Confusing messages shoved at kids by television, radio, DVD, computer games and the Web can make childhood downright hard, says a professor of behavioral sciences.

Spanking in general teaches children what not to do and doesn't teach them what to do instead.

As a parent of a young child, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing who will care for your child while you’re at work.

Although some behavior problems can be attributed to normal child development, some require professional help.

Experts say today's small music players pose a big risk of hearing loss. One reason: The "earbuds" used with iPods and other MP3 players fit into the ears, not over them.

As some schools ban colas from vending machines, ads are hyping a source of even more caffeine: energy drinks.

Most youngsters learn the basics of pedaling, steering and braking on a tricycle or "big wheel" cycle, and around age 4 are ready to try a two-wheeler with training wheels.

Installing your child's car seat properly and using it every time your son or daughter rides in the car is one of the best ways to help keep him or her safe in case of an accident.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Public Health Association have guidelines that can help you make up your mind.

Parents need to be prepared to focus their energy on soothing, distracting or comforting their child during the flight.

If having surgery makes you nervous, imagine how it can seem for a child. By helping the youngster anticipate and face those fears, you can ease the trauma and smooth the way for a quicker, easier recovery.

Kids must cope with all the issues, such as violence or global warming, that stress out adults. But they must also handle stresses added by their parents and the media.

Safe Kids Worldwide estimates that three out of four children too small for seatbelts are incorrectly restrained in car seats or booster seats.

To help your children become happy, well-adjusted adults, treat them the way you'd like to be treated yourself. Talk nicely. Don't be mean.

There are no magic words to make a teen drive like an adult. But by setting rules, parents can make a dramatic difference in preventing crashes.

Video games can take up too much of your kids' time. They may keep your kids from schoolwork and isolate them from family and friends. They can fuel obesity by limiting physical activity.

A lot of parents have long since acknowledged that cell phones are a staple of teen life, but what about for 8- to 12-year-olds?