Trick-or-Treat is a GO!!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Last year, we went to the mat to save one of our favorite holidays, and thanks to #ScienceFacts, this year is going to be even safer than last year. Even Dr. Fauci says trick-or-treat is a go. Just remember to use all your #SMARTS! 🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃 Space: stay 6 pumpkins apart from other groups 👹 Mask: Read more…
How do I help prepare my child for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The COVID-19 vaccine is almost here for children age 5 and up! How do I help prepare my child for the vaccine? A: Hooray! An FDA advisory panel has recommended the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children age 5 to 11 and the US will hopefully see final authorization from the CDC and FDA next week. Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TODAY IS THE DAY! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)! The FDA released summary documents ahead of today’s VRBAC meeting which foreshadowed their assessment of the current evidence for vaccinating 5-11-year-olds. ➡️ TL;DR: The FDA estimates that vaccine benefits “clearly outweigh” the risks for this age group. Read more…
FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!! It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for!!! FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!! On October 1st, the FDA announced that it “anticipates receiving a request from Pfizer to amend its emergency use authorization to allow the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 through 11 Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Last year, we went to the mat to save one of our favorite holidays, and thanks to #ScienceFacts, this year is going to be even safer than last year. Even Dr. Fauci says trick-or-treat is a go. Just remember to use all your #SMARTS! 🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃 Space: stay 6 pumpkins apart from other groups 👹 Mask: Read more…
How do I help prepare my child for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
The COVID-19 vaccine is almost here for children age 5 and up! How do I help prepare my child for the vaccine? A: Hooray! An FDA advisory panel has recommended the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children age 5 to 11 and the US will hopefully see final authorization from the CDC and FDA next week. Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TODAY IS THE DAY! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)! The FDA released summary documents ahead of today’s VRBAC meeting which foreshadowed their assessment of the current evidence for vaccinating 5-11-year-olds. ➡️ TL;DR: The FDA estimates that vaccine benefits “clearly outweigh” the risks for this age group. Read more…
FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!! It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for!!! FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!! On October 1st, the FDA announced that it “anticipates receiving a request from Pfizer to amend its emergency use authorization to allow the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 through 11 Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
The COVID-19 vaccine is almost here for children age 5 and up! How do I help prepare my child for the vaccine? A: Hooray! An FDA advisory panel has recommended the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children age 5 to 11 and the US will hopefully see final authorization from the CDC and FDA next week. Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)!
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TODAY IS THE DAY! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)! The FDA released summary documents ahead of today’s VRBAC meeting which foreshadowed their assessment of the current evidence for vaccinating 5-11-year-olds. ➡️ TL;DR: The FDA estimates that vaccine benefits “clearly outweigh” the risks for this age group. Read more…
FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!! It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for!!! FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!! On October 1st, the FDA announced that it “anticipates receiving a request from Pfizer to amend its emergency use authorization to allow the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 through 11 Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
TODAY IS THE DAY! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration meets to discuss KIDS vaccines TODAY (October 26th)! The FDA released summary documents ahead of today’s VRBAC meeting which foreshadowed their assessment of the current evidence for vaccinating 5-11-year-olds. ➡️ TL;DR: The FDA estimates that vaccine benefits “clearly outweigh” the risks for this age group. Read more…
FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!!
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!! It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for!!! FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!! On October 1st, the FDA announced that it “anticipates receiving a request from Pfizer to amend its emergency use authorization to allow the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 through 11 Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!! It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for!!! FDA will review the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 on October 26!! On October 1st, the FDA announced that it “anticipates receiving a request from Pfizer to amend its emergency use authorization to allow the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 through 11 Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech Will Soon Ask for Approval of Vaccine for 5 Years and Over
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Today’s news about vaccine for younger kids: From the article: “The makers of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will soon ask regulators to approve its use in children 5 years and over, and are getting ready to make smaller doses of the vaccine for younger children, according to one of the founders of BioNTech, the German company Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids SchoolJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids School
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
What can I do to prepare for back to school?
Families/Kids SchoolAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
A: Delta and a fourth wave of COVID-19 was not the plan. In this unfortunate reality, focus and flexibility will go a long way. Back-to-school will be bumpy. The timing of the Delta surge in the United States is overlapping with the return to classes for students. This is complicated, frustrating, scary (and many other Read more…
How can I help my 8th grader manage anxiety about the upcoming school year?
Families/Kids Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
A: Many young people are struggling with anxiety and stress about the upcoming uncertainties surrounding the school year. We can help them by focusing on the basics of mental wellness and creating an environment that is supportive. We can also create a strong framework for young people, a “scaffold,” to offer tools to find solutions for Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
