Healthy Kids Zone

Food allergies in children are becoming increasingly common—and often misunderstood. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down the difference between an allergy and an intolerance, the most common triggers, and why some kids are more at risk. Learn how to recognize allergic reactions, what to do in an emergency, and how to safely manage allergies both at home and at school.

Ten minutes with your child's teacher can reveal more than grades—it can surface early signs of anxiety, attention issues, or social struggles. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses how to prep and what to ask so you can spot learning delays, behavior red flags, and "mental milestones" like focus, frustration tolerance, and peer relationships. Learn how to review sleep, screens, and schoolwork habits, set clear next steps, and know when to loop in your pediatrician for extra support.

Many parents link fevers, diarrhea, and even ear pulling to teething. But are those symptoms actually related? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down what teething does and does not cause, along with how to tell when your baby's fussiness might be connected to more than just new teeth.

Thumb-sucking is a normal comfort habit for younger children, but when it lingers past age four or five, it can affect dental health and become harder to break. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains when thumb-sucking is harmless, when it becomes a concern, and the most effective, positive ways to help your child give up the habit without a battle.

Every baby teethes differently—some barely notice it, while others act like it is the end of the world. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why the experience varies so widely and how parents can support their little ones through this phase. From timelines to treatment tips, learn what to expect and when to ask your pediatrician or dentist for help.

For decades, parents have blamed sugar for their children's wild energy—but research tells a different story. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains how placebo studies, parental expectations, and social cues contribute to the myth. She also shares smart strategies for managing sugar in your child's diet while promoting healthy habits.

A food allergy does not always mean hives or trouble breathing. For some people, eating certain raw fruits and vegetables can cause an itchy or swollen mouth instead. This is known as oral allergy syndrome. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why people with seasonal allergies may develop oral allergy syndrome, how symptoms differ from anaphylaxis, and when a child’s reactions warrant a conversation with an allergist.

When your baby feels warm, it does not always mean they have a fever. A baby's age and how you take their temperature matter more than you think. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why certain thermometers are more reliable than others, when to use rectal vs temporal scans, and how to interpret different readings depending on your child’s age.

Newborns cannot blow their noses, and they are not great at breathing through their mouths either, so even a little mucus can sound dramatic. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares what is normal when it comes to newborn sneezing and snorting, how to use saline and suction safely, and when to check in with your pediatrician.

Vomiting and diarrhea caused by the stomach bug are common in children and typically resolve with at-home care. But how do you know when to manage it yourself and when to seek medical help? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, offers guidance on spotting signs of dehydration, understanding the virus's typical course, and knowing when symptoms suggest something more serious. Get advice on safe hydration, what to feed—and avoid—during recovery, and when your pediatrician or the ER should be involved.