700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by Mike Patrick, MD

Posted by: Mike Patrick, MD on Apr 16, 2026

Many parents want to make homemade baby food. And why not? But danger lurks in that good-looking meal, primarily in the form of nitrate contamination and botulism.

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Why Is My Child Screaming at Night? Understanding Night Terrors
First published October 2013 Updated April 2026 Few things are more unsettling for parents than being awakened in the middle of the night by a child who is screaming, thrashing, or sitting upright in bed with wide eyes that seem to look right through you.
Blog Functional Movement Disorder
Blog

Functional Movement Disorder in Teens
Health care providers are seeing an interesting trend as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Functional movement disorder is on the rise in teenagers. The cause? Some experts say screen time habits may play a part, but more research is needed to determine the exact reason.

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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.

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Latest Posts

Why Your Toddler is Biting and Hitting

Mar 11, 2026

First published November 2011 Updated March 2026 Biting and hitting are common problems during the toddler years, and whether your child is on the giving or receiving end, your goal is the same: to have the behavior stop. Read More

How to Choose an Urgent Care

Jan 27, 2026

Middle-of-the-night earache? Weekend sports injury? Not every illness or accident needs the ER—but not every urgent care is right for kids, either. Learn how to tell what’s an emergency, what can wait, and how to choose an urgent care center with true pediatric expertise, including options from Nationwide Children’s in Central Ohio. Read More

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When Kids Go Missing: What Parents Need to Know

Jan 14, 2026

Worried about how to explain stranger safety without causing anxiety? These expert-backed tips can help you guide the conversation with clarity, compassion and confidence. Read More

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Safe Charging of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Dec 15, 2025

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, from smartphones to electric scooters. When handled incorrectly, these batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode. Learn practical tips for safe charging, storage, and disposal to keep your family and home protected. Read More

Black and white image of toddler-aged boy with short dark hair holding a watch and winking at the camera.

Helping Kids Adjust to the Time Change

Oct 22, 2025

When the clocks fall back, kids’ routines can fall apart. Discover simple, science-backed strategies to help your child adjust to the time change and sleep better. Read More

Striking a Healthy Balance: Screen Time Tips for Kids and Teens

Oct 15, 2025

First published December 2013 Updated October 2025 In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere and serve a variety of purposes, including learning, socializing, entertainment, and relaxation. Read More

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The Vitamin K Shot: Why Newborns Need It

Sep 04, 2025

One of the first health decisions for your newborn is whether to give the vitamin K shot. This quick, safe injection prevents life-threatening bleeding disorders in infants. Learn what vitamin K does, why it matters, and the facts behind common myths. Read More

A teenage girl is sitting on a bed with a laptop in front of her.

When AI Feels Like a Friend: How to Keep Kids Safe

Sep 03, 2025

AI tools aren’t going away, and in many contexts, they can be helpful. By staying engaged, setting limits, and keeping the conversation open, parents can ensure that technology remains a tool—not a substitute for care, compassion, and community. Read More