Babies who sleep on their stomachs have a hard time waking up—and a high risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). To protect your children, always place babies on their backs to sleep. And don’t smoke: Research shows that even when they slept on their backs, babies whose mothers smoked had just as much difficulty waking as stomach-sleepers did.

Archives of Disease in Children: Fetal and Neonatal Edition

  Fiber: It’s not just for adults. But how much does a child need? After age 2, experts recommend a daily intake equal to your child’s age plus 5 grams. So, a 10-year-old should have about 15 grams. Good sources of fiber include apples, pears, kidney beans, lentils, and cereals—such as bran flakes with raisins.

Journal of the American Dietetic Association

 With childhood obesity skyrocketing, parents may be wondering how to help. Encourage your child to exercise to promote physical health. But don’t overlook your child’s mental health. One study showed that children who were depressed were twice as likely to become obese within a year.

Pediatrics