Now, the argument should be over. This study effectively puts the nail in the coffin to the now disproven theory that the MMR vaccine is associated with or causes autism. Period.

My Take?

Reuters Health is reporting that most parents find it acceptable to be told about their child’s weight status, and the feedback has “minimal” adverse effects for most families, according to researchers from the UK.

My Take?

Here’s one simple way to keep your children healthy: Ban the TV in their bedroom.

My Take?

The market for baby-brain DVDs – titles like “Baby Einstein,” “Brainy Baby” and others that make up what’s been called the “Baby Genius Edutainment Complex” – is huge. Parents spend hundreds of millions every year on videos that are marketed as giving tots a leg up in the IQ. Should they?

My Take?

Baby sign language sounds ludicrous to many adults, especially young adults, at least before they have babies. But, when they have kids, it sounds much more reasonable to them. When you first hear about baby sign language, like me, you’re likely to say, “That’s completely insane. Why would you teach a baby who can hopefully hear perfectly well how to speak sign language?” 

My Take?

Reuters Health has a story about a new study showing that parents who want their preschoolers to eat their fruits and vegetables should probably practice what they preach. In a study of more than 1,300 families, researchers found that when parents boosted their own consumption of fruits and vegetables, so did their young children.

My Take?

HealthDay News is reporting that healthy foods should be included on the list of back-to-school supplies for your children. Dietitian Catherine Kraus explained that a healthy, balanced diet enables neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain) to function more efficiently, resulting in improved concentration and memory.

My Take?

USA TODAY is reporting that as kids are heading back to school, that many parents are scrambling for ideas for quick breakfasts and easy bagged lunches. USA TODAY asked two registered dietitians to give parents ideas for healthful meals to pack at home. 

My Take?

CNN has a nice report this week on helping your kids prepare for a battle. The adversary? Preteen and teenage bullies.

My Take?

In my book, God’s Design for the Highly Healthy Child, I spent the better part of one chapter advising parents on protecting children from bullying. Here’s an excerpt from the chapter.

MedPage is reporting that a study saying that parents who use more than bare hands in spanking their children are far more likely to beat, kick, or burn them as well. So, is spanking ever appropriate?

My Take?

Reuters Health  is reporting a new study suggesting that children who regularly exercise and limit their time in front of the TV and computer are much less likely to be overweight or obese.

My Take?