With so much to worry about when it comes to kids, it's hard to decide which health concerns are valid and which are less serious. For example, many parents freak out when their child gets clocked in the noggin, but much of the time, a bump on the head will result in nothing more serious than a lump. The skull is built to withstand a surprising amount of force. After a hit, check your child for bleeding, then monitor him for a few hours. Causes for concern include loss of consciousness, vomiting, disorientation, sleepiness and pupils that don't look equal in size - any of these symptoms warrant a trip to the doctor. Fevers are a frightening and potentially serious problem in kids, but parents panic unnecessarily sometimes when the thermometer's mercury surpasses 98.6.
First, a high fever isn't an indication that the child is any sicker than a low-grade fever. And a fever simply means the body is fighting off infection. A stomach virus, cold or flu can cause fever, and may not be reasons to speed-dial the pediatrician. These illnesses tend to run their course, but be sure to call if the child is lethargic, has ear, throat or stomach pain, or pain when urinating. Parents may worry about social skills, whether they think their child is not talkative enough, too rough when playing with others or whatever quirk the child shows on a playdate or at recess. In younger kids, bad behavior can be corrected by simply distracting them from the current activity. If the child seems shy, then it's not the end of the world. Quiet kids tend to be more creative, introspective and less impulsive - be thankful your child isn't a daredevil! It helps to prepare shy kids before they enter a social situation instead of springing it on them. Let them know a playdate is imminent, who will be there and what they'll do. This can ease any social anxiety.