Setting Age-Appropriate Expectations for Children
By: Cristina Moreno, Bilingual Outreach Specialist, Penfield Children’s Center I love being a parent, but I also sometimes really miss parts of my life before being a parent. It is not so much the alone time or the staying up late and getting up at a time of my choosing that I miss, but rather […]
The Benefits of Understanding Touchpoints – A Theory of Child Development by T. Berry Brazelton
“Touchpoints” is a theory of childhood development based on more than 60 years of ground-breaking research by Dr. T. Berry Brazelton — a pediatrician, professor, and expert on child development — and colleagues at Boston Children’s Hospital and communities around the world. This theory looks at predictable periods of regression and disorganization (called “touchpoints”) that […]
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month With Your Kids
National Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration that pays tribute to the contributions of Americans who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean. The celebration, which starts in mid-September every year, honors the rich culture, history, and contributions this community has made to the […]
Delicious and Nutritious Breakfast Smoothies
A good smoothie is a great breakfast option for the whole family. Cold, creamy, and sweet, they are hard to resist by even the pickiest eaters. Smoothies for breakfast can feel like a treat, but secretly provide plenty of nutritious fruits and vegetables, which make them a hit with parents too. They are a way […]
Is It Healthy For Children To Drink Juice
By: Lainie Harris, Penfield Children’s Center Fruit juices are a staple of many young children’s diets. Recently, however, the American Academy of Pediatrics put out new recommendations on juice consumption for infants and children. Health professionals recommend that the intake of juice should be limited to, at most, four ounces per day for toddlers 1 […]
Helping Children With Cerebral Palsy Transition Into The School Year
Jenna Gehrdes is a member of the Community Outreach team at Cerebral Palsy Guide. The organization provides free educational information, financial options and emotional support for parents and children affected by cerebral palsy. Whether this is your child’s first year or fifth, it’s important to make sure your child is getting the education and care he/she […]
Six Tips To Help Learners With Down Syndrome Be Their Best
Children with Down syndrome are capable learners who are excited and eager to learn. They just need to be given the opportunity to excel. They may learn at a slower pace, but are more than capable of learning. They are strong visual learners. This means that they understand what they see better than what they […]
Guide To Early Language Development
Gini Schulist, M.S., CCC-SLP and Vladimir Bjelic, M.S., CCC-SLP From birth, children start engaging with their surroundings through sounds and gestures. The first three years are pivotal for speech and language growth due to rapid brain development. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect: 0-6 Months Coos and gurgles Uses cries to signal needs Smiles […]
How Puzzles Can Help Your Childs Development
Puzzles are a popular and challenging activity for young children and adults alike. At any age, puzzles offer the chance to work toward a goal and, literally, piece together a story or narrative. With fun shapes and bright colors, large-piece puzzles are a favorite among small children, but they also offer an array of developmental […]
Using Music To Establish A Routine
By: Rebecca Michelsen, M.Ed., MCHES, Penfield Children’s Center No matter how old your child is, it is never too late create a routine for him. There are many benefits to establishing a routine for your child. Routines provide structure that help children feel secure, confident and ready to take on new challenges. Routines also play […]