700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by Mike Patrick, MD

Posted by: Mike Patrick, MD on 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.

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baby sleeping and being held in a blanket
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The Vitamin K Shot: Why Newborns Need It

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.

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

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

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.

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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.

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Latest Posts

child getting their temperature taken.

What You Need to Know About Fever and Taking Your Child’s Temperature

Sep 21, 2021

Fever is a common symptom of illness. But why do fevers occur, what is the best way to take a temperature and what should you do if the reading is high? Read More

Blog Functional Movement Disorder

Functional Movement Disorder: What Is It and Why Are Cases on the Rise?

Aug 31, 2021

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. Read More

doctor, wearing a face mask, examining patients mouth, while parent looks on.

Winter Viruses Make a Summer Return

Aug 24, 2021

You may have noticed an uptick in kids and adults suffering from nasal congestion, sore throat, cough and fever. These viruses are typically seen during the winter months, but this year is different… we are seeing them in the summer! Read More

child's face close up

What You Need to Know About Heat Rash

Aug 18, 2021

As outdoor temperatures climb, children and adults may break out in rashes. These skin conditions often get lumped into the catchphrase “heat rash,” but heat is usually an indirect or unrelated factor. Read More

Herpetic Lesion

What You Need to Know About Herpes Mouth Sores

Feb 11, 2021

If you have experienced a cold sore, you are already familiar with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1). But did you know that cold sore actually began much earlier, typically during your toddler years? Read More

Child's arm

Impetigo: What You Need to Know

Jan 13, 2021

Impetigo is common on the face, especially around the nose and mouth. It usually begins as small sores that are red and a little itchy. Read More

Mother and daughter washing their hands at kitchen sink

The Importance of Handwashing

Dec 10, 2020

We know the simple act of handwashing is a powerful way to protect ourselves from infection. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly two million young children die each year from illnesses that can be prevented by washing hands with soap and water. Read More

AFM

What Parents Need to Know About Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

Nov 02, 2018

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare condition that has received much attention recently. The reports are scary, with most cases involving young healthy children who suffer from muscle weakness or paralysis that can last a long time. Read More