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From the Sidelines: How Involved Should Parents Be in Sports? By Kelly Ann Maynes, PsyD: Whether your child is preparing for their first-ever game or for a high school championship, one thing is true—your support matters. As parents, the way we show up on the sidelines and in life shapes not just how our athletes play, but also how they grow. Connecticut Children’s

Smart Summer Reading Tips for Busy Parents By Andrew Carlson, MD: Just as daily exercise keeps our bodies healthy and strong, regular reading keeps our brains active and growing, especially during the summer months when school is out. Children who don’t read regularly over the summer can lose up to two months of reading development, a

Before the First Beat: The Vital Role of Cardiology in Fetal Surgery By James Enos, MD: Behind many complex fetal interventions is a fetal cardiologist helping chart the safest path forward—before a baby even takes their first breath. This interview with Dr. James Enos, fetal cardiologist at Connecticut Children’s, dives into this critical role.

How to Help Your Child Use Crutches Safely By Nicholas Giampetruzzi, PT, MPT: When your child gets hurt and needs crutches, it can feel a little scary—for them and for you. The good news? It’s easy for kids to learn how to use crutches safely and comfortably. With a little practice and support, most kids get the hang of it quickly. Let’s dive into why

Youth Voices Power Hartford Afterschool Program By Annika Anderson: At Connecticut Children’s Childhood Prosperity Lab (The Lab), we believe the best ideas come directly from the people they’re meant to serve. Since 2015, we’ve partnered with communities to create programs and services that reflect their strengths, interests, and priorities. This

3 Steps for Teens to Master Time Management By Vanessa R. Laurent, PhD: This article was originally published in 2022 and was last updated in June of 2025. Grades, friends, sports, extracurricular interests – teens have a lot on their plates. All of these obligations can quickly go from fulfilling to overwhelming, especially during times of

Blood Clots in Kids: What Parents Should Know By Laura McKay, MD: While blood clots are rare in children, they can still happen. Knowing what to look for can help you get the right care quickly. A blood clot can become serious if left untreated, so it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Laura McKay, MD, pediatric hematologist

Nico’s Brain Cancer Fight: A Journey of Strength, Love, and Survival By Jonathan Martin, MD: “Grade IV aggressive tumor,” are four words no parent ever expects to hear. For Michelle, this is a reality for her 5-year-old son, Nico. In her own words, she courageously shares the family’s past and current experience, documented as of June 2, 2025. Her message to parents

Pediatric Neurosurgery Explained: What’s a Pediatric Neurosurgeon? By Bethany Simonetti MSN, APRN, FNP-BC: Pediatric neurosurgeons at Connecticut Children’s are specially trained to care for children with conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system. Their expertise goes beyond surgery—they evaluate and manage a wide range of issues, sometimes even starting care before

Beyond ECMO: Cadence’s Story By Jacob Campbell, DO, MPH: Last May, pediatric surgeon Jacob Campbell, DO, MPH, glanced out his office window to a welcome sight: his former patient Cadence, looking healthy and strong, walking into the medical center with his parents. Just weeks before, Cadence — nicknamed Cash — had been in Connecticut

Why Sleep Might Be the Most Important Part of Your Athlete's Training By Nicholas Giampetruzzi, PT, MPT: When we think about what helps athletes thrive, our minds often go straight to hours of practice, skilled coaching, and proper nutrition. But sleep, a powerful tool, is often overlooked. Sleep is one of the most effective ways to help your child stay healthy, recover quickly, and

Keep Kids Safe in Cars All Summer Long By Amy Watkins, MPH: It might feel like a mild day outside, just 75 degrees, but the inside of a parked car can heat up quickly. In as little as 30 minutes, the temperature can reach 109°F, creating a dangerous oven-like environment for a child. No child can withstand this kind of heat. Most hot car

Recognize the Signs of Heat-Related Illness By John Brancato, MD: This article was originally published in 2022 and has been updated in June 2025. Heat-related illness like heat exhaustion and heat stroke can oftentimes send kids to the emergency room in the summer months. What should you look for and what should you do if your child is showing

Why Your Child Might Need a Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist: 10 Expert Reasons By Emily Vistica Sampino, MD: When your child is referred to a specialist, naturally you have questions. This is especially true if the specialist has a title you may not hear every day, like a “pediatric hematologist/oncologist.” But a referral doesn’t necessarily mean something serious. In many cases, it’s

Common Sleep Issues, Age by Age By Haviva Veler, MD, FAASM: This article was originally published in February 2024 and has been updated in June 2025. Good sleep is important for children’s physical, emotional and cognitive development. The challenge? Getting good, consistent sleep isn’t always easy for growing kids. Haviva Veler, MD