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Program Helps Children and Parents Weather the Teen Years
The transition into the teenage years can be
difficult and confusing for children — and
their parents. Understanding what your son
or daughter is going through and having a trusted
resource to lean on can provide the tools you
need to guide your child through these critical
years. To help, K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital
(KHCH) offers the Adolescent Medicine Program.
This program is designed to give teens and preteens
care that is focused on their unique needs.
"This is a special time in a child's life — and
a period of tremendous change," explains Steven
Kairys, M.D., chairman of the Department of
Pediatrics and medical director of KHCH. "We
are focused on the many physical, emotional, and social issues that occur during this time and
we help our patients through them."
The program offers consultative services on
many teen-focused issues, including:
- Growth and development
- Chronic pain
- Headaches
- Eating disorders
- Substance abuse
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and school-related problems
- Obesity and weight problems
- Menstrual irregularities and other gynecological issues
- Cognitive issues, such as mood swings and depression
The program does not take the place
of a child's primary care physician.
Rather, KHCH physicians with
board certification in adolescent
medicine serve as specialists. They
support children — as well as their
parents and pediatricians — in
specific concerns.
"We are very comfortable with
teen and preteen patients and know
how to approach potentially difficult
issues," says Dr. Kairys. "Although we
involve the parents as much as possible, we
also work with each patient alone. Not only do
we focus on the root of the problem, but we
also spend extra time educating them on health
issues. This helps transition adolescents into taking
responsibility for their own well-being."
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The start of the school year
means buying new clothes, getting
out notebooks, and making
sure vaccines are up-to-date.
While getting poked with needles
is probably not your child's idea
of a good time, keeping up with
immunizations helps protect her
from serious diseases — and may
even save his or her life.
Meet with Your Pediatrician
Your child may need several shots
spread out over months or years.
Be sure to review the immunization
guidelines with your child's
pediatrician and talk about any
concerns you may have, including:
- New shots that are available, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for girls
- Any underlying illnesses your child has and any medication he takes
- Catch-up vaccines if your child missed one
- Booster shots for older children
- Possible side effects, such as mild pain and swelling at the injection site or a lowgrade fever
Keep Track of Vaccines
It is important to keep a record
of vaccinations. In most states,
children will not be able to enter
schools without proof of certain
vaccinations. A child's parent is
usually responsible for keeping
track of immunization records
and providing them to schools
and the health department. A
parent can start by saving the
shot record that is given at the
first vaccination.
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