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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.
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Youth Voices Power Hartford Afterschool Program By Annika Anderson, MPH: 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
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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
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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
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8 Ways to Prevent Soccer Injuries in Kids and Teens | Sports Medicine Tips By Adel Lolic, MS: Last updated March 2026. Originally published in 2022. Soccer can also be tough on the body. As with any sport, soccer can lead to overuse injuries—or injuries that come from doing too much of the same activity over time. Soccer injuries in kids and teens are common, especially
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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
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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
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Beyond Celiac Disease: William’s Story By Jeffrey Hyams, MD: William had just gotten home from school when his dad, Matt, sat him down. “Your doctor thinks you might have something called celiac disease,” Matt told him. William, then 14, was skeptical. Didn’t celiac disease have something to do with eating gluten? He ate everything and, as
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A Visit to the Pediatric Neurosurgeon: What to Expect By Bethany Simonetti MSN, APRN, FNP-BC: If your child has been referred to a pediatric neurosurgeon, you may be feeling nervous or unsure about what to expect. That is totally normal. The idea of seeing a “ brain and spine doctor” can feel scary. But this visit doesn’t always mean your child will need surgery. It
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How to Support Your Child Through Challenging Behaviors (From Birth to Pre-Teen) By Amy Adolfo Signore, PhD, MPH: This guide from Connecticut Children’s Amy Signore, pediatric psychologist, and Sasha Conley, PsyD student, breaks down easy, effective ways to help your child grow, listen, and feel loved—whether they’re a baby or a pre-teen.
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Should Parents Be Worried About the Recent Increase in COVID-19 Cases in Kids? By Juan C. Salazar, MD, MPH, FAAP: The American Academy of Pediatrics recently reported a significant increase in COVID-19 infections in children across the country. The overall infection rate among kids is still relatively low. But we know that this news has raised questions – and concerns – for families Article
What Are the New COVID-19 Variants, and Do They Infect Kids More Easily? By Juan C. Salazar, MD, MPH, FAAP: In addition to all the news about the COVID-19 vaccine , you’ve probably been hearing a lot about new variants of COVID-19 . Connecticut Children’s Physician-in-Chief Juan Salazar, MD, MPH, shares what we know so far. What does it mean when there’s a new “variant” of COVID-19? A Article
First in the World: Haresh’s Story Haresh Surti may be young at heart, but at 62 years old, he is no kid. So at first, it might seem unusual that he receives heart care at Connecticut Children’s – known far and wide as the state’s only health system 100% dedicated to children. The truth is, lots of adults receive
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First Pediatric ENT Visit? Here’s What to Expect By Rachelle Wareham, MD: A pediatric ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor) cares for children with problems related to the ears, nose, throat, upper airway passages, head, and neck. These specialists focus on ENT care 100% dedicated to kids—from babies to teens. Pediatricians refer kids to an ENT for many
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Grow Unique: Youssef’s Story 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