As parents, we all want our children to be healthy. But, as adults, it's important to recognize that a healthy planet is important for healthy kids. We only have one Earth and it's our job to protect it for the generations of kids ahead. Our children learn from us and are capable of understanding so much at even the youngest of ages! Set examples, have discussions and work together with your kids to be a team that champions sustainability efforts.

Pediatricians play a key role in preventing medical problems in children as much as they do in treating them. It is the reason for those frequent visits with your pediatrician in the first few years when growth and development are crucial. Identifying issues early on allows intervention and improves outcomes for a child’s long term health. As a pediatrician myself, I have two main jobs: take care of children and educate parents. 

By Matthew Feltrop : What is (and particularly what isn’t) on children’s plates in the United States is prime evidence of the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Right before the current health crisis hit, childhood food insecurity affected a staggering 15 million children. Without the consistency of school meals, as well as many households losing income, that number has grown to about 18 million. Widespread childhood nutrition programs have proven essential to increasing both food security and health outcomes for children.

By Nicole Harkin, MD, FACC: In honor of Heart Health Month, I’m so excited to chat heart-healthy eating tips with you! It may seem strange to think about heart health and your kiddos, but unfortunately, heart disease isn’t just for older people. Research has demonstrated that the beginnings of heart and vascular disease occur in our 20s. Almost half of all heart attacks and strokes occur in Americans aged 45 to 64 years of age. Also, rates of obesity and diabetes are on the rise in children. Here are some of my top #doctormom hacks for getting more plants into my family's mouths.

By Dr. Jacqueline Douge: Children begin to develop an understanding of race very early. By the age of 6 months, children notice racial differences and by 2-4 years of age begin to internalize racial bias. Our children are watching, listening and learning to everything around them and from their parents. As your child’s first teacher, you play an important role in helping to teach your children about empathy, kindness, compassion and fairness towards others, to build positive racial and ethnic identities, celebrate similarities and differences and to help children to create a more just world. 

By Cherie Chu, MD DipABLM: Take the time to teach your kids healthy habits now, and you will set them up for success for a lifetime of wellness. It may take a little extra work on the front end, but here is just one reason why it is worth the effort. Studies show that these five habits can help prevent common health issues down the road, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Learn more about the Top 5 Healthy Habits you can teach your kids, followed by ideas to implement them for yourself and your kids.