NPR: Recession hurting kids with developmental delays

February 12th, 2009

In an article describing how the economic recession is causing many states to delay providing care to young children who are showing signs of developmental delays, National Public Radio describes the stories of two families who have run into roadblocks in getting care for their children. Pennsylvania is cited as a state ahead of the game.

Some York County smokers’ opinions about the way more money will be raised for SCHIP

February 10th, 2009

The SCHIP expansion will be paid for by a hike on the federal cigarette tax.

Obama signs bill to broaden SCHIP

February 5th, 2009

The move signals the end of a “two-year odyssey for the child health legislation,” says the New York Times.

U.S. Senate expected to approve SCHIP expansion

January 29th, 2009

It could soon head to President Obama’s desk, says U.S. Sen. Casey.

Stress during childhood means a greater risk for asthma in adulthood, new study finds

January 21st, 2009

Children who suffer physical abuse, death of a parent or other childhood adversity and are anxious or depressed are at increased risk of developing asthma in adulthood, reports Reuters.

Doctor: Vicks VapoRub and other menthol products could cause breathing problems in children

January 16th, 2009

As cold and flu season is rearing its ugly head, parents should be aware of a report saying that menthol products such as Vicks VapoRub could cause breathing problems in young children.

The new cigarette hazard: “Third-hand smoke”

January 5th, 2009

Parents who smoke often open a window or turn on a fan to clear the air for their children, but experts now have identified a related threat to children’s health that isn’t as easy to get rid of, reports the New York Times: third-hand smoke.

President of children’s health advocacy group says we need to renew our focus on kids

December 22nd, 2008

Today the Patriot-News features an op-ed by Joan Benso, president and CEO of Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children. Benso says that the economic crisis should serve as an impetus for Pennsylvania to enact laws that benefit childrens’ healthcare.

Del. Co. Daily Times: We need to fix funding for mental health advocacy groups

December 18th, 2008

Yesterday, the Delaware County Daily Times featured an editorial stressing the need for a fix for state advocacy groups that benefit mentally and physically disabled children.

Report Ties Childrens’ Media Use and Adverse Health Effects

December 2nd, 2008

As reported by a recent New York Times article, increased media consumption by children is strongly related to adverse health outcomes.
The National Institutes of Health, along with Common Sense Media (a nonprofit advocacy group), reviewed 173 studies about children and media use. 
According to Jim Steyer, chief executive of Common Sense Media, “The research is clear [...]