Parenting teens is amazing–and challenging. We want to protect and guide them while giving them the independence they need as they move into adulthood. As parents, we should let them navigate social situations while providing support, often behind the scenes. Listening and communication are some of the most important ways to support our teens. But sometimes, we need to be … [Read more...]

Today’s parents and teens have a lot on their plates. Many of our young patients and their parents have concerns about starting their periods, especially with early puberty on the rise. Girls worry about navigating periods with school, sports and other activities. And parents worry about the emotional impact this transition can bring. While every individual’s body and … [Read more...]

We’re all looking forward to a fun and restful summer. Keeping our kids hydrated is one of the best ways to stay happy and healthy during the summer months. But how much water do kids need–and how can I make sure they’re getting enough? The human body is around 60 percent water–so keeping fluid levels balanced is essential to good health. When your body loses more … [Read more...]

Vaping among teens is nothing short of an epidemic. According to the CDC, nearly 20 percent of high school students and 5 percent of middle school students reported using e-cigarettes in 2020. With appealing flavors like candy and bubble gum marketed to children, combined with peer pressure, it can be challenging to say no. Awareness and communication are vital tools in … [Read more...]

Spring has sprung, and we’re all dreaming of summer fun. Community and private pools will be opening soon, and we’re planning family trips to lakes and beaches. But if children can’t swim, our favorite summer activities can become sources of stress and danger. Swim lessons are one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. According to the CDC, drowning is the … [Read more...]

We’re living in stressful times, and our kids are feeling it. Last fall, a coalition of leading pediatric medical groups declared a national emergency in child and adolescent mental health. We know that many of the stresses our children are experiencing were in place before the pandemic. However, social isolation and a sense of loss have added to existing mental health … [Read more...]

Click here to read the latest LPA updates regarding COVID-19 As Coronavirus makes headlines and makes its way to the Mid-Atlantic, local families are understandably anxious. For most parents, the big concern is whether their kids are at risk for infection. Coronavirus is proving tricky to get a handle on because the illness manifests so differently in different … [Read more...]