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Kids and teens are still growing and need the energy from proper nutrition to do so. This will also help them perform to their best ability, have sustained energy during and after a practice or sporting event, and have the ability to maintain and grow muscle mass.

"Sharenting" refers to parents sharing their child's information on social media. While it can help parents connect and find support, it also has risks like cyberbullying, identity theft, and privacy violations. These can negatively impact a child's mental health, social relationships, and autonomy. Dr. Eyonna Knighten gives advice and tips on this topic!

Children and adults alike experience sadness or nervousness, but children often lack the ability to express these emotions, leaving parents unsure of how to help. This article highlights lesser-known indicators of childhood anxiety, which can manifest as intense fears impacting daily life and relationships. Symptoms can include emotional outbursts, irritability, poor concentration, frequent toilet use, appetite changes, fatigue, headaches, and stomachaches. Types of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, and separation anxiety.

Unplug and unwind! A U.S. Surgeon General report reveals that 95% of youth aged 13-17 use social media, with one-third using it almost constantly. Despite the challenges of changing tech habits, it’s important to balance usage, as social media can offer social connection and affirmation. Overuse, however, may lead to addictive behaviors, sleep issues, and trouble concentrating. Parents should assess their child's social media impact and consider limiting use. Discussions, setting screen time limits, and promoting offline activities can help.

For growing bodies, the quality and quantity of sleep significantly impacts daily well-being, with good sleep linked to improved mood, lower anxiety, increased energy, and better focus. Conversely, poor sleep can lead to depression, anxiety, irritability, and impaired cognitive functions. These effects are particularly crucial for children and adolescents. To optimize sleep and mental health for kids, maintain consistent bedtimes, establish relaxing pre-sleep routines, limit screen time before bed, encourage daytime exercise, avoid caffeine in the evenings, reserve the bed for sleep only, create a cozy sleep environment, and support extra sleep during transitions. Parents should model healthy sleep habits and consult pediatricians for sleep recommendations or issues.