Oakland County Moms

Good Oral Health Habits Begin at an Early Age

Results from a recent national survey indicate one-third of America’s children are not seeing a dentist regularly and even more are failing to brush enough at home. In recognition of February as National Children’s Dental Health Month, Delta Dental of Michigan is reminding parents that good oral health habits start early.

“Children should go to the dentist by age 1 or within six months after the first tooth erupts,” said Dr. Jed Jacobson, chief science officer and senior vice president of Delta Dental of Michigan. “Early dental visits can help detect problems and teach children good habits for a lifetime of good oral health.”

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Guiding Children Through Puberty

Sometimes it is difficult for parents to watch their sons and daughters grow up. Our time with them is so short and we are not always ready for the changes that occur as they mature. Of all the stages of development, puberty is one of the hardest for most parents. It is a time of change that not only affects the child in ways that they can see physically and feel emotionally, it also affects parents in a way that opens our eyes to our children moving from sweet, loving children to the sometimes argumentative, strong-willed adolescents. We realize that our babies really are growing up. Families may start to experience some tension during this time that was never present before. Straight talk and an open line of communication can really help both the child and the parents as they explore the many changes that come about with the joys and responsibilities of puberty.

First of all, parents need to recognize the signs of puberty.

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Fruit juice: Is it good or bad for kids?

Many moms wonder about the great debate... Is fruit juice good or bad? It supposedly has fruit, vitamins, etc. But what about all the sugar? Should we be concerned? How about fruit juice from my juicer? Experts at the Mayo Clinic explain:

Don't be too concerned. Recent studies have confirmed that drinking moderate amounts of 100 percent fruit juice doesn't affect a child's weight. However, fruit juice contains calories. Just like any other food or calorie-containing drink, too much fruit juice can contribute to weight gain.

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Thermometer basics: Taking your child's temperature

The best way to take your child's temperature depends on his or her age and ability to cooperate. Understand thermometer options — and when to seek medical help for a fever.

If your child feels warm or seems under the weather, you should probably take his or her temperature. Sounds simple enough — but if you're new to it, you probably have a few questions. Which type of thermometer should you use? Is an armpit temperature good enough? Are the thermometer rules different for babies and older children? Here are answers to these questions and more.

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