Video screens are no longer just used passively for television watching and gaming; they are tools that teenagers use to communicate and socialize and they are an important educational tool, especially for students involved in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) courses.
You want to be the best grandparent you can be. But what may have earned you the title Grandparent of the Year 20 years ago is different from what’s expected of you today.
Across the country, 2.7 million grandparents are stepping in for parents—a seven percent increase since 2009.
In Virginia, about 70,000 children are being raised by their grandparents, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation.
Sports have become an important part of many kids' lives, which means it has become an important part of their parents’ lives as well.
We all want our kids to be successful at whatever they do, but sometimes we worry that we are not doing enough, or doing it right for that matter. It can be stressful. But, it doesn’t have to be.
Has your teen talked about trying e-cigarettes or sampled some of the flavored versions being heavily marketed to teens?
If so, you have company. The popularity of e-cigarettes has soared in the past few years and many of those “vaping” are teenagers.
Sales of e-cigarettes are said to be $6 billion worldwide and chances are there is a vape shop – or two – in your own town. Vaping is also estimated to be growing by a whopping 42 percent a year.
Playing outdoors is a great way for kids to be active, build physical and social skills and get their dose of vitamin D from the sun.
But outdoor activities can also lead to injuries. Some, like cuts, bruises, and broken bones, can heal. But others, like head injuries, can cause lasting effects.
When I was in school, the first day back was always stressful. I didn’t even know that it was called “stress” at that time, but when I think back about the sleepless nights I always had prior to the first day, I am glad those days are behind me.
Anxious feelings are normal—even expected—during times of transition.
But actually those anxious feelings are completely normal and even expected during a time of transition.
Back-to-school means getting back to a much busier schedule than many families are used to. And the busier we are, the more distracted we can be.
SafeKids Southwest Virginia reports that each year, more than 15,000 child pedestrians are injured enough to require medical attention—and nearly 500 children die every year in pedestrian accidents.
Groups of kids at bus stops and walking to school are a familiar sight this time of year. A closer look at some will show the origins of back pain—overfilled backpacks draped on one shoulder hanging loosely away from the waist.
When used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to use strong back muscles to carry school supplies. But used incorrectly, they can injure muscles and joints, leading to posture problems and back, neck and shoulder pain.
