Early Childhood

Shots can be scary and painful for kids. One doctor has a plan to end needle phobia
Research suggests the biggest source of pain for children in the health care system is needles. One California doctor says the fear of needles is a serious problem, but proposes some simple solutions.
Better wellness visits, healthier kids: Minnesota pediatricians try a new approach
Some pediatricians in the Twin Cities and St. Cloud are experimenting with a program they say is improving basic kid wellness visits and may lead to better outcomes for some of the youngest, neediest Minnesotans. The state’s looking at how it might help the program grow.
Minnesota launches child care initiative for military families
Gov. Tim Walz announced Monday the launch and expansion of the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS program to offset the cost of child care for military families in Minnesota.
As mental health worries rise for Black Minnesotans, focus shifts to strengthening kids, caregivers
The well-being of young children and their caregivers is closely connected, and children struggle when adults struggle. For Black Minnesota kids and their families, poverty and racism compound those problems. Charting a path forward includes preparing kids for a “harsh world,” one expert says.
The 5-minute daily playtime ritual that can get your kids to listen better
Called "special time," the strategy is widely recommended by children's health professionals to help reduce behavioral issues in young children. Here's a guide on how to do it with your kids at home.
3 key facts about RSV and kids this season in Minnesota
Last year was one of the worst in recent Minnesota history for RSV infections and hospitalizations. This season has been much more manageable, although numbers are rising and health officials are keeping close watch on the data. Here’s what to know.
DFL lawmakers eye big boost in child care spending
Two DFL legislators on Thursday proposed expanding state child care and early education subsidies so that families would pay no more than 7 percent of their income for child care. 
Why affordable child care is so hard to find  
Child care costs high, but wages for child care workers remain low. MPR News host Angela Davis talks about the child care squeeze and how new state programs could help parents and providers.
'Making grandfriends': Mankato care model draws kids, seniors together
Memory loss can be an especially isolating experience as people age. A new child care and memory care model in Mankato seeks to bring generations together through connections and joy.