While the internet has improved access to health information, there is a downside. Some information may be outdated or just plain incorrect. Remember even credible information found on the internet should supplement information from your healthcare provider, not replace it. Your child’s healthcare provider may be able to tell you about some reliable websites. Here are a few trusted websites recommended by our Pediatric Answer Line Nurses.
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital (https://www.stlouischildrens.org/) - Find specific information related to disease processes, see topics related to growth and development, find support groups and a host of other health information.
- American Academy of Pediatrics (http://www.aap.org/) - Find detailed information on Car Seat Safety, normal growth and development and a Health Topics Section filled with much more information dealing with kids and health.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (http://www.cdc.gov/) - While dealing with both children and adults, this site has good information on positive parenting tips, safety and other topics. Two very popular and very informative areas on the site have to do with immunizations and influenza.
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (https://www.cpsc.gov/) - This Federal Regulatory Agency doesn’t have jurisdiction over all consumer products, but they do cover about 15,000 products such as cribs, bicycles and toys. This site can let you know if a product has been recalled and what to do about it if it has be recalled.
- Food and Drug Administration (https://www.fda.gov/) - Among many other products, you can go here to get information on food that has been recalled. Lot numbers are listed as well as what to do if you have recalled food.
- United States Department of Agriculture (https://www.choosemyplate.gov/) - Here you will find information on healthy eating for kids and adults. The site targets preschoolers and kids from 6 to 11 years.
Happy surfing, in safe waters!
