a href="https://health.choc.org/guide/eating-disorders/">eating disorders</a>.</p>
<p>When addressing obesity with your teen, it’s vital to emphasize supporting healthy, balanced eating and exercise. Parents should avoid using any negative language around body image and should focus on their teen’s health rather than appearance.</p>
<p>The following tips may also help parents support their teens dealing with a negative self-image and concerns about obesity:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Keep open communication</strong>: Allow your teens to express their feelings and concerns without fear of criticism.</li>
<li><strong>Utilize positive reinforcement</strong>: Acknowledge and celebrate your teen’s strengths and achievements, emphasizing qualities beyond physical appearance.</li>
<li><strong>Seek professional suppor</strong>t: If negative self-image is significantly impacting a teen’s mental health, consider seeking professional help. Mental health professionals can provide guidance and support tailored to the individual’s needs.</li>
<li><strong>Promote media literacy</strong>: Discuss media literacy and help teens critically evaluate the images and messages they encounter on social media. Encourage your teens to have a realistic understanding of diverse body types.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is there anything else you would like parents to know about weight loss (anti-obesity) medications?</h3>
<p>Medications are a great tool to be used in addition to a healthy lifestyle in the right circumstances. Make sure to talk with your child’s doctor about options.</p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/weight-loss-medications-and-treating-teen-obesity-what-parents-should-know/">Weight loss medications for treating teen obesity: What parents should know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>10 quick tips for helping kids and teens maintain a healthy weight</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/10-quick-tips-for-helping-kids-and-teens-maintain-a-healthy-weight/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Alexandra Roche]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29913</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>To help prevent childhood obesity, a CHOC expert offers tips on how kids and teens can maintain healthy eating and exercise habits. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/10-quick-tips-for-helping-kids-and-teens-maintain-a-healthy-weight/">10 quick tips for helping kids and teens maintain a healthy weight</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How parents can help promote healthy eating and exercise habits at home</h2>
<p>Childhood obesity rates are on the rise in the United States – affecting nearly <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/childhood.html">1 in 5 kids ages 2 to 19 years</a> – but there are things that families can do to help prevent it.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/pediatrics/alexandra-roche-md/">Dr. Alexandra Roche</a>, pediatrician and division chief of adolescent medicine at CHOC and an AAP member, explains instilling healthy eating and exercise habits in kids and teens often begins at home.</p>
<p>Here, she offers quick tips to parents that can help kids and teens maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="990" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-700x990.png" alt="Gaphic: Top tips for maintaining a healthy weight, for kids and teens " class="wp-image-30129" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-700x990.png 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-339x480.png 339w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-170x240.png 170w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-768x1086.png 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-1086x1536.png 1086w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1-1448x2048.png 1448w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Healthy-weight-kids-1.png 1587w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></figure>
<a href="https://health.choc.org/handout/for-kids-and-teens-tips-for-maintaining-a-healthy-weight/" class="link-to-handout">
<img decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/printer.png" alt="printer icon"> <strong>Print this to share with your kids and teens</strong></a>
<div style="height:14px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">10 healthy eating and exercise tips to help kids and teens maintain a healthy weight</h3>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. Avoid restrictive diets.</h4>
<p>Intermittent fasting and keto diets are not recommended for developing teens. They are very hard to maintain and can lead to increased food cravings and nutrient deficiencies.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. Eat meals together as a family.</h4>
<p>When possible, eating family meals may protect against eating disorders and unhealthy eating habits.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. Incorporate vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains into your child’s diet.</h4>
<p>By incorporating these nutrient-rich food groups, kids and teens can feel full longer. Limiting sugar-sweetened beverages like sodas and juices is also an easy way to help eliminate excess calories. </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Maintain a consistent schedule with eating.</h4>
<p>Typical, consistent meal times can help prevent grazing and snacking, which often leads to excess portions.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Prevent stress and boredom eating.</h4>
<p>For those struggling with stress eating, working on relaxation through deep breathing, journaling, or other coping techniques can lessen the urge to snack.</p>
<p>For those struggling with “boredom” eating, having a consistent schedule and snack prepping with appropriate portions is a helpful tool.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. Prep healthy snacks.</h4>
<p>Prepping portions of fruits and veggies can help keep healthy snacks readily available. Chips, soda and cookies should be out of sight and saved for special occasions.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. Plant a garden.</h4>
<p>Gardening is a great way to explore where foods come from and to promote the fun of eating vegetables. Even growing just a few herbs in a window can make “green” less intimidating. Take trips to local farms to pick your own produce and have your teens help pick out the vegetables at the market. Involve them in part of the meal planning!</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. Limit using foods as a reward.</h4>
<p>Using food as a reward can create an unhealthy association between certain foods and emotions. Children may come to view certain foods as rewards or treats, leading to potential overconsumption of unhealthy foods and a skewed relationship with food.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">9. Practice mindful eating.</h4>
<p>Mindful eating is a great exercise to teach us to slow down when eating and enjoy every bite – which also helps promote appropriate portions. To practice this, with the first one to two bites of food, explore the following five sensations: how does it look, how does it smell, how does it sound, how does it feel and how does it taste.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">10. Step away from the screen.</h4>
<p>Encourage kids and teens take breaks from their screens, and to be active every day in ways that work for your family, like: family walks or bike rides, playing at the local park, having at-home dance parties, taking weekend hikes and having family gym time.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"></h2>
<p></p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/10-quick-tips-for-helping-kids-and-teens-maintain-a-healthy-weight/">10 quick tips for helping kids and teens maintain a healthy weight</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to make eating healthy fun for kids and teens</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/how-to-make-eating-healthy-food-fun-for-kids-and-teens/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Mar 2024 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition and Lactation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29906</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>In honor of March's National Nutrition Month, a CHOC dietitian gives parents tips to help make healthy eating and nutrition fun for kids.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/how-to-make-eating-healthy-food-fun-for-kids-and-teens/">How to make eating healthy fun for kids and teens</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tips for making nutrition fun for kids </h2>
<p><em>By Kristen Miller, clinical dietitian at CHOC</em></p>
<p>Eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy/dairy alternatives, as outlined by <a href="https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate">MyPlate</a>, promotes a child’s growth and development. But it is not uncommon for kids to gravitate towards highly-processed foods such as crackers, chicken nuggets and French fries.</p>
<p>So, how do we encourage kids to try different foods and make healthier choices? One way is to make food fun!</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Go grocery shopping together</strong></h3>
<p>Mealtime starts long before we get in the kitchen. What we choose in the grocery store leads to what is available when we open the refrigerator for an afternoon snack. </p>
<p>So, as you are walking through the produce section, talk about the foods you see. What color is it? Does it grow on a tree or under the ground? Is it big or small? Is it sweet or sour? Encourage your child to pick out a new fruit or vegetable to bring home and try. Kids are often more invested in trying a new food if they picked it out themselves.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Get cooking together</strong></h3>
<p>A great way to get kids and teens excited about healthy foods is to cook together. Use the following tips to involve your kids when preparing meals: </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Give your kids a job.</strong> </h4>
<p>Most kids love to help. Give them an age-appropriate job in the kitchen. Preschool aged children can wash fruits and veggies under running water, mix ingredients in a bowl, spoon out yogurt onto their plate, or organize veggies on a sheet pan. With adult supervision, older school aged children and teens can chop produce, measure ingredients, and follow a recipe.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Use different cooking methods</strong>.</h4>
<p>Using different cooking methods will change the texture of the food. Try baking, sautéing, boiling, steaming, air frying, or just eating fruits and veggies raw or even straight out of the jar/can. </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Add different seasonings and sauces</strong>. </h4>
<p>Herbs and spices are your best friend. Add garlic, fresh basil, or some lemon zest to enhance the taste of your food. Dipping sauces, honey (only serve honey to kids one year and older), or a splash of maple syrup can add a little sweetness to a more bitter tasting vegetable like brussels sprouts.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Get creative</strong> in the kitchen </h3>
<p>Use this quick, creative tips to help make healthy foods look more fun and appetizing to your kids: </p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Incorporate shapes</strong>. </h4>
<p>Bring out the cookie cutters and make hearts, stars, or dinosaurs out of sandwiches or cucumbers.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Use “sprinkles!”</strong></h4>
<p>What kid (or adult) doesn’t love putting sprinkles on top of food? Use chia seeds, pepper, poppy seeds, flaxseed, or sesame seeds to add healthy “sprinkles” to the top of food. Better yet, let your child shake out the “sprinkles” themselves.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Use fun utensils and tableware.</strong> </h4>
<p>Colorful or swirly straws can encourage your child to drink their water or dairy. Plates, forks, and spoons with their favorite characters printed on them can entice children to sit at the table to eat their meal instead of walking around and grazing.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Get colorful.</strong> </h4>
<p>Pick out bright, vibrant foods using the colors your kids love. Have your kids choose veggies of every color of the rainbow to make a rainbow pizza:<ul><li>Red: Bell pepper, tomatoes, radish</li></ul></p>
<p><ul><li>Orange: Bell pepper, shredded carrots</li></ul></p>
<p><ul><li>Yellow: Bell pepper, squash, corn, yellow potatoes</li></ul></p>
<p><ul><li>Green: broccoli, spinach, bell pepper, asparagus, zucchini</li></ul></p>
<ul>
<li>Blue/Purple: Onion, eggplant, red cabbage, olives, beets</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Plant a garden</strong></h3>
<p>For kids who like to be outside and get dirty, planting a garden is a fun way to encourage healthy food choices. Planting the seeds, watering the soil, watching the sprouts pop out of the ground, and ultimately harvesting the produce is a great way to get children more connected to their food.</p>
<p>Let your creativity run wild. There are so many ways to make healthy food fun!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Recipes </h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rainbow Flatbread Pizza</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="464" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/rainbow_pizza-1-700x464.jpg" alt="Rainbow flatbread pizzas " class="wp-image-29909" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/rainbow_pizza-1-700x464.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/rainbow_pizza-1-360x238.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/rainbow_pizza-1-768x509.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/rainbow_pizza-1.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></figure>
<p><strong>Prep Time:</strong> 5 minutes</p>
<p><strong>Cook Time:</strong> 13 minutes</p>
<p><strong>Servings</strong>: 2</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="ingr_header">Ingredients</h4>
<ul id="ingr">
<li>2 flatbread wraps</li>
<li>1 tablespoon olive oil</li>
<li>1 teaspoon garlic powder</li>
<li>1/2 cup pizza sauce</li>
<li>1/2 cup mozzarella cheese</li>
<li>1/3 cup diced red vegetables (red pepper, tomatoes)</li>
<li>1/3 cup diced orange vegetables (orange bell pepper, carrots)</li>
<li>1/3 cup diced yellow vegetables (yellow pepper, yellow squash, banana peppers)</li>
<li>1/3 cup diced green vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, green pepper)</li>
<li>1/3 cup diced purple vegetables (eggplant, red onion)</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="inst_header">Instructions</h4>
<p>1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Brush olive oil on flatbreads and sprinkle with garlic powder.</p>
<p>2. Bake for 5 minutes until flatbread is partially crispy.</p>
<p>3. Spread sauce onto flatbread and top with cheese. Top with vegetables and lay in a rainbow pattern on top of the cheese.</p>
<p>4. Bake for 8 minutes or until cheese is melted and pizza is hot.</p>
<p><em>Recipe courtesy of <a href="https://nutritionistreviews.com/2016/04/rainbow-flatbread-pizza-recipe.html">The Nutritionist Reviews</a> </em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ants on a log: Three ways</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="467" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ants_log-700x467.jpg" alt="Ants on a log - making nutrition fun with help from CHOC" class="wp-image-29908" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ants_log-700x467.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ants_log-360x240.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ants_log-768x512.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ants_log-600x400.jpg 600w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ants_log.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></figure>
<p><strong>Prep Time:</strong> 5 minutes</p>
<p><strong>Total Time:</strong> 5 minutes</p>
<p><strong>Servings</strong>: 4</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients</h4>
<ul>
<li>3 stalks celery</li>
<li>2 tablespoon peanut butter</li>
<li>15 raisins</li>
<li>2 tablespoon hummus</li>
<li>1 tablespoon pine nuts</li>
<li>2 tablespoon cottage cheese</li>
<li>5 grape tomatoes</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Instructions</h4>
<ul>
<li>Cut the celery into pieces that are 3 inches in length, for a total of 9 pieces.</li>
<li>Use a butter knife to spread the peanut butter into 3 pieces of celery, hummus into 3 pieces of celery, and cottage cheese into 3 pieces of celery.</li>
<li>Top with desired toppings. I pair raisins with peanut butter, pine nuts with hummus, and grape tomatoes with cottage cheese. </li>
<li>Serve immediately and enjoy!</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Recipe courtesy of <a href="https://www.thebutterhalf.com/ants-on-a-log-recipe-3-ways/">The Butter Half </a></em></p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s Clinical Nutrition Program</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>At CHOC, we specialize in providing a full continuum of pediatric nutrition services, including inpatient and outpatient services, depending on our patients’ needs.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/nutrition/">Visit CHOC.org</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/how-to-make-eating-healthy-food-fun-for-kids-and-teens/">How to make eating healthy fun for kids and teens</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Wildfires and children’s health: What parents should know</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/wildfires-and-childrens-health-what-parents-should-know/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2024 18:03:30 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Marnie Granados]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29817</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC pediatrician offers tips to keep kids safe during wildfires and discusses how climate change may be impacting kids' health. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/wildfires-and-childrens-health-what-parents-should-know/">Wildfires and children’s health: What parents should know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to protect your kids from harmful air and tips for reducing the risks of wildfires</h2>
<p>In California, wildfires are becoming increasingly large and more severe. In part, <a href="https://health.choc.org/climate-change-and-childrens-health-what-parents-should-know/">climate change</a> is to blame. However, no matter what causes them, wildfires can be scary, and parents may have questions about how to protect their kids.</p>
<p>Here, <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/pediatrics/marnie-granados-md/">Dr. Marnie Granados</a>, a CHOC pediatrician and member of CHOC’s sustainability task force, discusses how you can protect your child from breathing harmful air and what we can all do, as a community, to decrease the risk of wildfires. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How can parents protect their kids from breathing bad air caused by wildfires or air pollution?</h3>
<p>When it comes to poor air quality, children are more vulnerable because they tend to spend more time outdoors playing or doing sports, says Dr. Granados. Additionally, their lungs aren’t as strong as adults, and they rely on parents or caregivers to keep them safe.</p>
<p>A child who is playing outside may not understand that they are having trouble breathing or that the air quality is bad.</p>
<p>There are some simple things that parents and caregivers can do to protect their kids during times of bad air quality, says Dr. Granados, like:</p>
<ul>
<li>If there is a wildfire in your area, check the air quality in your neighborhood on <a href="https://www.airnow.gov/">airnow.gov</a>.</li>
<li>If the air quality is poor, stay indoors as much as possible. If there is a wildfire nearby, close all windows and doors. When possible, set your air conditioner to recirculate. </li>
<li>If your family has central heating or air, purchase an air filter that is rated MERV 13 or higher. This can help catch air pollutants at home.</li>
<li>Avoid activities that may worsen indoor air quality like smoking, using commercial cleaning products or spraying artificial fragrances.</li>
<li>If you have family members with chronic medical conditions, consider purchasing a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) filter to improve indoor air quality.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Are there any considerations for kids prone to respiratory issues during wildfires?</h3>
<p>The lungs of infants, especially premature infants, aren’t as strong as older children or adults. This makes them more vulnerable to poor air quality.</p>
<p>Kids with <a href="https://health.choc.org/asthma-and-kids-what-parents-should-know/">asthma</a>, or another chronic respiratory condition, should be extra careful during wildfires or periods of bad air quality.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Are wildfires getting worse in the U.S.?</h3>
<p>In California, we know that wildfires are becoming larger and more severe, says Dr. Granados. The three main contributing factors to this include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Climate change: Warmer weather conditions and the lack of rain increase the risk of large, extreme wildfires. The weather can contribute to an abundance of dry vegetation, which will burn faster and more easily.</li>
<li>An increase in homes built on the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI): The WUI refers to the zone where human development and unoccupied land meet. For example, this refers to home communities on the base of hills or close to grass or vegetation. Home building on the WUI can eliminate precious, undeveloped land while increasing the risk of accidental fires (for example, due to electrical systems which lead to wildfires and the destruction of homes). </li>
<li>Forest management: About 100 years ago, the <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2020/08/13/california-u-s-forest-service-establish-shared-long-term-strategy-to-manage-forests-and-rangelands/">United States created a policy to suppress fires</a>. Because of this, there is not enough controlled burning allowed to maintain all the flammable dry fuel (grass, shrubs and bushes) that we have in the U.S.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Are wildfires causing worsening air pollution or air quality in the U.S.?</h3>
<p>When there is a wildfire event in California, or anywhere, it’s going to impact the air quality of surrounding communities. Wildfire smoke contains many harmful compounds, says Dr. Granados.  </p>
<p>One compound that can specifically impact human health is particulate matter (PM). <a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics">The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes particulate matter (also called particle pollution) as the mixture of solid particulates and liquid droplets found in the air</a>.</p>
<p>The burning of wood – like during a wildfire – can worsen air pollution and cause particulate matter to enter the air, causing air pollution.</p>
<p>PM10 particles refer to inhalable particulates that can be seen with the human eye – like small pieces of dust, dirt or soot floating in the air. However, smaller particulates which can’t be seen without a microscope – called PM2.5 particles – can be breathed in deeper into the lungs, causing damage to them.</p>
<p>PM 2.5 particles can be especially dangerous for kids because the small particulates can cause inflammation and damage to the lungs. Children who have been diagnosed with a chronic lung disease, such as asthma, could experience a worsening of their symptoms when exposed to higher levels of PM2.5.</p>
<p>Wildfire smoke can also contain volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde that can irritate your eyes, nose and airways.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">In the United States, what can we do to help our air quality?</h3>
<p>To help decrease the risk of wildfires and to improve air quality, in general, Dr. Granados suggests that families:</p>
<ul>
<li>Try to drive their cars less. Carpool or try to consolidate errands or work into a few days, rather than spreading them out throughout the week.</li>
<li>Try to fly less. Consider more local trips in your state or region to reduce the amount of commercial airline tickets that you buy.</li>
<li>Think about how you consume goods. The further away a product is made from you, the longer it must travel to get to you. Because of this, that product will burn more fossil fuels during its travel time. Consider purchasing more local items, such as made-in-America goods or produce from farmer’s markets.</li>
<li>Consider shipping less. With more businesses offering inexpensive, fast shipping, it can be tempting to order everything you need from the comfort of your home. Consider consolidating your orders so they are shipped together or picking up the items you need from somewhere local. Measure your carbon footprint. As a family, consider learning more about how many resources you use with <a href="https://www.footprintcalculator.org/home/en">an environmental footprint calculator.</a> Then, discuss some simple changes you can make as a family to reduce your environmental impact.</li>
<li>Decide not to purchase a home located at the Wildland Urban Interface, if possible. Consider the risk associated with buying a home at the WUI and weigh your options as a family.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is there anything else you want parents to know about air pollution and wildfires?</h3>
<p>For families who do live on the WUI, make sure to come up with an evacuation safety plan, says Dr. Granados. In the event of needing to evacuate due a wildfire, have a list of important items that you can grab quickly before leaving. Don’t forget any medications you may need for family members. </p>
<p>Although the threat of wildfires can be scary, it’s important to remember that there are things we can do – both as families and communities — to help decrease the risk, says Dr. Granados. By considering simple changes to improve air quality and reduce our carbon footprint, we can help ensure that our future generations will be able to enjoy a beautiful Earth and have clean air to breathe. </p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/wildfires-and-childrens-health-what-parents-should-know/">Wildfires and children’s health: What parents should know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Supporting a child during cancer treatment: Norma’s story</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/supporting-a-child-during-cancer-treatment-normas-story/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cancer / Oncology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Leukemia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Carol Lin]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Rishikesh S. Chavan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Van Huynh]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29791</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Norma, a proud CHOC mom, discusses how she supported daughter through an eight-year cancer journey with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and gives tips to other parents.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/supporting-a-child-during-cancer-treatment-normas-story/">Supporting a child during cancer treatment: Norma’s story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A selfless CHOC parent’s advice to other families during a difficult medical journey</h2>
<div style="height:26px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<p>Parenting a child who is sick can feel surreal.</p>
<p>Norma describes the experience in three words: dark, scary and long.</p>
<p>Her daughter, <a href="https://health.choc.org/eight-years-worth-of-highs-and-lows-elizas-cancer-journey/">Eliza</a>, was first diagnosed with <a href="https://www.choc.org/cancer/leukemia-treatment-program/acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia/">acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)</a> at age 12. Since then, she’s unfortunately relapsed, undergone several treatments and received a bone marrow transplant – causing Eliza and Norma to be in and out of the <a href="https://www.choc.org/cancer/">Hyundai Cancer Institute at CHOC</a> for over eight years.</p>
<p>But for Norma, the darkness was overshadowed by Eliza’s light and strength. Thanks to the excellent care and compassion from CHOC, the past eight years have also been filled with love, humor and treatment breakthroughs. </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball-700x934.jpg" alt="Eliza smiles at the 2023 J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation CHOC Oncology Patient Ball" class="wp-image-29794" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-oncology-ball.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Eliza at the 2023 J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation CHOC Oncology Patient Ball</figcaption></figure>
<p>Even when she wasn’t feeling well, Eliza was able to laugh and encourage other teens also undergoing cancer treatment with the <a href="https://www.choc.org/cancer/adolescent-young-adult-treatment-program/">Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Treatment Program at CHOC</a>.</p>
<p>Today, 20-year-old Eliza is in remission. She works and volunteers, practices photography, sings karaoke and hangs out with friends.</p>
<p>“CHOC is our second home,” says Norma. “As much as we didn’t want to be at the hospital, we love CHOC and the wonderful staff.”</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Overcoming treatment challenges together</h3>
<p>Norma credits open communication for getting her and Eliza through her grueling medical journey. Their relationship is strong; they talk about everything – good and bad – and try to have a sense of humor about it all.</p>
<p>“Eliza and Norma were always dancing and laughing,” says <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/oncology/rishikesh-s-chavan-md/">Dr. Rishikesh Chavan</a>, oncologist and director of <a href="https://www.choc.org/cancer/blood-marrow-transplant-program/">CHOC’s Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Program</a>. </p>
<p>Looking back, Norma remembers specific challenges that Eliza had to overcome. Due to the severe side effects from <a href="https://www.choc.org/health-topics/side-effects-of-chemotherapy-and-radiation-in-children/">chemotherapy</a>, Eliza didn’t want to eat anything. So much so that she was on her way to being placed on a gastrostomy tube (G-tube or feeding tube) to ensure that she would get the nutrients she needed. With G-tubes being uncomfortable, Norma was on a mission to help encourage Eliza to eat.</p>
<p>But Eliza only had a craving for those popular red, spicy-flavored crunchy chips.</p>
<p>Norma, being the caring, concerned mom she is, thought that chips with artificial red coloring and spicy flavor would be bad for Eliza’s health during her cancer treatment. But even when offered other food alternatives, Eliza didn’t budge.</p>
<p>Eliza’s oncologist, <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/oncology/carol-lin-md/">Dr. Carol Lin</a>, reassured Norma that the occasional chips wouldn’t harm Eliza’s treatment.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza_DrLin.jpg" alt="Dr. Carol Lin and Eliza at CHOC Hospital in Orange" class="wp-image-29799" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza_DrLin.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza_DrLin-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza_DrLin-180x240.jpg 180w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr. Carol Lin and Eliza at CHOC Hospital in Orange</figcaption></figure>
<p>Turns out, those red chips opened the door to Eliza eating again. Little by little, Eliza’s appetite increased, and she began eating. She didn’t have to use the feeding tube at all.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Supporting a child undergoing cancer treatment: ‘There was no other way than to go with her.’</h3>
<p>This was just one of many instances where Norma’s support helped Eliza during her treatment.</p>
<p>“Norma was Eliza’s rock through it all,” says <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/oncology/van-huynh-md/">Dr. Van Huynh</a>, oncologist and director of <a href="https://care.choc.org/the-forefront-of-car-t-cell-immunotherapy-research-for-high-risk-pediatric-leukemia-patients/">CHOC’s CAR T-cell therapy program</a>.</p>
<p>Norma learned to follow Eliza’s lead. During her journey, Eliza was in the driver’s seat and Norma made sure she was sitting in front right next to her.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital-700x934.jpg" alt="Eliza and Norma during a inpatient stay at CHOC Hospital in Orange" class="wp-image-29796" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Eliza-norma-hospital.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Eliza and Norma during a inpatient stay at CHOC Hospital in Orange</figcaption></figure>
<p>“There was no other way than to go with her,” says Norma. “I just wanted to be there for her.”</p>
<p>But how did Norma also balance time for herself? She took up knitting using a pair of chopsticks from a takeout order. </p>
<p>That, and when Eliza was feeling well enough, Norma would make sure to go home to spend time with her other kids. Being able to go to their sports games and sit and talk with them filled Norma up and helped her support Eliza.</p>
<p>During long hospital stays, the CHOC staff helped bring hope to Norma and Eliza. <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/oncology/mary-english-np/">Mary English</a>, nurse practitioner specializing in oncology medicine, played a huge role in Eliza’s treatment journey. She challenged Eliza with love and continues to make her feel well cared for, even today.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English-700x934.jpg" alt="Mary English, nurse practitioner, and Eliza at an appointment" class="wp-image-29806" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mary-English.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mary English, nurse practitioner, and Eliza at an appointment</figcaption></figure>
<p>Volunteers from the Junior Foundation, a local non-profit, also brought hope to Eliza when they came to serve dinner to families in the oncology unit. During an especially difficult stretch of Eliza’s treatment, the volunteers made her smile.</p>
<div id="featured-content">
<hr>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/notebook_resize.png" alt="featured content" class="featured-icon" width="64" height="64" />
<h6 style="margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom: 0;text-transform: uppercase"><strong>Featured article</strong></h6>
<p><a href="https://health.choc.org/coping-with-a-childs-cancer-diagnosis-helpful-techniques-for-parents-kids-and-siblings/">Coping with a child’s cancer diagnosis</a></p>
<hr>
</div>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Giving advice and giving back</h3>
<p>Since then, Norma and Eliza have stayed in touch, and today, they volunteer with the foundation themselves. They serve dinner to CHOC families every other week.</p>
<p>Just as Junior Foundation brought Norma and Eliza hope during their long stays at CHOC, Norma uses serving dinner as an opportunity to encourage other parents.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="525" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/childlife_Eliza.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-29802" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/childlife_Eliza.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/childlife_Eliza-360x270.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/childlife_Eliza-320x240.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Eliza with Kara, AYA program coordinator (left) and Erin, child life specialist (right)</figcaption></figure>
<p>“I encourage families to trust in CHOC. To trust in the doctors and in new technology,” says Norma. “I tell them that our kids are in the best hands. The CHOC staff is always researching and coming up with the best possible treatments.”</p>
<p>However, Norma also reminds parents that not all medical journeys are alike. Some treatments will work for some kids but not others.</p>
<p>“Just trust in the right next step for your child,” she says. “Keep going.”</p>
<p>But her biggest piece of advice to other families going through a similar journey is this: “You are not alone. Don’t be scared to reach out and ask for help. It’s not embarrassing. You didn’t sign up for this. Let others help you.”</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="525" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma-700x525.jpg" alt="Dr. Van Huynh, Eliza and Norma visit during one of Eliza's oncology appointments at CHOC Hospital in Orange" class="wp-image-29801" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma-700x525.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma-360x270.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma-320x240.jpg 320w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma-768x576.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma-702x526.jpg 702w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Huynh-Eliza-Norma.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr. Van Huynh, Eliza and Norma visit during one of Eliza’s appointments at CHOC</figcaption></figure>
<p>Looking ahead, Norma hopes that Eliza’s bone marrow transplant continues to be successful and that she can get back to a normal routine. Both Norma and Eliza will continue to be involved at CHOC, their home away from home.</p>
<p>“We just love CHOC,” says Norma. “The entire staff has our back. No other hospital compares. We are so grateful.”</p>
<p>Aside from CHOC’s care, Eliza’s resilience and Norma’s support made all the difference to her healing. With humor, encouragement and selflessness, they have braved all the unknowns and challenges of a long, difficult medical journey. Together, they can overcome anything.</p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">

<div style="background-color:#cce0ec" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:700px">
<div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div style="height:30px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideright"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BCH_Cancer-2023-2024.png" width="200" alt="" class="cta-with-image" /></figure>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="has-theme-primary-color cta-heading" style="font-size:26px;line-height:1.3"><strong>Learn more about the Hyundai Cancer Center at CHOC</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-theme-darkblue-color has-text-color"><strong>CHOC Hospital was named one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report in its 2023-24 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings and ranked in the cancer specialty. </strong></p>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/cancer/">Learn more at choc.org</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/supporting-a-child-during-cancer-treatment-normas-story/">Supporting a child during cancer treatment: Norma’s story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Resilience and wonder mark heart-transplant patient Olivia’s journey</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/resilience-and-wonder-mark-heart-transplant-patient-olivias-journey/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2024 23:26:29 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Heart / Cardiology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Gira Morchi]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Glen Van Arsdell]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Michael Recto]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Nita Doshi]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29774</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Born with a rare congenital heart defect, Olivia's family and care team remained strong during her long medical journey. Today, she's a vibrant almost-7-year-old. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/resilience-and-wonder-mark-heart-transplant-patient-olivias-journey/">Resilience and wonder mark heart-transplant patient Olivia’s journey</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CHOC and UCLA Health teamed up to save a patient with heterotaxy, a rare congenital heart defect</h2>
<p>The mother, racing to the hospital, asked the clinician on the phone if her daughter Olivia was still alive.</p>
<p>“Not at the moment,” the clinician said.</p>
<p>The words floored Tamika LeBlanc, who fought to keep her composure as she and her husband, Willie, continued on their way to be with their 2 ½-year-old daughter, Olivia, as she embarked on the biggest fight of her life.</p>
<p>Sick hearts sometimes stop working well, for reasons that are not always well understood.  Olivia’s unique heart was too weak to work on its own.</p>
<p>Born with severe <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/congenital-heart-defects/">CHD (congenital heart disease)</a> and having persevered through several surgical interventions, Olivia crashed and was critically ill on a heart-lung machine as she waited for a new heart from a donor.</p>
<p>Heart transplant programs are built to expand therapy, infuse hope, and to make miracles possible.</p>
<p>And so began the miracle of Olivia.<em></em></p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="933" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1-700x933.jpg" alt="Olivia and her parents " class="wp-image-29783" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1-700x933.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-parents-recent-pix-1.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olivia and her parents, Willie and Tamika </figcaption></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A fruitful CHOC-UCLA Health collaboration</strong></h3>
<p>Olivia’s journey highlights the <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/congenital-heart-program/">collaboration between CHOC and UCLA Health</a> that began several years ago and was formalized in July 2023, with the primary goal of elevating pediatric cardiac care.</p>
<p>The collaboration, created to enhance access to world-class pediatric congenital cardiac care for children and their families across Southern California, is led by internationally recognized pediatric heart surgeon <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/thoracic-surgery/glen-van-arsdell-md/">Dr. Glen Van Arsdell</a>, who cares for children at CHOC and at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospitals.</p>
<p>Olivia was born with heterotaxy (“different arrangement”) syndrome, a rare birth defect that affects the formation of the heart and other organs.</p>
<p>Pediatric cardiologist <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/cardiology/nita-doshi-md/">Dr. Nita Doshi</a> of the <a href="https://www.choc.org/heart/">CHOC Heart Institute</a> diagnosed the complex heart defect in utero when Tamika was 21-weeks pregnant. The diagnosis is associated with an overall poor survival.</p>
<p>“Dr. Doshi told us it would be a long road,” Tamika recalls, “but she gave us a lot of hope.”</p>
<p>That hope would be remarkably tested after birth.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Heterotaxy, a rare congenital heart defect</h3>
<p>Olivia’s heart had a single functioning pumping chamber “ventricle” – instead of two – and the blood vessels returning blood from her lungs to her heart had a narrowed path. This caused her blood oxygen saturation levels to be low.</p>
<p>After Olivia was born, <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/cardiology/gira-morchi-md/">Dr. Gira Morchi</a>, chief of cardiology at CHOC, helped stabilize her. Dr. Morchi’s colleague, <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/cardiology/michael-recto-md/">Dr. Michael Recto</a>, performed heart catheter insertions.</p>
<p>To palliate the rare defect, doctors – typically in a minimum of three surgeries from when a newborn is just weeks old to when they’re between 4 and 5 years old – reconstruct the veins that carry “blue” (oxygen-poor) blood directly to the lungs without passing the heart. The “red” (oxygen-rich) blood then returns to the heart from the lungs and flows to the organs in the body.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="934" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant-700x934.jpg" alt="Little girl looks and smiles with wires following a life-saving heart transplant" class="wp-image-29777" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant-700x934.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant-360x480.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant-180x240.jpg 180w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Late-feb-2020-a-month-after-heart-transplant.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olivia after her heart transplant</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>Olivia had her first open-heart surgery when she was 18 days old and her second when she was 5 months old. She suffered a stroke when she was almost 2 years old, and things then took a turn for the worse a couple of months later when she experienced an abnormal heart rhythm that caused her heart to become sicker.</p>
<p>CHOC doctors, including Dr. Doshi, believed Olivia had not grown enough for the third surgery and given how sick her heart had become, likely wouldn’t survive. The CHOC and UCLA cardiac teams urgently reviewed her case and recommended a heart transplant.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A mother’s determination</strong></h3>
<p>In mid-December 2019, while at UCLA Mattel Children’s awaiting a heart transplant, Olivia, almost 2½ years old at the time, “coded” – her heart failed.</p>
<p>As her parents raced up the freeway, urgent life-saving measures began as she went into cardiac arrest. One of Tamika’s sisters, Shaun, who often relieved Tamika and Willie, was with Olivia at the time. She called Olivia’s parents to tell them they needed to come to the hospital immediately.</p>
<p>Nurses and doctors began chest compressions to pump blood in place of Olivia’s failed heart.</p>
<p>Simultaneously, surgeons began operating to put her on a life-saving machine for the sickest of patients called <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/critical-care/extracorporeal-life-support/">ECMO</a>, which takes over the heart’s pumping functions and the lung’s oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange.</p>
<p>Tamika and Willie finally arrived.</p>
<p>As clinicians continued chest compressions on Olivia, and the surgeons operated, Tamika stood outside the room and refused to leave.</p>
<p>“She kept repeating, ‘My daughter will not leave here in a box,’” says <a href="https://www.uclahealth.org/providers/reshma-biniwale">Dr. Reshma Biniwale</a> of UCLA Health. “She was determined that Olivia would live, and I think that determination impacted the surgical team.”</p>
<p>After 45 minutes of chest compressions, Olivia – a true heart warrior – did not give up.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>‘Unusual’ procedure</strong></h3>
<p>A substantial percentage of patients put on ECMO for a prolonged period don’t survive, and being on it a week is considered a long time.</p>
<p>“One of our concerns is she had a head bleed in the past so we were very concerned about her overall status as well as her kidney function,” recalls Dr. Biniwale, who at Dr. Van Arsdell’s instructions inserted a cannula directly into Olivia’s heart. The tube typically is inserted into a vessel from the neck that connects to the heart.</p>
<p>“It was an unusual thing that we had Dr. Biniwale do,” recalls Dr. Van Arsdell. “This procedure was modified specifically for Olivia, and we didn’t know if it would work.”</p>
<p>Fortunately, over the course of wrenching days and weeks, Olivia responded nicely and was cleared for the heart transplant while she remained on ECMO. At this point, she had been on ECMO for nearly six weeks.</p>
<p>“It was profound that she was able to survive on the ECMO circuit for that long without succumbing to the complications,” Dr. Doshi says.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Extremely high-risk</strong> heart transplant</h3>
<p>Usually patients who undergo a heart transplant while on ECMO face an extremely high risk of not surviving, Dr. Biniwale says.</p>
<p>“There’s a lot of bleeding because they’ve been on blood thinners and their blood has been churning through tubes for a long time without the ability to clot,” she explains. “Plus, having to go back into Olivia’s chest again after her prior surgeries also posed a risk.”</p>
<p>Olivia received a new heart in a transplant performed by Drs. Van Arsdell and Dr. Biniwale, who led the 12-hour surgery on Jan. 26, 2020.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="832" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO-700x832.jpg" alt="Olivia's mom kisses her on the cheek while at the hospital " class="wp-image-29778" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO-700x832.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO-360x428.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO-202x240.jpg 202w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO-768x912.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO-1293x1536.jpg 1293w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia-and-mom-Dec-2019-only-12-hours-before-she-coded-and-went-on-ECMO.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olivia and her mom just 12 hours before she was placed on ECMO</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>The heart came from a 3 ½-year-old girl.</p>
<p>“Dr. Van Arsdell was instrumental in guiding me on what repairs needed to be done on her heart itself, on the old vasculature, before we put in the new heart,” Dr. Biniwale recalls. “Between the two of us, Olivia had a very good outcome.”</p>
<p>A heart transplant is not a cure.</p>
<p>“It’s exchanging one heart condition for a different, equally involved heart condition,” Dr. Doshi explains.</p>
<p>Olivia, who turns 7 this August, will require lifelong monitoring. She remains in therapy for delayed speech.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Heart families need support </h3>
<p>Olivia’s relatives, including Shaun and two of Willie’s cousins, Leslie and La’Ron, were instrumental in getting her parents through their draining medical journey.</p>
<p>“Whenever they called, we were there to do whatever they needed,” La’Ron says.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="690" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad-700x690.jpg" alt="CHOC heart patient Olivia and her dad rest during a hospital stay " class="wp-image-29779" style="width:700px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad-700x690.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad-360x355.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad-244x240.jpg 244w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad-768x756.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad-75x75.jpg 75w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Nov-2019-Olivia-and-dad.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olivia and her dad resting during a hospital stay</figcaption></figure>
<p>Says Tamika: “We’re so blessed to have the tribe that we have.”</p>
<p>“I know the stress was a lot for them,” adds Shuan. “Heart families need to know how important being supportive is to the loved ones going through this.”</p>
<p>Dr. Morchi says Olivia’s story is a great example of how the CHOC-UCLA Health cardiac care collaboration is working.</p>
<p>“This is what we’ve been working on for years,” Dr. Morchi says. “We’re two institutions with different but significant strengths that can play off each other’s areas of expertise.”</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The superstar</strong></h3>
<p>Dr. Morchi, along with Drs. Doshi and Van Arsdell and Biniwale, attended last summer’s CHOC Heart Reunion at the Santa Ana Zoo.</p>
<p>Dr. Van Arsdell walked up to Olivia and crouched down beside her to pose for a picture.</p>
<p>“Is this the superstar?” Dr. Van Arsdell asked her.</p>
<p>Tamika and Willie started crying.</p>
<p>“We’re beyond thankful for CHOC and UCLA for the outstanding care Olivia received,” Tamika says.</p>
<p>Dr. Arsdell and other clinicians praised Olivia and her family for being critical to helping her achieve a remarkable outcome.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="744" data-id="29780" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia1with-Dr-Van-Arsdell-at-heart-patient-event-2023-700x744.jpg" alt="Olivia with Dr. Van Arsdell at CHOC Heart Reunion" class="wp-image-29780" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia1with-Dr-Van-Arsdell-at-heart-patient-event-2023-700x744.jpg 700w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia1with-Dr-Van-Arsdell-at-heart-patient-event-2023-360x383.jpg 360w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia1with-Dr-Van-Arsdell-at-heart-patient-event-2023-226x240.jpg 226w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia1with-Dr-Van-Arsdell-at-heart-patient-event-2023-768x816.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia1with-Dr-Van-Arsdell-at-heart-patient-event-2023.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olivia with Dr. Van Arsdell</figcaption></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="659" height="1000" data-id="29781" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-659x1000.jpg" alt="Olivia with Dr. Doshi at CHOC Heart Reunion" class="wp-image-29781" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-659x1000.jpg 659w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-317x480.jpg 317w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-158x240.jpg 158w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-768x1165.jpg 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-1013x1536.jpg 1013w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023-1351x2048.jpg 1351w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Olivia2-with-Dr.-Doshi-at-heart-patient-event-2023.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 659px) 100vw, 659px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olivia with Dr. Doshi</figcaption></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption">Olivia reunites with her care team at the recent CHOC Heart Reunion</figcaption></figure>
<p>“It was one of those cases that was against the odds,” says Dr. Van Arsdell, chief of congenital cardiovascular surgery at UCLA Health. “As care providers, sometimes we’re amazed at the resilience of our patients, and Olivia is one of those patients.”</p>
<p>Today, Olivia is an energetic first-grader who loves playing in parks, ballet class, the color pink, eating, striking yoga poses in front of mirrors, and playing games on her tablet.</p>
<p>Tamika continues to support other heart families and has created OG LIFE, a website of resources to support heart families.</p>
<p>“There were people praying for Olivia all over the world,” Tamika says. “I still have people reaching out sharing with me how witnessing her story unfold has renewed their own faith and in some cases, has made them believe in miracles.</p>
<p>“As for me, I never doubted that my child wouldn’t make it. It wasn’t an option.”</p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s Heart Institute</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>At CHOC, our highly specialized and board-certified pediatric cardiology team and cardiothoracic surgeons provide patients and families with advanced cardiac services.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/heart/">Explore CHOC’s Heart Institute</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/resilience-and-wonder-mark-heart-transplant-patient-olivias-journey/">Resilience and wonder mark heart-transplant patient Olivia’s journey</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>5 questions to ask your pediatrician at your child’s next checkup</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/5-questions-to-ask-your-pediatrician-at-your-childs-next-checkup/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Primary Care / Family Medicine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Christine Arnaldo]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29759</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC pediatrician gives parents five ideas of questions to ask about their child's development and health at their next check-up. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/5-questions-to-ask-your-pediatrician-at-your-childs-next-checkup/">5 questions to ask your pediatrician at your child’s next checkup</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Questions to ask your pediatrician about your newborn, child or teen</h2>
<p>Pediatricians are not only there for kids, but parents too! Your child’s pediatrician will be your partner in ensuring the health of your child. To make the most of that relationship, be sure to ask your pediatrician any questions you may have about your child’s health.</p>
<p>Before your child’s next check-up, jot down some questions on your smartphone or a piece of paper as they come up.  </p>
<p>Here, <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/arnaldo-christine-md/">Dr. Christine Arnaldo</a>, CHOC pediatrician, offers five of the top questions she receives from parents. Use these questions to help guide your child’s appointments with their pediatrician. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is this normal?</h3>
<p>Sometimes you just need some reassurance. If you have even the slightest concern about your child, be sure to ask your pediatrician about it. They are there to partner with you and to be a resource for you. No question or concern is too small or too embarrassing to ask.</p>
<p>“We are here to help you as well as your child,” says Dr. Arnaldo. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What new skills should I be expecting and cultivating before our next appointment?</h3>
<p>At your child’s <a href="https://health.choc.org/is-it-ok-to-skip-your-childs-checkup-if-theyre-healthy/">well-check (check-up) appointments</a>, your pediatrician can offer insight into developmental milestones for your child. These developmental milestones may include speech and language, fine motor and visual skills, physical changes, dressing skills and grooming skills.</p>
<p>Your pediatrician can offer you some tips to help guide your child through their development and to prepare for upcoming changes.</p>
<p>Use <a href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/ages-stages/?_gl=1*g0fht1*_ga*MTEyMjI1MDE0OC4xNjY4MTEyMTc1">CHOC’s ages and stages guide</a> to help familiarize yourself with new milestones in your child’s life. However, it’s important to remember that each child is on their own timeline. If your child is ahead or behind in development for their age, it’s OK! Your pediatrician can provide you with advice, next steps and referrals to a specialist if needed.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Some additional questions about development that you can ask your child’s pediatrician include:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Is my child meeting developmental milestones for their age?</li>
<li>Are there any signs of developmental delays that I should be aware of?</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What kind of food and snacks are appropriate at this age?</h3>
<p>As busy parents, you may need quick, easy meal and snack ideas to ensure your child gets the nutrition they need. Your pediatrician can offer advice for balanced diets and healthy eating habits, and tips for incorporating important food groups into your child’s diet.</p>
<p>Is your child <a href="https://health.choc.org/podcasts/overcoming-the-struggles-of-picky-eating/">a picky eater</a>? Your pediatrician may also be able to share strategies for incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your child’s meals.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">The following additional nutrition questions can be included in your conversation with your pediatrician:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Is my child getting the right nutrition for their age and developmental stage?</li>
<li>Are there any specific dietary recommendations for my child?</li>
</ul>
<p>Get nutrition resources today from the <a href="https://health.choc.org/category/nutrition-lactation/nutrition/">CHOC nutrition team</a>.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">When and how should I introduce screen time or social media to my child?</h3>
<p><a href="https://health.choc.org/how-to-limit-screen-time-for-teenagers/">Screen time</a> and <a href="https://health.choc.org/guide/social-media/">social media</a> are hot topics with many differing opinions – but what is right for one family may not be right for you. Your pediatrician can help with personalized advice on when to introduce screen time to your child, and how to manage healthy screen time limits.</p>
<p>The same goes for social media. What might work for other kids, may not work for your child. Your pediatrician can help you sort through any questions or concerns.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Ask your pediatrician these follow-up questions about screen time and social media:</h4>
<ul>
<li>How much screen time is appropriate for my child?</li>
<li>Are there guidelines for age-appropriate media exposure?</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How can I help my child sleep better?</h3>
<p>Sleep is so important for your child’s overall health – and your health as a parent, too! Your pediatrician can provide advice on how much sleep your child needs depending on their age, and if your child’s sleep behaviors can be improved or adjusted. They can serve as a resource to bounce ideas off and provide tips that you may not have thought of before.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Use the following sleep-related questions to guide your conversation:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Is my child getting enough sleep for their age?</li>
<li>Are there any sleep-related concerns I should be aware of?</li>
</ul>
<p>By asking your pediatrician questions about your child, you will be making the most out of your partnership. Remember that you are the expert on your child, but your pediatrician can offer you extra support and guidance.</p>
<p>For more health and wellness resources from the pediatric experts at CHOC, <a href="https://www.choc.org/about/sign-up-for-mailing-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up for the Kids Health newsletter</a>.</p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Find a CHOC Primary Care Pediatrician</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>From babies to teens, pediatricians from CHOC’s Primary Care Network partner with parents to offer immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/primary-care/primary-care-network/">Find a pediatrician</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/5-questions-to-ask-your-pediatrician-at-your-childs-next-checkup/">5 questions to ask your pediatrician at your child’s next checkup</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Brain-boosting foods for kids</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/brain-boosting-foods-for-kids/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nutrition and Lactation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29752</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC nutrition expert offers discusses nutrients that support kids' brain health and gives parents recipe ideas and tips. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/brain-boosting-foods-for-kids/">Brain-boosting foods for kids</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Foods and recipes to support your child’s brain health</h2>
<p><em>By Alyson Lawrence, clinical dietitian at CHOC</em></p>
<p>Nutrition plays an important role in the growth and development of the brain. During infancy, the brain is rapidly growing and developing, and this process continues through childhood and adolescence, continuing to become more complex and detailed.</p>
<p>It is important to maintain well-balanced nutrition to provide a wide variety of key nutrients that are essential to this process. In this article, we will review important food groups to include in your child’s nutritional intake.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key nutrients for brain development and function</h3>
<p>Nutrients can be divided into two categories: macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients important for the brain include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Carbohydrates</strong>: Provide the brain and body with a readily available energy source and is the brain’s preferred fuel source.</li>
<li><strong>Protein</strong>: Important for building structures within the brain.</li>
<li><strong>Long-chain fatty acids</strong>: Helpful for brain development</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition to macronutrients, there are many micronutrients that are important too. This includes choline, iron, zinc, iodine, copper, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C and B vitamins.</p>
<p>Below is a list of foods that offer both brain powering macro and micronutrients! Including these in your child’s meal and snack times can ensure they are getting a great variety of nutritious foods.</p>
<ul>
<li>Fish (omega-3 fatty acids).</li>
<li>Eggs.</li>
<li>Yogurt and other calcium-containing products.</li>
<li>Berries.</li>
<li>Dark, leafy green vegetables.</li>
<li>Whole grains.</li>
<li>Nuts.</li>
<li>Seeds.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Meal timing for brain fuel</h3>
<p>While consuming a variety of nutrients leads to well-balanced nutrition for the brain, the timing and frequency of the meals are also important to remember.</p>
<p>Three meals and one to two snacks during the day are recommended to provide fuel to the brain and body throughout the day. While eating breakfast can be a challenge for some children, ideally having a small meal in the morning will lead to better focus and energy.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Supplements are not always needed for kids </h3>
<p>Vitamin and mineral supplements are not needed to provide brain-enhancing nutrients. If a child is consuming well balanced nutrition, eating a variety of different foods and consuming foods from all food groups.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Recipes</h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Brain-boosting breakfast egg cups</h3>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"> </h3>
<p><strong>Ingredients for egg base:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>10 large eggs</li>
<li>1/2 cup cottage cheese</li>
<li>1/4 cup milk</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon black pepper</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Add ins</strong>: Customize your egg cups by adding veggies such as tomato and dark leafy greens. Or try adding proteins like turkey bacon or sausage.</p>
<p><strong>Directions:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Whisk eggs in a bowl. Add in cottage cheese, milk and seasonings.</li>
<li>Stir in your selection of add-ins.</li>
<li>Pour mixture into muffin tin.</li>
<li>Bake in oven at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes.</li>
</ol>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Superpower snack: Brain-power berry parfait </h3>
<p><strong>Ingredients:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>1 cup of yogurt of choice</li>
<li>½ cup of berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)</li>
<li>½ cup of granola of choice (*tip: choose granolas that are lower in added sugars)</li>
<li>½ banana sliced</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Directions:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Place yogurt in bowl.</li>
<li>Add granola, berries, and banana slices to top.</li>
<li>Serve and enjoy!</li>
</ol>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Learn more about CHOC’s Clinical Nutrition Program</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>At CHOC, we specialize in providing a full continuum of pediatric nutrition services, including inpatient and outpatient services, depending on our patients’ needs.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/nutrition/">Visit CHOC.org</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/brain-boosting-foods-for-kids/">Brain-boosting foods for kids</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>5 coping skills to help stressed-out teens</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/5-coping-skills-to-help-stressed-out-teens/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 06 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Sheila Modir]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29620</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>In a video made just for teens, a CHOC Mental Health expert offers five strategies for stress relief and coping.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/5-coping-skills-to-help-stressed-out-teens/">5 coping skills to help stressed-out teens</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>By <a href="https://www.choc.org/providers/psychology/modir-sheila-ph-d/">Dr. Sheila Modir</a>, pediatric psychologist at CHO</em>C</p>
<p>Adolescence can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster ride – the ups, downs, twists, and turns that can really throw a teen off. The rollercoaster ride can include the pressure of academics, family conflict, making and maintaining friendships and finding who you are throughout all this turbulence – it can be a lot! </p>
<p>However, amid these challenges, there exists a treasure trove of coping skills inside of us that can serve as valuable tools to tap into to help teens feel better.</p>
<p>Take a few minutes to watch this video and then we can delve deeper into understanding each of these coping skills:</p>
<script src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/o4dm77nU-KfZkOwgg.js"></script>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ask yourself, “How do I feel today?”</h3>
<p>First, this video had you check in with yourself to see how you were feeling. Understanding our emotions is the first step in coping. When we are experiencing many feelings at once, learning to identify and label them – whether it’s anxiety, anger, or joy – can be empowering. </p>
<p>Dr. Dan Siegel, award-winning educator and psychiatrist, once said, “We must name our emotions in order to tame our emotions.” </p>
<p>For example, if you can label the feeling you are experiencing as anxiety, then you can acknowledge it and practice a coping tool that makes you feel better when you are anxious.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Repeat a daily mantra </h3>
<p>The next coping skill highlighted was tapping into the power of positive mantras. Finding your own mantra or using one that was in this video can impact your mindset. These statements can serve as your beacon of strength during tough times, reinforcing your capability and determination. In fact, there is <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4814782/">research</a> that shows that affirmations can help decrease stress, increase wellbeing, and improve academic performance! </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Take five minutes to write in your journal daily </h3>
<p>Journaling is a time where we can jot down our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Journaling holds a lot of power as it helps us organize our thoughts, gain clarity as we write, and shows us patterns of how we behave and react during certain situations. </p>
<p>One <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0197455605000699?via%3Dihub">research</a> study found that journaling or drawing about a stressful event two times a day, for one week, helped reduce depression, anxiety, and anger. The video provides some journaling prompts, but you can also journal about your day or whatever is on your mind.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Use a distraction strategy to help yourself calm down </h3>
<p>Next, the video features a distraction technique that uses your five senses. Other distraction techniques include remembering song lyrics, counting backwards from 100 by intervals of 3 (100, 97, 94….), or finding all the things that are blue in the room you are in. </p>
<p>Techniques such as these help in redirecting your attention away from overwhelming thoughts and emotions.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Use the S-T-O-P skill </h3>
<p>Finally, the video ends with introducing the S-T-O-P skill. STOP stands for: </p>
<ul>
<li>S – Stop. </li>
<li>T – Take a step back. </li>
<li>O – Observe. </li>
<li>P – Proceed manually. </li>
</ul>
<p>This is a valuable tool from the evidence-based practice called dialectical behavior therapy and encourages you to pause during big emotions. By stopping, taking a deep breath, and observing how you are feeling, you can proceed a little more mindfully as opposed to reacting with intensity. You can take a moment to identify the feeling, acknowledge it, and then choose how you want to move forward and focus on what makes you happy and calm, as opposed to continuing down a path that is upsetting.</p>
<p>Practicing these coping skills won’t get rid of all the stress and pressure you are experiencing – that is the rollercoaster ride called life, BUT it can help equip you with the tools you need to make this rollercoaster ride less bumpy and more in your control. </p>
<p>The biggest key is to practice these skills consistently. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to these coping skills so find the ones that work for you and practice them at least once a day. You’ve got this!</p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Get mental health resources from CHOC pediatric experts</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>The mental health team at CHOC curated the following resources on mental health topics common to kids and teens, such as depression, anxiety, suicide prevention and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://choc.org/mental-health/">View the mental health guides</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/5-coping-skills-to-help-stressed-out-teens/">5 coping skills to help stressed-out teens</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to validate your child’s feelings: Six steps for parents and caregivers</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/how-to-validate-your-childs-feelings-six-steps-for-parents-and-caregivers/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr. Vicky Bouche]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://health.choc.org/?p=29736</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A CHOC mental health expert offers tips to parents for validating their kids and teens' feelings to make sure they feel heard. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/how-to-validate-your-childs-feelings-six-steps-for-parents-and-caregivers/">How to validate your child’s feelings: Six steps for parents and caregivers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Advice for making sure your children feel heard and respected</h2>
<p><em>By Dr. Vicky Bouche, pediatric psychologist at CHOC</em></p>
<p>There are a lot of good ways to validate others and there are also some things we want to avoid. However, something I want to highlight is that we are all different in the way we want to be supported and validated by others.</p>
<p>So, if you are searching to improve your relationship with your child, I highly recommend reaching out and asking them how you can support and validate them.</p>
<p>Here’s an example of how to start that conversation: “Hey, I am working on better listening and understanding your thoughts and feelings. I’ve been reading this article about how to validate others. Is there a specific way you like to be supported when you are struggling? Is there a better way I can respond when you share your problems with me?”</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">6 steps for parents: How to validate your child or teen’s feelings</h3>
<p>Your child may or may not already know what is helpful for them. If they don’t, here is what I recommend:</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Step 1: Actively listen.</h4>
<p>Make time to be fully present in the conversation. This will look different for everyone, but here are a few suggestions: work on making good eye contact, nodding and following along with other non-verbal cues, setting aside distractions for now (bye, buzzing phone!), and asking open-ended questions. </p>
<p>For example, try asking: “What’s been going on? What are you struggling with? Tell me more. How are you feeling?”</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Step 2: Be mindful of your reactions.</h4>
<p>Notice how you feel in those moments. Is it hard for you to hear your child struggle with problems? Do you try to make jokes to help yourself feel better? Do you react by sighing or rolling your eyes? A lot of people also jump straight to problem-solving.</p>
<p>Your child is struggling, so you start giving them suggestions (e.g., did you sleep enough last night? Did you eat enough? Maybe you’re spending too much time on your phone?). However, we probably don’t know enough about the situation to suggest things yet and our loved one may just want to vent.</p>
<p>Also, we sometimes may say things to try to help our child feel better (e.g., “maybe this is for the best,” “don’t worry about it,” “it’s going to be okay”) which end up feeling invalidating. Try to notice if you have the tendency to jump toward problem-solving or reassurance instead of listening to your loved one.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Step 3: Try to read between the lines.</h4>
<p>Try to understand what your child is feeling and look for a word that describes the feeling. </p>
<p>If someone says, “I am being bullied at school and it sucks,” think about what emotions they might be feeling. </p>
<p>They might feel sad, angry, stressed, or overwhelmed.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Step 4: Reflect your child’s feelings back to them without judgment<strong>.</strong></h4>
<p>The goal is to show your child we understand and that their feelings are valid. These are a few simple phrases we can use that will help our loved one know we are trying to understand them:</p>
<ul>
<li>“It sounds like you are having a tough time right now.” </li>
<li>“That sounds really difficult.” </li>
<li>“It makes a lot of sense that you are feeling upset.” </li>
<li>“Anyone going through what you are going through would feel that way.”</li>
</ul>
<p>What about validating ourselves? This is simple to say, but harder to believe. </p>
<p>Try: “I have a right to feel this way.” </p>
<p>If you are tempted to add in a “but,” think about what your kindest friend would tell you instead.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Step 5: Take perspective.</h4>
<p>Try to understand why your child’s feelings, thoughts, or behaviors make sense given the situation or their history. You do not have to agree with what they are saying or with the situation to do this.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Step 6: Take your child’s feelings seriously.</h4>
<p>Try to show, in your response, that you are taking your child seriously with your words and your behavior. Like we discussed before, reflecting on how they are feeling can be a great start (e.g., “That sounds awful”)<em>.</em> </p>
<p>You may also want to ask your loved one what they need: “What can I do to help right now? Do you want me to listen or to help you problem-solve?”</p>
<p>If someone is crying, give them a tissue. If they like hugs, give them a hug. Explore with your child ways that you can support them. Some of my favorite and simplest ways my family has supported me when I was struggling was giving me a special written note about how much they cared about me, a care package (when I lived far away), or spending time with me (a special family meal, going on a walk).</p>
<p>Also, consider that in every culture, support and acceptance may look different.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Why should we validate our children?</strong></h3>
<p>That’s the big question: Why is it so important to validate our children? There are several reasons. </p>
<p>First and foremost, validation is a way of telling another person that their feelings, thoughts, and actions make sense and are acceptable. Validating others can help improve our relationships with our family members. By validating our youth (and ourselves), we help our children feel safe and comfortable sharing their experiences with us.</p>
<p>Secondly, validation is a way of telling our family members (and others!) that we support them; it gives our youth the opportunity to explore and manage their emotions. By validating our youth, we can build empathy and better understand each other’s perspectives. Validation shows that we are listening, that we understand, that we are not there to judge and that we care about them.</p>
<p>Finally, validation can help all parties feel heard and understood during a disagreement, which helps deescalate conflict! Here is an important note: validating our children does <em>not</em> mean that we agree with what they are feeling, thinking or doing. It just means that we understand where they are coming from.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Let’s practice our validation steps</strong></h3>
<p>Validation is easy to talk about and can be harder to use, especially if things are already a little rocky within your relationship. The good news is that practice makes us better. It takes a lot of practice and communication to figure out how to validate others (and ourselves).</p>
<p>So, here is one example of a conversation I’ve had recently:</p>
<p>My niece recently let me know she has been struggling at school. During this conversation, I am working on active listening. I am nodding, making good eye contact, and trying to ask a few open-ended questions. When she starts crying, I find some tissues. In my head, I am also working on taking perspective. We are a week or two from her finals period (so that’s stressful!) and she has been having some other issues with friends.</p>
<p>First, I try to reflect on the feelings she’s experiencing and then see how she wants to be supported. I say:</p>
<p>“That sounds so stressful! Especially with finals coming up and everything else you have been through these last few weeks. I think anyone in your shoes would be feeling overwhelmed right now. How can I help you? Would you prefer that I listen to what you are going through or offer solutions?” </p>
<p>She tells me she’d like me to just listen, and she goes on to tell me some other reasons why this situation is stressful for her.</p>
<p>For some of us, that conversation might feel frustrating. It might feel like we didn’t make any progress. My niece is still struggling at school, and we didn’t come up with any solutions. However, my niece is learning that I am a safe person to talk to and that I am here to listen when she needs help. By giving her the chance to talk through her problems, she gains a better understanding of herself and her emotions.</p>
<p>Here is another, very important example I want us to go through: the moment when our loved one says something we<em> really </em>don’t agree with. For example, I hear these comments a lot from teenagers: ”I am ugly” or “You hate me.”</p>
<p>Remember, we do not need to agree with the statements to validate someone’s feelings. Our goal is to try to take perspective (step 5), read between the lines (step 3), reflect the person’s feelings back to them without judgment (step 4), and take their experience seriously (step 6).</p>
<p>When your teenager says those statements, they might feel angry, upset, or anxious. We can tell them: </p>
<p>“I hear you; it sounds like you are struggling with your self-esteem right now” or “It must feel awful to feel like I hate you; what makes you feel that way?”<em> </em></p>
<p>Try to take some of those validating steps and resist the temptation to brush away their statements or solve them (e.g., “You’re not ugly; “I don’t hate you.”).</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Validating your kids can be hard, and that’s OK!</strong></h3>
<p>I hope this article has given you a chance to better understand what validation is, how to do it, and why it is so important. I mentioned it before, and I will repeat it now: it can be very hard to validate our youth in a way that is nonjudgmental and helps them feel accepted. It takes a lot of practice.</p>
<p>Here is my challenge and homework for you: reach out to your children or family members and ask them how they like to be supported and accepted by you. Let them know you are working on validating and supporting them. If you have the courage, ask them what responses or reactions you have given in the past that have been helpful and unhelpful.</p>
<p>Of course, if you have read about and tried a variety of validation techniques but continue to struggle with communicating with your children (or validating yourself), consider reaching out for help from a <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/mental-health/">mental health professional</a>. </p>
<p>Good luck on your validation journey!</p>
<p>Get more expert health advice delivered to your inbox monthly by subscribing to the KidsHealth newsletter <a href="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter" data-type="URL" data-id="https://chocmarketing.formstack.com/forms/sign_up_for_kids_health_newsletter">here</a>. </p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Get mental health resources from CHOC pediatric experts</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>The mental health team at CHOC curated the following resources on mental health topics common to kids and teens, such as depression, anxiety, suicide prevention and more.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="https://choc.org/mental-health/">View the mental health guides</a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/how-to-validate-your-childs-feelings-six-steps-for-parents-and-caregivers/">How to validate your child’s feelings: Six steps for parents and caregivers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why you should consider becoming a blood donor</title>
<link>https://health.choc.org/becoming-blood-donor/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[CHOC]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Blood donations]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://health.choc.org/?p=13336</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>January is National Blood Donor Month. But at CHOC, blood donations are needed all year long. For more information call: 714-509-8339</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/becoming-blood-donor/">Why you should consider becoming a blood donor</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>January is National Blood Donor Month, but at CHOC, blood donations are needed all year long. All donations made at CHOC stay here to help patients (<a href="https://health.choc.org/blood-donors-appreciated-by-choc-patients-like-joshua/">like Joshua</a>) in need. </p>
<p>Learn more about becoming a blood donor below, and call 714-509-8339 to reach <a href="https://www.choc.org/programs-services/blood-donor-services/">CHOC’s Blood & Donor Services</a> to make an appointment.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Donating blood or platelets at CHOC is easy</h3>
<p>Donating blood takes four simple steps:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Registration. </strong>You will sign up and go over eligibility.</li>
<li><strong>A mini physical.</strong> Your health will be evaluated, and you will answer a few questions.</li>
<li><strong>The blood donation.</strong> It will only take about eight to ten minutes.</li>
<li><strong>Refreshments.</strong> You’ll get a snack and drink following your donation.</li>
</ol>
<p>Get answers to frequently asked questions about donating blood. </p>
<div style="background-color:#e5eff5" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content"><div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="400" height="1000" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3-400x1000.png" alt="Why you should be a blood donor at CHOC - infographic with facts about blood donations" class="wp-image-29694" style="width:552px;height:auto" srcset="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3-400x1000.png 400w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3-192x480.png 192w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3-96x240.png 96w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3-768x1920.png 768w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3-614x1536.png 614w, https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Copy-of-blood-donor-infographic-3.png 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></figure></div></div></div></div>
<a href="https://health.choc.org/handout/how-to-donate-blood-at-choc/" class="link-to-handout">
<img decoding="async" src="https://health.choc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/printer.png" alt="printer icon"> <strong>Print this</strong></a>
<p><em>Content on this page was reviewed by Tristian Bone, RN, CHOC Blood and Donor Services </em></p>
<hr class="print">
<div style="background-color:#0064a4" class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container alignfull cta gb-block-container"><div class="gb-container-inside"><div class="gb-container-content" style="max-width:1140px">
<div style="height:35px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-columns gb-layout-columns-2 gb-2-col-wideleft"><div class="gb-layout-column-wrap gb-block-layout-column-gap-2 gb-is-responsive-column">
<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<p class="no-bottom-space has-text-color cta-heading" style="color:#ffffff;font-size:26px"><strong>Make an appointment to donate blood to the patients at CHOC</strong></p>


<p class="no-top-space has-text-color" style="color:#e5eff5"><strong>You can have a direct impact on the recovery of a child. Your blood donation gives children a better chance at a healthy life.</strong></p>
</div></div>


<div class="wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-column gb-block-layout-column"><div class="gb-block-layout-column-inner">
<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>


<div class="wp-block-buttons">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-theme-secondary-background-color has-background" href="tel:17145098339">Call 714-509-8339 </a></div>
</div>
</div></div>
</div></div>


<div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
</div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://health.choc.org/becoming-blood-donor/">Why you should consider becoming a blood donor</a> appeared first on <a href="https://health.choc.org">CHOC - Children's health hub</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
</item>
</channel>
</rss>

If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:

Download the "valid RSS" banner.
Upload the image to your own server. (This step is important. Please do not link directly to the image on this server.)
Add this HTML to your page (change the image src attribute if necessary):

<a href="http://www.feedvalidator.org/check.cgi?url=http%3A//blog.chocchildrens.org/feed/"><img src="valid-rss-rogers.png" alt="[Valid RSS]" title="Validate my RSS feed" /></a>

If you would like to create a text link instead, here is the URL you can use:

http://www.feedvalidator.org/check.cgi?url=http%3A//blog.chocchildrens.org/feed/

Home · About · News · Docs · Terms