This Week in Pediatrics
Leading with heart: Juan Salazar’s mission to advance pediatric health care for all children - Vanderbilt Health News
I wanted to devote my career to infectious diseases in children, with a lot of emphasis on pediatric AIDS. A: So, the good news is that with the prevention of mother-to-infant transmission of HIV, plus the benefit of antiretroviral medications, fewer kids became infected with HIV...
CHLA Experts to Showcase New Research at 2026 Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting | Newswise
Aditi Iyer Seasonal and Geographic Trends in Pediatric Coccidioidomycosis at a Southern California Children's Hospital Monday, April 27, 2026 11-11:15 a.m. EDT · Rajesh Donthi, MD Beyond the Grid: Smarter Scheduling, Stronger Teams, and World Peace Saturday, April 25, 2026 1...
UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital completes $30 million modernization - UF Health
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Building on its reputation as one of the nation’s highest-rated centers for pediatric care, UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital completed a $30 million renovation of two renovated pediatric units, featuring advanced-design private rooms and medical-surgical a...
Research of the Day
Return to Sport After Pediatric Concussion: Age-Modified Protocols
This multi-site study evaluated age-specific return-to-sport protocols following concussion in 2,500 young athletes ages 8-18. Younger children required longer recovery periods, challenging one-size-fits-all protocols.
Key findings: (1) Median recovery 21 days for ages 8-12 vs 14 days for teens; (2) Early return to sport associated with prolonged symptoms; (3) Symptom-limited activity during recovery improved outcomes.
Use age-appropriate return protocols. Younger athletes need more conservative management. Emphasize symptom-limited activity and complete recovery before returning to full sport.
Popular Beliefs
Warm milk helps children sleep
What the evidence shows: While milk contains tryptophan (a sleep-promoting amino acid), the amount is modest. Any sleep benefit likely comes from the comforting ritual and warmth rather than pharmacologic effect. A consistent bedtime routine matters more than any single component.
Wait 30 minutes after eating before swimming
What the evidence shows: There's no evidence that swimming after eating causes cramps or drowning. While digestion diverts some blood flow to the gut, it doesn't impair swimming ability in normal circumstances. Common-sense supervision is always important regardless of meal timing.
Children outgrow ADHD
What the evidence shows: While symptoms often change with age, approximately 60% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms into adulthood. Hyperactivity typically decreases, but inattention and impulsivity often persist. Ongoing monitoring and treatment adjustment is important across the lifespan.
Behaviors
Bedtime Routine Consistency and Child Behavior: Observational Study
This analysis of 5,000 parent surveys examined the relationship between bedtime routine consistency and daytime behavior. Children with consistent, calming bedtime routines had fewer behavioral problems and better emotional regulation.
Key findings: (1) Inconsistent routines associated with 2x behavioral difficulties; (2) Routines including reading showed strongest effects; (3) Benefits seen across all age groups studied (2-10 years).
Bedtime routines matter for more than just sleep—they shape behavior and emotional regulation. Help families develop simple, consistent routines even during busy periods.
Genetics
Genetic Risk Screening for Type 1 Diabetes: Prevention Trial Update
Large-scale genetic screening of newborns identifies high-risk children for T1D prevention trials. Early results suggest immune modulation in high-risk children may delay or prevent onset of diabetes.
Key findings: (1) 5% of screened infants fall into high-risk category; (2) Early intervention delayed onset by average 3 years; (3) Screening acceptable to most families when explained appropriately.
T1D prevention is moving from research to clinical reality. Stay updated on trial availability. For families with T1D history, genetic counseling and risk assessment may be appropriate for siblings.