Children's Health & Parenting Blog

Keeping your baby safe is a top priority for parents. Here are some guidelines to help you maintain baby’s safety at night and during nap times.
 

Majed Koleilat, MD, & Shannon Vickers, NP, Deaconess Clinic Allergy
 
If your allergy symptoms aren’t always managed through medications and avoidance, a next step may be allergy immunotherapy (allergy injections).  Allergy injections, commonly called allergy shots, are a way to make you less allergic to certain allergens.

Dr. David Wahle, Deaconess Clinic ENT physician  

Issues with ear, nose and throat health seem to be a part of childhood. I’ve been a practicing otolaryngologist/head and neck surgeon for more than 20 years here in Evansville.  In that time I’ve treated thousands of children who have had problems with their ears, nose and throat that required surgery.

Taylor F., RN, MSN, Perinatal Center Program Coordinator at The Women's Hospital

Taylor shares the ABCs of keeping your baby safe. 

Garrett Koon, DO, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for ages 12 and older, and parents have questions. Find answers to many of your questions from a board-certified pediatrician.

 

Debbie Pfeiffer, Clinical Dietitian, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

One of the best parts of summer are the seasonal, delicious fruits. Early summer gives us sweet strawberries; later we get to enjoy plump grapes, vibrant berries, juicy peaches...the list goes on and on! 

Summer is here, and as many people like to enjoy the outdoors, it is important to remember that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of developing sun-related skin cancer. Find tips on how to protect yourself and your family. 

Dr. Taniza Karim, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician 

The summer months are a special time during childhood.  Outdoor activities, vacations, camps, etc. all lead to lifelong memories. Discover the top ways to keep your children safe this summer and what habits to encourage (and avoid) during this long break from school.

Brandi Neely, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability.  Many people don’t understand autism and the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms in young children so they can get the early help they need.   

Dr. Sarah Rust, Pediatrician, Deaconess Clinic Baseline

Bringing home a new baby has always been a nerve-wracking time for most families. Previously, families would worry about their new baby catching the flu, RSV or other viral infections during their first few weeks of life, but having a child during the COVID-19 pandemic has added to those fears and raises many new questions. 

Christi Pagett, MD, Deaconess Clinic West

Antibiotics are a marvel of modern medicine and have saved millions of lives.  However, the overuse of antibiotics is harmful. Learn about proper use of antibiotics, preventing illnesses, and how to treat illnesses that don’t require antibiotics.
 

Jung Smith, MD, Deaconess Clinic Mary Street

Most people are aware pediatric vaccinations are very important to prevent serious diseases and related complications. However, people often forget there are adult vaccinations and boosters that are recommended to keep us healthy and prevent complications associated with certain infections. 

Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic, Oakland City

Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States.  More than 100,000 cases have been reported since the disease was first discovered in 1982.  The disease is spread by the bite of a deer tick.

Libby Brown, PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist at The Center for Healing Arts and Wellness Services

Pregnancy—check
Delivery—check
Baby is home—check
Why do I feel so lost and overwhelmed?

Rebecca Hopper, MD Internal Medicine & Pediatrics, Deaconess Clinic
 
Summer is a time when most of us head for the outdoors--even if it’s just our own backyard. The season provides a time to get more exercise, eat fresh produce, and perhaps most importantly lower our stress by enjoying nature.  

Carrye Daum, MD, Women's Health Care, P.C.

An OB/GYN physician with Women's Health Care P.C. shares her experience with infertility, not only as a provider, but a patient. With elective medical procedures on hold across the US,  everyone is  wondering "when will this be over," but infertility patients are wondering "when can we finally become parents?" 

Maternal Care Advisor at The Women’s Hospital

With the addition of a baby, will there also be a new big brother or big sister in your house? Have you thought about the effect a new baby will have on your children? 

It’s always good practice to plan ahead for emergencies, but that planning becomes even more important when you have specific dietary needs and restrictions.

Children also experience the five stages of grief - denial, anger, bargaining, sadness, and acceptance. Here are some ways to help them work through the process.

Here are some practical ways to connect with your child and still meet your own needs.

Mentally and emotionally, it is valid to feel uneasy about COVID-19. Although these emotions are normal and expected in this time of uncertainty, there are ways to cope.

Managing emotions is difficult for both children and parents during times of high stress. The technique of "connect and reflect" can go a long way in making the time at home much more enjoyable for everyone.

During times of crisis, we know children cope better when their parents cope better. Now is the time to make a plan and lay the course for the next couple of months to help your family adapt and overcome.

Victoria Edwards, MD, Deaconess Clinic Owensboro

What's the difference between a cold or the flu?  How should you treat symptoms to feel better fast?  And when is it time to seek medical care?  

Karla Kitch, MD, Deaconess Pediatric Hospitalist

You’ve carefully followed your obstetrician’s instructions, and delivered a healthy baby… but now the BIG questions start to pop up. Usually these questions come to mind when it’s least convenient to you and often after your pediatrician’s office has closed for the day.  Here are some things to consider for these first few sweet but exhausting weeks!  

It's time to get your flu shot.  Find out the facts--and the myths-- about flu vaccines from Deaconess Clinic family medicine physician Dr. Holland.

Gretchen Moody RN, BSN, IBCLC, Lactation Coordinator

The cells, hormones, and antibodies in breastmilk help protect babies from illness. This protection is unique and changes every day to meet your baby’s growing needs.

Dr. Anne McLaughlin, Deaconess Clinic Allergy

Food allergies and sensitivities are a common diagnosis in my office. Over the past eight years, I have seen a large increase in patients with a mammal meat allergy, caused by tick bites; specifically, this is an allergy to a carbohydrate in mammal meat called alpha-gal.
 

Donald Simpson, Care Center Manager

Three times per year, Donald's team partners with The Women's Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana and Alexander Memorial Cemetery to arrange the burial service for parents who have experienced a miscarriage.

Kim Snyder, Physical Therapist, Pelvic Health and Wellness Center at The Women's Hospital

Let's talk about physical challenges of pregnancy. From conception to the birth of your baby, changes in your body are happening from head to toe. These changes are due to hormone levels adjusting, loosening of ligaments and connective tissue, enlargement of breasts and abdomen, and the growth of your baby fighting your organs for space. As a result of these changes, your body must adapt! During the adjustment periods there are some common symptoms that pregnant women appreciate. Some of these symptoms are normal and some are not. Some of the symptoms we can control on our own and some may need special attention.

Jason White, MD, & Shannon Vickers, NP, Deaconess Clinic Allergy
 
Many people know they have allergies because at of sneezing, itching and other symptoms that make miserable (especially if they happen at the same time each year). However, figuring out what allergens are the problem can be a guessing game without testing.  Winter can be a great time for allergy testing. 

Cindy Futrell, RN, Maternal Care Advisor

There are so many ways to tell someone they’re going to be a grandparent. You can wrap up an ultrasound picture for your parents to open, give them a personalized t-shirt or do what my son did and surprise them at work and then expect them to carry on the rest of the day like normal!

Mallory Williams Zorn, MD, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrics

It’s “sick season”— kids everywhere are sharing germs with children at school, daycare and other activities. I want to share helpful information about common winter illnesses so caregivers know what to do, and how to help their child feel better.
 

Deaconess Cross Pointe Outpatient Services 

As a parent, setting healthy social media boundaries for your children can make a significant difference in their emotional health, school performance, development and more.  

Jennifer D., RD Dietetics and Nutrition Manager at The Women's Hospital

When your baby’s doctor says it is time to introduce new baby foods, you may consider whether you will feed your baby store bought fruits and veggies from the jars as most of you probably were, or if you will try making homemade baby food. With homemade baby food, you can ensure that you know exactly what is going into your baby’s body. But, there are proper steps you should take to make sure the food they are eating is safe!

Pediatrics & Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Morganfield

I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time to be sick with the flu.  A week or more of serious body aches, coughing, fever, etc. is not how I want to spend my time. Be prepared by getting your flu vaccine before flu season starts! 

Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

Now that children are back in school, morning time can be very hectic. Amid the busy routine of getting everyone up, ready, and off to school, it is easy to skip breakfast. But as you’ve probably heard, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.   
 

Ron Pyle, MD, Director of Neonatal Transport and Outreach Education

What are Group B streptococci (GBS)?  What is Group B streptococci infection? 

Mary R., Lactation Consultant at The Women's Hospital 

Being home with your baby for the very first time can be both exciting and unnerving. You have left the protective cocoon of the hospital. I had a huge stack of discharge paperwork and a fond farewell from the nurses and staff. I thought to myself…I am expected to know how to do all of this and take care of a baby!?! The answer is yes. 

Dr. Kusum Pradhan, MD, FAAP

The start of new school year is just around the corner. Does your child need a physical or immunizations?  Have you thought about how to get back into a routine, or how to address "first day jitters"? This article can help.

Amanda Bohleber, MD, Deaconess Clinic Medical Director
 
It’s never been easier to schedule an appointment with a Deaconess doctor or service. Online scheduling is convenient, helps busy families and people on the go, and improves access to the care you need--when and where you need it.
 

Summer is in full swing - sunshine, fireworks, backyard barbecues, campfires and dehydration! Follow our helpful tips so these five summer-related (and totally preventable) accidents and injuries don’t ruin your fun in the sun. 


 

Christy H., RN, BSN, Maternal Care Educator at The Women's Hospital

The Women’s Hospital has classes for everyone, whether you’re expecting your first child or just need a refresher on certain skills. All of our classes are taught by experienced professionals in their area of expertise. Therefore, you are sure to receive the most up-to-date, accurate information on the topics you are most interested in.
 

Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, Registered Dietitian

Vacation is a great time to reduce stress and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. It’s not, however, the time to turn back on healthy lifestyle changes you worked on through the winter and spring months. Here are a few ways to maintain healthy habits when you’re out of town and out of your normal routine.
 

Christine H., Genetic Counselor at Tri State Perinatology

Knowing one’s family medical history allows a person to take steps to reduce his or her risk. You should address any concerns you have about your family history with your physician or another qualified healthcare professional such as a genetics counselor.

Lorien A., MPT, OCS

Positional Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome) - How do we help and prevent it?

Kusum Pradhan, MD, FAAP, Board Certified Pediatrician-Deaconess Clinic

The end of school often brings the end of structured academic activities – at least during summer break.  Learn how to keep your child's mind and body active through these next months, so they're ready to return to a productive school year.
 

Valerie Topper, CNM, Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

70 pills, 46 shots, 112 vaginal suppositories, numerous vaginal ultrasounds, and 2 years and 4 month’s time…


 

Rebecca Hopper, MD, Pediatrics/Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Henderson

About 20 million United States citizens get a sexually transmitted infection each year, with 15 to 24-year-olds accounting for half of all new STIs. Protecting yourself against sexually transmitted infections is important and should be achieved not through fear, but rather education.

Kusum Pradhan, MD, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician

Bringing a new baby home is exciting and sometimes stressful. You want to do what’s best for your baby but how are you supposed to know what that is? What’s normal and what’s an emergency? Get tips from a pediatrician and a mom.
 

Kusum Pradhan, MD, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrics

Don’t believe everything you read on the internet, especially when it comes to children's health information and parenting advice. That’s what I tell my patients and their parents.
 

Courtney Hoppenjans, Heart Patient, Deaconess Health System

Courtney Hoppenjans, Heart patient, shares her 2014 story about pregnancy induced heart failure. Learn about why women should listen to their bodies and how the amazing teams from The Heart Hospital and The Women's Hospital helped save Courtney and her baby's life.
 

Constantine Scordalakes, MD, Women's Health Care P.C.

The postpartum period—the days and weeks after giving birth--involves many emotional and physical changes for you as a new mother.  It also involves learning how to care for your newborn and how to function with the new demands at home. Adequate rest, good nutrition, and support from family and friends are crucial during the first few weeks after delivery to allow you to rebuild your strength.


 

Jenna Andrews, Community Engagement, and Experienced Mom

You are in Babies R Us. Your husband has the scanner gun because, let’s be honest, the only way you could get him to join you was by promising he could play with the scanner gun. The haunting memory of registering for your wedding gifts 9 months prior is coming back. You are overwhelmed. You have never had a baby before! How are you supposed to know what you need?!

Teresa Martelli, MD, Deaconess Clinic Gateway Pediatrics

Choosing toys for a young child this holiday season?  Learn more about open ended toys, and why they’re important for developing minds.
 

Amanda Bohleber, MD, Medical Director, Deaconess Clinic

A doctor—and mom—shares her tips for choosing the right care at the right time at the right place.

Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

Your doctors’ appointments are an important and valuable time to connect with your doctor, share your perspective and information, and learn from your doctor’s expertise.  The best appointments happen when patients are very prepared.
 

Capri Weyer, MD, Deaconess Clinic Gateway Pediatrics

Baby safety is important for all new parents, but it doesn’t just stop there. Who else should stay up-to-date on the topic of keeping babies safe? Grandparents, older siblings, aunts, uncles and any other caregiver who may babysit or have a baby at their house can all benefit from these tips.

Tom Fite, Pharmacy Manager at Deaconess Family Pharmacy

Recent national disasters have caused many people to give more thought to emergency preparedness.  As September is Emergency Preparedness Month, it’s a great time to be thinking about being disaster ready.
 

J. Clay Davis, MD, Deaconess Clinic Dermatology

Uncontrollable itching. Cracked, scaly, or dry skin. Small raised bumps that ooze when scratched. If your child suffers from any of these symptoms, they might have a severe form of eczema known as atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is a common chronic skin condition that can occur in people of any age; however, it most commonly begins in childhood and improves as people approach adulthood.
 

Deaconess Editorial Staff
 
School is out, the weather is warm, and you need to keep the kids busy. Hours on the couch watching TV or playing video games isn’t something that will keep their bodies healthy.

Lu Weil, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Deaconess Regional Trauma Center

It’s summer, which means swimming and other water-related activities will fill the coming months, especially if you have children. Although playing in the water is fun, there are some inherent dangers. By following the tips below, you can have fun and remain safe at the same time. Simple steps save lives!

Deaconess Cross Pointe and Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation
 
Some of the most significant predictors of adolescent and adult substance abuse, mental illness, learning difficulties and other serious social problems are ACEs—Adverse Childhood Experiences.  

The Women's Hospital

You've been preparing for the last several months for the arrival of your new baby.  The nursery is ready.  You have everything you will need in order to care for the new baby.  Delivery went well and you and baby have returned home from the hospital, but something just doesn’t seem right.
 

Jason Hays, LCSW and Beth Petersen, PsyD, Deaconess Clinic Behavioral Health

This blog is about the talk that no one wants to have: The Talk…the talk with your kids about sex, where babies come from, etc.

But one of the first points we want to make is that this shouldn’t just be one talk—to really help your kids understand sexuality, and make good choices, there should be open communication over many years, and many discussions should be had.
 

Jason Hays, LCSW, Deaconess Clinic Behavioral Health

Many parents find it difficult to talk with their children about sex—they don’t want to say the wrong things, or have to think back about decisions they made as teenagers.  Teens may also be embarrassed, not trust their parent's advice, or prefer not to talk with their parents about it. But sex is an important topic to talk about.

Dr. Jacklyn Oakley, Faculty, Deaconess Family Medicine Residency

HPV—the Human Papilloma virus—is a major topic of conversation across numerous aspects of the medical field.  Why?  There are several reasons.

Dr. Pamela Rogers, MD Pediatrics Deaconess Clinic 

Kids and stress. Growing up can be hard sometimes, and back-to-school is a time of change, growth and yes, stress.  

Capri Weyer, MD Pediatrics Deaconess Clinic 

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a viral infection most commonly caused by coxsackievirus.  Although it can be seen in any age group, it is usually seen in young children. “Outbreaks” are also common in late summer and early fall—August into October.
 

Deaconess MyHealth Editorial staff

Trying to think of some new ideas for healthy snacks for kids?  We’ve done the looking for you! Below are some cute, creative and nutritious snack ideas for kids of all ages.
 

Lu Weil, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Deaconess Regional Trauma Center
 
Sports and recreational activities are an important part of a healthy, physically active lifestyle – for kids and adults alike. But more than 2.6 million people are treated in emergency departments throughout the US each year for sports and recreation-related injuries.

Michelle Galen, MD Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic
 
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder that affects the brain. It can be characterized by social interaction difficulty, behavioral differences and communication challenges.

Lu Weil, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Deaconess Regional Trauma Center

Skateboarding is fun, and can be great for building strength, balance and stamina.  But without the right precautions, young people can get hurt.

Deaconess Clinic  

New parents are familiar with getting little sleep, middle-of-the-night feedings and round-the-clock supervision of infants.  The term “fussy” is often used with babies who experience gastrointestinal distress, bloating, spitting up, constipation or diarrhea after eating.  

By Deaconess MyHealth editorial staff
 
School is out, the weather is warm, and you need to keep the kids busy.  Hours on the couch watching TV or playing video games isn’t something that will keep their bodies healthy.
Here are some suggestions on local ideas that will keep the kiddos busy and moving:

Dr. Taniza Karim, Pediatrician, Deaconess Clinic Boonville

Bumps and bruises, bangs and scrapes are all part of being a child.  But as children play, sometimes more serious injuries can happen, and parents have to decide if a trip to the doctor, urgent care or emergency room is needed.

Dr. Carla Essling, Family Medicine Physician, Deaconess Clinic Gateway Professional Building  

Cold symptoms are usually milder in nature than those of the flu—but can make you pretty miserable. Cold symptoms also start more gradually than flu symptoms. 

Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician

Anyone can get head lice.  Head lice are most common in preschool- and elementary school-aged children. It doesn’t matter how clean your home or hair may be.  It doesn’t matter where children and families live, play and work. 

Deaconess Clinic West

Summer time means being outside.  And sometimes, that means that insects think that we’re delicious, and begin to bite.

 Fortunately, most bites by mosquitos, flies, fleas and even ticks do NOT cause disease. That being said, the best thing to do for your kids and yourself is to try to prevent the bite in the first place.

Dr. Ron Pyle, Neonatologist at The Women's Hospital

A day to remember for some, a day to reflect for others and hopefully a day to celebrate all our fathers and what they mean to us. For me, it is a day to say thank you to my hero, my role model, my father. It is also a day to measure how I’m doing as a Dad.





 

Dr. Taniza Karim, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician 

While enjoying the water is a memorable part of summer, water is one of the most ominous hazards your child will encounter. For youngsters in middle childhood, drowning ranks behind only motor-vehicle accidents as the leading cause of death.

Dr. Taniza Karim, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician 

Summer brings warmer weather and lots of opportunities for outdoor activities. With the fun also comes the risk of sunburns and skin damage. Follow these tips for a healthy and fun summer.

C.J. Barnard, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS Physical Therapist and Site Coordinator for Progressive Health at Deaconess

Youth baseball injuries are increasing at an alarming rate despite a growing knowledge of how injuries occur.  Several reasons for this increased injury rate have been postulated (i.e. throwing curveballs too young, inadequate and/or incorrect instruction, sport specialization, etc.), but when you dig into the data, there seems to be a simple, overwhelming reason why youth pitchers are getting injured – OVERUSE. 
 

Dr. Greg Rodocker, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine

Deciding when to see a doctor, whether for your own, a family member or a child’s illness, can be a difficult decision.   You know that sometimes a “virus is just a virus,” and that you just need to rest, drink lots of fluids, and give it a few days. But sometimes an illness needs treatment, whether through antibiotics or other medications and symptom care.

Dr. Jung Smith, Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic

I think it’s wise to have a stash of basic medications for everyone in the family, so I want to share information about various over-the-counter medications, to help you decide what you should have in YOUR well-stocked medicine cabinet.

Deaconess Clinic Petersburg

Vaccinations.  They’re considered to be one of the biggest, most important medical advancements ever made against the spread of infectious disease.  They save lives and prevent so much suffering. But what do you really know about vaccines?
 

University of Southern Indiana - University Health Center Staff

Young adults heading to college—or back to college—have unique health needs such as diet, sleep, exercise, illnesses, stress, mental health and immunizations/testing. 

Deaconess Medical Staff

Whether it’s back to school time for your child, or you’re planning a long hike, check out these helpful tips to ensure you know how to safely wear a backpack and promote good posture and spinal health. 

Deaconess Family Medicine

Doctors are now writing fewer prescriptions for antibiotics for young children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend an end to routine antibiotic prescriptions. 

Dr. Dolly Marx, Deaconess Clinic - West Pediatrician

It’s back-to-school time, which means it’s a great time for some back-to-school tips from a Deaconess Clinic pediatrician. Learn more about getting into a routine, helping your child sleep at night, and school-smart nutrition.

Tammy Hargett, FNP-C, Deaconess Clinic Mt. Pleasant, Family Practitioner

If you have kids, you’re likely dealing with some safety worries associated with summer activities.
Here are some tips to help your family have a safe and fun summer.
 

Dr. Jung Smith, Family Medicine Physician

Did you know that more than three out of four children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday? In fact, according to UpToDate, between 60-80% of children have at least one ear infection by their first birthday, and 80-90% will by 2-3 years old. 

Gina Niemeier, PA-C, of the Deaconess Concussion Clinic ​

The Deaconess Concussion Clinic specializes in the assessment and treatment of concussions.  Through this blog post, I’ll explain what a concussion is, how to tell if you or someone you love has one, what should be done if you have a concussion and some prevention tips.

Lauren Veazey, MD, Family Practice Physician

Calling all (frazzled, busy) parents of teenagers! This article is about keeping your teenagers healthy.  You can get so busy keeping up with your teen’s social/academic/extracurricular lives that it’s easy to forget about keeping them healthy!
 

Deaconess Riley Children’s Services

Summer is a great time for children to be healthy and active outdoors! However, with the sunny weather comes the risk of sun dangers. Follow these sun safety tips to ensure that you and your kiddos have a fun and safe summer!
 

Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician​

Vaccines.  They’re considered one of the greatest medical advancements in history, and can currently prevent 25 illnesses and diseases.  This is a topic that is so important to pediatricians, as vaccinations are crucial part of caring for children. In this article, learn more about vaccines, including why they’re important and how they work.

Kids exercise all the time without even knowing it. Running around outside or playing kickball at school, are two kinds of exercise. When you exercise, you are helping build a strong body that will be able to move around and do all the stuff you need to do.
 

There is a lot of discussion these days about fit kids. People who care for kids, like parents, doctors, health care professionals, and teachers, want to help kids be fit and healthy. Being fit is a way of saying a person eats well, gets a lot of exercise, and has a healthy weight. If you are fit, your body works well, feels good, and looks healthy. When you are fit, you can do all the things you want to do, like run and play with your family and friends.