Raising a Family

Teens and smoking, flu vaccine, dyslexia and more

Teens, Smoking and Depression
Teens who are depressed are at greater risk for smoking, an unhealthy habit that tends to become lifelong when started young. To determine the most effective way to help depressed teens quit smoking, researchers at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network are conducting a four-year research study. “Our goal is to find out what methods work best,” says Sarah Stevens, M.D., adolescent medicine specialist at the hospital. The study is in collaboration with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and others. If you’re interested in the research study, call 610-402-CARE.

Grandparents—Buckle ‘em Up!
Taking your grandchild for a ride in the car? You may know she needs a car seat, but it’s also important to know which type and how it should be positioned in the car. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Car seats are recommended for all children 8 years and under. Children age 12 and under should ride appropriately buckled in the back seat. For a free brochure designed for grandparents, call 610-402-CARE.

Which Kids Need a Flu Vaccine?
The short answer is: all of them! But there are two choices for vaccinating your child: the traditional flu shot (inactivated vaccine) and the newer nasal spray, FluMist (live vaccine). Stick with the shot if your child is age 5 or younger; though the nasal spray outperforms shots in research studies, it isn’t yet approved for children this young. “Also, if your child has sickle cell disease, weakened immunity or is on long-term aspirin therapy, or if she or anyone in your home has asthma, diabetes or long-term heart, kidney or lung disease, get her a flu shot rather than nasal spray,” says pediatrician Michael Consuelos, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network.

Is Your Child Dyslexic?
Dyslexia is a common learning disability that hinders the development of reading skills. It’s not about intelligence—very bright children and young adults can have dyslexia. Symptoms include slow or inaccurate reading, poor spelling, letter or word reversals, poor recall of facts, and difficulties with pronunciation, handwriting, math and planning/organizing. Good programs exist today to help children overcome dyslexia. Learn more at The Science of Reading: Overcoming Dyslexia on Oct. 26.

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