KV Healthcare

Your Home for Health

Elise Herman , MD

How to Have a Good Family Road Trip

· ·

Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

If you have a family road trip coming up this summer, you may be dreading the challenge of being together in the car for hours (or days). But with a little planning, you can employ some strategies to make this go more smoothly. Consider starting out when kids will sleep through the first part of the trip- either in the wee hours of the morning or at bedtime and remember to take any ‘loveys’ (favorite blanket or stuffed animal) along for the ride.

Plan on stopping about every 2 hours for younger kids (though we all need breaks from the car) and pick places like a park or playground so kids can get some fresh air and exercise. Have lots of healthy snacks on hand when you get out of the car; young kids should not eat in their car seat due to choking concerns. Avoid processed snacks with high sugar content which can spike the blood sugar and affect your child’s mood. Water is fine but sticky liquids like juice can be a big mess in the car. If anyone has symptoms of carsickness (queasiness, nausea), open the windows a bit and make a quick stop if you can. A bland snack like crackers can help.

Have everything you need for your child in a separate bag in the front, so it is easy to find things quickly. Bring lots of books, toys, puzzles (with big pieces that are less likely to get lost), crayons and paper, etc. Etch A Sketch and magnetic drawing boards work well for a variety of ages. Kids are more entertained by new things—or at least new to them; see if you can borrow from a friend as opposed to buying lots of new stuff.

Depending on the age of your child, classic activities such as “I Spy with My Little Eye” and license plate bingo work well; there are lots of variations found online. Singing songs together is a perennial favorite, as are word games such as GHOST (each person adds a letter with the goal being not to end the word). Kids’ podcasts (for example, NPRs “But Why?”) and kids’ music playlists and audiobooks can help pass the time.

Older kids can help navigate and point out interesting places along the way. Give them a paper map (remember those?!) and ask them to give input on routes, provide updates on location, and how much distance has been covered and how much lies ahead.

Screen activities can have a place in your road trip, but much better to use judiciously than have everyone with their head down on their own device the whole time. Try to save this till later in the trip when you ‘really need it’. If there is whining for devices, don’t give in—these are a privilege and are ‘awarded’ for good behavior.

Family road trips can be exciting and lots of fun, but it is realistic to expect there may also be crabbiness and bickering. Acknowledge to your child that it may be challenging but that you are on your way to somewhere special. Remember this is also a time for kids to learn patience, kindness, and compromise. With planning and preparation, you can all have a pretty good (and memorable) time on your adventure.

Resources

more about The contributor

Dr. Elise Herman

Blog Posts
Profile

Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

Helping Kids Deal with Climate Change

· ·

Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

We are hearing and reading a lot about climate change and our kids are getting lots of exposure to this topic, too. The terms “eco-anxiety” and “climate change grief” refer to the psychological effects- feelings of worry, fear, despair, and hopelessness- that can develop with awareness of the realities of climate change including more extreme weather, increased heat, wildfires, and loss of biodiversity. There are steps we can take to help our kids be more resilient in the face of climate change and help ourselves cope at the same time.

Decreasing your own and your children’s exposure to media, especially media that is sensationalistic, is very important. There is a fine line between being informed and being overwhelmed—our kids feel it, too. Don’t have the news on (radio or TV) a lot, and don’t constantly refresh your online news source. There are media sites such as Earth Rangers which can give information that is more positive, such as what steps are being taken to combat climate change. The National Geographic Kids website explains this issue in a developmentally appropriate way while offering steps kids and parents can take together to help, even in small ways. The documentary show “An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet” on Apple Plus explores people, traditions, and ideas which foster optimism in the face of climate change. Look for books that explain climate change in age-appropriate ways and offer a hopeful outlook. Books that show kids as the ones coming up with some solutions and creating positive change are particularly empowering.

When discussing climate change, ask your child what they have heard and believe. Ask open-ended questions to encourage a conversation. What do their friends think? How are their teachers approaching climate change education? Don’t be afraid to discuss negative environmental stories (wildfires, etc.) and how they are feeling while reassuring them that they are safe. Validate your child’s emotions and response and share some of your own. You may be able to dispel some alarming misconceptions right up front. The bleak and scary possibilities may not come to pass; it is important to leave room for hope and to discuss what positive steps are being taken. Point out some ‘climate victories’ such as more electric vehicles and increasing use of solar and wind power. Knowing that scientists, governments, and environmental organizations are working together to combat climate change can be reassuring.

Encourage a positive mindset and take positive actions. When your child sees you driving less, being mindful with water use, and aiming to conserve energy, you are being a good role model. Find things you can do together—buy less, especially things encased in single-use plastic; consider a more plant-based diet; try to walk and bike instead of driving if possible, at times. Your child may be able to work with their school to help it be more eco-friendly perhaps by decreasing unused food waste, eliminating plastic straw use, or recycling, for example. You can become active with an environmental group or even help your child start one at school. Earth rangers.com has a free club portion geared towards kids with great ideas for your child to take action. Older kids may enjoy sites such as earth.org which highlight young adults making a difference through climate change activism.

Both parents and kids benefit from time in nature, which is known to improve mental and physical health. Getting outside regularly builds connection and a sense of responsibility to nature, as does showing gratitude, especially for the beauty here in Eastern Washington. Do things that help our local environment-plant trees, have a garden, scatter native wildflower seeds. These actions inspire hope and increase a sense of stewardship for the planet. Kids can feel powerless but listening to them and taking action together, even in seemingly small ways, can give them (and us!) a sense of optimism and control. Do consider talking with your child’s healthcare provider or counselor if you note persistent or severe feelings of anxiety or depression related to climate change.

Resources

http://www.earthrangers.com

http://www.natgeokids.com/uk/parents/eco-anxiety-guide-for-parents/

10 Young Climate Activists Leading the Way on Global Climate Action

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Measles Cases Rising 2024

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    Measles cases are on the rise, and although numbers in the US are small right now, there is cause for concern. Measles is one the most contagious human viruses, with a 90% chance of someone who is not immune getting infected if they are near someone with measles. People with measles can infect others for 4 days before they have any signs of being sick, and for 4 days after the rash appears. The virus stays in the air and is infectious for 2 hours after the infected person has left. There is no treatment for the measles virus, however there is life-long immunity (protection) after vaccination as well as infection.

    This recent rise in measles in the US is in part due to a mild drop in kids’ vaccination rates, often related to children missing routine health care visits during the pandemic. Although the current rate of kindergarteners fully vaccinated against measles is good at 92%, the previous rate of 95% was better particularly because that level gives ‘herd immunity’, meaning protection of those that were not or could not be vaccinated (due to young age, cancer treatment, or other immune system problems) by those who are vaccinated.

    The number of measles infections world-wide has increased dramatically, up almost 80% in the last year to 306,000 cases. As people travel more, they can bring the infection home if they are not immune, potentially exposing many people before they know they are sick.

    Measles spreads easily through airborne secretions from coughing or sneezing. Infection is also caused by direct contact with droplets from the mouth, nose, or throat. Symptoms develop 7-14 days later and start with profuse runny nose, cough, and red, swollen, watery eyes. Fever is often up to 104 degrees. The rash develops 3-5 days after cold symptoms begin and starts as flat red spots on the forehead, spreading downwards to the trunk and extremities. Some spots may become raised and join to from larger blotches. It is not usually itchy.

    Measles itself is miserable, but the biggest concern is regarding complications. Serious complications include pneumonia in 1 out of 20 of those infected, encephalitis (brain inflammation and swelling) in 1 out of 1000 infected, and rarely, temporary or permanent blindness (more common in developing countries). One out of 5 unvaccinated people in the US with measles will be hospitalized, and 1-3 out of 1000 will die. Children under 5 and adults over 20 are most at risk of serious complications. Also at increased risk are pregnant women and those with immune system problems.

    Measles vaccination is safe and effective and gives life-long immunity. Prior concern of a connection between the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine and possible autism was based on fake ‘research’ and has been disproven by multiple studies by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the World Health Organization, and the Institute of Medicine.

    There has been a 99% decrease in measles cases since the vaccine came out in 1963. Prior to the vaccine, there were 3-4 million cases annually in the US and about 48,000 people hospitalized, most of which were children. Add approximately 500 deaths and 1,000 cases of encephalitis each year, and it is easy to see how miraculous vaccination has been.

    The best way to protect ourselves, as well as the approximately 9 million people in the US who cannot get the vaccine due to an immune system problem, is to be vaccinated. Measles vaccine is recommended for kids aged 12 months and again between 4 and 6 years. It is also approved for adults who did not receive it as children. There are 2 types of measles vaccines- the MMR (as above) and the MMRV (also protects against varicella/chickenpox). Your child’s health care provider can provide additional information on measles vaccination.

    Recursos en español

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Teen Acne

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    Teen acne is very common, affecting 85% of adolescents. It can occur on the face, neck, back, shoulders, and chest. Mild acne usually resolves without scarring, but more severe acne can cause darkened areas and permanent depressions in the skin. Teen acne does improve in most by age 20, but in the meantime, it can worsen a teen’s self-esteem, emotional health, and result in bullying.

    Acne occurs in teens due to increased pubertal hormones which cause sebaceous glands in the skin to make more sebum (oil which lubricates the skin). This sebum can plug the pores (hair follicles), resulting in swelling. Bacteria then can create inflammation, irritation, and redness in these swollen pores.

    There are factors which are known to increase acne, including stress. Hormones related to menstruation can also worsen acne the week or so before a girl’s period. Some skin products (moisturizers, sunscreen, and cosmetics) can make acne worse. Look for water-based products and avoid any that contain mineral oil, beeswax, sodium lauryl sulfate, cocoa butter, or coconut oil. Products labeled “non-comedogenic” (meaning not acne-causing) are ideal. Things that rub or cause excessive sweating can contribute to acne; think of phones, chinstraps, and backpacks. Research has not shown a connection between diet and acne, though a healthy diet with lots and fruits and vegetables and minimal processed food is recommended for all teens.

    There are four types of acne. Whiteheads are plugged pores that remain closed. Blackheads are plugged pores that are more superficial and open up, turning dark. Pimples are deeper plugged pores that become irritated and red due to bacteria (though this is not a true infection). Cysts or nodules are deeper, bigger, and may be painful. This severe type of acne can leave permanent scars.

    If acne is mild or moderate, start with over-the-counter products. Washing twice a day with a mild soap such as Cetaphil or an acne wash can help. Clean fingertips are ideal for washing the face; avoid scrubbing. After the skin has dried for about 20 minutes, apply a low strength (2.5%) benzoyl peroxide product sparingly to the face and other problem areas (not just on pimples) once a day, perhaps in the morning. Lower strength benzoyl peroxide products have been shown to work as well as higher strength for most people. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels and clothing, so apply carefully. After washing the face in the evening and allowing it to totally dry, apply a thin layer of adapalene (also called ‘Differin’) which is derived from Vitamin A. Both benzoyl peroxide and adapalene can cause irritation, dryness, and redness so always apply to dry skin and use a small amount. These products can initially be used every other day, slowly working up to daily, to help minimize this.

    It can take 2-3 months for acne to improve with an appropriate skin care routine, so patience is key. Squeezing acne lesions makes them more inflamed and take longer to heal as well as potentially causing scars, so should be avoided. If acne is more severe or not improving with over-the-counter care, seek help from your medical provider or a dermatologist. Treatment of more severe acne can help prevent permanent scarring.

    Remember that although acne does usually resolve after the teenage years, it can be a very big deal to your teen in the present, affecting them not just physically but emotionally. Let your teen know that you empathize, and together you will do what’s needed to treat their acne.

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Helping Your Shy Child

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    By nature, some kids are more outgoing than others. Many children are shy and reserved when younger but become less so as they grow up. Being shy, however, just characterizes a child’s approach to the world (especially new situations) and does not have to be seen as a negative. There are felt to be some benefits of this personality trait as these children tend to be more observant and less impulsive. Shy kids may be slower to warm up and more cautious about jumping into a new social situation but given time and the opportunity to be involved when they feel ready, do fine socially.

    You can help your child if they fall into the ’shy’ category:

    • Don’t allow people to label your child as ‘shy’ which can make them feel negatively about themselves. You can say something like, “He just sometime needs a little time to observe and warm up”. You can suggest your child give a little wave or smile if they are not ready to talk to someone.
    • Accept your child’s shyness and acknowledge their feelings, but don’t be overprotective. Gently encourage them to try challenging situations such as answering a question in class, ordering an item at a restaurant, or saying ‘hi’ to a child they see on the playground.
    • Create opportunities to practice social skills especially in low-risk settings such as going on playdates, casually getting together at a park with another family, etc.
    • Roleplay certain situations such as meeting new adults and approaching kids at school. It is fine to be near your child if they ‘need’ you, for example when meeting other kids at a playground, but try to let them speak for themselves. If they seem comfortable, you can move away while reassuring your child that you will be nearby.
    • Participation in group activities can build social skills and confidence. Small groups or classes such as scouts, dance, sports, or music give your child a chance to get to know a group that they will see regularly and so become increasingly comfortable.

    It is important to separate common shyness from social anxiety disorder, which is more severe, long-term, and interferes with everyday life to a greater degree. Those with this issue worry excessively about social interactions and seek to avoid social situations when possible. This can negatively impact school, friendships, and overall emotional well-being. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider if you think your child may have social anxiety disorder as counseling and other treatments can be very helpful.

    But don’t fret if you have a shy child—things will get easier! Accepting your child for who they are and supporting them as they work on social skills will help them gain the confidence they need as they grow.

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Preventing Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    As the winter weather approaches, so does the ‘sick season’, including illness due to RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). RSV typically starts in fall, peaks in winter, and causes cold symptoms including runny nose, cough, and fever in children and adults. Most kids have had RSV by age 2. Although usually mild, RSV can cause more serious problems like wheezing, pneumonia, and trouble breathing. These problems are more likely in premature babies or in kids with heart disease, lung issues like asthma, and immune system problems. Between 58,000 and 80,000 kids under age 5 are hospitalized due to RSV each year. Adults aged 60 and above are also at higher risk of more severe RSV illness. Reinfections with RSV are common.

    Like other colds viruses, RSV spreads by the droplets released by coughing or sneezing. You can also get it by direct contact (for example kissing) or touching a contaminated surface like a counter or cup and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

    There is no effective treatment for RSV and since it is a virus, antibiotics do not help. There are, however, two new good ways to prevent RSV—vaccines for adults and antibody treatment for young children. Vaccines stimulate the formation of antibodies to help fight infection (active immunity). Antibody treatments give antibodies directly to the body (passive immunity).

    RSV vaccines are available for those 32-36 weeks pregnant during RSV season and if given at least 2 weeks before delivery, will help protect the baby from severe RSV. RSV vaccine is also recommended for those 60 years and older.

    Antibody therapy (Nirsevimab) is approved for babies less than 8 months during RSV season (if mom did not get vaccine at least 2 weeks before delivery). Nirsevimab is also appropriate for some infants aged 8-19 months with severe health issues including extreme prematurity, immune system problems, cystic fibrosis, and heart disease. Nirsevimab is an injection and lasts 5 months, so helps protect for the entire RSV season. There is another antibody treatment called Palivizumab that has been used for years, but this is only approved for very high-risk children under age 2 and requires a monthly injection.

    Side effects of Nirsevimab are uncommon and include temporary discomfort, redness or mild swelling at the injection site, and a rash. Nirsevimab can be given with routine childhood vaccines and may be given if a child has mild cold symptoms. Children who have had RSV should still receive the antibody therapy due to the risk of getting infected again later in the sick season.

    There may be some difficulty having enough Nirsevimab for all kids who are eligible this year; contact your child’s provider about this. Supplies of RSV vaccine for those who are pregnant or 60 and over seem adequate; check with your provider or local pharmacy.

    Remember the routine ways we can all help prevent the spread of RSV and other viruses, such as frequent hand-washing, avoiding touching one’s face, staying home if sick, and wearing a mask when appropriate. Also, cover sneezes and coughs, do not share cups or utensils, and keep countertops and other frequently touched surfaces clean. Don’t forget your child’s other important vaccines including Influenza and COVID vaccines as these are also important to help keep your child healthy this winter season.

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Vegetarian and Vegan Diets in Teens

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    Although still a minority, more people are exploring plant-based diets, including teens. If your teen has expressed interest in this, you may wonder if being a vegetarian or vegan is nutritionally sound and how to handle this change at home. In some families, a diet different than the rest of the household can be a source of conflict, but it need not be so.

    Understanding the reason behind a change in diet is important. Some choose vegetarianism or veganism for health reasons (in adults, these diets are associated with lower risk of some diseases including heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and some cancers). The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics along with the American Academy of Pediatrics have stated that vegan and vegetarian diets can be “nutritionally adequate during infancy, childhood and adolescence”, but emphasize the need to make sure kids are getting enough nutrition to maintain good health and grow properly. Other reasons for choosing to be vegetarian or vegan may have to do with the larger carbon footprint of animal-based foods and animal cruelty concerns. If your teen is doing this to lose weight, make sure there is not an underlying eating disorder, and touch base with your provider if this is a concern.

    There are different types of plant-based diets. Lacto-ovo vegetarians eat no meat but do eat dairy and eggs. Lacto-vegetarians eat no meat or eggs but do consume dairy products. Pescatarians don’t eat meat but do eat fish (and usually dairy and eggs). Vegans eat no food products that come from animals including dairy, eggs and for some, honey.

    Vegetarianism and veganism are not just about what is not eaten, but also about what is eaten to be fully healthy. It is important to be mindful of certain key nutrients that may be harder for vegetarians and vegans to get enough of:

    • Vitamin B12: important for brain and heart function; found in animal sources (meat, fish, dairy, eggs) and some plants (bananas, potatoes, etc.) but hard to get adequately from plants alone. Supplemental sources include fortified soy milk, cereals.
    • Calcium: creates strong bones and teeth; naturally found in dairy products. Vegans should eat lots of dark green veggies and look for foods fortified with calcium (juices, cereals, soy milk). Tofu is an excellent source of calcium.
    • Iron: essential for preventing anemia and keeping the immune system strong; found in meat and fish. Plant based sources include beans, peas, dark leafy veggies, and dried fruit. It is harder to absorb iron from plant-based foods, so one needs to eat more of these to avoid having low iron.
    • Protein: builds muscle and is found throughout the body. Protein is in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Vegans need to eat adequate plant-based protein sources like nuts, soy, whole grains, and legumes (lentils, peas, and peanuts).
    • Omega 3 fatty acids: very important for cognitive development and assuring adequate energy; most easily found in fish, but also canola oil, soy products and walnuts.

    In general, those following a vegetarian or vegan diet should take a multivitamin that has B vitamins, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, and other nutrients. Look for foods that are fortified with vitamin B-12, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and vitamin D. Discussing healthy nutrition with your teen is important regardless of their preferences, but especially if they are interested in following a vegetarian or vegan diet. And since plant-based foods are important for all of us, this could be an opportunity for the whole family to learn more about healthy eating.

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Avoiding Picky Eating in Kids

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    Most parents are familiar with the ‘picky eater’- the child who is suspicious of new foods, has strong favorites, and may refuse to eat what the rest of the family is eating. Picky eating is very common in young children, but usually improves by age 5 years. This behavior occurs in part to exert some control over mealtime (and parents) in a way that is often attention-getting.

    Regarding feeding your child, it is a parent’s job to offer healthy foods and decide the time and place for eating; it is the child’s job to decide what to eat and how much. Remember that children will eat when they are hungry, and with enough opportunities (it may take 15 ‘exposures’ to something new), will accept and eat most foods. Pressuring a child to eat creates conflict and can make mealtime stressful actually resulting in the child eating less. It is OK if your child occasionally misses a meal because they refuse to eat what is served.

    There are things parents can do to minimize “picky eating” and encourage good eating habits that last a lifetime:

    • Offer a variety of foods including vegetables as soon as your child starts solids in infancy.
    • Have set mealtimes and decide how long meals will last; most kids can sit at the table for about 15 minutes for breakfast and lunch, and 20-30 minutes for dinner.
    • Sit down for meals and do not allow kids to come and go from the table; if they are ‘done’, the plate and any uneaten food is removed.
    • The kitchen is ‘open’ for planned meal or snack time and otherwise is ‘closed’; no other eating or drinking (except for water) as it may decrease the appetite for the next meal. Kids need 3 healthy balanced meals and 1-2 small snacks daily.
    • Get your child involved–gardening, preparing food/ helping with cooking (keep this age appropriate), planning the meal, or setting the table.
    • No separate meals; you are not running a restaurant! You can have a ‘boring’ option available (for example, plain bread) occasionally, but ignore whining or tantrums about food.
    • Give new foods in very small amounts so it is not intimidating.
    • Do not offer crackers, cookies, chips, etc. to get your child to eat ‘something’; if they are truly hungry, they will eat some of what is served.
    • Do not use dessert as a bribe to eat a meal.
    • Model healthy eating habits and keep discussion of eating neutral; no elaborate praise if they eat ‘well’ and no criticism if they refuse to try a new food. Keep conversation light and upbeat so mealtimes are positive.

    If you have concerns about your child’s ability to eat or swallow normally, or if you worry they may not be getting enough nutrition, talk to your child’s health care provider.

    Resources

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    The Benefits of Awe-Inspiring Experiences for Kids

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    We have all known the sensation of wonder and amazement when we experience something “awesome” like a spectacular rainbow. It turns out that ‘awe’- the overwhelming feeling of respect and amazement, often created by something vast and mysterious- is an important emotion with lots of benefits. Sources of awe might be nature, art, music, spirituality, or a demonstration of courage.

    Experiencing awe has been well studied in kids and adults and has been shown to increase creativity and curiosity, which fuel learning. Awe increases positive feelings, decreases negative feelings, and helps with emotional regulation and the ability to handle stress. Awe inspiring moments give children stronger feelings of connection and cooperation, especially if shared with others. Family bonds are strengthened by family members witnessing something ‘awesome’ together.  Prosocial behavior (behavior that benefits others) has been shown to be more likely after experiencing awe.

    In the face of something vast like a starry sky or beautiful ocean, we may feel more humble, understanding how small we really are in the world. This feeling of humility can put our own issues and struggles in perspective and encourage us to think beyond ourselves. This is particularly important now given social media use with its constant attention on us as individuals and how we appear to others.

    When nature is the source of wonder, kids tend to feel more comfortable and confident in the outdoors. Nature-inspired awe also can decrease PTSD and overall stress. Feeling awe after doing something brave or challenging can increase a child’s resiliency and ‘grit’.  

    The benefits of awe have a biologic basis.  Research shows that feelings of awe decrease cytokines, chemicals in the body which are related to inflammation, illness, and depression. Awe can also cause the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with love and empathy.

    There are relatively simple ways to encourage more awe, terrific for both our kids and ourselves:

    • Slow down and take time to notice the little things such as birds in flight, changing leaves, or a butterfly
    • Have more unstructured time, less rushed time and put away the phones and devices
    • Expose your child to art (such as galleries and museums), dance, and music; there are many local opportunities for this
    • Look for science activities that inspire wonder, such as going to a planetarium or a science museum
    • Get out in nature more, taking the time to comment on and express curiosity about what you see and hear
    • Notice and discuss courageous and kind behavior
    • Read books about brave and pioneering individuals
    • Create experiences at unusual times such as an early walk at sunrise or stargazing late at night (yes, after bedtime!); these can be very impactful
    • Consider doing journaling or artwork about awe-inspiring experiences
    • Although in-person is best, watching nature documentaries can also create feelings of awe
    • Express awe yourself- get excited about wondrous things and share those feelings with your child

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

    Pedestrian – Vehicle Accidents

    · ·

    Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

    Walking is a great way to exercise for adults and kids alike, but there is a concerning 11% increase in child and adolescent pedestrian fatalities in the US in the last 10 years, resulting in about 600 deaths per year. In response to this, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a new policy statement in June 2023. It discusses not only what we can all do to keep our kids safe while walking near cars but addresses how communities can change roads and driving to help prevent pedestrian injuries.

    There may be multiple reasons for this spike in pedestrian accidents involving children and youth. Both drivers and walkers tend to be more distracted than in the past, mostly by cell phones. Wearing earbuds makes walkers less aware of their environment. More kids are also walking to school (a good thing) but need to do so safely.

    The risk of being hit by a car or other vehicle is greatest in rural areas, according to the AAP, and boys are more likely than girls to be victims. Vehicle speed is the most important factor. In general, the faster the vehicle is going, the greater the risk of a collision with a pedestrian and the more severe the injury. For this reason, it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics that communities change policies and planning regarding roads. Speed bumps, roundabouts, and lower speed limits all work well to slow vehicles down. Photo speed limit enforcement, particularly in school zones, is very effective. Simply extending curbs is an easy way to help protect pedestrians.

    There are steps we can all take to help kids be safe when around cars, both in advising our children and being safer drivers ourselves.

    • Pedestrians should be on a path or sidewalk if at all possible; if walking on the shoulder, walk facing oncoming traffic
    • Hold your younger child’s hand when crossing the street, cross at designated intersections or crosswalks, and always observe traffic safety laws. You are a role model– no jaywalking!
    • Teach your child to cross the street: look left, right, and left again, and keep looking around while crossing
    • Kids should not play in driveways or areas next to driveways
    • Children 10 and under should have adult supervision when walking near traffic
    • Pedestrians should not wear earbuds or look at smartphones
    • Increased visibility is important; brightly colored clothing, hats, and backpacks help anytime, and a flashlight or headlamp is crucial at night
    • Drivers should not be distracted by smartphones or interacting with the touchscreen on the dashboard
    • It is the law to allow walkers to cross a crosswalk completely before beginning to drive
    • Use the rear-view camera in addition to car mirrors when backing up and keep the camera clean and ice-free

    Resources

    more about The contributor

    Dr. Elise Herman

    Blog Posts
    Profile

    Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.