Is it allergies, poor air quality or a summer illness? How to tell the difference

Summer often brings more time outdoors, family vacations and packed activity schedules. But it can also bring coughing, congestion, headaches and fatigue — symptoms that can leave families wondering what is actually causing them.  Is it seasonal allergies? Smoke or poor air quality? A summer cold? In many cases, the symptoms overlap enough that it can be difficult...

Summer shifts: What parents should know about learning, play and big emotions

For many families, summer brings a welcome break from busy school schedules. Bedtimes stretch a little later, routines loosen and kids have more freedom to play, explore and just be kids.  But along with that flexibility often comes a familiar set of parent questions: Will my child fall behind without school? Should I be...

Sun safety: Protecting your skin during camping season

Time in the sun is part of nearly every summer activity, but too much exposure can lead to more than just a temporary burn.  “Sunburns are very common this time of year, especially for kids who are outside for long stretches,” said Jaclyn Stoddard, PA-C, family medicine physician assistant at Beacon Kalamazoo Immediate Care Woodbridge Hills Portage.  Even on cloudy days, UV...

When kids don’t speak up: Hidden illnesses and injuries at camp

The communication gap parents don’t always see For many families, sending a child to camp whether for the day or overnight is an exciting part of summer. It’s also a time when parents rely on their child to communicate when something isn’t right.  The challenge is, kids don’t always speak up.  “We often see situations where a child has had symptoms...

Water safety for kids: What parents should know before heading to the pool, lake or river

Start with safety before kids get in the water  From backyard pools to summer lake trips, water is a big part of family fun during the summer. But it also comes with serious risks.  “Drowning is the leading cause of death for children under age 4 and one of the top causes...

Sleep, homesickness and emotional well-being: What parents should know before camp

For many children, going to camp whether for a day, overnight or extended stay is an exciting milestone. It’s a chance to build independence, make new friends and try new things.   But even with all the excitement, it’s also completely normal for kids to experience emotional and physical adjustment during that transition.   “Not every concern we hear about when kids attend summer camp...

What perimenopause really feels like

Understanding the perimenopause transition  For many women, perimenopause begins quietly and often unexpectedly. Periods may become irregular. Sleep may be harder to come by. Mood, energy or focus can feel different than they used to. Too often, these changes are dismissed as stress, aging or simply a busy phase of life. In reality, perimenopause is a normal transition that...

Leaves of three? What families should know about plant-related rashes 

Spending time outdoors whether at day camp, overnight camp or on a family camping trip often means coming into contact with plants you don’t think twice about. But for many families, an itchy rash a day or two later can quickly become an unwelcome part of the experience.  “Not every rash that shows up after being outside is a bug bite,” said Holly...