Eating habits are an integral part of a child’s growth and development. While it’s common for children to go through phases of picky eating, it’s important for parents and caregivers to recognize when these behaviors may signify something more...
Navigating discussions about drugs and alcohol with your children can seem daunting, but it’s a conversation every family should have. As the holiday season approaches, bringing with it family gatherings and festive parties, it’s an opportune time to have...
As parents, we’re constantly on a quest to ensure our children grow up healthy, happy, and well-adjusted. This includes everything from choosing the right foods to enrolling them in enriching activities. Yet, the push to schedule every moment can...
September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about mental health issues, particularly in children and adolescents. Children’s mental health plays a fundamental role in shaping their emotional, cognitive, and social development. A...
As a parent or guardian, your ultimate goal is to raise capable, self-sufficient individuals who can confidently navigate the complexities of life. The teenage years are a critical period for fostering independence and preparing your teens for adulthood. In...
VA-AAP member Dr. John Farrell‘s first foray into advocacy was an eyeopener: “I was naïve – If I went into it knowing what I know now, I would have doubted it could have been done!” But done it is...
Although teen pregnancy rates in the United States have reached record lows, pregnancies under the age of 20 are still relatively common. If you learn that your teen is facing a pregnancy, the best course of action is to...
April is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month along with National Child Abuse Prevention Month. It is important to raise awareness about the prevalence of different types of abuse inflicted on children. Every year, millions of children are exposed...
Bullying is a concern for many families and their children and can have devastating consequences including depression, anxiety, and in some cases self-harm. In order to tackle this problem head-on, it is important to understand how to recognize, respond,...
Exercise is essential all year long and an important part of both physical and mental well-being, but cold weather often keeps us indoors and less active in the winter. Unless there are extreme weather conditions or extenuating circumstances, playing...