Ease the First-Day Jitters
By Dr. Michele Wadsworth, Premier Pediatrics, CHKD Medical Group
Back-to-school season signals the beginning of a crazy time for many families. To help your child get off to a happy, healthy start, begin by re-establishing daily bedtimes and wake-up times. Go to the open house at your child's school to see the classroom and meet the teacher, and rehearse walking to the bus stop. To build your child's confidence, remind her of the times she succeeded despite her initial anxiety. Also consider packing book bags, lunches and picking out the next day's clothes the night before to avoid the morning mayhem. These tips and more can be found on CHKD.org.

Choose the Perfect Backpack
By Dr. Cara Novick
Children's Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, CHKD Surgical Group
Choosing the right backpack and wearing it properly can help reduce discomfort and avoid injury. Always choose an appropriately sized backpack, with two padded shoulder straps. The backpack should be worn close to the body, and heavier items should be packed in a low and central location. Children should carry no more than 15 to 20 percent of their body weight in their backpack. If your child's backpack is too heavy, or if your child is experiencing discomfort, consider a rolling backpack or getting a second set of books to keep at home. 

Family Meals: More than Good Nutrition
By Lynn Kistler, MS, RD, Healthy You for Life
Enjoying a family meal together each day yields benefits that go far beyond the table. Studies show that children who eat dinner with their parents are less likely to smoke, drink, or use drugs, and they're more likely to succeed in school. Parents also influence their children's food choices, so children who dine with their parents tend to make healthier choices. Mealtime is also a great time for families to communicate and connect with one another. Ask questions. Get to know what's going on at school and with friends. Not sure what to make for dinner? Try this tasty salmon recipe cooked up especially for you by our Healthy You for Life team. 

Skin Care Tips for your Newborn
By Dr. Daniel Dison, General Booth Pediatrics, CHKD Medical Group
A newborn baby's skin is delicate and needs special care. Chemicals, fragrances and dyes in clothing and detergents can irritate newborn skin, causing dryness, chafing and rashes. It's best to use skin care products made just for babies and to resist the urge to bathe your baby too often. Everyday baths can remove natural oils that help protect a baby's skin from potential allergens. Avoid powders, unless they're recommended by your doctor. Many babies will have rashes and bumps that are normal, but some may be a sign of a more serious problem. If you have concerns about a rash, call your family pediatrician. Additional tips can be found on CHKD.org.

CHKD Opens New Pediatric Practice, Health Center
More Than A Hospital
Extending our network of care, CHKD opened a new pediatric practice and a new health center earlier this month. The addition of Premier Pediatrics in the Great Neck/Hilltop area of Virginia Beach brings the number of CHKD practices to 17, with more than 28 locations throughout our region. Additionally, children and teens in Suffolk and Chesapeake will now have easier access to CHKD's pediatric specialists. The new CHKD Health Center at Harbour View North offers dermatology, allergy, gastroenterology, cardiology, nephrology and developmental pediatrics.