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We know that it's essential for children to have healthy eating habits in order to have optimal development. During childhood and adolescence, a good routine including healthy eating and physical activity can make a huge difference between having a healthy life and one that is riddled with health problems in the future. Despite our best wishes, as parents, we're up against some significant obstacles: picky kids, readily available foods that our kids are always asking for, or just trying to beat the clock. In short, it's not always easy, so that's why we're highlighting March as Nutrition Month with a series of helpful tips.

After brain surgery, Émilie bubbles with energy
Émilie first "blacked out" during a boat ride with her family. The short trip from St-Jean-Port-Joli to the casino in Charlevoix would eventually take them on a totally unexpected course. [+]

Kids' healthy eating: not just about food

Five mealtime survival tips for harried parents

When children do the brussel sprout pout

Whole grains in the teen diet

What kids drink is important too

Mya cuts her own hair, as told by Mya
Once upon a time in our old house my babysitter Felicia came over to watch Brooke and I because I was sick and mommy had to go to work... [+]

MCH ANNUAL BLOOD DRIVE

The annual blood drive for the Montreal Children's Hospital will be held on Tuesday, March 30, 2010, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 1000 de la Gauchetière West. The event is a joint effort between the MCH and radio station Rock Détente 107.3. Give blood - you could help save a child's life.

BALLET TROOP HANDS OVER PROCEEDS TO THE MCH IN TRIBUTE TO THE TEAM THAT CARED FOR NICHOLAS PITCAIRN

A troop of Montreal ballet and ballet jazz dancers with the Westmount Sports and Recreation Centre have been putting on their toe shoes and taking to the stage on a yearly basis to showcase their talents. For the last ten years, proceeds from Le Soirée de danse have been handed over to the The Montreal Children's Hospital, particularly the Palliative Care Service. [+]

MCH SURGICAL FELLOW HEADS TO KENYA

In March, when many head south for spring break, Dr. Robert Baird will also board an airplane, but he won't be heading to a fancy beachfront resort; he'll be heading to Kijabe, Kenya, for a month. He won't get much R&R either, but he will get a lot of O.R.... time that is. [+]

Do you have a question of a general nature that you'd like to ask our specialist? If your question is selected, the answer will be published in the next edition of the newsletter.

Ask a question [+]

My son is a young teenager in high school with a severe peanut/nut allergy. I have been told that these are the dangerous years. Now how can I help him avoid contact through a shared desk, computer, banister, etc.?
A teenager's mom

R : I certainly understand your concern for your son. While it is true that peanut allergy is one of the most severe allergies, we have to use our judgment because you can't put your son in a "bubble" and protect him from every possible exposure. [+]

How do you deal with the "terrible two's"?

Answer the question [+]

The best response will be published in the next issue!

When you need to take your child to the ER, what do you bring with you?

R : You have to figure that you're going to be spending a fair bit of time in Emergency because unless your child's situation is very serious, you'll be there for a good few hours. Therefore, you should think about bringing snacks, drinks, toys, books, paper and crayons. And don't forget diapers, teddy and anything else that will help comfort your child.
Annie, mom of Léa

Fresh fruits and vegetables are healthier choices compared to frozen or canned fruits and vegetables

True but... It was true many years ago but now that fruits and vegetables are frozen right after being picked, they lose very little of their nutrients. And fresh or frozen are much more nutritious than canned. [+]

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