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Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The Key Factor That Determines When Your Child Will Take Their First Steps
Fact checked by Sarah ScottIn a new study from the University of Surrey, researchers looked at genetic information of more than 70,000 infants. They found genetics accounted for nearly 25% of the variation in the walking milestone. This information may help health care providers assess and evaluate reasons for a child's delay in walking.A baby's first wobbly steps are a source of pride for many parents. A child's environment has long been associated with when they will walk. Yet, a groundbreaking study from the University of Surrey discovered that genetics also play a significant role. What does this research mean for parents and their babies? Let's break it down. Study authors, Anna Gui, PhD, a researcher at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, and Angelica Ronald, PhD, professor of psychology and genetics at the University of Surrey, and their research team analyzed the genetic information of more than 70,000 infants. They identified 11 genetic markers that may influence a child's brain development from birth and the timing of independent walking. The study revealed that genetics account for nearly 25% of the variation in this milestone. The study also revealed some good news for late walkers. While some previous studies linked early walking to higher achievement later in life, this study found a correlation between the genes influencing later walking and those associated with higher educational attainment. The research also indicates that late walking may be genetically linked to a decreased chance of developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Keep in mind, the research did not define what's considered late walking. 'What we think it might mean is that children who are genetically predisposed to be a bit more active and move around more are also going to walk a bit earlier,' explain both Dr. Gui and Dr. Ronald. 'It's important to clarify that the association is significant but modest. Therefore, we don't expect all early walkers to have ADHD, or all people with ADHD to have walked early. But there is a modest overlap in the genetic variation involved, which may help understand child development a bit further." A child's genes may influence when they walk, but so does their environment. Dr. Gui and Dr. Ronald recommend that children need a nutritious, energy-sustaining diet and ample space to practice their walking skills. Michael Glazier, MD, a pediatrician and chief medical officer for Bluebird Kids Health, agrees that a nourishing diet matters, as malnourishment can result in "decreased energy, decreased engagement with the environment, decreased muscle strength, and decreased stamina.' But that's not all parents should focus on. 'Babies who are constantly held or placed in swings or other constrained environments do not get the opportunity to engage in the physical exploration that is not just helpful but necessary for learning to walk,' explains Dr. Glazier. In contrast, he says, infants in safe, open spaces who can explore on their own may develop walking skills earlier. Encourage your child to play and explore to help them develop their motor skills. Dr. Glazier reassures parents that it's OK if their child is upset when a toy is out of reach—they need to learn to problem-solve and strengthen their muscles. Many parents eagerly anticipate their child's first steps, assuming they'll occur by the child's first birthday, but Dr. Glazier says there is a wide range of 'normal' milestones. Studies show the average onset of walking is between 8 and 18 months. Dr. Glazier says that gross motor skills tend to progress from the 'top-down' as babies first gain some control of their head, followed by the shoulders and trunk, knees, and legs. 'It is also important to understand there is a range of normal, and early attainment does not necessarily mean earlier or eventual better mastery,' he states. Still, if you're ever concerned about your child's motor skills' progress, Dr. Glazier strongly suggests contacting your health care provider for an assessment. Here are a few indicators your child may need an assessment, according to Dr. Glazier: Not pulling up to stand by 12 months Not cruising (using objects for support to move around) by 15 months Not walking independently by 18 months Dr. Glazier also notes that an infant who cannot walk independently but can stand on their own and walk by holding on to things is less concerning than one who has not been able to do these things yet. Typical developmental evaluation for motor delays will involve close observation, collecting patient history, and a thorough physical exam, explains Dr. Glazier. He recommends having videos to show the health care provider what your child can and cannot do. Although this new genetic study will not replace the need for individual examinations, Dr. Glazier believes it does promise additional information for health care providers to help them assess and evaluate the reasons for a child's delay in achieving the walking milestone. Dr. Gui and Dr. Ronald hope their research better supports children with learning disabilities and motor disorders, and helps parents to see that achieving milestones is not a race and that every child learns at their own pace. Read the original article on Parents
Forbes
07-05-2025
- General
- Forbes
The 9 Best Water Tables To Keep Kids Cool And Entertained
My three kids love a good water table, and we've tested quite a few over the years in our backyard. The best water tables are easy to drain and clean, and they don't tip over easily when kids are playing with them. Beyond that, the best choice is the one that appeals to your child— whether it sports a fun theme like the Step2 Dino Dig Sand And Water Table or is a more open-ended option like the Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Sand And Water Table . Our top pick, the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is a Forbes Vetted staff favorite, because it appeals to a wide range of age groups, offers so many fun play features and a solid base to prevent tipping. The best water tables have ample accessories for kids and provide a stable base. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILER 'Water tables offer an opportunity for young children to learn by engaging in their environment utilizing different senses. Water tables encourage children to creatively and actively explore their world through tactile (touch), auditory (hearing) and visual (seeing) senses,' says Dr. Michael Glazier, CMO of Bluebird Kids Health. To help you find a water table that provides fun for your kids for years to come, we curated a list of the nine best options. Amazon Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table Size: 32 x 24 x 39 inches | Accessories: 13 total, including a bucket, squirt toys and spinners I've had this water table for years, and it has certainly proved its durability over time. It comes with a variety of accessories that can extend playtime, including a bucket, scoops and squirt toys. My kids love making a rain shower and pouring water on the gears to make them spin—all actions that are helpful for developing gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination. It's designed for kids ages 1.5 and older, but in my experience, kids that young tend to get frustrated with it because they can't reach the top section very well. My kids enjoyed it more once they were 2 to 2.5. The overall size is ideal for a family with a few kids since multiple kids can play at once and there are enough accessories to share. Size: 29 x 29 x 28.5 inches | Accessories: 8 total, including a fishing pole, fish and a water cup With a built-in fishing game and fun accessories, the Little Tikes Fish 'N Splash Water Table stands out as an excellent value. Kids play by catching fish with their fishing pole or net, and then release them via the attached launcher or from the fishbowl to the lily pad. This is a great way for kids to work on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Glazier explains that kids can develop their hand and finger dexterity by playing with different parts of water tables. The table is touted for its simple assembly, and it's nice that it doesn't take up too much room. However, because it's pretty low to the ground and on the smaller side, your kids might outgrow this table faster than some of our other picks. KiwiCo Water And Sand Sensory Table Size: 21.6 x 22 x 32-37 inches (adjustable legs) | Accessories: 20 total, including a spray bottle, a sponge and spinners My favorite thing about this water table is that it works just as well as a water table as it does a sensory bin. My kids have been using it for over a year, and some of their favorite activities include creating a toy car washing station, playing with rainbow rice and creating mud soup. Because it's such an open-ended water table, it gives kids space to be more creative with their play and can still be engaging well beyond the toddler years. Forbes Vetted editor and mom of three Esther Carlstone says her 5-year-old still regularly plays with this table, making it ideal for parents of kids of different ages. The water table has adjustable legs, so it can grow with your kids, and it includes a clear panel they can use to create water features or color on. When you remove the clear panel, you're left with a large bin to hold the water. While my kids really get creative with this table and it's a staple in our household, if you don't plan on using the accessories much, you're left with a plain bin on a platform. If you're looking for something high-quality and open-ended, this is definitely the pick for you. If you want your kid's play to be a bit more directed, however, check out one of our picks that has a theme, like the Step2 Dino Dig Sand And Water Table . Amazon Step2 Dino Dig Sand And Water Table Size: 30 x 29.5 x 33 inches | Accessories: 7 total, including dinosaurs, scoops and a shovel My kids and I can vouch for this water table as it's been in our backyard for a few years and has seen some pretty heavy play. We've also left it outside through all seasons, and it's still sturdy without any cracks or damage. As a themed play space, it has some really fun features, like a covered sand area, a palm tree that creates a rain shower when kids pour water over it and a mountain for the dinosaurs to climb on. The table is separated into two areas so you can keep the sand and water separate if you want. It sits relatively low, so it's an ideal height for toddlers. When my kids were younger, they never got frustrated with this one like they did with other water tables that had features that were too high for them to reach. Amazon Aquaplay Mountain Lake Water Playset Size: 49 x 34 x 13 inches | Accessories: At least 5, including boats and figures While this water play set isn't elevated like a traditional water table, it's too much fun to leave off the list. The set is built as a canal system that includes a waterfall, bridges and a cave. With a water pump and lock system, kids can explore how waterways work—at the top of the set, kids pump water into a reservoir, and then they release it with the lock—and it can provide immersive learning opportunities for older kids. Once the water is released, it flows through the rest of the canal and pushes the boats along. If your kids love pushing cars down ramps, they'll probably really enjoy this set. It's also great for multiple kids due to the variety of play features and overall size. Size: 29 x 29 x 31.5 inches | Accessories: 7 total, including balls and a scoop For many toddlers—and even big kids—there is something so fascinating about watching balls float down the current. With this set, they can make their own lazy river and waves via a spinner. They can also pour water to turn water wheels, scoop balls on a ferris wheel and drop balls into a spiral tube. The water table itself is pretty close to the ground, but shorter toddlers might struggle to reach the top of the spiral tube. If you're looking for a small and simple water table that still packs a lot of fun, this is a good choice for you. 'This small but mighty water table was always the hit of our toddler playdates and easily fit on our patio without taking up too much space,' says Carlstone. Families with multiple kids or older kids might want to choose one of the bigger water table options. Amazon Little Tikes Build And Splash Water Table Size: 36.3 x 27.3 x 19 inches | Accessories: Over 25, including blocks, boats and a pitcher In terms of versatility and value, you get so much out of the Little Tikes Build And Splash Water Table. This indoor-outdoor table functions as a typical water table with a raised platform, but it also includes building blocks so kids can combine block building with water play or play with each separately. I appreciate this option for younger kids, because sometimes my toddlers get too carried away with water. You can also remove the legs for floor play, which is great for younger toddlers who aren't quite steady on their feet yet. It's also great for kids who just love to build. Accessories include blocks, funnels, pipes, boats and a pitcher that can be conveniently stashed in the center area. It also comes with a mesh storage bag, which is helpful for drying out all of those pieces and preventing mold. Amazon Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Sand And Water Table Picnic Table Size: 38 x 37.8 x 19.5 inches | Accessories: None Protecting kids from the sun is important, especially during high UV days. Fortunately, this hybrid picnic table and water table provides ample shade thanks to an adorable adjustable umbrella. The table opens up to reveal two bins, which you can fill with water, sand or other sensory materials. I like that you can fill the bins with whatever you want, making it simple to create a themed bin based on what your child is interested in or learning about at the moment. The table doesn't come with any accessories, and it requires more assembly than most water tables, so if you're looking for something a little more hands off, you might want to go for a more traditional option. An added bonus: It's available in various colors, so you can pick something that matches the aesthetic of your backyard. Amazon Step2 Pump And Splash Discovery Pond Size: 38.25 x 40 x 30 inches | Accessories: 10 total, including a bucket, squirt toys and a watering can For active kids who are constantly looking to explore, pour and play in water, this water table is a fantastic pick. It has a lot of different water features, including a rain shower tray, a fill-and- spill bucket, a water wheel and a water pump. Since it's a large set with play features at various heights, it's ideal for multiple kids. In addition to the play features toward the top of the set, the large pond at the bottom is a fun place for kids to splash and play with their toys, too. The pump can be a bit tricky for younger kids to operate, so they might need some help to get the water flowing. According to Ashley Blonder, a pediatrician at Tribeca Pediatrics in New York, water play 'can be a source of early STEM learning and promote cognitive development through exploring concepts such as gravity, cause-and-effect and motion.' With so many flowing interactive features on this table, this is a great one for budding scientists. The Forbes Vetted baby and kids gear team is deeply experienced in researching, testing and recommending toys and kids products. We've spent countless hours testing toys and products with our kids, including water tables. The author of this article, Alicia Betz , has tested a variety of water tables over the past seven years, many of which are featured in this guide. She also frequently reviews and writes about other toys and products, like the best dinosaur toys and the best children's books . , has tested a variety of water tables over the past seven years, many of which are featured in this guide. She also frequently reviews and writes about other toys and products, like the best and the best . This article is overseen by Esther Carlstone , a longtime parenting editor. She's a mom to three who has tested and reviewed countless baby and kids products including many water tables. , a longtime parenting editor. She's a mom to three who has tested and reviewed countless baby and kids products including many water tables. To learn more about water safety and what to look for when choosing a water table, we spoke to three experts: Marisa Abbe, director of injury prevention at Children's Health in Texas; Dr. Michael Glazier , a pediatrician and chief medical officer of Bluebird Kids Health in Florida; and Dr. Ashley Blonder , a pediatrician at Tribeca Pediatrics in New York. To find the best water tables, we conducted research, testing and expert interviews. Many of the water tables on our list have been in our backyards for years. We considered water tables from a variety of brands, but paid particular attention to those made by companies known to make quality and durable outdoor toddler toys, such as Little Tikes and Step2. We took customer reviews and ratings into account, eliminating water tables that have an average rating below four out of five stars. To include different options that appeal to a wide audience, we considered water tables with various features and accessories. We also included a few options that don't fit the traditional water table mold. We considered our own experience. Betz has tested many of the water tables on this list, and other members of the Forbes Vetted baby and kids gear team have used some as well. Here are some key factors to consider when shopping for a water table. Age Appropriateness Most water tables are designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Sometimes, a water table is approved for a younger age, but it has features that younger toddlers can't reach. This can lead to frustration and potentially be dangerous if they try to pull down the table to reach higher features. Be sure to follow age recommendations when purchasing a water table and use your own judgment as well. If your toddler is on the shorter side, consider a water table without a second tier. Safety Safety around water is incredibly important. 'Water tables are generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind,' says Abbe. She advises supervising children at all times when playing with water tables and draining the water when playtime is over. 'Ensure the water table is sturdy and won't tip over when your little one is pushing or leaning on it,' she says. Blonder also recommends using tables with rounded edges to prevent injuries and to make sure the table is appropriate for your child's age and developmental level. 'Only allow toys that are safe and free of choking hazards particularly for younger children,' she says. Durability Most families use the same water table for years. Because it's a toy that often sits out in the sun and heat for long periods of time, you want something that is going to last. Many plastic water tables are durable and last for years. Look for something that is thick and sturdy. When purchasing a wooden water table, follow the manufacturer's instructions for upkeep. You may need to coat the wood with stain or a water repellent annually. Ease Of Cleaning Water tables can get gross pretty quickly if you don't empty and clean them, and can become breeding grounds for mosquitos and bacteria. 'Since children often explore the world not just with their hands but their mouths, this can lead to illness and the quick spread of infection when multiple children are using them,' says Glazier. Look for water tables that have a drain or are otherwise easy to hose down or clean. Size Most water tables don't take up too much space, but some are larger than others. If you only have a small yard or balcony, you'll want to choose something that has a smaller footprint or can easily be stored away. You might also consider a multipurpose water table, like the Best Choice Products Kids 3-In-1 Sand And Water Table . Additional Features Some water tables come loaded with features, such as scoops, figures and boats. Others don't include much other than the basin that holds the water. Consider how your child likes to play and whether you want something more bare bones that encourages creative play or something that provides a play theme for them. Are Water Tables Worth It?> Are Water Tables Worth It? Water tables are definitely worth it, according to my three kids and all of their friends and cousins. It's often the first toy my kids gravitate toward in the yard, and they often engage in extended, focused play when they use a water table. 'Water tables, without intricate electronics, offer an activity which promotes interaction with the environment through different senses, as well as teaches children to make connections, create stories and think divergently and creatively as they grow and develop,' says Glazier. Blonder also explained that water tables can be relaxing and help with emotional regulation. What Are The Best Water Tables?> What Are The Best Water Tables? The best water tables provide a sturdy base to prevent tipping and are easy to clean. Many of the best water tables have fun themes or an abundance of accessories. We think the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table is the best overall, because it's large enough for a few kids to play, it's sturdy and safe and it comes with a few different accessories. It has also held up for years with regular use in multiple editors' yards. What Is The Best Age For A Water Table?> What Is The Best Age For A Water Table? Toddlers love water tables, but so do preschoolers and younger elementary schoolers, too. Most water tables are recommended for kids ages 18 months or 2 years and up. Water tables aren't typically recommended for babies. If your baby wants to splash and play in the water, consider a baby bath seat instead.
CNN
18-02-2025
- Health
- CNN
Your kids are home sick again. You have to work. Here's what to do
There have been three days over the past month that my two children have both gone to school. By the time one of them recovers from the latest virus they've brought home, the other one is sick again. I know many of you are going through the same experience. Doctors saw more patients with flu-like symptoms during the week ending February 1 than at any time in the last 15 years, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For parents working outside the home, having kids home sick is often a nightmare. Related video Flu cases are high, Dr. Sanjay Gupta on how to help yourself Many parents don't have the option to work from home. That includes my husband, who is an emergency department doctor. He will often cover for colleagues when they ask him to switch shifts due to family emergencies. I try to say yes if we can make it work — even when it's inconvenient for our family. That way, I hope they'll do the same when our daughters are sick. As a professor, I'm often able to work remotely. But it isn't easy to do so while caring for a sick child. Since I expect to be in this situation again, I reached out to experts to learn what parents can do to take care of their sick kids and themselves while working from home. Parenting while working at home Kids who are sick benefit from regular contact and reassurance from their parents, said Dr. Michael Glazier, chief medical officer at Bluebird Kids Health, a Florida-based pediatric practice. That's hard to give them when parents must be in meetings or meet deadlines. Under such circumstances, 'it is very helpful for kids to be given a schedule and reminded of the times when meetings occur and when parents will be back to check in,' he said via email. 'Often kids will also benefit from having a direct line of sight with their parents when their parents are at home but working.' That way, kids are reminded their parents are there for them. Glazier also recommended giving kids 'gentle activities that can preoccupy them and divert their attention away from their symptoms.' He suggested keeping a stash of new things on hand to pull out during sick days, such as Play-Doh, blocks and art activities. Accept that we can't do it all To stay sane, it's a good idea for parents to remind themselves that the situation is temporary, said Lauren Tetenbaum, a New York-based licensed clinical social worker who specializes in maternal mental health. 'Be gentle with yourself and accept that if today is a sick day for your kid, it likely won't be your best day at work,' she said. 'Health is truly the priority here, and if you wear yourself down trying to do everything at 100% and get sick yourself, you'll have even more to worry about when it comes to balancing it all.' We also have to ask for help, Tetenbaum said. 'It's really important to build a system of supportive adults who can step in as needed, even if your kid may be spreading germs. That adult can be a paid babysitter, a family member or a neighbor or friend who will do you a favor that you will one day return.' Tetenbaum, who is a mom of two elementary school-age kids, said it's important 'not (to) assume that one parent is always the default caregiver.' In most families, that's the mom. 'Couples must explicitly communicate about who can do what on certain days, even if one parent usually has a more flexible schedule,' she said. She also recommended that parents be compassionate with themselves. 'You are doing your best,' she noted. For me, it means sometimes allowing my daughters to consume extra media content, such as YouTube videos or online content from PBS Kids, while making sure it's appropriate. Let's try to keep our kids healthy When kids return to school, Glazier said there are ways to try to prevent them from bringing the next virus home. Keeping up to date with vaccinations is important, he said. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all kids over age 6 months get the flu vaccine unless they have medical reasons not to do so. Making sure kids get good nutrition and enough sleep and exercise can also help keep their immune systems healthy. 'A strong healthy immune system will help both prevent and minimize the effects of infections,' he said. He also suggested telling kids to wash their hands frequently, especially before they eat at school. They should wash for at least 20 seconds, he said, which is about how much time it takes to sing the 'Happy Birthday' song twice. If it's not possible to do so at school before eating, they should use a hand sanitizer. (I stashed a small one in my daughter's backpack.) A hand sanitizer can't kill all germs, but it can help protect against many. It's also a good idea to send food to school that kids can eat with utensils, rather than with their hands, which could be full of germs, Glazier said. And he recommended telling kids not to share food with their friends. While hard to enforce, it's another way to avoid the spread of germs. When many classmates are sick, it's also a good idea to have kids wash their hands and change their clothes when they come home from school, even before giving them hugs, Glazier said. Doing so can help prevent them from making their parents sick. Taking care of a sick kid isn't easy, especially when parents also have to work. But parents with the option to work remotely can be strategic about keeping our kids home when they're sick and teaching them about hygiene for when they return to school.
