With so many resources out there, and the ease of access, it is difficult
as a parent to ensure you are getting the best information possible. It
is easy to get sucked into false information and feel like you are doing
the worst things possible for your children.
Due to recently finding myself with an abundance of free time with the
arrival of my daughter, I found it easy to get sucked into reading various
blogs with different
mommy tips. While she was either napping in my arms or eating, I found myself reading
blogs after blogs after blogs of tips and tricks to either produce more,
aid in sleeping, or meet developmental milestones.
At times these blogs had me questioning my ability to be a good parent—was
my child odd due to not meeting the guidelines presented in these articles?
I found myself thinking that I was failing my child.
Before long I realized while these different posts seemed to have it easy
with their child sleeping through the night at six weeks, their tips and
tricks did not work for my family and that was OK.
Many “articles” are tips from blogs that seemed to have worked
for the source—this does make them reputable and can add stress.
Due to this, I felt it may be a good idea to review reputable sources
and what is best for your child.
I use the CRAAP test to ensure appropriate information is provided. This
stands for:
-
Currency: Is the information up-to-date?
-
Relevance: Is the information relevant and of a level appropriate for your research?
-
Authority: Where is the information published and who is the author?
-
Accuracy: Where does the information come from? Is it supported by evidence?
-
Purpose: Why was this information published? What was the motive?
And appropriate resources to consult with about your child’s mental,
behavioral, and overall health should include:
-
Medical practitioners or clinicians, as they have gone to MANY years of
school to be able to be a reputable resource. You can find a list of CCH
providers at
www.cchwyo.org/findadoc.
- Peer reviewed articles.
- Websites ending in .EDU or .GOV have credible information from appropriate sources.
There are so many out there that create blogs as a way to make money, and
though they may seem to have great information, that does not mean it
is accurate for your child. The important thing to know as a parent is
that no two children are entirely alike and consult with trusted sources
if you have concerns.
Happy Googling!
Lexie Honey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at the Campbell County Medical Group
Kid Clinic, a school-based pediatric clinic in Gillette, Wyoming. The medical clinic
serves children ages 2 weeks to 18 years old; and counseling services
for children 4 years old to 21 years old. It is located at 800 Butler
Spaeth Rd., across from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church. The Kid Clinic
is open Monday-Friday from 8 am-5 pm. For more information, call 307-688-8700 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/kidclinic.
The Kid Clinic is a collaborative effort between
Campbell County Health and
Campbell County School District.