Healthy Kids Zone

In the United States, 18 percent of children under the age of 18—13 million children—live in a home struggling to put healthy food on the table. Food insecurity can have long-lasting effects on young children, impacting their memory, social, and learning skills. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , talks about the steps you can take to help children in food-insecure homes, as well as what resources ar...

Diagnosing ADHD in very young children can be complicated, especially when behaviors that look like symptoms may simply reflect age and maturity. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains what is developmentally normal, and how factors like family changes, anxiety, or classroom demands can mimic ADHD traits. Learn what parents should consider before pursuing a diagnosis and why partnering with a p...

Play is more than a pastime—it is vital for healthy brain and emotional development. From boosting creativity and problem-solving skills to buffering stress, play is one of the simplest and most effective tools for growth. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , talks about why unstructured, screen-free playtime may be the most important part of your child's day—and what happens when it is missing.

Foot skin issues are common among teenagers—and no, it’s not always athlete’s foot. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about three common foot skin issues in teenagers, and how to identify and treat those issues without a trip to the doctor.

Sugar hides in more places than you think—and kids often get way more than recommended. With childhood obesity affecting nearly 1 in 5 elementary-aged children, pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explores how hidden sugar and portion sizes contribute to the problem. Learn how to read labels more clearly, how to visualize sugar in everyday foods, and what simple swaps can help cut down on excess suga...

After-school programs can provide a safe place for children when parents may not be available. But as children age into preteens, when can they be allowed to stay home by themselves? Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about the different factors that vary from family to family and how to best prepare your preteen for staying home alone.

Nearly 13 million children and adolescents in the United States are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control. It may seem counterintuitive, but pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner says technologies such as smartphones and fitness trackers can actually help kids watch their own weight by gamifying their exercise and physical activity.

Just like adults, teenagers are susceptible to receiving sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some STIs are curable and have detectable symptoms, but others can last a lifetime and have no known cure. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about how open and honest communications with your children to prevent the spread of STIs.

We typically think of high blood pressure as a problem for adults, but 3.5% of children in the United States have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or hypertension. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about why some children have high blood pressure, what signs to be on the lookout for and the treatments available.

Having your kids play a sport is a great way to keep them active, happy, and healthy. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , talks about the social and psychological benefits that can come with getting your child involved in organized youth sports.

Seasonal allergies can make kids miserable, but there are ways to help minimize their symptoms. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , provides effective strategies for seasonal allergy relief. Learn when to keep them indoors, why showering before bed is important, and how pets, laundry, and even open windows can bring allergens into your home.

Young children typically have a lot of energy and short attention spans. Still, with over 6.1 million children in the United States diagnosed with ADHD, parents often worry about their children being too hyperactive. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , shares what behaviors you should be on the lookout for if you suspect your child may be hyperactive.

As a parent, your pediatrician is one of the most important partners in raising your child. But finding the right doctor for your child can be hard. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner shares some helpful tips on how you can choose a doctor who will be the best fit for both you and your child.

Summer fun comes with its fair share of advice—but not all of it holds up. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , busts some of the most common summer safety myths, from the outdated rule about swimming after eating to dangerous misconceptions about sunscreen and helmets. Learn how to keep your kids safe with tips rooted in real science, not old wives' tales.

Your child may seem healthy, but annual well-child visits are still essential. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains why these checkups are about more than just updating vaccines. Learn how these visits differ from sick visits, what screenings to expect, and how insurance policies affect what gets covered.

From rice cereal for better sleep to giving babies water on hot days, many feeding habits are rooted in outdated advice rather than current science. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , says while these practices may seem harmless, some can actually interfere with development or even pose health risks. Learn more about common baby feeding myths and what today's medical experts recommend instead.

For most kids who are active, complaints about joint pain can be both common and harmless. But if your child’s joint pain is severe or chronic, it may be early signs of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA.) Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner shares the key symptoms to be on the lookout for and when it’s time to visit your pediatrician.

Some parents may give their children a bottle of sports or energy drink as a "healthier" alternative to soda. But sports drinks should only be given to children who actually play sports. And energy drinks are almost never okay to give a child. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , talks about why sports and energy drinks can be bad for children and lists some healthier alternatives.

Parents know a sleep-deprived kid is a cranky kid, but lack of sleep can also have a negative impact on your child's health and performance in school. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains why it is important to get your kids to bed on time to ensure they get the sleep their minds and bodies need.

Bedwetting is more common than you would think. But it's often something parents and kids don't want to talk about because it can be embarrassing. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about why a child might be wetting the bed, what's normal and what's not, and how you can help your child through this temporary stage.

Eating disorders are serious medical conditions that significantly impact both the body and mind, particularly in teens facing physical, emotional, and social pressures. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , discusses the health consequences of these disorders and highlights the vital role parents play in supporting their teens through the challenging path to recovery.

Eating disorders are common among teens but remain a difficult topic for parents to address. Unlike picky eating or a focus on healthy habits, eating disorders involve extreme and obsessive thoughts about food, eating, and exercise. If your child is beginning to develop an eating disorder, seeking professional help is crucial.   Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains how recognizing the si...

Potty training is a big milestone for children—most should be out of diapers by school-age. But that may not always be the case. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about how parents can prepare their toddlers for potty training and what can cause potential resistants and delays.

According to pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner , a child coughing until they puke is actually pretty common. Children—especially those under 12 months of age—have a very sensitive gag reflex. But if vomiting after coughing happens too often, it could be a sign of something more serious. Learn the signs to watch out for the next time your child coughs.

There has been a significant increase in emotional health problems among American teenagers since the adoption of smartphones. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner discusses the science and impact of smartphones on teenagers. And she also talks about the link between modern technology and our children’s emotional health.