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
Painless bandage removal - Helpmommy.com's Dr. James and Stunt Baby show how to painlessly remove the adhesive-type bandages. This is one of the most…
The Common Cold - The common cold in children is usually a mild illness that can be treated with simple home remedies. Here are…
Preventing Shampoo Eye Burn - This is a great little item to prevent your baby or small child from getting shampoo eye burn. Makes bath…
Understanding the Hepatitis B Vaccine - Hepatitis B is a serious and potentially life-threatening virus that affects the liver. It is preventable through vaccination, and the…
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.…
Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System - Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is a national program that was developed to monitor the safety of vaccines. The…
Your Baby’s Two Week Well Visit - Time for your baby's two week well visit or physical.  What should you expect, what should you ask and what…
SIDS: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome - SIDS: 4 letters that strike fear into the heart of every new parent. The thought of losing your baby while…
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…
Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum - Molluscum Contagiosum is a common skin condition that affects children and can be quite contagious. It is caused by a…
Toddler: 1-3 Years
Choosing the RIGHT underwear for potty training - When it's time to transition your child from diapers to underwear, it's important to make a big deal out of…
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…
The Truth About Pressure Equalization Tubes - Pressure equalization tubes, also known as PE tubes, are commonly used to treat children with recurrent ear infections. Although they…
Mommy Minute: Hats: A Head in Protection - Wearing hats is an important part of protecting kids from the sun's harmful rays and other elements. Hats: A head…
When to see a doctor for a sore throat? - When to see a doctor for a sore throat? A sore throat can be an uncomfortable and painful experience for…
Mommy Minute: Boiling Water For Formula - Preparing formula for your baby is an important task. Boiling water, for formula, is one of the necessary steps in…
When to see a doctor over a headache? - When to see a doctor over a headache? Knowing when a child's headache is serious enough to warrant a doctor's…
Understanding Leg Pain - Leg pain in kids is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, including growth spurts,…
Preschooler: 3-5 Years
Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis) - Kidney infection in children is an alarming medical condition that can cause severe health issues if not treated properly. It…
Healthy Snacks - As parents, we want to ensure that our children are getting the nutrition and energy they need to grow and…
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…
Understanding Bladder Infections - Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs), are a common health concern among children, with nearly 8% of…
Mommy Minute: Walking Safety - Teaching your kids the basics of walking safety is an important part of parenting. It is essential to equip kids…
Mommy Minute: Anemia Symptoms - Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Anemia symptoms can…
What is a Sprain? - A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones…
Child: 6-10 Years
The Mommy Minute: Mosquito Bite Treatment - Hate mosquitos? The best way to stop the itching is to prevent it from being bitten in the first place!…
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.…
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…
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine - The influenza (flu) vaccine is an important tool in helping to protect kids from the risks of the flu. It…
Mommy Minute: Anemia Symptoms - Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Anemia symptoms can…
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…
Pinworm & the Butt Itch - The most common symptom of pinworms is an itchy rectal area (butt itch). Symptoms are worse at night when the…
The Truth About Pressure Equalization Tubes - Pressure equalization tubes, also known as PE tubes, are commonly used to treat children with recurrent ear infections. Although they…
When to see the doctor if your child is peeing a lot? - When to see the doctor if your child is peeing a lot? If your child is peeing more frequently than…
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…
Preteen: 10-13 Years
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?…
Understanding Leg Pain - Leg pain in kids is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, including growth spurts,…
Malicious Potty Accidents - Bedwetting is a common problem among children, and it can be a source of guilt and shame for them. While…
Why Give Your Child Multivitamins? - Delivered by a parent with instant accusation, “Why do I need to give my child a multivitamin?” “I don’t have…
Ear Infections and Ear Pain - Ear infections and ear pain are common in kids and can lead to a lot of discomfort. It is important…
The Mommy Minute: Firework Safety - Having fun with fireworks begins with safety! In today's Mommy Minute, Dr. Cliff James, MD, founder of HelpMommy.com and head…
When to see a doctor for a cough? - When to see a doctor for a cough? Coughing is a normal part of life, but there are times when…
Mommy Minute: Dry Drowning - Dry Drowning is a real danger, but is it all that the media makes it out to be? Pediatrician, Dr.…
When to See the Doctor for Ear Pain? - Ear pain can be caused by a variety of conditions and can range from mild to severe. Knowing when to…
Gran’ MawMaw’s Good Advice: Cure for warts - Old Wives' Tales cover many topics, Grandmama chooses the topic of how to cure warts in this video
Teenager: 13-18 Years
Bed Wetting Troubleshooting - Bed wetting is a common problem that can cause distress for both children and their parents. It can be caused…
Why does my Child have Night Terrors? - Terrorizing, horrific, pulse-pounding panic are the first feelings you experience in your child’s Night Terrors. They are probably one of…
What is a Sprain? - A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones…
Post Braces Top 3 Tips - After getting braces, it is important to take extra care to ensure that the treatment is successful. Here are Post…
Mommy Minute: Chiggers - Chiggers are tiny, red mites that can cause a lot of discomfort if they get on your skin. These pests…
Ear Infections and Ear Pain - Ear infections and ear pain are common in kids and can lead to a lot of discomfort. It is important…
Top 10 Ways Your Child Can Succeed in School - Every parent wants the best for their child, especially when it comes to their education. As a pediatrician, I have…
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…
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…
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Scroll to find topics by Age below

Understanding Learning Modalities - Learning modalities are the different ways in which our kids learn. Every child is unique, so it's important to understand…
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…
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…
Gran’ MawMaw’s Good Advice: Thrush Mouth - Grandmama's homespun advice on how to cure Thrush Mouth and Dr. James tries to explain...could it happen.
Pertussis Vaccine (Whooping Cough) - Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system of children. It…
Rotavirus Vaccine - Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting in infants and young children. Although it…
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…
Mommy Minute: Tetanus concerns - Tetanus is a serious medical condition that can have devastating consequences for children. It is caused by a bacteria found…
favorite visit | Newborn My Favorite Visit | Newborns - Pediatricians love newborn well visits because they provide an opportunity to build a relationship with the child and family from…
Mommy Minute: Walking Safety - Teaching your kids the basics of walking safety is an important part of parenting. It is essential to equip kids…
Seasonal Allergies! - Seasonal allergies can make you suffer with constant runny nose, sneezing, cough, headache, congestion and just feeling terrible.  Springtime and…
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…
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine - The influenza (flu) vaccine is an important tool in helping to protect kids from the risks of the flu. It…
Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum - Molluscum Contagiosum is a common skin condition that affects children and can be quite contagious. It is caused by a…
Umbilical Hernia - Umbilical hernia is a type of abdominal wall defect that occurs when part of the intestine or other tissue protrudes…
Mommy Minute: Anemia Symptoms - Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Anemia symptoms can…
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…
Mommy Minute: When to teach your children to swim - Swimming is a life skill that every child should learn. It is not only important for safety, but it can…
Potty Training Relapse (Having accidents after being potty trained) - Potty training can be a difficult process for both parents and children. It can take a long time to achieve…
Seat Mat Automotive Protectors - Seat Mat Automotive Protectors are the perfect solution for keeping your car's upholstery looking like new. These protectors provide a…
Hitting the target: Sometimes it requires an actual target - Potty training boys can be a challenge, but with the right target it can be made easier. A target is…
Your Child’s 5 Year Old Well Visit - Well visit 5 years is an important evaluation of a child's development, especially when they are getting ready to enter…
When to See the Doctor for Vomiting and Diarrhea? - When to See the Doctor for Vomiting and Diarrhea? Vomiting and diarrhea are two of the most common symptoms of…
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…
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…
Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) - Do you have a kiddo with a red, pink, draining eye? There are lots of reasons for a pink eye.…
Mommy Minute: Anemia Symptoms - Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Anemia symptoms can…
The Pee and Poop connection - Potty training is an important milestone for young children, and understanding the pee and poop connection is key to success.…
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…
Dental Water Pick - A dental water pick is an essential tool for anyone looking to maintain their oral health. It helps remove plaque…
When to see a doctor for a sore throat? - When to see a doctor for a sore throat? A sore throat can be an uncomfortable and painful experience for…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Understanding Bladder Infections - Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs), are a common health concern among children, with nearly 8% of…
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…
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.…
When to see the doctor if your child is peeing a lot? - When to see the doctor if your child is peeing a lot? If your child is peeing more frequently than…
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…
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…
Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) - Do you have a kiddo with a red, pink, draining eye? There are lots of reasons for a pink eye.…
Bed Wetting Troubleshooting - Bed wetting is a common problem that can cause distress for both children and their parents. It can be caused…
Mommy Minute: Hats: A Head in Protection - Wearing hats is an important part of protecting kids from the sun's harmful rays and other elements. Hats: A head…
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…
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…
Meningococcus Vaccine - Meningococcus vaccine is an important tool in protecting against meningococcal disease, a bacterial infection that can cause severe illness and…
Mommy Minute: Dry Drowning - Dry Drowning is a real danger, but is it all that the media makes it out to be? Pediatrician, Dr.…
The Mommy Minute: Mosquito Bite Treatment - Hate mosquitos? The best way to stop the itching is to prevent it from being bitten in the first place!…
When to see a doctor for a cough? - When to see a doctor for a cough? Coughing is a normal part of life, but there are times when…
The Mommy Minute: Vaping - Is vaping dangerous? Dr. Cliff James, MD, author of A First-Time Parents Survival Guide and founder of HelpMommy.com gives us…
The Mommy Minute: College Prep for Teens - Our kids get older seemingly overnight and before we know it they are looking at colleges. It happened to me…
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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