Ages & Stages

Raising children can be a daunting task. It’s important to provide them with the right guidance and support in order to help them grow into well-rounded individuals.  We provide tips and answers for every age and stage with guidance to nurture their physical, emotional, mental and social development, as well as how to best prepare them for the future.

Navigate to select topics by Age below

Baby: 0-12 months
Cats Breath Gran’ MawMaw’s Good Advice: cats stealing your baby’s breath - Discussing an Old Wives' Tale about cats stealing the breath from babies and causing them to die - ...
A child reads a tablet under a sheet possibly incurring the negative effects of screen time. Striking a Healthy Balance: Understanding the Impact of Screen Time on Children - In today's digital age, screens have become an integral part of our lives, offering endless opportunities for entertainment, education, and… - ...
1988400 Why do we treat Strep Throat - Swamp-toed, web-footed disease is a condition that requires immediate action before irreparable damage can set in. Some believe its effects… - ...
Pets with babies shows a small baby in a blue shirt with a fluffy white dog. Should You Have Pets with Babies? - Deciding to have pets when you have a baby is a complex and personal decision that can have both benefits… - ...
Newborn rashes depicted by gradients of yellow, brown, and blue. Common Types of Newborn Rashes - Understanding Newborn Skin: A Guide to Common Types of Rashes in Babies In the first month of a baby’s life,… - ...
A board game spinner indicates choosing a pediatrician. How to choose a doctor for your baby? - Welcome to our guide on choosing a pediatrician for your baby! Selecting the right healthcare provider for your little one… - ...
A child suffering from the common cold sneezes into a handkerchief. The Common Cold - The common cold in children is usually a mild illness that can be treated with simple home remedies. Here are… - ...
Toddler: 1-3 Years
Battery powered nasal aspirator. HelpMommy Hack: Battery Powered Nasal Aspirator - Battery Powered Nasal Aspirator Dr. James doesn’t always recommend specific products, but today he is sharing one he personally uses… - ...
3 Scariest Things The 3 scariest things that terrify a Pediatrician - As a Pediatrician, we often face the daunting task of having to deal with some of the scariest and most… - ...
Mommy Minute Brain Eating Amoeba The Mommy Minute: Do I need to fear the brain eating amoeba? - Is it true? Is there really such a thing as a "Brain Eating Amoeba" and should we be concerned? Well… - ...
A seal with a speech bubble saying "bark, bark" with croup written over the image. What is Croup? - Croup is a respiratory illness that typically affects young children. It is caused by a viral infection that leads to… - ...
Top 5 Things Getting in the Way of Your Potty Training Top 5 Things Getting in the Way of Your Potty Training! - Potty training can be a difficult process, and it takes time and patience to get it right. However, there are… - ...
A child suffering from the common cold sneezes into a handkerchief. The Common Cold - The common cold in children is usually a mild illness that can be treated with simple home remedies. Here are… - ...
Sunburns on children running along the beach. The Mommy Minute: Sunburns on Children - 60 seconds on what common and uncommon symptoms of sunburns can be in children. What can you do to make… - ...
Preschooler: 3-5 Years
A mother sits on a bed comforting a child that suffers from night terrors. 10 Ways to Help Your Kid with Night Terrors - Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, are a common sleep disorder among children. They typically occur during deep non-REM… - ...
Head lice. Tips and Tricks for Treating Lice - Lice can be a real itch No one loves creepy-crawlies, but bugs are a fact of life. The worst types… - ...
Leaves on a tree with the letters RSV in them. Understanding RSV - RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It is a common respiratory virus that can cause mild to severe respiratory illness,… - ...
Auto Flushing toilets are scary Auto-Flushing toilets are scary! - Potty training can be a challenging time for parents and children alike. One of the most daunting parts of the… - ...
Bed Wetting Troubleshooting Bed Wetting Troubleshooting - Bed wetting is a common problem that can cause distress for both children and their parents. It can be caused… - ...
Guilt associated with Bed Wetting Guilt associated with Bed Wetting - Guilt associated with Bed Wetting. Bed wetting is a common problem among children, but it can also be a source… - ...
A diagram of the inner ear canal to illustrate ear infections and ear pain. Ear Infections and Ear Pain - Ear infections and ear pain are common conditions that can affect people of all ages. While many cases of ear… - ...
Preventing pee from exiting between the seat and the bowl Preventing pee from exiting between the seat and the bowl - Keeping a toilet clean and hygienic is a priority for every parent. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to keep your… - ...
Fever Why do Fevers Happen at Night? - As a pediatrician the question, “Why do they always get a fever at night?” is heard frequently. Other than your… - ...
Child: 6-10 Years
Choosing the RIGHT potty for your child Choosing the RIGHT potty for your child - What the best potty for your child, the one he or she loves - It's as simple as that. When… - ...
Learning Modalities Understanding Learning Modalities - Every child is unique and possesses distinct ways of perceiving, processing, and retaining information. As parents, educators, and caregivers, it… - ...
Streptococcal Pneumonia Vaccine Streptococcal Pneumonia Vaccine - Streptococcal pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can cause severe respiratory… - ...
shutterstock 2086269472 Introduction to Pediatric Vaccines - The field of pediatrics plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health and well-being of children. One of the most… - ...
Ear Pain When to See the Doctor for Ear Pain? - Ear pain is a common complaint among children and can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from mild… - ...
Mommy Minute Fidget Spinners amp Anxiety The Mommy Minute: Fidgit Spinners vs Anxiety - Fidget Spinners are all the rage among kids and their parents, but do fidget spinners help with anxiety? The Mommy… - ...
A baby sleeps in the background as a hand holds a thermometer reading "fever" for fever in kids. Fever in Kids - Fever in kids is a common symptom and is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It occurs when… - ...
Kidney Stones in Children Kidney Stones in Children - Kidney stones in children can be a painful and potentially dangerous condition if not treated properly. It is important to… - ...
How to cure a monster scare Curing your child’s fear of monsters - Kiddos commonly have a fear of monsters in their room, under their bed or in their closets. We even have… - ...
A girl with poor mental health sits in front of a couch with her hand on her forehead. The warning signs of poor mental health in kids - Recognizing the warning signs of poor mental health in children is crucial for early intervention and support. It's important to… - ...
Preteen: 10-13 Years
Bed Wetting Troubleshooting Bed Wetting Troubleshooting - Bed wetting is a common problem that can cause distress for both children and their parents. It can be caused… - ...
Color Blindness Most Likely Color Deficient Color Blindness: Most Likely Color Deficient - Color blindness is very common. A condition that affects 8% of males (about 1 out of every 12 males). This… - ...
Multiple faces of the same woman demonstrate the many moods of a temperamental teen. Why Is My Teenager So Moody? Understanding the Temperamental Teen - Wondering why your teen is so moody or temperamental? A board-certified pediatrician explains what's normal, what isn't, and how to… - ...
Quick Tip When to Bring Your Child to the Doctor for a Cold When to Bring Your Child to the Doctor for a Cold - It can be difficult to know for sure when to bring your child to the doctor for a cold. This… - ...
Ear Pain When to See the Doctor for Ear Pain? - Ear pain is a common complaint among children and can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from mild… - ...
Kids and social media shows a girl leaning up against a wall looking at her phone. Kids and Social Media – Best Practices - Kids and Social Media - Best Practices The integration of social media into the daily lives of children and teenagers… - ...
When to see a doctor for a cough When to see a doctor for a cough? - Coughing is a common symptom in children and is usually nothing to worry about. However, in some cases, a cough… - ...
Molluscum Contagiosum Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum - Molluscum Contagiosum is a common skin condition that affects children and can be quite contagious. It is caused by a… - ...
Concussion Symptoms Understanding Concussion Symptoms: What You Need to Know - Concussions are a form of mild traumatic brain injury that can occur in various situations, such as sports, falls, or… - ...
Teenager: 13-18 Years
Mommy Minute Preventing Swimmers Ear The Mommy Minute: Swimmer’s Ear Prevention and Relief - Knowing how to prevent swimmer's ear can prevent you and your baby or kids from a lot of suffering. For… - ...
Why does it hurt when my child pees Why does it hurt when my child pees? - Why does it hurt when my child pees? Every parent wants to ensure their child's comfort and safety, but sometimes… - ...
Eclipse Safety Eclipse – How to protect yourself and your kiddos! - WOW! The total eclipse of the sun has captivated our nation as the event of our lifetime, but what we… - ...
Ear Pain When to See the Doctor for Ear Pain? - Ear pain is a common complaint among children and can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from mild… - ...
Mommy Minute Heat Stroke in Football Players The Mommy Minute: Heat Stroke in Football Players - For all you football fanatics out there, young and old(er) alike, heat stroke can be deadly. In today's video, Dr.… - ...
Healthy Snacks Healthy Snacks - As parents, we want to ensure that our children are getting the nutrition and energy they need to grow and… - ...
Meningococcal Vaccine Meningococcus Vaccine - Meningococcus vaccine is an important tool in protecting against meningococcal disease, a bacterial infection that can cause severe illness and… - ...
Mommy Minute Fidget Spinners amp Anxiety The Mommy Minute: Fidgit Spinners vs Anxiety - Fidget Spinners are all the rage among kids and their parents, but do fidget spinners help with anxiety? The Mommy… - ...
Cleaning Around Braces Cleaning Around Braces - Braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to straighten teeth and correct misaligned bites. While braces can be a great… - ...
When to see a doctor over a headache When to see a doctor over a headache? - Headaches are not limited to adults; children can also experience this discomforting symptom. While most headaches in children are benign… - ...

Scroll to find topics by Age below

A child suffering from the common cold sneezes into a handkerchief. The Common Cold - The common cold in children is usually a mild illness that can be treated with simple home remedies. Here are… - ...
Battery powered nasal aspirator. HelpMommy Hack: Battery Powered Nasal Aspirator - Battery Powered Nasal Aspirator Dr. James doesn’t always recommend specific products, but today he is sharing one he personally uses… - ...
Why I am the one accidentally injuring my child? - We always try to keep our children as safe as we possibly can.  We try to be baby-proof, buy the… - ...
A baby sleeps in the background as a hand holds a thermometer reading "fever" for fever in kids. Fever in Kids - Fever in kids is a common symptom and is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It occurs when… - ...
shutterstock 2018285453 scaled e1675959632125 Why do Bad Things Happen to our kids - A parent’s plan for their children is by design and we don’t like a lot of variation from the plan.… - ...
One Month Well visit Your Baby’s One Month Well Visit - Ready for your Baby's One Month Well Visit and check-up. What is going to happen? What should our baby be… - ...
Mommy Minute In Flight Ear Popping Mommy Minute: In Flight Ear Popping - In flight ear popping is a common issue for kids while flying. When the air pressure changes during takeoff and… - ...
Ear Pain When to See the Doctor for Ear Pain? - Ear pain is a common complaint among children and can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from mild… - ...
Learning Modalities Understanding Learning Modalities - Every child is unique and possesses distinct ways of perceiving, processing, and retaining information. As parents, educators, and caregivers, it… - ...
Hiccups Why does my baby get hiccups and how do I make them stop? - Ever wonder why a baby, child or even you get hiccups? It is a spasm of your diaphragm followed by… - ...
When to see a doctor over a headache When to see a doctor over a headache? - Headaches are not limited to adults; children can also experience this discomforting symptom. While most headaches in children are benign… - ...
Streptococcal Pneumonia Vaccine Streptococcal Pneumonia Vaccine - Streptococcal pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can cause severe respiratory… - ...
1988400 Why do we treat Strep Throat - Swamp-toed, web-footed disease is a condition that requires immediate action before irreparable damage can set in. Some believe its effects… - ...
Mommy Minute In Flight Ear Popping Mommy Minute: In Flight Ear Popping - In flight ear popping is a common issue for kids while flying. When the air pressure changes during takeoff and… - ...
A girl stand in front of a green meadow blowing her nose because she suffers from seasonal allergies. Seasonal Allergies! - Seasonal allergies can make you suffer with constant runny nose, sneezing, cough, headache, congestion and just feeling terrible.  Springtime and… - ...
well visit Are those well visits really needed? - Yes! Maybe it’s easier to give you the reasons I think I need to see your child at their regularly… - ...
Wet Wipe Safety Tip Wet Wipe Safety Tip - Wet wipe safety tip: Use them when handling hot seat belts to protect your kids from getting burned. Hot seat… - ...
Mommy Minute Sunscreen Choices The Mommy Minute: Sunscreen Choices - Sunscreen Choices from HelpMommy.com and Dr. Cliff James answer the question... How to properly use sunscreen so you know when… - ...
Accidentally Injuring Your Child Accidentally Injuring Your Child - We always try to keep our children as safe as we possibly can. We try to be baby-proof, buy the… - ...
Sunburns on children running along the beach. The Mommy Minute: Sunburns on Children - 60 seconds on what common and uncommon symptoms of sunburns can be in children. What can you do to make… - ...
Mommy Minute Rethinking Video Games The Mommy Minute: Rethinking Video Games - Video games on all the electronic devices might make great babysitters, but are our kids playing too many video games?… - ...
Head lice. Tips and Tricks for Treating Lice - Lice can be a real itch No one loves creepy-crawlies, but bugs are a fact of life. The worst types… - ...
Mommy Minute In Flight Ear Popping Mommy Minute: In Flight Ear Popping - In flight ear popping is a common issue for kids while flying. When the air pressure changes during takeoff and… - ...
When to see a doctor for a sore throat When to see a doctor for a sore throat? - A sore throat is a common symptom in children and is usually caused by a viral infection. While most sore… - ...
Choosing the RIGHT potty for your child Choosing the RIGHT potty for your child - What the best potty for your child, the one he or she loves - It's as simple as that. When… - ...
Mommy Minute Walking Safety Mommy Minute: Walking Safety - Teaching your kids the basics of walking safety is an important part of parenting. It is essential to equip kids… - ...
A child suffering from the common cold sneezes into a handkerchief. The Common Cold - The common cold in children is usually a mild illness that can be treated with simple home remedies. Here are… - ...
thumbsucking no face Why is my child thumb sucking? - “Seriously, the thumb-sucking is driving me crazy!” one parent told me.  “There has got to be a way to stop… - ...
growing up Are we not giving our children a reason to grow up? - Why are we not giving our children a reason to grow up?  I will fully admit that this Why Letter… - ...
Bathroom Maintenance Stay Engaged with Your Child after Potty Training - Fantastic, your child is potty trained - mission accomplished! Well not exactly, even through your child is potty trained they… - ...
A child reads a tablet under a sheet possibly incurring the negative effects of screen time. Striking a Healthy Balance: Understanding the Impact of Screen Time on Children - In today's digital age, screens have become an integral part of our lives, offering endless opportunities for entertainment, education, and… - ...
Auto Flushing toilets are scary Auto-Flushing toilets are scary! - Potty training can be a challenging time for parents and children alike. One of the most daunting parts of the… - ...
Mommy Minute Brain Eating Amoeba Mommy Minute: Brain Eating Amoeba - Brain Eating Amoeba is a rare and potentially fatal condition caused by an amoeba called Naegleria Fowleri. This single-celled organism… - ...
Constipation from the Point of View of a Pediatrician Constipation from the Point of View of a Pediatrician - As a pediatrician, one of the most common complaints I hear from parents is about their child's constipation. Constipation is… - ...
Ear Pain When to See the Doctor for Ear Pain? - Ear pain is a common complaint among children and can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from mild… - ...
Grand Maw Maws Good Advice Warts Gran’ MawMaw’s Good Advice: Cure for warts - Throughout history, old wives' tales have been passed down from generation to generation, offering unconventional remedies for various ailments. the… - ...
Kids demonstrate youth volunteerism by carrying a recycling bin. The Mommy Minute: Youth Volunteerism - It is great to get your kids involved in their community by volunteering. We all need to be involved more… - ...
growing up Are we not giving our children a reason to grow up? - Why are we not giving our children a reason to grow up?  I will fully admit that this Why Letter… - ...
A diagram of the inner ear canal to illustrate ear infections and ear pain. Ear Infections and Ear Pain - Ear infections and ear pain are common conditions that can affect people of all ages. While many cases of ear… - ...
Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac The Mommy Minute: How to Treat Poison Ivy - In this Mommy Minute video, Dr. Cliff James teaches us what to do when we get exposed to Urushiol, the… - ...
Streptococcal Pneumonia Vaccine Streptococcal Pneumonia Vaccine - Streptococcal pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can cause severe respiratory… - ...
Sunburns on children running along the beach. The Mommy Minute: Sunburns on Children - 60 seconds on what common and uncommon symptoms of sunburns can be in children. What can you do to make… - ...
Mom Sick Child Why do we wait so long to see the doctor? - “Time is making fools of us again.” ~J.K. Rowling Seriously, if there were something I could do about this I… - ...
A girl with poor mental health sits in front of a couch with her hand on her forehead. The warning signs of poor mental health in kids - Recognizing the warning signs of poor mental health in children is crucial for early intervention and support. It's important to… - ...
Water pick Dental Water Pick - A dental water pick is an essential tool for anyone looking to maintain their oral health. It helps remove plaque… - ...
Sun Screen Reminder Sunscreen Reminder - Sunscreen is an important part of your daily routine. It helps protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays… - ...
Color Blindness Most Likely Color Deficient Color Blindness: Most Likely Color Deficient - Color blindness is very common. A condition that affects 8% of males (about 1 out of every 12 males). This… - ...
When to see your doctor if your child is wheezing When to see your doctor if your child is wheezing? - Wheezing is a common respiratory symptom in children and can be caused by a variety of conditions. It is a… - ...
Why does it hurt when my child pees Why does it hurt when my child pees? - Why does it hurt when my child pees? Every parent wants to ensure their child's comfort and safety, but sometimes… - ...
What is a Sprain What is a Sprain? - A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones… - ...
Mommy Minute Chiggers Mommy Minute: Chiggers - Chiggers are tiny, red mites that can cause a lot of discomfort if they get on your skin. These pests… - ...
Concussion Symptoms Understanding Concussion Symptoms: What You Need to Know - Concussions are a form of mild traumatic brain injury that can occur in various situations, such as sports, falls, or… - ...
Fever Why do Fevers Happen at Night? - As a pediatrician the question, “Why do they always get a fever at night?” is heard frequently. Other than your… - ...

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