Spina bifida is a birth defect that happens when a baby’s backbone (spine) does not form normally. As a result, the spinal cord and the nerves that branch out of it may be damaged. The term spina bifida comes from Latin and literally means “split” or “open” spine. This defect …
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Support for Parents of Kids With Special Needs
When most parents think of the juggling act involved in raising a family, they think of coordinating soccer games with ballet practice and grocery shopping. But if you’re a parent of a child who is sick or has special needs, your schedule likely involves doctor’s visits, therapy sessions, and waiting …
Taking Care of You: Support for Caregivers
If your child has a serious illness, the caretaking that falls to you is undoubtedly intense. But of course you do it willingly. After all, you’d do anything for your child, including switching places in a minute if only that were possible. Instead you give all that you can, in …
When Your Baby Has a Birth Defect
If your child has a birth defect, you might be feeling overwhelmed and unprepared. But you’re not alone — about 120,000 babies are born in the United States each year with birth defects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s important to know that many people and …
When Your Baby’s in the NICU
New parents eagerly look forward to bringing their baby home, so it can be frightening if your newborn needs to be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). At first it may seem like a foreign place, but understanding the NICU and what goes on there can help ease …
When Your Child’s in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
It can be stressful whenever kids are in the hospital — and even more so when they’re admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). But a basic understanding of the people and equipment in the PICU can help you feel better prepared to help your child recover. What’s the …
Do My Kids Need Vaccines Before Traveling?
We’ll be taking a big family vacation in a couple of months. Do my kids need to get any special immunizations before we go? – Doriana If you plan to travel abroad or internationally it’s possible that your children — and you — will need additional vaccinations. Different countries have …
How Can I Comfort My Baby During Shots?
My baby cries uncontrollably when she gets a shot. Is there anything I can do to make the experience less traumatic for her? – KateGetting shots can be tough on you and your child, but the benefits are worth the effort. Fortunately, you can do a few things to make …
Vaccines & Antibiotics: A Safe Combo?
I’ve heard that children who are taking antibiotics for an illness — like an ear infection — should not get a vaccine at the same time. Is this true? – Ishani Not usually. For the vast majority of kids, taking antibiotics for a mild illness (like an ear infection) shouldn’t …
Your Child’s Immunizations
Babies are born with protection against certain diseases because antibodies from their mothers were passed to them through the placenta. After birth, breastfed babies get the continued benefits of additional antibodies in breast milk. But in both cases, the protection is temporary. Immunization (vaccination) is a way of creating immunity …