700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Mother holding their child to their chest while a doctor holds a needle near them.

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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Screening Your Family: Type 1 Diabetes Testing for First-Degree Relatives

If type 1 diabetes runs in your family, a simple blood test can help identify risk years before symptoms appear. Learn who may benefit from screening, what the test looks for, and how early detection can help families prepare and explore options that may delay the onset of T1D.

Mother and her little sons hiking. They are taking a break and sitting on the old stairs. Examining map.

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Step Outside: Your Adventure Awaits

You don’t need expensive gear or a weekend getaway to have an adventure. Explore simple outdoor activities that encourage movement, spark curiosity, and help families connect, right outside your front door.

Health e-Hints Newsletter

Stay up-to-date with the information you need for your child by subscribing to our free Health e-Hints e-newsletter. It’s customized for your child.

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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

The Story Behind Our Wagons

Jul 23, 2026

At Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Butterfly Wagons do more than transport patients—they bring smiles, comfort, and a sense of normalcy during hospital stays. Learn how these colorful wagons have become a beloved tradition for children, families, and caregivers alike. Read More

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Fundraising Events

Student sitting at desk with a caffeinated beverage

Caffeine Overdose: Why This Stimulant Isn't Safe for Kids

Jul 22, 2026

First published May 2017 Updated July 2026 Learning the news that a teenager died from a caffeine overdose is both horrible and terrifying, but it’s just the tip of a very large iceberg. Read More

young boy with hand on his head looking sad with his father comforting him

How to Talk to Your Kids About Tragedy

Jul 22, 2026

News about violence and tragedy can be overwhelming for children. Learn how to have honest, age-appropriate conversations, limit unnecessary exposure to distressing media, and reassure your child while helping them feel safe and supported. Read More

What Kind of Stuff Clears up a Stuffy Nose?

Jul 21, 2026

A stuffy nose can make kids miserable, but there are simple ways to help them breathe easier. Learn which home remedies really work, why over-the-counter cold medicines aren’t recommended for young children, and when ongoing congestion could be a sign of allergies or another condition. Read More

A healthcare provider performs an abdominal ultrasound on a child lying comfortably on an exam table. The child rests with hands behind their head while the clinician uses an ultrasound probe to examine the abdomen in a medical setting.

Understanding Congenital Portosystemic Shunts (CPSS): A Guide for Families

Jul 20, 2026

A congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) is a rare condition that changes how blood flows through a child’s liver. Learn the signs and symptoms, how doctors diagnose and treat CPSS, and why early detection can improve long-term health and development. Read More

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Endocrinology

How Water Keeps Our Kidneys Healthy

Jul 17, 2026

One of the best and easiest ways to keep your kidneys healthy is by drinking plenty of water. Read More

What Parents Need to Know About Cyclosporiasis

Jul 17, 2026

Increased cases of cyclosporiasis acquired in the United States have been reported since May 2026 across multiple states, including Ohio. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cavetanensis. Read More

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Infectious Disease

Preparing Your Child for Colorectal Surgery

Jul 16, 2026

Preparing your child for surgery can make the hospital experience less stressful for the whole family. Learn how to talk about surgery at every age, what to expect before and after the procedure, and simple ways to help your child feel safe, supported, and ready. Read More

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Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction

700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts