tag:www.naturalawakeningsnj.com,2005:/categories/healthy-kidsHealthy Kids Healthy Kids | Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey Healthy Living Healthy Planet2024-03-03T20:32:41-08:00urn:uuid:b6da7371-cfb4-464a-b18b-d0d28db992842024-02-25T16:56:41-08:002024-03-03T20:32:41-08:00Ear Infections: Holistic Treatments for Kids2024-02-29 06:23:00 -0800Jennifer Zethner, RN, MS, CPNP<p><a href="https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/report/ear-infections#:~:text=Acute%20Otitis%20Media%20(AOM),-AOM%20generally%20affects&text=The%20earlier%20a%20child%20has,to%20have%20infections%20than%20girls.">More than two-thirds of children develop at least one ear infection by the time they are 3 years old, and a third of these kids experience three or more episodes</a>. “Ear infections may be painful, can lead to complications and are stressful for the child and their parents,” says <a href="https://www.drandythechiropractor.com/services">Andy Smith</a>, a chiropractic doctor who treats adults and children in Denville, New Jersey. But as children grow, the structures in their ears enlarge, their immune systems strengthen and their risk of infections decreases, with most youngsters outgrowing ear infections <a href="https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/report/ear-infections#:~:text=Acute%20Otitis%20Media%20(AOM),-AOM%20generally%20affects&text=The%20earlier%20a%20child%20has,to%20have%20infections%20than%20girls.">by age 5</a>.</p><p> </p><p>The common ear infection, or acute otitis media (AOM), is caused by a buildup of mucus in the middle ear and is accompanied by pain, fever, redness, swelling and possibly discharge, as viewed through an otoscope by a pediatric provider. Mucus can develop from nasal congestion and cough associated with the common cold, as well as from inflammation caused by diet, allergens, smoke, mold and other environmental toxins.</p><p> </p><p>Symptoms of an ear infection in babies and toddlers include tugging on their ears, irritability and fever. Older children may complain of ear pain that may worsen when laying down, have a fever or display irritability, clinginess, decreased activity, loss of appetite, dizziness, vomiting or difficulty hearing. AOM may be caused by bacteria or viruses. The <a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/131/3/e964/30912/The-Diagnosis-and-Management-of-Acute-Otitis-Media?autologincheck=redirected">American Academy of Pediatrics</a> strongly urges pediatric providers to wait and watch before prescribing antibiotics for ear infections because they often clear on their own within two to three days.</p><p> </p><p>Children may also develop fluid in the middle ear without signs of an infection, pain or fever. Middle-ear fluid can be chronic and may lead to hearing loss and speech delays. Symptoms can include complaints of difficulty hearing, lingering cough and nasal congestion, or no symptoms at all. If a child is diagnosed with AOM and does not have pain or fever, parents should work with their pediatric provider to address the cause of the buildup of fluid rather than treat it with unnecessary antibiotics.</p><p> </p><p><b>Prevention</b><b> Strategies</b></p><p> </p><p><a></a>Ear infections may be prevented by avoiding foods that lead to inflammation and mucus development. Many parents report their child’s first ear infection between 1 and 2 years old when they switch from formula or breast milk to diary, including milk, butter, yogurt, cheese and ice cream. Dairy may also be an ingredient in prepared or processed foods found at the grocery store. Dairy is associated with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10728925/">recurrent AOM</a> because it causes mucus production in the body.</p><p> </p><p>Frequent ear infections may also be caused by <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20168232/">other food sensitivities or allergies</a> to eggs, nuts, soy, corn or gluten, as well as exposure to environmental allergens. A child with recurring infections should consider a food elimination diet to identify the culprit. Avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, wood burning stoves, scented detergents, shampoos, conditioners, body care products, candles, air fresheners and other artificially scented items can also decrease the risk of developing an ear infection and its symptoms.</p><p> </p><p>Breastfed infants have a decreased risk of developing ear infections, according to a study in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4258846/"><i>Pediatrics</i></a>. A healthy diet for a child or breastfeeding mom aids in optimal bowel function, which decreases the risk of mucus proliferation. Healing foods include organic, leafy greens and other vegetables; seasonal fruits; seeds; nuts; beans; seafood; seaweeds; whole grains; healing roots, such as turmeric and ginger; and plenty of water.</p><p> </p><p><b>Natural Treatments</b></p><p> </p><ul><li>Rest.</li><li>Increase fluid intake, but avoid overly sugary drinks.</li><li>Eat a healthy diet that includes warm, home-cooked meals that include garlic, onion, turmeric and ginger.</li><li>Avoid dairy, processed foods and sugary, floury, cold and raw foods.</li><li>Ear drops containing mullein or <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721/">garlic oil</a> assist in decreasing inflammation associated with AOM, unless there is discharge from the ear, which can indicate a ruptured eardrum. Breast milk can also be used as ear drops to decrease inflammation.</li><li>Gentle massage with essential oils containing oregano or lavender to the outer ear and surrounding area assists in clearing mucus. However, never place these oils inside the ear.</li><li>“Chiropractic care is often effective in decreasing the symptoms and removing the cause of AOM,” says Smith. “It enhances the brain-ear neurological control. A chiropractic treatment also improves cervical and thoracic lymphatic drainage, which allows the inner ear to properly drain.”</li><li>Homeopathic remedies, such as belladonna, ferrum phosphate, pulsatilla, chamomilla and silica, may reduce symptoms. For optimal results, consult with a homeopath.</li><li>Vitamins C and D, zinc and elderberry boost immune function and aid in fighting many infections. Check with a pediatric provider to determine the appropriate dosage for a child.</li></ul><p> </p><p><i>As a holistic pediatric nurse practitioner on Long Island, New York, Jennifer Zethner focuses on the root cause of chronic and acute childhood </i><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10728925/"><i>conditions</i></a><i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:7185d4ae-f8ba-4fb7-bbf2-1bb791ef52bc2024-01-24T12:47:16-08:002024-03-01T12:30:25-08:00Helping America’s Kids Eat Better: How Three Women are Leading the Movement2024-01-31 06:23:00 -0800Megy Karydes<p>According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much">half of children</a> aged 1 to 5 have not eaten a vegetable today. Each week, nearly one in three won’t eat a piece of fruit, and more than half will have had at least one sugar-sweetened beverage. Kids consume 66 grams of sugar per day—that is a whopping <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much">53 pounds of added sugar</a> a year, according to the <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much">American Heart Association</a>.</p><p>The foods and drinks kids consume have tremendous impact on their overall health, and these statistics suggest that many parents and guardians need to do a better job of steering their offspring toward more nutritious options. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11795/">Mounting</a><a href="https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02524-9">scientific</a> <a href="https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02524-9">evidence</a> reveals that a healthy lifestyle from infancy to adulthood helps people maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Many youngsters today don’t eat enough nutritious meals, playing a major role in how they <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916523659593">perform in school</a>, according to a study published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1746-1561.2005.tb06674.x"><i>Journal of School Health</i></a>. </p><p>Prompted by perceived needed changes in childhood nutrition, the private sector is stepping up to improve the ways we teach and feed our youngest, hoping to raise healthier future generations. Here are three examples. <br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Putting Nutrition First</b></p><p>Former First Lady Michelle Obama launched the “Let’s Move!” national campaign in 2010 to reduce childhood obesity and teach children and their caregivers how to create healthier eating habits and lifestyles, and her work didn’t end when she left the White House. In May 2023, she helped launch <a href="https://plezi.com/pages/about">PLEZi Nutrition</a>, a food and beverage company for children with a stated mission “to be a driver of change, creating higher standards for how we make and market food and beverages for our kids, leading with nutrition, taste and truth.” </p><p>“<span>I've learned that on this issue, if you want to change the game, you can't just work from the outside. You've got to get inside—you've got to find ways to change the food and beverage industry itself,” Obama said at <i>The Wall Street</i></span><i>Journal’s</i> Future of Everything Festival. “I'm proud to announce the national launch of a company designed not just to provide better products, but to jumpstart a race to the top that will transform the entire food industry.”</p><p> </p><p><b>Teaching Healthy Eating in Schools</b></p><p>In 2009, Jyl Steinback created the national nonprofit <a href="https://shapeupus.org/about-us/">Shape Up US</a> to provide teachers, children, parents and communities with the tools they need to adopt healthy, lifelong habits. Rather than trying to impact school lunch programs that are notoriously difficult to change, the co-author of multiple books, including <i>Think Outside the Lunchbox Cookbook,</i> brings her nutritional curriculum into classrooms. She created five booklets with hands-on activities that support sustainable living and plant-based nutrition, as well as the Hip Hop Healthy Heart Program for Children that focuses on cardiovascular health. Since 2009, her programs have been used in 34 states, reaching more than 100,000 children.</p><p>Steinback believes in the power of early education. “If you start with K [kindergarten] through sixth grade, you're planting that seed,” she explains, adding that children are naturally curious and willing to try new things as long as they’re involved in the decision-making process. One way she coaxes kids to make better choices is by prompting them to go grocery shopping with their parents and pick a food they’ve never eaten before.</p><p> </p><p><b>Modeling Healthy Behavior</b></p><p>“We have this belief that we can feed children anything,” says public health nurse Meryl Fury, the president and CEO of <a href="https://pbnm.org/">Plant Based Nutrition Movement</a>. “People will say, ‘Let them be kids; let them eat donuts; let them eat Pop Tarts.’ We feed them mac and cheese and chicken nuggets, and we think it’s fine, but our data shows that children have increasing rates of obesity, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. These are things that never occurred in children before, and it’s very much connected to our lifestyle.”</p><p>Fury recommends that parents and teachers model better behavior and improve the school food culture in general. Instead of using candy as rewards in the classroom, other incentives can be offered such as stickers, pencils or other non-food treats. She reminds parents and teachers that some children might have attention deficit disorder or other challenges that relate to impulse control or self-regulation, and high-sugar or highly processed foods and dyes are not good for them, or anyone.</p><p>If children initially resist trying new foods, Fury encourages adults not to give up. “Boil it, mash it, sauté it, simmer it, roast it, serve it raw, serve it with sauce or serve it as a dip,” she suggests. It can take one to two dozen times of exposing a child to a new food before they’re even willing to try it, but the healthy benefits could be lifelong.</p><p><i>Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of </i>50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress: Scientifically Proven Ways to Relieve Anxiety and Boost Your Mental Health Using Your Five Senses.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:9f5fed6a-2ed2-46b9-ace9-c753264fec3b2024-01-01T13:38:51-08:002024-01-01T13:38:55-08:00CCS Nutrition Accepts Insurance2024-01-01 13:38:50 -0800Jerome Bilaos<p>Carolann Cola Salinardo, owner of CCS Nutrition LLC,
is a clinical nutritionist with a functional medicine philosophy that accepts
all major insurances. </p>
<p>After losing her husband to pancreatic cancer in 2007,
Salinardo decided to embrace her lifelong interest in nutrition as a
calling. During his care at a top
hospital by a renowned physician, food and nutrition were never mentioned. The
absence of something so fundamental to health drove her to change her career to
something she felt mattered. She returned to school for a masters in nutrition
and became a certified nutrition specialist that now serves patients by
integrating diet and lifestyle for whole health solutions.</p>
<p> With a non-judgemental acceptance of where people are
in their wellness journey, Salinardo educates and empowers patients to live
long healthy lives by knowing what works for them and their body. Initial
consultations in person in her Cranford office are available. Following sessions
are usually virtual as most patients find it easier to schedule.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i>Located in
Cranford. For information contact 908-591-9793, bewell.ccs@gmail.com and visit
CCSNutrition.net. See ad, page 15.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:3e8aa41e-8cb4-4ecb-bea3-4d260ec033cd2023-12-19T14:57:15-08:002024-02-07T16:24:30-08:00Kidfluencers: Using Social Media for Positive Change2023-12-29 06:23:00 -0800Megy Karydes<p>Social media has made it easier than ever to share ideas, and today’s generation of digital natives are adept at using it. With one video post, they can reach thousands in minutes. Welcome to the world of “kidfluencers”: young people with throngs of online followers that use their platforms to sway their peers (and adults, too). Aged 16 or younger, these engaged leaders know the ins-and-outs of the latest technology and understand that there is power in becoming more than just a passive viewer. While some use social media outlets to earn sponsorships or market products, others leverage their online brands to inspire agents of change and make a positive difference in the world.</p><p> </p><p><b>Reaching the Reading Masses</b></p><p> </p><p>When eighth-graders Kyra and Phallon Pierce noticed a racially insensitive book and zero multi-cultural authors on an assigned reading list, the Chicagoland-based identical twins decided to take action. They launched Positive Change Charities, a nonprofit that awards book grants to promote diverse authors to kids in need and underfunded K-12 libraries across Illinois.</p><p> </p><p>“We’ve given out about 4,000 books, and I’m really excited about that because we go to the schools and personally get to give those books out,” Kyra says. The twins are competitive dancers and use social media to promote their performances, and they employ those same venues to get the word out about their book-focused work. </p><p> </p><p>On Instagram, for example, the Pierce girls encourage Illinois kids to check out their curated reading list, apply for a grant or push for state legislation that compels the inclusion of diverse authors in K-12 curriculums. “I feel like [social media] is a really good tool to use, because it allows you to get to a wide variety of people,” Phallon notes. “It hits adults; it hits teenagers; it hits anybody. It allows you to really push your message out there.”</p><p> </p><p><b>Mobilizing Community Cleanups</b></p><p> </p><p>Known as The Conservation Kid, Cash Daniels is a 14-year-old influencer from Chattanooga who uses Instagram to promote Tennessee River preservation efforts. Since he began this work at age 7, he has helped recycle 2,000 miles of fishing line and remove more than 30,000 pounds of trash and two tons of aluminum cans from area waterways. He leads community cleanups and often speaks directly to children at school functions.</p><p> </p><p>“Kids may be a small part of the population, but we're 100 percent of the future,” Daniels asserts. “And if somebody says you can't do it, get out there and prove them wrong.” Instagram is his preferred outlet because that’s where he feels he can reach the most people in the limited time he can commit to online endeavors. In addition to leveraging social media to inspire others, he has met some of his best friends online, as well as people wanting to collaborate with him to amplify his message. </p><p> </p><p><b>Protecting Young Influencers</b><b></b></p><p> </p><p>While influencers like the Pierce twins and Daniels work hard to promote positive messages online, they are not immune to the more negative realities of being in the spotlight. If their interests or values don’t align with abusive keyboard warriors, these well-meaning kids may be subjected to trolling, online bullying and hate speech. </p><p> </p><p><span>Dr. Meg Arroll, a psychologist and author of <i>Tiny Traumas: When You Don't Know What's Wrong, but Nothing Feels Quite Right</i>, believes that online influencing is a form of work and families should try to strike the right work-life balance. “How many hours a day would we allow our kids to work, even if it's something that they wanted to do?” she asks.</span></p><p> </p><p>Arroll highlights the complexities that parents must navigate when a child starts to earn money or products in exchange for social media influence. Those likes, shares and other types of engagement, she says, trigger the reward center in human brains, and that can lead to addictive-like behavior. </p><p> </p><p>Recognizing the dangers, the parents of both the Pierce twins and Daniels limit their kids’ social media use and monitor posts so that they can address any worrisome events or behaviors before they get out of control.</p><p> </p><p><b>Inspiring New Kidfluencers</b><b></b></p><p> </p><p>When the Pierce twins visit schools, their audiences are comprised of kids just like them. “There’s no difference between us; we're all the same,” says Phallon, and Kyra chimes in that this commonality can be inspiring. Daniels believes that when kids see him in action on social media, they are motivated to act, as well. He is a role model—opening new possibilities for future kidfluencers.</p><p> </p><p><i>Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of </i><i>50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress: Scientifically Proven Ways to Relieve Anxiety and Boost Your Mental Health Using Your Five Senses.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:efea64d2-6f12-4cb7-afb2-8d54cc9847252023-11-16T16:58:46-08:002024-01-01T06:38:55-08:00The Skills Children Need: How to Help Kids Thrive Into Adulthood2023-11-28 03:30:00 -0800Jennifer Zethner, RN, MS, CPNP<p>Skills learned at a young age are pivotal in shaping the development of children. As parents, educators and caregivers, we want them to develop into well-rounded, successful adults. Beyond academic knowledge, there are essential character and life skills that they need to master to help them grow into responsible, empathetic and resilient individuals. <br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Fostering</b> <b>Skill Development</b></p><p><br></p><p>“Character skills should be intentionally taught and reinforced throughout a child's educational journey,” says Ronald Bubnowski, an elementary school principal and Boy Scouts of America leader in New Jersey. “When we teach kids character skills, we are investing in the future generation of change-makers and leaders who will make this world a better place.” Character skills contribute to moral and ethical growth and help equip children to face the challenges of the world with confidence and integrity. <br></p><p>Life skills are acquired gradually, starting from a very young age. As soon as children start interacting with their environment, they begin to develop fundamental skills. According to Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist and founder of <a href="https://www.ahaparenting.com/" target="_blank">Aha! Parenting</a>, “Children are never too young to learn life skills.” For example, when a comforting parent tends to a crying baby, the baby learns to trust the people in their world and that they are worthy of being cared for. This is a building block for self-confidence.</p><p>Life skills are not a one-size-fits-all concept. The skills that are most important for children to learn differ depending on their age and stage of development. When they are around 6 to 12 months old, a child can roll, sit, pull up to stand, crawl, vocalize, suck their fingers or pacifier, and hold and study a toy. This is an appropriate time to allow a child to learn how to self-regulate, an important skill for all ages. A good place to practice is during naps and at bedtime. Don’t be surprised that a child lets out only a few cries and then soothes themselves to sleep. <br></p><p>Teaching toddlers life skills is about role modeling; they learn by example. Some key life skills to teach during these years include feeding oneself, brushing teeth, following directions, washing hands, using the bathroom independently, manners and communicating needs and feelings.<br></p><p>By age 3, children start to socialize and make attempts to please others. Most skills acquired at this age come from socializing with other kids their age, whether that’s with siblings, at day care, nursery school, mommy-and-me groups or at the park. They should develop empathy and cooperation. As they begin to explore the world around them unassisted, it is essential to focus on developing basic skills that allow them to feel independent and capable. Some key life skills to teach children during early childhood include tying their shoelaces, dressing themselves, cleaning up their toys and managing simple conflicts with siblings. </p><p>As children move through elementary school, character development expands as part of the development of their identity. They learn more complex skills, such as time management, decision making, the importance of respecting others’ opinions and peaceful conflict resolution.<br></p><h3><br><b>Creating a Learning Environment</b></h3><p><br>Teaching life and character skills to children requires a multifaceted approach involving guidance, practice and positive reinforcement. It is crucial to create a supportive environment that encourages them to explore and learn through hands-on experiences. Here are some effective strategies:</p><p><br></p><ul><li><b>Challenge a child at every age.</b> They are growing fast and what they couldn’t do today they may be ready to do tomorrow.</li><li><b>Lead by example.</b> Children learn best by observing the behaviors and actions of adults around them.</li><li><b>Provide opportunities for practice.</b> Create tasks or chores that allow them to apply the skills they learn to reinforce their understanding and build confidence.</li><li><b>Use storytelling and play.</b> Engaging children in storytelling and play activities can make the process of learning life and character skills more enjoyable and memorable. Through storytelling, children can learn valuable lessons and understand the importance of various skills in different situations.</li><li><b>Encourage independence and problem-solving.</b> Allowing children to make decisions and solve problems on their own fosters independence and critical thinking. By providing guidance and support, adults can empower children to become more self-reliant. “Giving children a safe and supportive environment in which to fail and learn is part of the process, too,” says Bubnowski.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Visit <a href="http://www.HealthyChildren.org" target="_blank">HealthyChildren.org</a> from the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as <a href="http://www.Tinyurl.com/LearnTheSignsActEarly" target="_blank">Tinyurl.com/LearnTheSignsActEarly</a> from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control for tools and tips at every stage of a child’s development.</p><p> </p><p><i>Jennifer Zethner is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner and founder of Simply Pediatrics in Northport, New York.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:fcccbea9-78b3-4106-acbe-ed7fa5e852a22023-10-15T16:39:56-07:002023-12-01T11:12:44-08:00The Magic of Parent-Child Synchrony: How Skin-to-Skin Contact Helps Development2023-10-31 06:30:00 -0700Christine Ramos, RN, CLC, CCM, IBCLC (retired)<p>Imagine being an infant born only moments ago. The onslaught of new sensations must be overwhelming as they suddenly feel the weight of a once-buoyant body. Eyes that saw only muted shades are now confronted by the harshness of bright lights.<br></p><p><br></p><p>For nine months, there were no pangs of hunger, but now they will crave nourishment with every fiber. The warmth, comfort and safety of the womb has been replaced with uncertainty, and the child’s cardiovascular, digestive and immune systems must quickly adjust to new demands.</p><p><br></p><p>The simple act of placing a newborn on mom’s chest, referred to as Kangaroo Care, can produce remarkable benefits. When it is done for 60 to 90 minutes, this skin-to-skin contact initiates a cascade of physiological effects that optimize every organ system in the infant’s body and promote breastfeeding. The mother also receives benefits, such as reduced stress hormone levels and greater amounts of oxytocin, the hormone that plays a vital role in postpartum healing, breastfeeding and pair bonding.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Benefits of Close Physical Contact</b></p><p><br></p><p>In 2021, the Proceedings for the <a href="https://www.nasonline.org/" target="_blank">National Academy of Sciences</a> of the United States of America published a study examining the long-term effects of Kangaroo Care. For two decades, researchers followed preterm and full-term babies; some had received Kangaroo Care (or skin-to-skin contact), and others had not. The children were assessed at four months, three years, 12 years and 20 years.</p><p><br></p><p>The scientists concluded that early experiences of frequent, close physical contact play an important role in a child’s social-emotional development and were predictive of a child’s ability later in life to interact with peers, regulate emotions, manage stress and show empathic understanding. According to the authors, bodily contact may provide a bridge from prenatal life to postnatal social life.</p><p><br></p><p>Using a method called hyper-scanning, with advanced imaging techniques, scientists sought to identify what was being exchanged between mother and child that yielded such dramatic outcomes. They found that the pair’s neural activity coordinated or synchronized with one another, which led to benefits for the child’s nervous system, immune system, body function and behavioral development.</p><p><br></p><p>This synchrony was also present when the parent and child were near one another, not just when practicing Kangaroo Care. Certain factors strengthened synchrony, such as physical proximity and affectionate touch, which activates dopamine and other feel-good chemicals in the child’s brain, enhancing cognitive functioning such as social learning and reward processing, vital in preventing major mood disorders and addictions.</p><p><br></p><p>In effect, Kangaroo Care (both with or without clothing), carrying an infant in a carrier or sling, frequent or on-demand feedings, sleeping near one another and infant touch or massage promote what has been scientifically termed parent-child interaction synchrony.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Emerging Understanding of Carry Care</b></p><p><br></p><p>A child’s brain continues to grow after birth, and by age 1, the average baby’s brain is about 60 percent of an adult’s brain size. During that first year of postpartum development, caretakers must provide the correct habitat to help the infant cope with its immaturity.</p><p><br></p><p>According to anthropological evidence, an optimal habitat can be provided through what is termed carry care, which provides opportunities for close contact and promotes parent-child interaction synchrony. Anthropologists also point out that in Western society parents have evolved away from carry care and toward nest care, where the baby is placed apart from the caregiver.</p><p><br></p><p>However, the science suggests that closer contact is beneficial. Interaction synchrony seems so impactful that lack of it may have implications for the development of autism spectrum disorder and other neurobehavioral disorders. Currently, interaction synchrony is one of the most studied subjects in modern science, as it has recently been found to exist in a variety of relationships, not just between a parent and child. Yet, for all its profound implications, its relational and developmental dynamics remain a mystery.</p><p><br></p><p>Until interaction synchrony unveils more of its secrets, holding and embracing our babies just a little bit longer may be advisable for the health of their growing minds and bodies.<br></p><p><br></p><p><i>Christine Ramos, the author of </i>A Journey Into Being: Knowing and Nurturing Our Children As Spirit<i>, is a maternal-child health registered nurse who has worked as a certified childbirth educator, certified doula, certified case manager and an internationally board-certified lactation consultant.</i></p><p><br></p><p><i>This article first appeared in </i><a href="https://www.ecoparent.ca/" target="_blank">EcoParent</a><i> magazine and is adapted and reprinted with permission.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:0747123e-2632-42df-b22a-f01ce594a57b2023-09-15T17:20:21-07:002023-11-01T11:47:15-07:00A Symphony of Skill-Building: How Music Spurs Childhood Development2023-09-29 06:30:00 -0700Sheila Julson<p>For adults, music has the power to instill feelings of joy, relaxation and calmness, or to motivate us when we are exercising or performing a task, but for children, there are added benefits. Whether listening to a live orchestra, engaging in rhythmic games, learning to play an instrument or singing in a choir, musical pursuits have been proven to help with early brain development and teach kids important life skills.<br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Building a Better Brain</b></p><p><br></p><p>Researchers at the University of Washington Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences discovered that play sessions with music helped 9-month-old babies learn to detect rhythmic patterns, an important skill for both music and speech. According to lead author <a href="https://sphsc.washington.edu/content/christina-zhao" target="_blank">Christina Zhao</a>, “This means that early, engaging musical experiences can have a more global effect on cognitive skills.”</p><p><br></p><p>In a five-year study involving 6- and 7-year-olds, neuroscientists at the University of Southern California Brain and Creativity Institute, in partnership with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, found that music instruction appeared to accelerate brain development in young kids, particularly in the areas of the brain responsible for processing sound, language development, speech perception and reading skills.</p><p><br></p><p>“Music learning, such as studying to play a musical instrument or singing in tune, are very complex activities for the brain. They use multiple senses but also require those senses to interact and exchange information in a highly synchronized way,” explains <a href="https://biggerbetterbrains.com/about-dr-anita-collins/" target="_blank">Dr. Anita Collins</a>, founder of Bigger Better Brains and author of <i>The Music Advantage: How Music Helps Your Child Develop, Learn, and Thrive</i>.<b> </b>She asserts that complex musical activities are like full-body workouts for the brain, which sharpen a child’s ability to solve problems and think creatively and divergently. As these skills are mastered, they can be transferred to other types of brain activities.</p><p><br></p><p>Collins advises that singing to and with children at a young age can help them gain control of their voices, as well as their speech enunciation and processing, and to hear nuances in sounds. She recommends interacting with the world of sound while outdoors and adds, “Getting a young child to focus their ears onto a particular sound can help train auditory attention, which trains the attention network in general.”</p><p><br></p><p>Kids need to listen actively, rather than passively, most of the time, Collins notes. “Passive music listening is hearing music in a mall. Active music listening is focusing our auditory processing on a particular instrument, on the melody line over the bass line or mirroring the rhythmic ostinato of the drum part.” </p><p><br></p><p>Silence also plays an important role in early development. “The biggest mistake is not thinking about a child’s auditory environment and always having the TV on or having a highly stimulating auditory environment all the time. Children need variety in their food, and sound is food for the brain. They need quiet times, unusual sounds, unexpected sounds and repetitive sounds,” says Collins.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Learning Life Skills</b><br></p><p><a href="https://www.joankoenig.com/" target="_blank">Joan Koenig</a>, author of <i>The Musical Child: Using the Power of Music to Raise Children Who Are Happy, Healthy, and Whole</i>, says that engaging in a musical practice can help kids develop language awareness and social skills. Such positive results are possible even without expensive music classes or instruments. </p><p><br></p><p>Simple call-and-response exercises can be effective in the brain development of babies and toddlers. “We are an orchestra within ourselves; we can create rhythm, melody and harmony,” Koenig explains. “A parent or caregiver can initiate a call-and-response game by singing a song, tapping a wooden spoon on pots and pans or singing nonsense words. Babies will imitate it. When the baby is involved in this game during the first year of life, they are experiencing a connection with the person that’s doing it. It is visceral proof that they are being listened to and understood long before the development of language. You’re giving them the building blocks for both music and language. It’s about repetition and engagement.”</p><p><br></p><p>Basic life skills can also be learned with the assistance of music. “A march-and-stop song game allows children to practice stopping something fun and waiting, which can carry over to stopping when we’re upset and waiting until we have a thoughtful response,” says Elise Pennington, chair of the early childhood program at the <a href="https://www.wcmusic.org/early-childhood-online-sing-along/" target="_blank">Wisconsin Conservatory of Music</a>, in Milwaukee. “Playing games like Ring Around the Rosie or Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes can help with a number of areas. Enrolling in an organized music class where children are active participants and being challenged will help exercise a wider range of skills in a deeper way.”</p><p><br></p><p>“When children or adults make music together, they become part of the musical creation,” Koenig says. “When a young child feels this kind of visceral belonging, anxiety is low and empathy and confidence are high. These are the ideal conditions for all learning.” </p><p><br></p><p><i>Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and regular contributor to </i>Natural Awakenings<i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a02ed3e6-5aed-424d-a19e-ffe6916d895f2023-08-16T13:23:27-07:002023-09-29T06:59:36-07:00Helping Kids Cope: Guiding Children Through Trauma and Anxiety2023-08-31 06:30:00 -0700Carrie Jackson<p>Children today are facing ever-increasing amounts of stress and anxiety. In addition to academic pressure, bullying and family dynamics, kids are worried about navigating social media, climate change and school shootings. While a certain amount of stress is normal and healthy, too much can cause debilitating physical, emotional and cognitive effects.<br></p><p><br></p><p>A 2010 study published by the <a href="https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/national-scientific-council-on-the-developing-child/" target="_blank">National Scientific Council</a> on the Developing Child, at Harvard University, reports that persistent fear and chronic anxiety can have lifelong consequences by disrupting the developing architecture of the brain. Parents can help anxious kids by modeling stress-management and problem-solving techniques, and inviting their children to talk about their feelings.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Acknowledging and Coping With Fear</b></p><p><br></p><p>While each child’s anxiety is unique, the themes are often universal. “Children fear not being liked, being made fun of, failing when they try new things, getting hurt, losing a loved one, being left out and not fitting in. If this list seems familiar, it’s because they are all the same fears adults have too,” says <a href="https://mnscreative.com/" target="_blank">Michelle Nelson-Schmidt</a>, an author and illustrator of 32 children’s books, including <i>What If I Know My Feelings? </i>and<i> The Whatif Monster</i> series<i>.</i> “It is debilitating when we don’t talk about our fears and anxieties. Children often don’t have the vocabulary to verbalize their fears, so they bottle it up, letting fears get bigger and scarier. The earlier they learn that it’s okay to be scared, to talk about their fears and to ask for help, the less power fear and anxiety will have over their brains.”</p><p><br></p><p>According to <a href="https://www.drcarolpenn.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Carol Penn</a>, author of <i>Meditation in a Time of Madness: A Guidebook for Talented Tweens, Teens, Their Parents & Guardians Who Need to Thrive, </i>“Fear is a natural phenomenon. It’s how we’re hardwired to survive as a species. However, when fear turns into anxiety and the body enters a chronic state of hyper-arousal with raised cortisone levels, it can be debilitating. This shortens attention spans and disrupts the hypothalamic loop, which deals with creating short-term memory, causing kids to lose the ability to engrain long-term learning.”</p><p><br></p><p>Penn notes that kids can pick up on their parents’ anxiety, so it is imperative to model self-care and create a soothing home environment. “Children are unsettled when their parents are unsettled. By observing body language and energy, kids can intuitively gauge when something is wrong, and they often make up stories about why,” she explains. “Teaching kids to take regular breaks throughout the day for relaxed awareness encourages them to notice a mind-body connection. Take two minutes before getting out of the car or starting a new activity to pay attention to your breath and observe and label pain or tension in the body. If you are hunching your shoulders or clenching your jaw, make mindful adjustments to reset and settle the body and nervous system.”</p><p><br></p><p><b>Overcoming Anxiety After a Traumatic Event</b></p><p><br></p><p>Last year, Highland Park, Illinois, experienced the improbable yet possible event of a mass shooting during their Fourth of July parade. “While the community worked to rediscover a sense of safety, our school focused on the necessary structures and initiatives to help students heal and rebuild,” says Holly Fleischer, the assistant principal of diversity, equity and inclusion at <a href="https://hs.hpisd.org/" target="_blank">Highland Park High School</a>. "As we started the school year, we recommitted to a focus on social-emotional learning by teaching strategies to manage emotions, sustain healthy relationships, develop an awareness of self and make healthy decisions. By practicing coping skills with everyday stressors, our students are learning to develop feelings of control, safety and resiliency as they navigate a traumatic experience or event.”</p><p><br></p><p>According to Fleischer, “While there is little control of one’s outside world and circumstances, kids can find calm in a storm through strategies like deep breathing, recognizing your five senses, listening to music, reaching out to loved ones, using ice packs for sensory intervention and giving oneself a strong bear hug. Students will get to know which ones work for them. It is also essential to disrupt maladaptive coping mechanisms like avoidance, which do not allow for the practice of these healthier ways of self-management.”</p><p><br></p><p><b>Building Resilience for the Future</b></p><p><br></p><p>“Thoughts are the language of the mind, and feelings are the language of the body,” Penn counsels. “When stress develops, have kids draw three pictures identifying what it looks like for them. The first is a picture of themselves right now; the second is the challenge they’re facing; and the third is how they will feel when the challenge is resolved. This gives children control over their feelings, allowing them to self-soothe and creatively work through challenging situations. When children learn to be adaptable, flexible and imaginative critical thinkers, they can respond to even the darkest days and move forward with grace and hope.”</p><p><br></p><p><i>Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer. Connect at </i><a href="http://www.CarrieJacksonWrites.com" target="_blank">CarrieJacksonWrites.com</a><i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:d3e21360-509d-4eb0-8e37-3c813e2921052023-07-15T14:13:05-07:002023-09-01T00:25:46-07:00Stepparenting Success: Creating a Healthy Blended Family2023-07-31 06:30:00 -0700Julie Peterson<p>Blended families are complex and often challenging. A marriage between two people that already have children creates new relationships with individuals that were strangers not long ago. The newlyweds must nurture their own kids while forming new bonds with stepchildren, and the children may need to figure out how to accept a stepparent into their lives, share physical and emotional space with stepsiblings or spend part of their time in their other parent’s home.<br></p><p><br></p><p>It’s a lot to ask. Imagine this through the eyes of a young child or teenager. It might be confusing, frustrating or infuriating. Fortunately, there are methods to knit a blended family into a strong and enduring tapestry. </p><p><br></p><p><b>Beat the Odds</b></p><p><b></b><br></p><p>According to<b> </b>Julee Peterson, a California-based therapist at Helping Blended Families, 65 percent of families are blended. It is the new norm. And yet, the <a href="http://www.https://www.cdc.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> estimate that 23 percent of second marriages end in divorce after five years and 39 percent dissolve after 10 years. Peterson notes, “Many reputable scholars still project the overall divorce rate for all marriages to be between 40 and 50 percent.” </p><p><br></p><p>To avoid becoming part of these statistics, it is crucial to manage expectations before creating a blended family. “What roles do you see each other playing? How are you going to handle discipline, experience holidays, safeguard your relationship or deal with divorce drama?” asks <a href="https://divorceandchildren.com/about-christina-mcghee/" target="_blank">Christina McGhee</a>, MSW, author of <i>Parenting Apart: How Separated and Divorced Parents Can Raise Happy and Secure Kids.</i></p><p><br></p><p><b>See the Child’s Point of View</b></p><p><br></p><p>McGhee, who prefers to be called “bonus mom” by her two stepchildren, cautions parents not to underestimate the amount of stress that blended families experience due to different parenting styles, uncooperative coparents and revolving schedules. “But it’s still possible to create an environment where everybody feels connected and accepted,” she asserts. </p><p><br></p><p>“Even very young children pick up on body language and stress,” says McGhee. “Kids can do remarkably well having one household that is grounded, balanced and supportive with parental figures that validate their feelings, shield them from conflict, create opportunities for conversation and remain consistent and predictable.”</p><p><b></b><br></p><p><b><br></b></p><p><b>Set Practical Boundaries</b><br></p><p><b></b><br></p><p>While it’s OK if a stepchild is not comfortable with a stepparent right away, “the child should have an understanding of the importance of the stepparent in their life, and that the stepparent should be treated with respect,” says attorney Victoria Kelly, a partner at <a href="https://seftonkellylaw.com/" target="_blank">Sefton Kelly Family Law</a>, in Naperville, Illinois.</p><p><br></p><p>Although a couple may be excited to embark upon a blended family adventure, their children may feel pressured into instantly liking or accepting a stepparent. “Kids may feel a loyalty conflict or worry about betraying the other parent if they accept the stepparent,” says McGhee, suggesting that stepparents encourage and support one-on-one time with the other parent. “It’s critical for bonus parents to honor the history that your bonus children have,” she advises. “Part of their lives didn’t include you. Respect that.”</p><p><br></p><p><b>Collaborate With the Coparent</b></p><p><br></p><p>“You have zero control over the decisions that coparents make—what they do, what they say, the rules that they establish,” says McGhee. “But you always have a choice about how you respond and how you engage. Focus on what you can control.” </p><p><br></p><p>“It’s important to have an open line of communication with the other parent, but if the other parent is not comfortable speaking with the stepparent, that boundary should be respected, advises Kelly. “All families can benefit from monthly meetings.”</p><p><br></p><p>“Often, there are issues that kids are navigating behind the scenes that don’t make it on our parent radar,” McGhee notes, suggesting that parents set up a transition time when children are moving between households, such as a gathering around the dinner table to talk about the things that took place while apart. “Kids need some emotional space to shift gears,” she says. “When they’re with the other parent, keep communication open, so that when the children come back through the door, they don’t get sensory overload.”</p><p><br></p><p><b>Create Memories Together</b></p><p><b></b><br></p><p>Will Smith, senior business development manager for Acrow Bridge, in Alabama, raised one biological son and one stepson. He says that each child is different, so every situation needs to be customized to meet their needs. Smith and his wife presented a clear and consistent front when setting long-term values and goals for the kids—expecting the boys to do well in school and go to college—and they leaned in hard to achieve those objectives.</p><p><br></p><p>Stepparents can gradually incorporate quality togetherness by celebrating holidays, new rituals or even ordinary activities. “My relationship with my stepson grew through a shared interest in sports,” Smith says. “As a family, we played a lot of board games and had some favorite movies. These things became traditions.” </p><p><br></p><p><i>Julie Peterson is a frequent contributor to </i>Natural Awakenings <i>magazine.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:4a707a83-5064-4291-9ac5-6aa2eb4db8b02023-06-15T14:25:40-07:002023-08-02T09:00:11-07:00Gut Health for Kids: Clever Strategies for Picky Eaters2023-06-30 06:30:00 -0700Sheila Julson<p>Most kids look forward to summer vacation, but the dog days can eventually lead to boredom and over-snacking. By creatively offering children healthy, diverse foods, presented in ways to please even finicky palates, parents can support microbiome health while establishing a lifetime of good eating habits.<br></p><p><b></b></p><p><br></p><p><b>Tickle Their Palate</b></p><p><br></p><p>“Foods with probiotic-containing living cultures or fermented foods can add beneficial bacteria to the gut,” says Jill Castle, a Massachusetts-based pediatric dietitian and founding CEO of <a href="https://thenourishedchild.com/" target="_blank">The Nourished Child</a>, an online nutrition resource for parents. She recommends incorporating treats that are alive, tart and bubbling with healthful microbes. </p><p><br></p><p>“Parents can make sure they offer a variety of prebiotic and probiotic foods routinely at mealtimes as options to taste and try. The good news is there are many healthy, gut-supporting foods for children to eat,” she advises.</p><p><br></p><p>Yogurt with live or active cultures and kefir, a fermented milk drink, both contain these beneficial probiotics. “Although kefir tends to be sour, some brands have flavored kefir, such as strawberry, mango or peach,” Castle explains. “I've had great luck introducing this to children who are picky, because it's smooth and creamy and tastes like a smoothie.”</p><p><br></p><p>She also notes that kombucha, a fizzy, fermented tea with live and active cultures, is available in fruity flavors that appeal to children. Pickles fermented over time with salt and water are a source of healthy bacteria for the gut. And although cheeses are fermented, only a few have live, active cultures. Castle recommends gouda, mozzarella or cheddar. </p><p><br></p><p><b>Sneak in the Fiber</b></p><p><br></p><p>According to Dr. Joanne Aponte, a naturopathic doctor at <a href="https://lakesidenaturalmedicine.com/" target="_blank">Lakeside Natural Medicine</a>, in Milwaukee, a diverse diet high in fiber is key to supporting a healthy gut microbiome. “All veggies are beneficial, but ones high in galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) and fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) prebiotics help grow and support healthy gut bacteria,” she explains. GOS-rich foods include beans, lentils and peas, along with broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, while FOS-predominant choices are garlic, onions, asparagus, artichokes and leeks.</p><p><br></p><p>Aponte also recommends chia, flax, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, which can be ground up in an inexpensive coffee grinder and added to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt or home-baked goods such as cookies, pancakes or waffles. “Sunflower butter can be used to make cookies,” Aponte notes. “I make oatmeal-sunflower butter cookies that are packed with microbiome-supporting oatmeal, pumpkin, ground chia seeds and, of course, chocolate chips.”</p><p><br></p><p>For children that are choosy about vegetables, Aponte suggests making zucchini or carrot muffins with ground chia seeds or walnuts. Entice children to eat raw veggies by offering dipping sauces, such as teriyaki, ranch dressing or salsa. Aponte notes that skins should be left on vegetables whenever possible because they contain fiber, which helps feed the gut microbiome.</p><p><br></p><p>“It takes some experimentation, but encourage your child to try lots of different foods,” Aponte says. “Some kids might prefer a black bean spread or dip, or refried beans, versus eating whole beans. There are also pastas made with chickpeas or lentils. Veggies like onion or zucchini can be chopped small and hidden in spaghetti sauce.”</p><p><br></p><p><b>Add a Pinch of Fun</b></p><p><br></p><p>Katrina Lien, the program development specialist for <a href="https://fit.sanfordhealth.org/discover?category=Recharge&sort=recent" target="_blank">Sanford fit</a><i>, </i>a children’s fitness program for kids in rural South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota, suggests that parents find ways to engage and empower kids to make healthy lifestyle choices. </p><p><br></p><p>“Try offering new foods with foods that you know your kids already like,” she says. “When you introduce something new or unfamiliar alongside foods that are a well-known favorite, kids are more open to trying the unfamiliar food.”</p><p><br></p><p>Attempt to make foods more interesting and fun, Lien advises. “This can be done by how you arrange the food items on the plate or cutting foods into different shapes. For example, use a cookie cutter to turn simple cucumber slices into a heart or a star.”</p><p><br></p><p>According to Lien, when parents involve their children in snack and meal preparation, kids feel included and excited to try the foods they helped create. Although getting kids interested in unfamiliar foods can be laborious and time-consuming, parents should remind themselves to be patient and remain consistent.</p><p><br></p><p>Sanford <i>fit</i> offers free, online resources through printable literature, videos, lessons and games at <a href="http://www.fit.SanfordHealth.org" target="_blank">fit.SanfordHealth.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and contributor to </i>Natural Awakenings<i> magazine.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:6c40006a-5cab-4344-87d5-c254295716c32023-05-15T17:24:22-07:002023-08-09T20:26:40-07:00Conscious Fatherhood: Building a Better Family2023-05-31 06:30:00 -0700Julie Peterson<p>Some dads believe they need to work long hours so that they can purchase better things and go on fancier vacations, but research shows that, outside of escaping poverty, money doesn’t buy happiness. Even for children, it’s not about stuff or destinations; it’s about time spent together. Fortunately, there are men teaching men to embrace the fatherhood role and take action in ways that matter most. <br></p><p><br></p><p>“All men desire to be loved, valued, needed and respected, and to know they are leaving a mark on this world. Many men look for this fulfillment in career and hobbies, but this can be found by embracing their role as fathers,” says Ned Schaut, the Hawaii-based author of <i>The Adventure of Fatherhood</i>. He notes that the way fathers choose to live and perform their parental roles can affect a family for generations. </p><p><br></p><p>Learning what fatherhood entails isn’t easy for men that grew up without involved dads, which may leave them doubting that they have what it takes to lead their families. “There are endless resources to help us in our businesses or careers, but our society doesn’t get behind the message that strong families matter, that present, engaged fathers matter,” says Chris Smith, founder of <a href="https://campfireeffect.com/" target="_blank">Campfire Effect</a>, a coaching business for entrepreneurs in Arizona. “In business, we apply principles around values, culture, leadership and growth, and then we go home and don’t apply these same principles.” </p><p><br></p><h3><b>Define Values</b></h3><p><b></b><br></p><p>The lack of fatherhood guidance led Smith to develop Family Brand, an eight-week program designed to strengthen familial bonds and create an intentional family culture. Part of the process involves parents and their kids understanding who they are and defining their values. The family joins together to come up with a series of statements to hang on the wall as a reminder of their identity and purpose.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Smith Family Brand Statements</b></p><p><br></p><ul><li>We believe you can be who you want to be. </li><li>Smiths can talk about anything without judgment.</li><li>Smiths are kindhearted.</li><li>Smiths are creators. </li><li>Smiths do hard things. </li><li>Smiths are healthy and active. </li><li>Smiths love and support one another. </li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Schaut offers a similar lesson plan called Family Core Values, which prompts families to decide where and how to spend their time and money, and to identify what they do and do not want. “It helps us make decisions or have conversations about who we are and how we want to treat others,” he says. </p><p><br></p><p>A mission statement hangs on the wall at the home of Ben Greenfield, the Washington-based author of <i>Boundless Parenting: Tools, Tactics and Habits of Great Parents</i>. “It’s a collection of the family values, what the family stands for and holds dear, and what the parents want to pass on to their children,” he explains.</p><p><br></p><p>These kinds of value statements help promote positive energy in the home. “If the language spoken at home is limiting and negative, those words become energy that create more of that. We need to use language that is about confidence, kindheartedness and teamwork,” says Smith.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Balance Priorities</b></h3><p><br></p><p>According to Schaut, “There will not be an equal balance of time in all categories of life.” Fathers need to understand what matters most to them and then dedicate their time, money and energy in alignment with those priorities. </p><p><br></p><p>For Smith, his family comes first, and he makes sure that his business revolves around the home. “We always prioritize family, even if that comes at the price of career,” he says. </p><p><br></p><p>Greenfield stacks his priorities in this order: faith first, followed by his relationship with his spouse, family, health and business. His time is meticulously scheduled so that he can dedicate quality time to all of his priorities. He regularly involves his kids in his spiritual practice and exercise routines to set an example and instill positive habits. </p><p><br></p><p>Time dedicated to each child is a priority in strong families. Each of Greenfield’s kids has monthly one-on-one dates with Mom and with Dad, two-on-one quality time every Sunday and daily check-ins every morning and during family dinners. “We’ve noticed that our kids will open up and talk to us during a one-on-one,” Smith asserts.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Discipline With Love</b></h3><p><br></p><p>Smith suggests reimagining the way dads approach discipline. “If you tell your kid, ‘What you did was bad,’ it’s hard for them to hear what you say next, because you are attacking them. If we talk about working or not working, you can say, ‘That really doesn’t work and here’s why.’ Kids are then more open to hearing and learning,” he explains. </p><p><br></p><p>Discipline needs to be thoughtfully appropriate for each child and each situation. “You have to know and be in tune with your kid,” says Schaut. “When you discipline them, it must come from love and you responding as a dad to the situation, not reacting.” </p><p><br></p><p>But talking will never overcome modeling. “What they see you doing is more important than the advice you give them,” says Greenfield. “At the end of the day, kids just want to be seen and loved and heard.” </p><p><br></p><p><i>Julie Peterson writes on health, wellness and environmental topics. </i></p><p><i>Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com. </i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:ce6d2594-0494-4b42-baf4-e564a29c42662023-04-20T09:19:26-07:002023-06-05T15:49:15-07:00Microplastic Overload: Reducing Childhood Exposure2023-04-28 06:30:00 -0700Madiha Saeed, M.D.<p>Exposure to plastics, microplastics and nanoplastics is a lifelong inevitability. Researchers are investigating the human health impacts of these synthetic materials, and while we have a growing picture of potential risks, additional scientific exploration is needed to know how petroleum-based polymers affect kids. Though it is impossible to hide from plastics, much can be done to limit children’s exposure. <br></p><p><br></p><p>Global plastic production was estimated to be about 430 million tons in 2021, and humans are continually finding new ways to use it because of its light weight, extreme temperature resistance and low cost. Although plastic takes hundreds of years to fully biodegrade, it breaks down into smaller components that find their way into the ground, air, water, food, clothing, wildlife and our bodies. Microplastics are smaller than five millimeters, while nanoplastics measure from one to 1,000 nanometers. Regardless of size, plastics are packed with toxic compounds, including phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pesticides, heavy metals and polychlorinated biphenyls.</p><p><br></p><p>Studies have shown that microplastics are found in human tissue, including the lungs, placenta and blood. According to research published in <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/journal/esthag" target="_blank">Environmental Science & Technology</a>, children consume and inhale an estimated 74,000 to 81,000 particles of microplastics annually. Those amounts could be higher for those that drink more water from plastic bottles than from the tap. </p><p><br></p><p>Nano and microplastics (NMPs) build up in the body. Another study published in <i>Environmental Science & Technology </i>reported that by age 18, children accumulate an average of 8,300 particles of microplastics in their tissues, and by age 70 that accumulation grows to 50,100 particles. </p><p><br></p><p>A small, but increasing, amount of research links plastic exposure to human health conditions. A review of data to date published in the <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/journal/ijms" target="_blank">International Journal of Molecular Sciences</a> found evidence that exposure to NMPs affects both the digestive and nervous systems. The review identified microbiota alterations, intestinal barrier permeability (leaky gut), oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotoxicity and behavioral disturbances. While toxicological research on NMPs has not specifically focused on child health, kids’ immature defense mechanisms make them particularly vulnerable.</p><p><br></p><p>“Microplastics are a big problem for fertility,” asserts Jaclyn Smeaton, a licensed naturopathic physician specializing in fertility. The chemicals found in NMPs pose a threat to children’s future reproductive abilities. </p><p><br></p><p>Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastics more durable and can be found in flooring, lubricating oils and personal-care products. According to Yvonne Karney, a gynecologist and CEO of Vitality Renewal, “Phthalates are hormone disruptors that mimic estrogen. They off-gas chemicals that damage the cell membrane and mitochondria.” Studies have linked this chemical to reduced egg quality, less reproductive success and increased gynecological diseases in women; and lower sperm count, lower testosterone, reduced sperm quality and increased DNA damage in men. </p><p><br></p><p>Children have higher levels of exposure and are more vulnerable to phthalates. Research conducted by scientists from Columbia University, University of North Carolina and Harvard University found that phthalates increase children’s risks for learning, attention and behavioral disorders. Another study linked prenatal phthalate exposure to lower IQ and problems with attention, hyperactivity and poor social communication in children. “This is all so new, that we are just starting to learn about the effects of microplastics,” Karney remarks.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Limiting Microplastic Exposure</b></p><p><b></b><br></p><p>“The first tip is avoidance,” Smeaton says. Eliminate harmful plastics, in particular those labeled with the recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene) and 7 (bisphenols). To protect children, soft vinyl toys, old plastic toys and teething rings should be shunned. </p><p><br></p><p>“Wear cotton or wool,” recommends Karney. “Air dry synthetic clothes to limit microplastic release. Laundry balls can keep microfibers from breaking off.”</p><p><br></p><p>“I can’t overemphasize the importance of ensuring children are eating clean food and drinking clean water,” states Smeaton. In 2020, researchers found microplastics in fruit and vegetables, with highest levels of microplastics in carrots and apples. </p><p><br></p><p>“Eating organic can also help, though when contaminants are in soil or water, they can affect even organic produce,” warns Smeaton. “Limit the consumption of shellfish, rice, tea made using a tea bag, table salt and premade meals. Avoid cans and takeaway cups as these are lined with plastic to protect the food. Even if a container states BPA-free, it may still contain BPA’s cousin, bisphenol S.”</p><p><br></p><p>“Employing a water filter is great to remove contaminants, which exist both in city and well water. Reverse osmosis is best, but anything is better than nothing,” says Karney. Look for plastic-free alternatives for cooking and storing food like glass, steel, ceramic and bamboo. Karney also recommends never microwaving foods in plastic, limiting use of bottled water and dusting and vacuuming regularly to remove settled microplastics.</p><p><br></p><p>“Avoid exposing children to NMPs in personal-care products,” says Smeaton. She recommends choosing those that meet the standards of the Environmental Working Group (<a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep" target="_blank">ewg.org/skindeep</a>). </p><p> </p><p>“Pick your battles; focus on what you can control,” Karney advises. “Find things that will not disrupt our life that are doable. It’s not that hard to get a filter for tap water; it is not that hard to get glassware for storing your food.”</p><p><br></p><p><i>Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:40098202-7ad1-4773-9715-897783589b132023-03-16T17:35:48-07:002023-05-02T10:33:39-07:00Kid-Approved Autism Diets: Strategies to Optimize Nutrition and Acceptance2023-03-31 06:30:00 -0700Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD<p>Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges with social interaction and communication. For parents of children with autism, learning to manage this condition requires a multidimensional approach, including consideration of food and nutrition. A personalized, nutritious diet can help manage behavioral problems, health risks and quality of life for kids with autism. <br></p><p><br></p><p>Beth Lambert, executive director of <a href="https://epidemicanswers.org/" target="_blank">Epidemic Answers</a>, says, “Once you come to understand autism as a whole-body condition, rather than just a brain-based or genetic condition, you start to understand the importance of nutrition in treatment and symptom management.” Not only does a nutritious diet help maintain brain balance, it also helps address many of the nutrition-related concerns that children with autism face, such as food sensitivities and allergies, digestive disruptions, sensory issues with textures and nutrient deficiencies. Each of these issues can impact a child’s behavior.</p><p><br></p><p>An essential piece of the autism and diet connection is gut health. Gaby McPherson, MS, RDN, LDN, at Fruitful Nutrition says, “Because a child's gut health is linked to their brain health, it's crucial to boost their gut function to reduce these symptoms that can impact their behaviors. Who wants to go around with a tummy ache and constipation every day?”</p><p><br></p><p>Yaffi Lvova, RDN, author of <i>Beyond a Bite: Playful Sensory Food Exploration for ASD and Neurodivergent Kids</i>, advises that individual abilities also should be considered when developing a nutrition plan. “Autistic children often have sensory sensitivities that make it difficult to eat certain (sometimes many) foods,” she says.</p><p> </p><p><b>Therapeutic Diets</b></p><p><br></p><p>Many therapeutic diets have been evaluated for children with autism. Most involve the elimination of one or more foods, which can be challenging for a child that already has difficulty getting a wide variety of nutrients.</p><p><br></p><p>A popular option is the gluten- and casein-free diet. Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Casein is a protein found in milk and other dairy products. While some children with autism may be sensitive to gluten or dairy, this is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and there is mixed data in support of this regimen.</p><p> </p><p>Another choice is the specific carbohydrate diet (SCD), which involves limiting certain carbohydrates, processed foods, most dairy, sugar and more, with the goal of reducing food sensitivities and improving the gut microbiome. Mixed outcomes have been reported with this diet due in part to its elimination of high-fiber foods that may be beneficial for brain health. McPherson explains, “Gut bacteria digest (or ferment) fiber in the large intestines to produce short-chain fatty acids, which are known to improve brain health significantly.”</p><p><br></p><p>The Feingold diet is another approach that eliminates artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives and salicylates. Salicylates are compounds found in certain fruits and vegetables. While there is some evidence that food dyes may play a role in children’s behavior, most studies on this diet have not demonstrated a significant impact on ASD symptoms. </p><p><br></p><p><b>Personalized Nutrition </b></p><p><br></p><p>Instead of following a specific therapeutic diet, most experts now understand that a diet for ASD needs to be personalized to each child. It is ideal to work with a registered dietitian that can address nutrient and feeding concerns and is trained to make individualized recommendations. A primary area to focus on, according to Lambert, is correcting vitamin deficiencies, which may play a role in improving behavioral and digestive challenges. Nutrients of concern include zinc, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and essential fatty acids.</p><p><br></p><p>McPherson also relates that fiber should be at the forefront of any diet to address digestive concerns. “While many children on the spectrum may strongly prefer foods like chips, crackers, bread or white pastas, these foods tend to be lacking in fiber,” she says. “Good sources of fiber are split peas, multigrain breads and pears.”</p><p><br></p><p>A registered dietitian can also help families evaluate whether a diet is working. Lvova says, “It can be challenging to see whether a specific diet is working or not. When a change is made, the parents and caregivers often pay more attention in order to see if there is a difference, and the child responds positively to the change in attention. By keeping expectations realistic and ensuring a relaxed mealtime atmosphere, your child will have the best chance to meet their nutritional needs.” Ultimately, the goal is to make meals a positive experience for the child, with less emotional investment on which foods they can or cannot eat.</p><p><i></i><br></p><p><i>Ana Reisdorf is a registered dietitian, freelance writer and marketing consultant with more than 15 years of experience in the fields of nutrition and dietetics.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:88eb49db-c585-4cad-a292-1da2017196302023-02-16T12:20:57-08:002023-04-03T06:24:28-07:00Sweet Lullaby: Better Sleep for Children2023-02-27 06:30:00 -0800Marlaina Donato and Kirby Baldwin<p>Sleep is essential for both survival and the ability to thrive, yet as children’s schedules get busier and they spend more time in front of screens, their average sleep time often decreases. While the <a href="https://shop.aap.org/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAxbefBhDfARIsAL4XLRpPQtr9JgAE50gtl1GdvvlhrTIeQWAEhKD__eB9AesSK5O-6Y3KYW0aAnxgEALw_wcB" target="_blank">American Academy of Pediatrics </a>recommends that kids between the ages of 6 and 12 get nine to 12 hours of sleep per night for optimal health, they’re regularly getting less, and about 15 to 25 percent of youngsters and adolescents have trouble falling and staying asleep. <br></p><p><br></p><p>In a recent study published in <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/" target="_blank">The Lancet</a>, researchers at the <a href="https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/" target="_blank">University of Maryland School of Medicine</a> found that children that get less than nine hours of sleep per night have notable differences in areas of the brain that influence memory, intelligence and well-being compared to those that slept more than nine hours. According to researchers, such insufficiencies in early adolescence can lead to long-lasting neurocognitive consequences.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Why Kids Aren</b><b>’</b><b>t Sleeping</b></p><p><br></p><p>Anna Esparham, M.D., FAAP, an integrative medical expert with the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends that parents look for clues as to why their children can’t sleep, including stress, increased screen time and less physical activity. However, there may be other underlying issues.</p><p><br></p><p>A lesser-known culprit that may contribute to a child’s compromised sleep is impaired mouth syndrome (IMS), coined by dentist Felix Liao, a certified airway-centered mouth doctor and past-president of the <a href="https://iabdm.org/" target="_blank">International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine</a>. “Most people, including many dentists, don’t realize the influence that the mouth has on the body,” he says. “The mouth is the portal to the inside. With impaired mouth syndrome, the child can still chew, smile and talk, but the body’s health can be compromised.” </p><p><br></p><p>While birth trauma, concussion and viruses can precipitate mouth breathing, and chronic allergies often exacerbate matters, immature swallowing can set off a cascade of problems. The mouth is a critical infrastructure for proper breathing, circulation, digestion, energy and sleep. IMS occurs when jaw development is insufficient, thereby giving rise to numerous difficulties, such as a narrower airway, which can cause hypoxia, or low levels of oxygen. Liao notes that poor sleep quality can also lead to learning and behavioral problems. </p><p><br></p><p>“Breastfeeding stimulates bone growth and jaw development through the tongue’s instinctive action and ideally enables a child to have a mature swallow by age 2,” says Amy Dayries-Ling, DMD, FAIHM, a national spokesperson for the American Dental Association. In her book, <i>Solve Your Sleep: Get to the Core of Your Snore for Better Health</i>, Dayries-Ling connects the dots between the vital role of the tongue during breastfeeding, balanced stimulation from the vagus nerve and beneficial spaces between milk teeth for a well-developed dental arch.</p><p><br></p><p><b>Correcting Structural Problems</b></p><p><br></p><p>From a holistic perspective, improperly working muscles of the tongue, throat and face or a compromised jawbone can foster a predisposition to a number of seemingly unrelated conditions, including dental problems, teeth grinding, asthma, bedwetting, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, poor growth, swollen tonsils and pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Dayries-Ling recommends that parents seek out a myofunctional therapist that can help retrain muscles and free up the airway. Building an integrative team is vital, including a dentist trained to address structural issues.</p><p><br></p><p>As a certified, airway-centered mouth doctor, New Jersey-based holistic dentist Nemie Sirilan understands the link between sleep deprivation and airway obstructions. She uses 3D scans and thorough examinations to identify craniofacial abnormalities and customize treatments that correct structural anomalies. </p><p><br></p><p>“When I examine young patients, I want to see how baby teeth are forming, whether they have a tongue-tie and how their upper and lower jaws are positioned, to see if they have some kind of bad bite. These are all telltale signs of airway obstruction,” Sirilan explains, adding that another common indicator of breathing difficulties is the wearing of tooth enamel that results from persistent teeth grinding. </p><p> </p><p>Sirilan recommends that parents consult an airway-centered mouth doctor as soon as possible before other complications arise, noting that these problems are often easily corrected with customized corrective appliances, as well as collaborative consultations with other practitioners, including functional doctors, nutritionists, chiropractors and physical therapists to treat the whole person.</p><p><br></p><p>Life seems to be a much brighter place after a good night’s sleep, and kids are our future. Digging deeper for their optimum, long-term well-being is a vital investment.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and host of multimedia art exhibits intended for healing the community. Connect at </i><a href="http://www.WildflowerLady.com" target="_blank">WildflowerLady.com</a><i>. </i></p><p><i></i><br></p><p><i>Kirby Baldwin is an editor and writer for KnoWEwell, the Regenerative Whole Health Hub and parent company of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:d5ccc6c2-a15f-45e2-b13c-941594ceee7a2023-01-16T13:45:56-08:002023-08-10T10:54:54-07:00Heart-Healthy Kids: Setting a Course for Cardiovascular Wellness2023-01-31 06:30:00 -0800Ana-Maria Temple, M.D<div><span><p>When a middle-aged, thin adult comes to the hospital with heart attack symptoms, the doctors will ask about family health history; alcohol, drug and cigarette use; current medications; and cholesterol levels. But because the person is thin, they may not question their diet. In reality, the food choices we’ve made since childhood may determine our likelihood of developing heart disease as adults. Heart-healthy diets for kids can establish a healthful baseline and set them on a path to lifelong wellness and longevity.</p><br><p>Studies have demonstrated that the development of coronary atherosclerosis begins in childhood.These findings have been replicated in studies of children of different ethnic backgrounds across the globe. Characterized by the deposition of fatty material (plaques) on the inner walls of arteries, atherosclerosis contributes to heart disease and heart attacks.</p><br><p>The immediate reaction may be to blame genetics for heart disease in young children and assume it is outside of our control, but this assumption would be wrong. Genetics are only a blueprint. What we eat, how we sleep, our stress level and our exposure to environmental toxins determine how our house is built. “Genetics load the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger,” wrote Judith Stern, professor of nutrition and internal medicine at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/">University of California, Davis.</a></p><br><p>According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, epigenetics is the study of how our behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way our genes work. Researchers at <a href="https://www.dukehealth.org/locations/duke-university-medical-center">Duke University Medical Center </a>demonstrated the effects of genetic malleability in a study involving agouti mice, which are genetically engineered to produce obese offspring that develop heart disease, diabetes and cancers. The scientists fed two groups of these unhealthy mice different diets. One group ate standard mouse food. The other consumed standard mouse food plus vitamin supplements, including choline, folic acid, B12 and betaine.</p><br><p>The agouti mice mothers that were given a vitamin-supplemented diet produced offspring that were healthy, without evidence of heart disease or other problems, while the mice that ate a regular diet without nutritional supplementation continued to produce terribly unhealthy mice. What humans can surmise from this study is that parents have the power to alter their children’s gene expression and subsequent heart disease risk.</p><br><p>To raise healthy adults, a child’s nutrition is where to start. As Mark Hyman, M.D., an internationally recognized leader in the field of functional medicine says, “Chronic disease is a food-borne illness,” and one of the biggest dietary culprits is sugar. It leads to the development of plaque in the arteries and wreaks havoc on the health of Americans. In the 1980s, the low-fat craze prompted food companies to remove fat from foods and replace it with sugar to preserve taste. A whopping 240 sugar alternatives followed, including corn syrup, rice syrup and dextrose.</p><br><p>The liver can process only 24 grams of added sugar per day. Any extra sugar gets turned into fat, which contributes to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. In the U.S., adults consume an average of 77 grams of sugar per day, according to the American Heart Association. That’s more than three times the amount the liver can handle.</p><br><p>Parents can begin to shield their children from this dangerous ingredient by steering them away from sugary drinks. We all know that sodas are full of sugar, but even organic juice boxes, sports drinks, flavored waters and coconut waters contain loads of the stuff. Choose water or coconut water without added sugar, and wean kids off of juice by gradually diluting it. Also consider fruit-infused waters or bubbly, carbonated water with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.</p><br><p>Start reading food labels and encourage kids to become sugar detectives. It is not about categorizing food as evil or bad. It’s about learning together which foods and drinks help their little hearts become stronger and more resilient. When they grow up to be heart-healthy, middle- aged adults, they will be thankful.</p><br><br>Ana-Maria Temple, M.D., is an integrative pediatrician and wellness educator in Charlotte, North Carolina. Learn more at<a> </a></span><a href="http://www.DrAnaMaria.com" target="_blank">DrAnaMaria.com</a>.<br></div><div><div></div><div></div></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>