700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posted by: Alana Leever, PsyD on Sep 14, 2026


Needle pokes, whether they are for vaccines, blood draws, or intravenous (IV) placement, can be negative experiences for children. Fortunately, there are research-supported strategies to promote child coping and comfort during pokes.

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About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

Latest Posts

What to Expect When Your Child Needs a Blood Draw

Sep 17, 2026

Blood draws can be scary for kids, but a little preparation can make a big difference. Learn how honesty, hydration, distractions and comfort techniques can help your child feel calmer and more confident before and during a blood test. Read More

Pregnant woman looking at ultrasound screen during exam.

Microcephaly: Definition and Treatment Options

Sep 17, 2026

Microcephaly occurs when a baby or child has a smaller-than-expected head size due to differences in brain growth or, rarely, skull development. Learn about possible causes, signs to watch for, how it’s diagnosed, and the therapies and treatments that can support a child’s development. Read More

Helping Children and Families Navigate the Health Care System

Sep 16, 2026

Dealing with the health care system can be frustrating no matter who you are.  For many families, keeping all those pieces connected can feel like a full-time job.  That is why Partners For Kids (PFK) continues to invest in care coordination programs that help children and families get the care and support they need. Read More

The Red Poop Challenge

Intestinal Transit Time: The Red Poop Challenge

Sep 16, 2026

Your intestines are home to trillions of bacteria that help digest food, absorb nutrients, and keep your body running smoothly. Scientists around the world are studying these microbes to learn what combination of bacteria creates the healthiest gut. Because these bacteria live deep inside your digestive tract, studying your stool (poop) is the easiest way to see how they are doing.   Read More

a teen boy and girl eating on an outside table

Healthy Eating for Young Athletes

Sep 15, 2026

What your young athlete eats before and after exercise can make a difference in energy, recovery, and performance. Learn when to fuel up, what nutrients to focus on, and easy snack and smoothie ideas for practices, workouts, and game days. Read More

young girl smiling at camera

Cleft Lip and Palate: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Sep 15, 2026

Cleft lip and cleft palate are common birth differences that can affect more than appearance. Learn what causes clefts, how they may impact feeding, speech and hearing, and how a multidisciplinary care team supports children from infancy through early adulthood. Read More

Potty Training Troubles in Kids with Autism

Sep 11, 2026

Potty training can be tough on any parent and child. But when the child has autism, this rite of passage can be even more challenging. Read More

Open shutters

Window Blind Cords: A Hidden Danger for Young Children

Sep 10, 2026

Window blind cords can pose a serious strangulation risk to young children. Learn why cordless blinds are the safest choice, what to do if you still have older corded blinds, and simple ways to make your home and other places your child visits safer. Read More