Environmental or second-hand smoke can have serious effects on children. Many smokers are more likely to consider quitting if they know they are causing harm to their children and families. Physicians must take the time to point out the dangers of passive smoking to parents who smoke. (SM)

The typical American playground is antiquated, hazardous, and inappropriate for the developmental needs of children. The paper explains how design, installation, maintenance, and supervision are critical in preventing playground injuries and resulting litigation, noting the importance of regular training for everyone who supervises children on the…

The approaches taken by two separate family literacy programs on Chicago's South Side to create unique literacy-health projects demonstrate the fluid nature of partnerships; the essential but time-consuming building of trust and credibility; and recognition of mutual benefits. (JOW)

According to 308 responses from households in 3 New Hampshire towns, those who held "Not in My Backyard" (NIMBY) beliefs about waste management facilities were primarily motivated by child health concerns. Those willing to host a recycling center or who believed recycling was a fad were less likely to have NIMBY attitudes. (SK)

Estimations based on data from Morocco determined that mothers' health knowledge appears to be the crucial skill in child health. Such knowledge is primarily obtained outside the classroom, although literacy skills acquired in school may have been used in obtaining the knowledge. (SK)

Provides guidelines for creating and promoting healthy environments in early-childhood education programs in order to prevent and control the spread of contagious disease. Offers illness-prevention strategies, practical suggestions for health-education curricula, and a self-assessment check list for early-childhood settings. Includes resources for…

Evaluates the home safety component provided by Project SafeCare with three families reported for child neglect. Results indicate that in-home training was effective in reducing hazards in diverse home settings, and that these reductions were maintained over time. Social validation data indicate that parents provided positive ratings for the home…

Mold can seriously affect the health of children with asthma or allergies. Indoor air problems related to mold can be difficult to identify, but when several students who spend time in the same classroom area show allergic symptoms, it is important to consider mold and air quality. Failure to respond promptly can have serious consequences. (SM)

A study of 14 nurses who completed a children's neuroscience course found evidence of improved knowledge and increased ability to care for neurology patients. Although the direct impact of continuing education on patient care is difficult to assess, participants' assessment of their learning and its potential to affect patient care is a valid…

Recommends keeping body defenses strong, and keeping all surfaces clean and some surfaces sanitary. Urges using federally mandated precautions for blood spills, avoiding germ-trapping artificial or long fingernails and jewelry, practicing good hand washing, and organizing the environment to avoid contamination. Includes table relating child care…

Introduces a special section of five articles that highlight new collaborative research opportunities for developmental psychologists and other biomedical researchers. Such research has focused on the transition from fetus to newborn, evaluation of early toxin exposure, and the behavioral phenotype associated with genetic syndromes. (MDM)

Reviews techniques for handwashing, diapering, helping a child use the toilet, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, dealing with illness, and preventing disease during swim season. Summarizes how to take a child's temperature and emphasizes the need to wash hands even when using gloves. (DLH)

Describes the development, over many years, of a unified code of ethics designed to represent the professional needs of various health education professionals working in the field. The code of ethics for the health education profession is included. It focuses on responsibility to: the public; the profession; employers; health education delivery:…

Discusses the lack of agreement among experts on the best way to deal with infant and toddler sleep problems. Includes discussion of the "family bed" and the science of sleep, acknowledging that each child is different and families must find a solution that works best for them. (HTH)

Strength training can be fun, safe, and appropriate for young girls and women and is an important component of any fitness program when combined with appropriate cardiovascular and flexibility activities. Concerns and misconceptions regarding girls' strength training are discussed, presenting general principles of strength training for children…