Parenting & Child Development: From Infancy to Adolescence

Parenting success relies on understanding developmental benchmarks, managing maternal health during and after pregnancy, and implementing effective behavioral strategies for toddlers and teenagers.

Woman holding pregnancy test

Can Certain Foods Increase Women's Fertility?

About 1.5 million women in the United States are infertile, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which is defined as trying to get pregnant for at least a year without success. Infertile women have access to many fertility treatments, including artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization.

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caucasian baby smiling

What Are the First Signs of Lazy Eye in Infants?

The condition amblyopia, more commonly known as lazy eye, causes vision problems in around 2 percent of all infants. Lazy eye occurs when one eye struggles to see properly. Over time, an infant will favor the other eye, further weakening the problem eye.

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salted cucumber

Should Toddlers Eat Pickles?

It wasn't too long ago when your toddler was eating the softest, purist foods you could supply, but now that she and her appetite are expanding, it's a good idea to ask which new foods are appropriate and which aren't for her young, growing body.

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Girl whispering secret into mother's ear at park

What Can a Person Do for a Child With Insecurities?

Children with shy, inhibited temperaments tend to have insecurities, marked by social awkwardness and withdrawal, for instance. Children with this temperament become especially insecure in new situations.

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Young pregnant woman making heart shape on belly, close up

Slimy Discharge at 39 Weeks Pregnant

As you approach your due date, you'll likely experience increased vaginal secretions and possibly even urine leakage from time to time. Unlike the usual increase in vaginal secretions, you may notice a thick, mucus-like discharge -- perhaps with a bit of blood.

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Is Spotting a Sign of Labor?

Spotting towards the end of your pregnancy is a sign of labor. This spotting occurs when the mucous plug that protects the opening of your cervix from bacteria dislodges from the cervix. Loss of the mucous plug also is known as the bloody show.

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Are Bananas Good for Pregnant Women?

Making sure your diet stays healthy is vital to your baby's growth. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as bananas can help you manage several aspects of your pregnancy.

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Black ants

What Should You Do for an Ant Bite on a Toddler?

Ant bites, though not as common as spider or mosquito bites, can cause redness, localized swelling and in rare cases, an allergic reaction. Teach young children to steer clear of ant piles and clean any bites immediately to avoid infection.

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Pregnant woman

Some Disadvantages of Having a Baby at 40 Years Old

At age 40, the disadvantages of having a baby are both long- and short-term. In the short term, you'll be dealing with physical issues. In the long term, you'll be facing social issues. These issues are not insurmountable, but only you can determine if you're willing to face them, no matter how sweet the payoff.

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Newborn baby boy on a blue blanket

What Is This White Stuff in My Newborn's Eyes?

Newborns can develop a number of condition that alarm new parents but have little or no medical significance. A whitish collection of mucous-looking material that accumulates in the corners of newborn eyes falls into this category.

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Young woman eating a hamburger

Is It Safe to Eat Hamburgers While Pregnant?

Although high in fat, hamburgers do contain some nutrients beneficial to you and your baby, including iron and protein. Proper preparation is key to enjoying ground meat without risking bacterial illness, however. Opt for the leanest possible ground beef to make your hamburger a little healthier.

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Pregnant mother and daughter (4-5), sitting on bed

Seventeen Weeks Pregnant & Not Much Movement of the Baby

During the second trimester of pregnancy, expectant mothers can rarely feel significant, regular fetal movement. Although unborn babies begin movement during the first trimester, pregnant women generally begin feeling their babies' kicks and tumbles some time between the 18th and 21st week of pregnancy.

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Caesar salad

Can Pregnant Women Eat Caesar Salads?

Caesar salad contains romaine lettuce, garlic vinaigrette, Parmesan cheese, croutons and egg. Traditionally, the egg used in Caesar dressing is either coddled -- lightly cooked -- or raw.

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Can Pregnant Women Eat Smoked Ribs?

You must be careful about the foods you choose while pregnant. Not only will your nutrition affect the growth and development of your baby, it can also affect his health. Certain meats, such as smoked meats, should be avoided.

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Father feeding his baby boy

How Much Formula Does a Baby Drink at 3 Months?

Two things related to feedings happen to many babies at 3 months: they go through a growth spurt, and begin sleeping through the night without waking to eat. While you might be able to skip that 3 a.m. feeding, your 3-month-old will drink more formula at each feeding.

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Mother dressing up daughter (10-11), father watching

How To Not Lose Patience With Children

Your kids may not know much about the world, but they are bar-none experts at pushing limits and trying patience. However, you don't need to be a zen master to handle the trying times of rearing your children. Practicing patience with your children comes with deliberate effort, empathy and perspective.

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