Posted by: Emily Decker, MD on Jan 13, 2026


Raising a child with special needs comes with extra joys—and extra challenges that go far beyond medical care. Learn how to find mentors, connect with support groups, explore adaptive sports and recreation, access respite care, and advocate for your child, plus how CAP4Kids can help you quickly find local resources with just a few clicks.

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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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Building Fine Motor and Play Skills with Household Materials

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No need to buy new toys, your home is full of fun! Discover how to transform everyday items like containers, paper rolls, and tissue boxes into creative, hands-on activities that build fine motor skills, imagination, and more. Read More

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Reading and Relational Health: Investing in Your Child's Emotional World

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When we read with children, we aren’t just teaching words—we’re offering connection, stability, and the kind of presence that helps them grow with confidence and trust. Read More

Music Therapy: Sounds of Love in Early Childhood

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Singing to your baby can actually help development. Growing evidence shows that babies whose parents sing, read, or play with them to music have a greater chance of reaching developmental milestones on time. Read More

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Exercise as Medicine: What's Your Child's Dose?

Jun 26, 2025

What if a daily dose of movement could help your child fight anxiety, improve sleep, and prevent chronic disease? Good news: it can! Discover how to treat exercise like medicine, with simple steps to build a personalized fitness “prescription” for your family. Read More

Imaginary Friends: Should You Worry?

Jun 04, 2025

Typically, imaginary friends appear in preschool and early childhood and most times come and go without concern. Here are a few guiding principles in embracing this fun expression of your child’s imagination. Read More

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Toxic Stress: How the Body's Response Can Harm a Child's Development

Jun 02, 2025

Toxic stress that children suffer not only shapes their emotional lives as adults, but also affects their physical health and longevity. Read More

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Breakfast on the Brain: Why It Matters

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As a parent, prioritizing breakfast in your household can help set your child up for success. Read More

Child with Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety: How to Ease Your Child's Mind

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It’s important to understand the difference between anxiety that’s part of normal development and anxiety that’s excessive, so you can seek support for your child when needed to help ease these symptoms. Read More