Diagnosing and Treating Kids with Autism: Why Early Intervention Is Crucial

Allison Perea knew nothing about autism until she sent her son to preschool. Although she was aware that Tyler was quirky, Perea was blindsided when she was told he was autistic. “When someone tells you your child isn’t right, you’re shocked and devastated and don’t know what to think,” says the Ye

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Pregnancy Nutrition: What Foods to Eat When Pregnant and What to Avoid

If you’re an expectant or nursing mom, chances are everyone has been eager to offer advice about what you shouldn’t eat or drink. Some of these suggestions seem to conflict with each other; others, you’re certain, date back from your grandmother’s era. So how do you make the right choices? Here are

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Why Babies Cry -- And How to Tame the Tears

Your baby is crying — again. You rush to her side. What does she want? Milk? A diaper? A hug? You wish you knew. Feeling helpless, you try it all: feeding, changing, hugging — until you’re on the verge of tears yourself. By the time you think you’ve got it figured out, she stops crying. Some paren

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Ending Power Struggles at the Dinner Table: Tips for Raising Healthy Eaters

“What’s for dinner?” “Ugh, I hate green beans!” “Can I have dessert yet?” “I’m not hungry." The list of mealtime complaints can go on and on. And not many parents can forget the mayhem that ensued before your little one can even talk: the thrown food, the mess of the yogurt in the hair, or the game

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Toxic Toys: Tips for Choosing Safe Toys for Kids

We’ve all heard about toxic toys. But, is your child playing with them? And just how dangerous are they? Bellingham mom Lisa Campbell always looks for playthings that seem safe. “I’m a huge fan of Melissa and Doug’s wooden toys, because I know I don’t have to worry about harmful toxins in or on the

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Handling Sexual Harassment at School: Are They Doing Enough?

It could be a text message that starts a rumor. Or maybe a name — “You’re gay” — yelled across a soccer field. Or an unwanted touch as two students pass in the hallway. Around the time the news was covering sexual harassment allegations against then-candidate Herman Cain, a lesser-known but importa

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Tiny Tyrants: Teaching Kids How to Stand Up to Bullies

Your preschooler is playing with another child. Suddenly, the other kid snatches your child’s toy and pushes him to the ground. How would your child react? Experts report that the way kids react to bullying matters — and may set the tone for future bullying episodes. University of Illinois profess

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Is Your Child a Late Talker? Warning Signs and How to Help

Your best friend’s daughter is talking up a storm while your child is taking a bit longer to become so verbal. Doctors and experts are quick to reassure parents that there’s a wide range of timing for developmental milestones, but many parents can’t help but wonder: Does it matter when kids learn t

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