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Easy ways to keep children active this summer
Read full article: Easy ways to keep children active this summerSchool is officially out for the summer, and that means parents are going to be hearing “I’m bored” a lot more often. So, what can they do to keep their little ones active and entertained?
Heat Hazards: How to protect your children from the playground to the classroom
Read full article: Heat Hazards: How to protect your children from the playground to the classroomFrom spring to fall, as temperatures rise earlier and remain high into the year, the dangers of extreme heat are becoming more than just uncomfortable — especially for children.
Mixed messaging undermining public confidence in childhood vaccines, expert warns
Read full article: Mixed messaging undermining public confidence in childhood vaccines, expert warnsMixed messaging about vaccines is undermining public trust. But people still value their doctor’s opinion when it comes to deciding about vaccinations.
Pediatrician offers swim safety tips ahead of Memorial Day weekend
Read full article: Pediatrician offers swim safety tips ahead of Memorial Day weekendAre you heading to the pool this Memorial Day weekend? If you’re bringing children along, you want to create a plan to keep them safe around the water.
Keeping children safe from potentially deadly bites this season
Read full article: Keeping children safe from potentially deadly bites this seasonMosquitoes are thriving earlier and later and are spreading to new areas as rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns create the perfect conditions for these pests to multiply.
Clay County partners to host Kids Bike Rodeo with free helmet giveaway
Read full article: Clay County partners to host Kids Bike Rodeo with free helmet giveawayClay County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with partners from across the area to hold a Kids Bike Rodeo on May 30, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Clay County Fairgrounds.
Jax Parks summer camps offer technology, nature, sports options for families. Registration opens Tuesday
Read full article: Jax Parks summer camps offer technology, nature, sports options for families. Registration opens TuesdayThis year, there are three types of camps for your child to choose from, each available at several locations: technology camp, nature camp, and sports camp.
Raising change: How to build child-first communities
Read full article: Raising change: How to build child-first communitiesIn big cities and small towns, families across the country are facing economic struggles, immigration challenges, and the growing impact of our changing environment. But in many communities, families are not just navigating these challenges — they are leading the charge in solutions.
Hot car warning & other safety tips for traveling with children, pets during spring, summer vacation
Read full article: Hot car warning & other safety tips for traveling with children, pets during spring, summer vacationNational Kids and Pets Day on Saturday serves as a reminder of the dangers they face in cars, especially as families prepare to drive for spring or summer vacations.
Camden County community baby shower for new parents and babies planned for April 26
Read full article: Camden County community baby shower for new parents and babies planned for April 26The Camden County Health Department and Family Connection Camden is hosting a community baby shower April 26 week for any new babies and parents.
Psychologist discusses how parents can cope with anxiety and stress in the wake of FSU shooting
Read full article: Psychologist discusses how parents can cope with anxiety and stress in the wake of FSU shootingThe shooting at Florida State University that left two people dead and six others injured on Thursday has reignited concerns and even panic over safety on college campuses across the nation.
Egg-citing decorating ideas for Easter that won’t break the bank
Read full article: Egg-citing decorating ideas for Easter that won’t break the bankNews4JAX anchor Jennifer Waugh picked three ideas for Easter egg decorating to see if they are as easy as they seem, without causing a big mess and without costing too much money.
What parents can do to keep good teens from making bad choices
Read full article: What parents can do to keep good teens from making bad choicesTeens, not considering the consequences, can make spur-of-the-moment, life-changing choices. So what drives these choices, and how can we help teens before it’s too late?
Consumer Reports investigation reveals heavy metals in some infant formulas, highlights safer options
Read full article: Consumer Reports investigation reveals heavy metals in some infant formulas, highlights safer optionsExclusive new testing by Consumer Reports highlights safer infant formulas while also identifying some that contain potentially harmful levels of heavy metals, including lead and arsenic.
Online shopping warning: Bike helmets found on major marketplaces don’t always meet U.S. safety standards
Read full article: Online shopping warning: Bike helmets found on major marketplaces don’t always meet U.S. safety standardsOnline shopping is quick, convenient, and sometimes cheaper—but a new Consumer Reports investigation reveals a hidden danger: What are supposed to be life-saving products sold on major online marketplaces could be putting your safety at risk.
Childhood crisis: Helping kids through adversity & trauma
Read full article: Childhood crisis: Helping kids through adversity & traumaChildhood adversity is a widespread reality in the U.S., impacting at least half of our children. But what constitutes “adversity” varies greatly. What one child finds overwhelming may not faze another, even within the same family.
Keeping your child safe from toxic chemicals
Read full article: Keeping your child safe from toxic chemicalsEvery day, children are exposed to harmful chemicals in toys, personal care products, food, furniture items, clothes, and building materials. Even the air they breathe can be full of pollutants.
Pediatrician warns of winter trend: Children experiencing 2 viruses at the same time
Read full article: Pediatrician warns of winter trend: Children experiencing 2 viruses at the same timeCoinfections in children can happen with many of the viruses circulating right now, which is why testing is important.
The High 5 Challenge: 5-minute fix for stressed-out kids
Read full article: The High 5 Challenge: 5-minute fix for stressed-out kidsOne in five kids today is struggling with a significant mental disorder, but less than half receive the support they need. Over the last decade, we’ve seen a 60 percent increase in youth suicide rates.
Consumer Reports finds concerning safety issues in 2 infant car seats
Read full article: Consumer Reports finds concerning safety issues in 2 infant car seatsParents know a child car seat is one of the most important products they can buy. The seats must help protect the tiniest cargo in an emergency.
Hurried child syndrome: How to balance activities, promote healthy development
Read full article: Hurried child syndrome: How to balance activities, promote healthy developmentIf it feels like your child always has something going on after school, whether it’s sports or other activities, it might be time to scale back their schedule.
The best choices to treat and beat lice might surprise you
Read full article: The best choices to treat and beat lice might surprise youThis number might surprise you. Every year, an estimated 6 million to 12 million children get head lice. Consumer Reports has important information to help you make the best choice when facing lice.
Does social media rewire the teenage brain?
Read full article: Does social media rewire the teenage brain?According to a recent study by the American Psychological Association, teens spend an average of 4.8 hours per day on social media, and 87% of that time is spent on popular apps like TikTok and Instagram.
UF Health-led guidelines call for widespread Type 1 diabetes screening in children
Read full article: UF Health-led guidelines call for widespread Type 1 diabetes screening in childrenMore children should be screened for Type 1 diabetes. That’s the message from an international team led by University of Florida Health physician-scientist Dr. Michael Haller.
Small steps, big impact: Growing a love for nature
Read full article: Small steps, big impact: Growing a love for natureA troubling trend is emerging; children today spend a staggering 35% less time playing outside freely than their parents did. In fact, kids have never spent less time playing outside. Increased screen time, safety concerns, and urbanization are some of the reasons why a majority of kids spend more time indoors.
Don’t get burned! Fireworks safety tips for New Year’s Eve
Read full article: Don’t get burned! Fireworks safety tips for New Year’s EveFireworks are a holiday favorite, but it’s important to understand the rules to avoid fines or injuries. In Florida, fireworks are only permitted on July 4th, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Consumer Reports sounds alarm about dangerously accessible button batteries in toys, household items
Read full article: Consumer Reports sounds alarm about dangerously accessible button batteries in toys, household itemsA recent Consumer Reports evaluation of 31 toys and household items uncovered an alarming safety risk for children from button cell and coin cell batteries.
Cell-a-bration or cell-a-mistake? Is your child ready for a phone this holiday?
Read full article: Cell-a-bration or cell-a-mistake? Is your child ready for a phone this holiday?Smartphones are on the top of the Christmas list for many children, preteens and teen. But are they ready to have one or will it just lead to more screen time and less family time?
Toys to avoid for your little ones for the holidays
Read full article: Toys to avoid for your little ones for the holidaysReports show nearly 155,000 children under the age of 12 were treated at emergency departments last year due to toy-related injuries. So, how can parents keep their little ones safe?
5 things to tell boys about puberty -- because if you’re not talking to your children, someone else will, doctor warns
Read full article: 5 things to tell boys about puberty -- because if you’re not talking to your children, someone else will, doctor warnsIt’s a natural part of aging but talking about puberty with your child can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Experts say it’s critical for parents and caregivers to tackle these tough topics so that children don’t turn to unreliable sources on the internet or friends for answers. In today’s Health Minute, Mandy Gaither has five things to tell boys about puberty.
‘So many programming options’: Parents, students can visit elementary schools Saturday for school choice showcase
Read full article: ‘So many programming options’: Parents, students can visit elementary schools Saturday for school choice showcaseParents and students can show up to most elementary schools this Saturday to learn more about a school and what programs are available.
Shining a light on safety: Apps, tips for safe trick-or-treating
Read full article: Shining a light on safety: Apps, tips for safe trick-or-treatingWith Halloween being one of the deadliest nights of the year for child pedestrians, News4JAX wants to give trick-or-treaters the tools to have the safest night of frights possible.
Baby walkers linked to thousands of injuries & multiple deaths, Consumer Reports warns
Read full article: Baby walkers linked to thousands of injuries & multiple deaths, Consumer Reports warnsConsumer Reports explains why baby walkers are so dangerous and what parents can do to protect their children.
Child not quite ready for a smartphone? Consider smartwatch instead
Read full article: Child not quite ready for a smartphone? Consider smartwatch insteadConsumer Reports has the low-down on the high-tech watches that might be the perfect solution for parents who aren't ready to hand over a smartphone just yet.
Warning for parents: Transitioning your child’s car seat too soon can be deadly
Read full article: Warning for parents: Transitioning your child’s car seat too soon can be deadlyA new AAA analysis of five years of government crash data reveals a concerning trend: child seat and booster use declines after a child turns 3, despite the continued need for these safety devices.
Surgeon general issues advisory declaring parental stress as significant public health concern
Read full article: Surgeon general issues advisory declaring parental stress as significant public health concernThe U.S. surgeon general recently issued an advisory declaring “parental stress” as a major public health concern.
Baby starting day care? Consumer Reports shares tips to make the transition smoother
Read full article: Baby starting day care? Consumer Reports shares tips to make the transition smootherSending your baby to daycare for the first time is an emotional milestone for many parents. It is often filled with anxiety and a touch of guilt. As Consumer Reports explains, there are some easy ways to make the transition smoother for you and your little one.
How newborn specialists are helping new moms navigate early days of motherhood
Read full article: How newborn specialists are helping new moms navigate early days of motherhoodMore than 3.5 million babies will be born this year. That means 3 million new moms will be navigating the world of endless diaper changes, feedings and sleepless nights.
SJSO warns about ‘dangerous’ social media trend where teenagers seek out, confront sexual predators
Read full article: SJSO warns about ‘dangerous’ social media trend where teenagers seek out, confront sexual predatorsThe St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office is sending an urgent warning to parents after deputies confirmed they’re investigating two separate cases involving a potentially dangerous social media trend.
Helping students transition back to school: What experts say to do right now & after classes start
Read full article: Helping students transition back to school: What experts say to do right now & after classes startPutting away the bathing suits and packing the bookbags may feel different for each student, and experts say preparing for it now can help.
Safe & affordable: Safety groups reveal best used cars for your teen drivers
Read full article: Safe & affordable: Safety groups reveal best used cars for your teen driversTwo safety groups -- Consumer Reports and the IIHS -- share their top picks and features so you know what to look for when buying a used car for your young driver.
4th of July was deadliest holiday weekend last year for children killed in frontover, backover crashes
Read full article: 4th of July was deadliest holiday weekend last year for children killed in frontover, backover crashesLast year, the Fourth of July was the deadliest holiday weekend for children killed in backover and frontover crashes, according to data from Kids and Car Safety.
Are you sure you know what’s in your baby’s lotion? Consumer Reports’ investigation might surprise you
Read full article: Are you sure you know what’s in your baby’s lotion? Consumer Reports’ investigation might surprise youConsumer Reports looks closely at what’s in some popular baby lotions, and the results might surprise you.
Want to keep your child busy without screen time? Here’s a pediatrician’s guide to summer activities
Read full article: Want to keep your child busy without screen time? Here’s a pediatrician’s guide to summer activitiesSchool’s out for the summer, and children now have a lot of free time on their hands. So, what are some ideas to keep them entertained?
Consumer Reports investigation finds baby wipes ingredients that might pose risk to children, planet
Read full article: Consumer Reports investigation finds baby wipes ingredients that might pose risk to children, planetIf you have small children, there’s a good chance you have baby wipes stashed just about everywhere. Whether you’re using wipes for diaper changes, removing makeup, or cleaning sticky fingers, you want them to be safe for people and the planet.
Jacksonville children enjoy reading, fun activities at ‘River City Readers Summer Kickoff’ event
Read full article: Jacksonville children enjoy reading, fun activities at ‘River City Readers Summer Kickoff’ eventDozens of parents and their children visited Ed Austin Regional Park Saturday morning for the River City Readers Summer Kickoff event.
Latest drowning report shows 12% increase in child deaths
Read full article: Latest drowning report shows 12% increase in child deathsDeadly drownings for children under age 15 increased by 12% in 2021 compared to the previous year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) annual drowning and submersion report.
AAA sends warning at the start of summer: The 100 deadliest days for teen drivers
Read full article: AAA sends warning at the start of summer: The 100 deadliest days for teen driversMemorial Day has come and gone, and this week marks the start of the “100 deadliest days for teen drivers.” AAA reports an average of seven people will die, every day, in crashes involving teen drivers between now and Labor Day.
Swimming safety tips to keep in mind as pools reopen for summer
Read full article: Swimming safety tips to keep in mind as pools reopen for summerMany pools will be reopening this Memorial Day. And if you’re planning to take your little ones swimming, there are some safety tips parents should keep in mind.
Parenting with purpose: Talking to your kids about sex
Read full article: Parenting with purpose: Talking to your kids about sexMay is Sex Education Month. According to Planned Parenthood, kids and teens who have regular conversations with their parents about sex are less likely to take risks with their sexual health. But these talks can be awkward for both parties. It’s a tough topic, but one that shouldn’t be ignored.
Expert: 1 in 8 couples struggles with infertility, but the answer might be simpler than you think
Read full article: Expert: 1 in 8 couples struggles with infertility, but the answer might be simpler than you thinkFor National Infertility Awareness Week, a local couple shares their battle to overcome infertility, and a local fertility specialist offers advice for couples struggling to conceive.
Cyber safety: Protect your child from predators online
Read full article: Cyber safety: Protect your child from predators onlineFrom homework to staying in touch with friends and family, the internet is a valuable tool for kids to learn and stay connected. But a recent presentation from Meta platforms details that their algorithm may connect minors with sexual predators.
What to do when your kids want what others have
Read full article: What to do when your kids want what others haveIf you're the parent of a tween or teen, you've probably been asked at some point to buy them whatever is popular at school, like the latest name brand tumbler, skincare, or smartphone. But, what if the item is too pricey or you don’t think they need it?
Consumer Reports: 3 baby formula makers tested didn’t work effectively
Read full article: Consumer Reports: 3 baby formula makers tested didn’t work effectivelyNewer gadgets called infant formula makers are claiming to make precisely measured, warm, ready-to-drink bottles. But before you buy, you need to know what Consumer Reports’ safety experts found in their investigation.
How to help children overcome perfectionism
Read full article: How to help children overcome perfectionismPerfectionism is defined as a "personality trait" when a person sets "unreasonably high standards" and has "unrealistic expectations" for themselves. It's often coupled with "intense self-criticism."
Dying to be pregnant: Toxic stress plays a role in maternal deaths
Read full article: Dying to be pregnant: Toxic stress plays a role in maternal deathsAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,200 women died of maternal causes in 2021, compared to 861 in 2020 and 754 in 2019.
How to combat social media addiction in children, teens
Read full article: How to combat social media addiction in children, teensIn a multi-state lawsuit against Meta, the states claim that the social media company has harmed young people’s mental health and promoted addiction. But just how harmful is social media for children and teens?
Florida bill to keep children under 16 off social media moves forward amid debate on government’s role, parental rights
Read full article: Florida bill to keep children under 16 off social media moves forward amid debate on government’s role, parental rightsAmid a debate about the role of government and parental rights, the Florida Senate on Thursday passed a bill that seeks to keep children under the age of 16 off social media platforms.
DCPS adds permission slip policy for students to participate in any school-related event or activity
Read full article: DCPS adds permission slip policy for students to participate in any school-related event or activitySome parents and teachers are not happy about a new policy for Duval County Public Schools that requires students to have a permission slip to participate in any school-related activity.
Florida Senate likely to pass high-profile bill blocking children under 16 from social media
Read full article: Florida Senate likely to pass high-profile bill blocking children under 16 from social mediaThe Florida Senate is ready Thursday to pass a high-profile bill that seeks to prevent children under age 16 from creating accounts on what lawmakers say are “addictive” social-media platforms.
‘Mom guilt’: Why it’s real and how to deal with it
Read full article: ‘Mom guilt’: Why it’s real and how to deal with itYes, moms, it's a real emotion when you feel bad about taking time for yourself. But health experts are giving you the green light and saying lose the guilt and embrace some "me time."
Warning for parents: Screen time delays your child’s development
Read full article: Warning for parents: Screen time delays your child’s developmentMobile devices are everywhere – and even babies seem to enjoy the technology. But a new study shows too much screen time could negatively affect a little one’s development.
New federal safety standards now in effect for child car seats
Read full article: New federal safety standards now in effect for child car seatsNew federal standards for child car seats took effect Monday to address side-impact crash tests, minimum child weight labels, school bus-specific restraint requirements and more.
Facebook and Instagram roll out new tools to help parents keep their teens safe online
Read full article: Facebook and Instagram roll out new tools to help parents keep their teens safe onlineOnline stranger danger is a real concern on social media. As a result, Meta, parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has rolled out new tools for parents that will limit messages with kids. This, as state lawmakers want to ban minors from using social media altogether.