This post was last updated on June 16, 2021. Recently, the CDC said it is looking into reports of heart problems in young people who have been vaccinated for COVID-19. These cases have been very rare, and for the most part, mild. But we know that many parents have questions. Connecticut Children’s Physician-in-Chief Juan C. Salazar, […]

“Nothing can prepare you for the moment when you realize you will not be able to hold your newborn,” says Marisol Casado. But there it was: Just 20 weeks into pregnancy, a routine ultrasound showed an abnormality in her baby’s heart. “The second my doctor told me, my heart dropped. I could feel it in […]

Is your child nervous about returning to social situations? For many kids and adolescents (and their parents!) one of the toughest aspects of the pandemic has been not seeing friends in person. Luckily, many schools now offer more in-person learning, COVID-19 vaccines are available for anyone 12 or older, and warmer weather is allowing for […]

By Matthew Eremita, MD Following CDC guidance, Connecticut and other states recently relaxed mask requirements for vaccinated individuals, a sign of the strong protection that the COVID-19 vaccine offers. But right now, a vaccine is only available to ages 12 and up, which means that younger kids will be wearing masks awhile longer. Matthew Eremita, […]

The Food and Drug Administration authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children as young as 12 – another major step toward ending the pandemic and getting back to your family’s favorite activities. Connecticut Children’s Physician-in-Chief Juan C. Salazar, MD, MPH, returns to the Growing Healthy blog to answer common questions about […]

If it races, rolls or jumps, 8-year-old Finnbar Prenty has probably mastered it – from skis to scooters to skateboarding. But not long ago, this kind of activity was out of the question. Finn began his health journey at another hospital in the state, where he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a condition that causes […]

There’s so much cumulative trauma and grief in the world right now, and it’s affecting children and teens. Many young people are struggling with anxiety or depression, but don’t know how to ask for help. They may not realize that it’s okay to talk about what they’re going through. Or they may have trouble finding […]

In previous editions of What’s the Risk?, Connecticut Children’s pediatric experts have covered everything from playgrounds to farmers markets throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. But things just got more complicated for families whose adults and older teens are vaccinated but younger kids aren’t. With COVID-19 and its variants still significant in the community, it’s important to keep unvaccinated […]

So your family is ready for a change of scenery, and the adults and older teens are fully vaccinated. But what if your younger child is still waiting on their COVID-19 vaccine? Before you make any spring or summer travel plans, Connecticut Children’s infectious disease expert John R. Schreiber, MD, MPH, has guidance. Want more articles like this […]

With COVID-19 vaccinations increasing and some restrictions easing, it’s a hopeful time in our community! But the pandemic isn’t over yet. We need to motivate each other to stay safe, get the vaccine if we haven’t already, and prepare for a vaccine for younger kids. Your child can help – by reminding us of all […]

Times of change can disrupt routines, create stress – and make sleep more difficult. And the COVID-19 pandemic has been one change after another. Lots of kids are experiencing higher levels of anxiety right now, and that can certainly show up at bedtime. How can you keep your child’s sleep on track? Connecticut Children’s behavioral sleep psychologist Lynelle […]

Alexandra was the first baby born in Danbury Hospital, an event celebrated in the local newspaper. As she grew, there was more cause for celebration: She became a formidable athlete. Swimming was her love, but when she got to Danbury High School, they didn’t have a swim program, so Alex decided to try running. And […]

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, children and teens have been struggling with more anxiety and depression. To help, Connecticut Children’s has put together a Mental Health Kit for kids. But many parents and caregivers are struggling too – and to be there for their child, they need to take care of their own mental health. Connecticut […]

May Is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, an opportunity to celebrate the rich history and culture of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the U.S. It’s a great time to teach kids about these cultures, and what an important role they play in our nation’s story. Here are ideas. 1. Get out the globe to […]

Through all the stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, moms, dads and other parent figures have played a special role in helping kids stay resilient. (In fact, the single most important factor in a child’s resilience is having at least one stable and supportive relationship with an adult.) So this Mother’s Day, as we […]

Now that many states, including Connecticut, are offering eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine for ages 12 and up, millions of teens and young adults are lining up for their shot. And soon, we’ll probably learn more about the potential timeline for a vaccine for younger kids. As we work together to end the pandemic, this […]

By: James E. Shmerling, DHA, FACHE Today, Connecticut Children’s celebrates 25 years! That’s 25 years of partnering with your family and community to help kids grow healthy. To mark the occasion, Connecticut Children’s President and CEO Jim Shmerling, DHA, FACHE, joins the Growing Healthy blog with a special message.   Late-night fever? Weekend earache? Connecticut […]

There is no one else quite like Youssef Shahine. Sure, when he’s blasting music on his headphones or glued to a video game, he’s a typical 14-year-old. But ask him a question about life, and he’s wise beyond his years. “I like to look at the good stuff,” says Youssef. “Yes, there are rough times. […]

Days are longer, temperatures are warmer, and COVID-19 vaccinations are steadily increasing in the U.S. It’s a hopeful season for Passover (this year, March 27 – April 4), Holi (March 28-29), Easter (April 4), Ramadan (April 12 – May 12) – or whichever spring holidays are circled on your kitchen calendar. But the risk of […]