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A Primer on ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, more commonly known as ADHD, is one of the most common mental health issues seen in children. While it is most predominate in childhood, it can be carried over to adulthood in some cases. There are no specific and verified causes of ADHD, but many medical professionals believe that genes and environmental factors play a role in its development.

What are the signs?

Most individuals understand that children can be defiant, inattentive, impulsive, and hyperactive at times. These are all factors of normal childhood behavior that only become an issue when they occur on a consistent basis. Warning signs of ADHD include consistent and regular observations of the following:

  • Becoming easily bored
  • Acting impatient
  • Demonstrating extreme emotions with no restraint
  • Having trouble sitting still
  • Trouble with school and grades

It’s important to remember that the symptoms of ADHD can all be signs of other troubles or behavioral health problems, so it is important to...

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How Can I Keep My Child Healthy This Winter?

Despite the Mediterranean climate of southern California, the area still experiences a typical cold and flu season during the winter months alongside a temperature dip. And if you are traveling anywhere during the season or for the holidays to visit family, you and your family can be especially exposed to the elements. Although there is no way to guarantee that your child won’t get sick this year, you can identify and practice ways that you can minimize the risk. Cold and flu viruses move through schools rapidly, so extra precautions are especially important.

It’s important that your child is familiar with how germs operate so that he can protect himself when you are not around. Teach him that washing his hands with soap and warm water is necessary after using the restroom, before eating, and after completing tasks like coming inside the house from playing outdoors. Talk to him about how...

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Growth and Development of a Newborn

Although a newborn baby sleeps a lot in the first month of life, many changes are occurring in five major developmental areas. Physical development. A newborn baby may lose weight shortly after birth, which isn’t a cause for concern as it is usually regained within 10 to 12 days. Most newborns gain about 4oz (113.4g) to 8oz (226.8g) per week and grow about 1in. (2.5cm) to 1.5in. (3.8cm) in the first month. Cognitive development. A newborn infant’s brain is developing quickly. Healthy brain growth is occurring every time you interact in a positive way with your baby. Emotional and social development. Initially, instinctive behaviors, such as crying when uncomfortable, are a baby’s way to communicate their needs. Eventually, a newborn will start to subtly communicate and interact with you, as their eyes track your movements; and their faces light up when you cuddle and speak to them. Language development. Speech awareness begins before...
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