700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

A parent is putting insect repellent on their child. There are trees in the background. — Insect Repellent (Bug Spray) for Kids: What Parents Should Know

Posted by: Jennifer Kosla, PCPNP, DNP on Aug 01, 2025

Bug bites are not just annoying—they can be harmful too. Some bugs carry germs that can make people sick. Using insect repellent helps keep bugs away, so your child can play safely.

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How to Talk to Your Kids About Drugs and Alcohol

It is important to start talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs before they are exposed, as early as age 9.

A smiling baby lies on their stomach facing the mother, as they engage in joyful eye contact and interaction. The baby wears a striped outfit and the woman leans close with a loving expression, highlighting a moment of bonding and early communication.

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Baby Talk vs Parentese: How to Talk with Your Baby

Your baby is already learning to talk just by listening to you! Discover the difference between baby talk and parentese, and get expert tips for building your baby's language skills through everyday moments, songs, gestures, and fun interactions.

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

Down Syndrome Awareness: Dispel the Misconceptions

Mar 21, 2023

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day to symbolize the third copy of the 21st chromosome in people with Down syndrome. Read More

Topics:
Genetics

Got ADHD Medication? What Parents Need to Know About the Shortage

Mar 20, 2023

After already having experienced infant formula, children’s pain reliever, antibiotics, and flu medication shortages, pediatric care providers and families are now struggling with the challenge of shortages of medications prescribed for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Read More

Topics:
Neurology

Parent and child in emergency room with doctor

5 Questions Parents Need to Ask Before Leaving the Emergency Room

Mar 16, 2023

A sick child is every parent’s concern. Most aim to alleviate their kid’s discomfort at home and follow up with their pediatrician, but when an emergency room visit is required, that concern can become overwhelming. Read More

Topics:
Urgent Care

Scleroderma: What Parents Need to Know

Mar 14, 2023

Each person’s skin is unique, so scleroderma looks different for every patient. A child or young adult may start out with a small area of affected skin that changes in texture. Some people describe the skin as becoming tighter, firmer, more stretched, or thickened. The affected area may lighten, darken, or develop a red border. Read More

Topics:
Rheumatology

Is Your Contact Information Up to Date So Ohio Medicaid Can Reach You?

Mar 10, 2023

Families who have health insurance through Medicaid have not had to re-enroll for a few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means you might need to sign up for Medicaid again. Read More

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Community Resources

Certified Child Life Specialists: Providing Emotionally Safe Care

Mar 09, 2023

As developmental experts and “emotional first responders,” a Child Life Specialist’s main goal is to minimize potential trauma and stress experienced during a medical encounter. Read More

Topics:
Child Development

Parent-Child Attachment: Hidden Opportunities in Everyday Routines

Mar 07, 2023

Babies need to feel nurtured and safe in order to thrive and they are able to do this best when they have a secure attachment with their parent. Opportunities to bond with babies and young children are hidden in everyday activities! Read More

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Behavioral Health

Baby Registry Series: The Basics

Mar 02, 2023

Newborns’ needs are very basic those first few weeks at home. This is the first in a series of blog posts which will go more in-depth on a few things to think about when it comes to keeping your newborn safe and healthy. Read More

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