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Being a child or teen seems not nearly as fun as it used to be. Who’s posting what on social media, worries about getting good grades, relationships at school, home environment and peer pressure have today’s kids feeling the stress to perform, fit in and stand out. When it comes to stress and children, know how to identify signs and find solutions.

“Why didn’t anyone tell me?” is a common response from parents when they find out their newborn is infected with cytomegalovirus or CMV. CMV is the leading infectious cause of birth defects and neurodevelopmental disabilities in the U.S., but few states screen infants for it.

Five seconds is the average time your eyes are off the road while texting. When traveling at 55 mph, that's enough time to cover the length of a football field blindfolded. 

Are you guilty? Just a little? Do you sneak a peek? Only at stop signs or red lights? 

Do you really think you can safely drive 120 yards without looking? Think about the child running in the street after a ball. Or, the bicyclist riding next to you. Or, the driver in the oncoming car who is also texting. 

The other day, my oldest son said words every parent will hear at some point or another. “I don’t want to go to school.” But, as a dad, I could tell by the look in his eyes this wasn’t one of those days where he just wanted to stay home and watch TV or play with Legos instead of going to school. There was something more going on behind those eyes that he wasn’t telling me. I was concerned for this mental health. 

A birth defect, also called a congenital anomaly, is a problem that occurs when a baby is developing in the womb. An estimated one out of every 33 babies in the U.S. is born with a birth defect, of varying severity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

If you've ever been challenged about your right to breastfeed your child in a public place, it's important to know that the law in Massachusetts is on your side. 

In this state, you can breastfeed in most public places where you and your child are otherwise lawfully permitted to be. 

Breastfeeding is also exempt from public indecency laws in Massachusetts. 

The birth of a baby is often a joyous event. However, it can also result in something you, as a new mom, may not expect: depression. 

As many as 80% of birthing people experience what's called the "baby blues" within the first few days to two weeks following delivery. They cry more easily, feel irritable or like they're on an emotional roller coaster, and are fatigued. Fortunately, this is usually a relatively short and mild experience that generally lasts a few days and resolves on its own.