It's not perfect. It's parenting.
Sometimes you need answers to the little everyday things that parents encounter. And sometimes, you just need someone to encourage you through all of the craziness and challenges of parenthood. Welcome to Parent-ish, a blog from the experts at Children's Mercy.
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Pediatric specialists your child should see - and when
Your child’s health journey involves more than just visits to the pediatrician. While some pediatric health specialists are essential for every child’s development and preventive care, others are needed based on specific symptoms or conditions. This guide helps parents understand when to schedule those important appointments.
Debunking common autism myths
Families navigating an autism diagnosis often encounter a flood of conflicting information, especially online and in the media. Misinformation and myths can make it harder to understand what autism really is and how best to support autistic children. We're sharing some of the most common myths addressed using current research and clinical insights, with the goal of helping parents feel more confident and informed.
Helping kids when they feel left out
It’s hard to see your child come home feeling sad, quiet or upset. Sometimes, it’s because they feel left out. Being left out can hurt, especially as kids get older and friendships become more important. So how can parents tell when something’s wrong, help their child feel better and teach them how to handle tough moments? Here are some tips.
How to choose a pediatrician for your child – tips from real parents
We asked some parents in our community to share tips on how they chose the pediatrician that was right for their family. If you need a pediatrician, consider these helpful tips.
Helping kids through separation anxiety
It’s normal for young kids to feel nervous when they leave their parents. But sometimes, those feelings are stronger and last longer and keep kids from doing routine and fun things like attending school, participating in activities or playing sports. That’s called separation anxiety. It can be hard for both kids and parents, but there are ways to help.
Adulting 101: Teaching kids about money
Talking to kids about money can be tricky. But learning how money works is important and it’s best to start early. When kids understand saving, spending and earning, they’re more ready for real life. Keep reading for some easy ways parents can teach kids about money basics.
Family meetings: A simple way to stay connected
Life gets busy. Between school, sports, work and everything else, it’s easy for families to feel out of sync. That’s where family meetings come in! We talked to a few families in our community to learn how they tackle meetings – frequency, agenda and more – to give you ideas for your family!
Parenting in the age of AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a part of our daily lives. Whether it is the voice that answers your questions on a smart speaker or the app that recommends your next favorite show, AI is quietly working behind the scenes. Even though it is everywhere, there are not many clear rules about how it should be used, especially when it comes to kids.
Emergency preparedness tips every family should know
Most parents don’t want to consider worst case scenarios. Thinking of your family encountering a natural disaster, fire or the like is scary, but a little preparation can ease worries and help make sure your family is ready to react quickly in a scary situation.
Saying goodbye to the pacifier: A gentle guide for parents
Let’s be real — pacifiers can be a lifesaver, especially in those early days. They help babies calm down, feel safe and sometimes stop a meltdown before it starts. But as your child grows, you might wonder when it’s time to let go of the pacifier. And how do you do it without a lot of tears? Here’s a simple guide to help you through it.
Kid safety 101 for grandparents
Grandparents, you’re a vital part of your grandkids’ lives — and an essential source of mental health respite for parents, too. The Children’s Mercy 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment found there are 7,811 households with grandparents raising grandchildren in the Kansas City area alone! Whether you're watching your grandkids on a regular basis or having them stay for a visit, we have some essential tips to help keep your little loved ones safe.
Why free play is so important for your child
Kids love to play — and that’s a good thing! Play isn’t just fun, it helps children grow strong, think better and feel happier. One of the best kinds of play is called free play. It’s simple, fun and super important for your child’s health and development.
Helping your child balance extracurricular activities
Kids today are busier than ever. Sports, music, clubs and more — there are so many great things to try. But how do you know when it’s too much? Keep reading to learn what to look for and how to have the conversation with your child.
“I don’t want to go to school:” What it really means – and how to help
As the new school year quickly approaches, many families are prepping for new routines —packing lunches, managing homework and adjusting to earlier bedtimes. But for some children, the return to school brings more than just the usual jitters. It can trigger a deeper struggle: school avoidance.
Tantrums 101
Tantrums. If you're a parent, you've likely encountered them—maybe in the cereal aisle, during bedtime or right before school. While they can be frustrating and exhausting, tantrums are a normal part of childhood development. The good news? With the right tools and understanding, you can navigate them with more confidence and calm.