Posted by Mary Thompson
Did you know that nearly 40% of children don’t get enough sleep, despite experts recommending 9 to 14 hours depending on age? Sleep is not just about rest; it plays a critical role in a child’s physical growth, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. However, modern lifestyles, screen time, and irregular routines often disrupt children’s sleep schedules.
This article explores why sleep hygiene is essential for kids, the challenges that prevent quality rest, and practical tips to ensure children develop healthy sleep habits for life.
The Science Behind Sleep and Child Development
Sleep and Physical Growth
Growth Hormone Release: Deep sleep stimulates the release of growth hormones vital for physical development and muscle repair. Without adequate sleep, growth can be stunted, leading to developmental delays.
Immune System Support: Sleep strengthens the immune system, helping children fight infections and recover faster from illnesses. Poor sle...
Posted by Dr. Julia Tortorice
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Even today, poverty affects millions of lives across the United States, including children. A staggering 16% of all children in the country live below the poverty line, impacting their education, health, and overall well-being. While poverty statistics might seem abstract, its effects go beyond individual families, affecting entire communities, straining social services, and limiting future opportunities for economic mobility.
The sobering prevalence of child poverty urgently demands solutions that address both the immediate needs of children in poverty and the long-term systemic barriers that perpetuate financial hardship. With data from the U.S. Census Bureau, this report from PARequirements aims to highlight the extent of child poverty and its devastating impact.
Click here to download the printable PDF version of the chart.
Causes of Child Poverty
Child poverty is driven by multiple factors, many of which ...
Posted by Dr. Julia Tortorice
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The topic of death is often uncomfortable, but understanding its primary causes can help prevent avoidable fatalities. The leading causes of death differ depending on the stage of life, from infancy to older adulthood, and are influenced by genetics, lifestyle factors, mental health, and environmental conditions. PARequirements has reviewed the top 10 causes of death among various age groups in the United States, using current statistics to identify significant risks and recommend prevention strategies.
Click here to download the printable PDF version of the chart.
The Primary Causes of Mortality in the United States
Heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries are the top three leading causes of death in the United States. Heart disease impacts both young and older individuals and is often linked to chronic lifestyle conditions. Cancer, prevalent in adults, is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, with 2,001...
Posted by Mary Thompson
Did you know that the average child catches 6–8 colds per year? Cold and flu season can be tough on little ones, and as parents and caregivers, we want to do everything we can to help keep them healthy. Building strong immunity is key, especially during these challenging months. In this blog, we’ll share simple tips and evidence-based strategies to boost your child’s immune system. From smart nutrition choices and proper hygiene habits to ensuring enough sleep and physical activity, these healthy habits can make a big difference in your child’s well-being.
The Basics of Immunity in Children
Children’s immune systems are like a work in progress—they develop and mature over time. When they are young, their bodies are still learning how to fight off infections and illnesses. This is why they often catch colds and other minor infections more frequently than adults.
How the Immune System Develops
In early childhood, the immune system is busy l...
Posted by Mary Thompson
Returning to school is an exciting time filled with new friends, fresh opportunities, and a wealth of learning experiences. Yet, it’s also a critical moment for parents and caregivers to reinforce important lessons about personal safety and boundaries. Engaging in proactive and age-appropriate discussions empowers children to navigate their school environment confidently while remaining vigilant about potential risks.
This guide aims to help parents approach these conversations thoughtfully, offering practical tips to ensure their kids feel secure and supported.
Why Safety Conversations Are Essential
The start of a new school year introduces children to unfamiliar environments, people, and routines, all of which can expose them to potential risks. Bullying, inappropriate behavior, or unsafe situations can arise in settings where trust and boundaries are not yet fully established. Safety conversations equip children with the tools to identify and respond to such cha...