A father describes the far-reaching effects of his donating his young son's organs after he was killed during a botched robbery while vacationing in Italy, discussing the need to promote the importance of organ donation, particularly among young people. A sidebar lists organizations that can provide information on organ and tissue donations. (SM)

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…

Today's school nurses have significant responsibilities. Despite research proving their importance, very few schools have certified school nurses, relying instead on school personnel. A wish list for school nurses might include sufficient numbers and funding, school-based health centers, and confidential records. Parents can help ensure students'…

Mold can seriously affect the health of children with asthma or allergies. Indoor air problems related to mold can be difficult to identify, but when several students who spend time in the same classroom area show allergic symptoms, it is important to consider mold and air quality. Failure to respond promptly can have serious consequences. (SM)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) works to make communities aware of dangers posed by misused pesticides, which can be hazardous to the health of children and others. The EPA is involved in outreach to inform the public. People need information about safe and effective pest-control options. They should report suspected pesticide misuse to…

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)

The problem of childhood obesity and inadequate physical activity is growing, with the biggest physical activity decline occurring in high school. This paper discusses the need to promote physical activity at school and home and get children in shape. Two sidebars describe: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month and how to determine a school'…

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…

Too many U.S. children are out of shape. Parents must help them learn to improve their fitness by exercising with them. The U.S. Conference of Mayors recently made physical fitness of the nation's children a primary emphasis. A sidebar presents information on how to contact local mayors to start up programs to help children improve their fitness.…

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…

Comprehensive school health programs (CSHPs) provide services and programs addressing eight categories: health education, health services, school environment, food service, physical education, counseling, schoolwide health promotion, and family, school, and community partnerships. Parents and PTAs are crucial in supporting CSHPs. Two sidebars…

Discusses children's access to information through the media and parents' responsibility to protect them, noting what parents should know and how they can learn more. One sidebar examines parenting in the information age. Another sidebar describes how three states are helping parents use critical viewing to take charge of their televisions. (SM)

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)