It's not perfect. It's parenting.
Sometimes you need answers to the little everyday things that parents encounter. And sometimes, you just need someone to encourage you through all of the craziness and challenges of parenthood. Welcome to Parent-ish, a blog from the experts at Children's Mercy.
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Stories that inspired us in 2024
What a year! As 2024 comes to a close, we, like most of you, are looking back on our favorite memories from this year and found ourselves being inspired by the stories shared by patients and families who came through Children’s Mercy’s doors. Take a look at 10 stories that inspired us, made us smile and brought us joy this year.
Making the most of being inpatient and resources to make the most of your stay
As a mom, the last thing you want to hear your child’s doctor say is “I think you should be admitted to the hospital.” My 13-year-old son is generally a healthy boy, but he does have a medical diagnosis that has us visiting Children’s Mercy Kansas City every few months for checkups. So, we’re not unfamiliar with Children’s Mercy or the hospital environment, but this year was our first experience hearing that our son needed to be admitted for treatment.
COVID-19, RSV and the Flu: What you need to know
Viral respiratory season is quickly approaching. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory viruses seem to circulate in new patterns, so being prepared is important! According to the American Academy of Pediatrics last flu season was moderately severe for a lot of children, but there are steps your family can take to try and stay healthy. Keep reading for information on RSV, flu and COVID-19 for the 2024-25 respiratory virus season.
Modeling inclusivity this holiday season
Children notice what we do, how we respond, how we treat others and who we include. This time of year can be jam-packed with anxiety. Our schedules get full, sometimes we overload our resources and meanwhile children are watching. Be mindful that sometimes in moments of stress, it can be hard to remember kindness. But kindness is paramount, not just during these months, but all year, and for our neighbors as well our very own family.
How to choose the best health insurance for your family
It’s the most wonderful — and potentially confusing — time of the year: Health care insurance open enrollment season! When considering your insurance coverage options for the upcoming year, there are some key factors to keep in mind to ensure you select the best plan for your family's needs.
Dealing with parenting peer pressure? Our providers have been there, too.
Parenting is hard, and is even harder when friends, family or even your children have opinions on your parenting choices. If you’ve ever felt this way you're not alone – experts in the pediatric health field experience this, too. Keep reading to learn how this panel of parents has had to uphold their boundaries and provide advice for you to do the same.
Stuck on ideas for your elf? We’ve got you covered!
Elf on the Shelf is a newer family tradition that some families participate in during the holiday season, and one that can cause a little extra holiday stress for parents. But a reminder – this tradition is supposed to be FUN, and a way to spark even more holiday magic in your household.
Growing your child’s emotional piggy bank
All humans have an emotional piggy bank, and throughout the day all your interactions result in a deposit or a withdrawal. All these little things add up, and if you’ve had more withdrawals than deposits, you may feel like you don’t have much left to give. As parents, you can make sure your children have plenty of deposits, so they can better deal with the withdrawals that come their way.
Coughs: What parents need to know
As a pediatrician, I understand how alarming persistent coughs can be for parents. Although many coughs are harmless and resolve on their own, some do require medical attention. Let's go through the common causes of long-lasting coughs, when to get professional care and how to ease symptoms at home.
How to come up with creative ways to give back
It’s giving season! Your family may want to find ways to give back this holiday season, but sometimes it can be hard to come up with unique opportunities that feel authentic to your family. But good news – there are so many ways to give, and you can even get a little creative!
Daylight Savings: reminders and tips for a clock change
With our phones, cars and computers updating automatically, daylight savings might seem like any other day of the year, so it’s easy for the clock change to slip your mind. But there are still objects around your house that might need to be updated manually.
All your frequently asked car seat questions answered
A car seat is one of the biggest purchases new parents make – and can be one of the most confusing. How do I know which car seats are safe? How do I install it? What size seat do I need? Should my kiddo be rear-facing? Forward facing? In a booster? And these questions, believe it or not, are just the tip of the iceberg. Keep reading for a car seat guide to ease your mind whether you’re welcoming a new baby or wondering if your child is ready for the next step.
How to keep youth sports fun
This just in: Kids like to have fun. It shouldn’t be news, but in the current competition-crazy culture of youth sports, it is. “Fun” is the key idea parents should remember from the new State of Play Kansas City, a report and study by the Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program and a broad group of KC-area youth sports advocates (including Children’s Mercy Kansas City).
How to help kids adjust to new siblings
A growing family is a new experience for everyone, grown-ups and kids alike. Having a new baby around comes with lots of change, so big emotions are understandable. As a caring parent or caregiver, you can ease the transition for kids by listening, checking in and staying consistent. No change process is perfect, so it is important to go easy on yourself, too.
10 family-friendly activities to make this fall a ball!
Are you getting excited about the chilly mornings and changing leaves? Us too! If you’re looking for a fun fall outing for the whole family, we have ideas from Children’s Mercy families. Whether you prefer to get into the fall spirit at home or get out and about in the Kansas City area, keep reading for fun ideas!