Presents information to help parents understand asthma. A major misconception is the idea that asthma only occurs periodically. In reality, it is a chronic condition that needs ongoing treatment, rather than treatment only when there are symptoms. This misconception can lead to the asthma controlling the patient instead of vice versa. A sidebar…

Describes easy-to-implement strategies parents can use to ensure their children's safety in the sun and avoid skin cancer, which is the most prevalent form of cancer in United States. Suggestions include: limit the amount of time spent in the sun, wear protective clothing, use sunscreening agents, and have knowledge of skin cancer and its…

Describes the importance of parents teaching their children about the dangers of alcohol, explaining how parents can help their children and youth learn to just say no. Sidebars discuss: teen issues parents need to know; how to set guidelines for parties and other social events; and the PTA's position on alcohol and other drug abuse. (SM)

Ten phrases to help parents create confident, thoughtful children are as follow: thank you, tell me more, you can do it, how can I help?, everyone pitch in, how about a hug?, please, good job, it's time to..., and I love you. Phrases for special circumstances include the following: I'm sorry, no, that's enough, how do you suppose she feels?, and…

Discusses the need for parents, teachers, and caregivers to promote emotional and mental health in middle school children, explaining the importance of supporting children's strengths and being aware that differences can hurt. Provides specific suggestions on what parents and schools can do and offers resources for further information. (SM)

Discusses the role of families and schools in preventing eating disorders in children and adolescents, explaining that eating disorders are not just about food, but rather a misuse of food to resolve emotional problems; describing various primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention methods; and offering strategies for educators (activism and…

At the Search Institute in Minneapolis (Minnesota), researchers study 6th-12th graders nationwide, identifying developmental assets to growing up healthy and happy. They suggest that adults surround children with external assets (support, boundaries and expectations, empowerment, and constructive time use) to help them develop values and skills…

Describes several skills that educators and parents should promote in children and teens entrusted to their care. The skills include self-awareness, self-regulation of emotion, self-monitoring and performance, empathy and perspective taking, and social skills in handling relationships. (SM)