If caregivers are wearing masks, does that harm kids’ language development? No. There is no evidence of this. And we know even visually impaired children develop speech and language at the same rate as their peers.
Masks are important to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. During the pandemic, schools with mask policies had less spread of COVID in school. Masks may still be needed to keep kids safe.
Now that Moderna has submitted all pediatric data to
@US_FDA
, we urge an immediate, transparent and thorough review. Families of children under 5 have waited a long time for the reassurance of a safe and effective vaccine.
Regardless of mask use, some children will take longer to reach language milestones – and some may need help meeting them. Speech and language delays are common, but highly treatable. If you have concerns, talk with your pediatrician.
Remember, babies and toddlers learn the most from their family. Families can help babies’ speech by planning screen-free time at home, including at meals, bath time, and play time. Learn more:
During a child’s first few years, they rapidly develop communications skills. Parents and other caregivers help by reading, talking, singing and playing. The more words a child hears, the better.
Today, the AAP reaffirms our support for adolescents to receive comprehensive, evidence-based reproductive healthcare services, including abortion, within two new updated policy statements. 1/2
Images and news reports of tear gas being used on children and families seeking asylum at our border have stunned and shaken pediatricians just as they have so many others across the country. Our statement opposing this inhumane practice:
With recent news about masking on public transit and no update on when a COVID vaccine will be available for children under 5, families are understandably frustrated and concerned. Our take on protecting those too young to be immunized right now: 🧵
These drawings show children’s views of their time in detention at the U.S. Southern Border. AAP believes no time in detention is healthy or safe for children.
Today’s Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade means that the once Constitutionally protected right to access an abortion is no longer guaranteed nationwide. 1/3
We applaud
@POTUS
's announcements during tonight’s
#SOTU22
that prioritize mental health, protect the digital privacy and well-being of children and teens, and support transgender youth. 🧵1/4
School is starting and masks can be especially important for children younger than age 12, who are not yet eligible for the COVID vaccines. 🧵 Here's some real talk about masks as kids are
#BackTogether
this fall.🧵
This decision carries grave consequences for our adolescent patients, who already face many more barriers than adults in accessing comprehensive reproductive healthcare services and abortion care. 2/3
Racism is harmful to a child’s health, starting from before they are born. As an organization dedicated to the health of all children, we are committed to reducing the health effects and burdens of racism. Read AAP’s new
#RacismAndHealth
policy statement:
Recent headlines describing unsafe conditions that immigrant children are being exposed to at the U.S. southern border have alarmed us as they have many pediatricians. We must make immediate, permanent changes to the way we treat immigrant children when they come here. Thread: 1/
The American Academy of Pediatrics applauds the
@CDCgov
's advisory committee's approval of a safe, effective COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5-11. Read the full statement here:
#VaccinesWork
#ThisIsOurShot
#PutKids1st
Today is National Gun Violence Awareness Day. We
#WearOrange
because pediatricians see the toll of gun violence every day through suicide, homicide and unintentional shootings.
#EndGunViolence
.
Babies and young children study faces, so you may worry that having masked caregivers would harm children’s language development. There are no studies to support this concern. Young children will use other clues like gestures and tone of voice.
A federal rule released last night rolls back protections for transgender people and sets a dangerous precedent that could jeopardize children's health in other ways, all in the midst of a global pandemic. We oppose the rule. Pediatricians care for all children.
Today
@CDCgov
’s independent advisory committee voted to include the COVID vaccine in the Vaccines for Children program, which provides free vaccines to 1/2 of US children, including those in Medicaid & those who are uninsured. This program helps reduce disparities in access. 1/5
We mourn the lives of the children and families affected by yet another school shooting today in Nashville. Gun violence is a threat to children everywhere. As pediatricians, we will continue to advocate for policies to keep kids safe and to
#EndGunViolence
.
AAP is encouraged by
@pfizer
's announcement and looks forward to reviewing the data from the clinical trial. All children deserve protection against COVID-19, and the AAP is eager to see the FDA review the full set of data as a next step for approval for children, ages 5-11.
We agree with
@jimmykimmel
(and Billy!): CHIP is a life or death program for 9 million children. A vote to
#ExtendCHIP
is a vote to make sure kids like Billy can keep getting the care they need. Congress, we're counting on you.
#fundCHIPnow
Though it may have not been featured as prominently in the headlines, last week's Supreme Court decision in West Virginia vs. EPA will have major consequences for children's health. 1/4
In the wake of the ruling, AAP will continue to support our chapters as states consider policies affecting access to abortion care, and pediatricians will continue to support our patients. Full statement: 3/3
With no known date for an authorized <5 vaccine, we urge data once available to be submitted and reviewed ASAP so that we can offer a safe, effective vaccine to our littlest children. Until then, masking and vaccinating those around <5s is the best way to keep them safe.
Racism is a public health issue. The AAP condemns violence, especially when perpetrated by authorities, and calls for a deep examination of how to improve the role of policing. Systemic violence requires systemic response.
Following the tragic school shooting that took 17 lives and destroyed many more, our hearts are in
#Parkland
, Florida, and our eyes are on Congress.
Our statement:
Racism is a social determinant of health and creates toxic stress in children, teens and families that impacts their health. Children will not be able to reach their full potential until we prevent and counteract these experiences for all children--in medicine and everyday life.
I am watching the events in Minneapolis and other cities, and my heart is breaking that we have not come further in combating racism in this country. Racism harms the mental health and physical health of children, teens and families.
More than 580,000 new cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed in children and teens last week. This is the highest one-week tally at any time in the pandemic and it brings the total number of children who have tested positive for COVID to nearly 8.5 million.
We just sent letters to the CEOs of
@Google
,
@facebook
and
@Pinterest
urging action to combat the spread of vaccine misinformation online. Here's our press release, which includes links to the letters and more about our outreach:
#VaccinesWork
Children who sleep 9 to 11 hours sleep each night, with limited daily screen time and at least an hour of physical activity daily, are less impulsive, a Pediatrics study reports:
The American Academy of Pediatrics believes that breastfeeding is the optimal source of nutrition through the first year of life. Learn more about how breastfeeding benefits a baby’s immune system and development here:
Families of children under 5 have been through so much. They are understandably frustrated and concerned as protocols like masking are being rolled back and there is still no <5 vaccine. We are too.
Today, Congress announced a bipartisan deal that will, for the first time in over 20 years, direct federal funding to
@CDCgov
&
@NIH
for gun violence prevention research. Read
@AAPPres
' statement on this hard-fought victory:
The AAP condemns racism of all forms, and notes that even vicarious racism – witnessed through social media, conversations with friends or family, or media images – harms children’s health.
We urge those > 2 to wear a mask in crowded public spaces, including public transit, especially if one has children under 5 or is in close contact with those over 65 or immunocompromised people.
Proud to have met with
@Pinterest
, who took meaningful strides early on to help stop the spread of dangerous misinformation about vaccines on their platform. We’ll be partnering with them to help elevate science and keep parents informed.
#VaccinesWork
We just sent letters to the CEOs of
@Google
,
@facebook
and
@Pinterest
urging action to combat the spread of vaccine misinformation online. Here's our press release, which includes links to the letters and more about our outreach:
#VaccinesWork
There were more deaths of children from firearm violence in 2017 than deaths of active police and military officers worldwide,
@Yahoo
reports. AAP calls for treating the epidemic of firearm violence as a public health problem to save young lives.
More than 350 pediatricians are on Capitol Hill today to urge Congress to keep children safe by funding gun violence prevention research and passing gun safety policies. Join us by tweeting with
#EndGunViolence
.
#AAPLegCon
We welcome today’s
@WhiteHouse
plan on vaccinating children ages 5-11 against COVID-19. Pediatricians are the backbone of childhood immunizations in this country, and this vaccine is no different.
@AAPPres
full statement here:
Bullied because of a congenital craniofacial disorder, Dr. Michael Goodman learned to accept his differences. Now he helps students, parents & fellow pediatricians understand that "just" words can hurt and how to help stop bullying.
#AAPvoices
New statement from AAP President Dr. Sandy Chung on preventing gun violence in the lives of children and teens. “It's time for all of us who care for children and teens to speak up until we see the progress they deserve. Until they are safe.” Learn more:
Teen athletes whose sports were canceled during COVID reported high rates of depression & anxiety, but improved greatly when sports resumed. Go to
@AAPexperience
#AAP2022
Children diagnosed with
#COVID19
are increasing at an alarming level & filling hospitals, with children of color more vulnerable. In
@USATODAY
, experts advise all eligible family members to get vaccinated to help shield young children.
As our nation reels from two mass shootings in two days, we must do more than mourn the lives lost. To
#EndGunViolence
now, we need strong policies now to keep our children and communities safe.
Research shows that schools where children and adults are consistently masked are effective in preventing the transmission of COVID-19. COVID remains a serious threat to children’s health. Universal masking can help make in-person learning safe this fall.
In January alone, more than 2 million children became infected with COVID. During this surge in cases, it’s more important than ever to make sure children and school staff wear masks, regardless of their vaccination status. Now is not the time to let up. 2/3
As pediatricians, we know gender-affirming care is critical to children’s health, safety, and well-being. The AAP is committed to advocating for and ensuring comprehensive care for transgender and gender-diverse children today and every day.
#TransDayofVisibility
#PutKids1st
Transgender and gender-diverse children and youth deserve to be affirmed, seen and loved. Learn how gender affirming care is critical to children’s well-being and health.
#TransDayofVisibility
Children deserve to be protected from COVID-19, and now, the vaccine is here for children ages 5-11! Take it from these pediatrician leaders: now is the time for parents to vaccinate their children to protect their families and their communities.
#ThisIsOurShot
#VaccinesWork
As Moderna requests authorization from
@US_FDA
for a vaccine for the youngest children, the AAP urges the review process begin as soon as possible with the transparency and thoroughness that families deserve. Our statement:
Welcome back to work, U.S. Senate and House! First order of business should be to
#ExtendCHIP
long-term. Families and states need stability, not uncertainty. CHIP works for 9 million children – let’s make sure it can continue to be there.
#SaveCHIP
The tragic news from Thousand Oaks, CA reminds us all that it's time to
#EndGunViolence
. As long as gun violence remains a public health threat to children and families, pediatricians will not rest in our pursuit to keep them safe.
Today, AAP updated interim pandemic guidance on schools, urging prioritization of in-person learning and adherence to COVID safety measures like vaccines and universal masking. Research shows virus transmission in schools is low, especially when masking policies are enacted. 1/3
State legislatures across the country have advanced bills with the sole purpose of threatening the health and well-being of transgender youth. These bills are dangerous. Read our full statement here:
Face masks do not reduce oxygen intake. Carbon dioxide molecules are very tiny, even smaller than respiratory droplets. They cannot be trapped by breathable materials like cloth or disposable masks.
This National Gun Violence Awareness Day,
#WearOrange
to honor the thousands of children and families in this country whose lives are affected by gun violence every year.
#EndGunViolence
Pediatrician public health officials are medical experts who are trusted by their communities. Dr. Michelle Fiscus’ termination from the Tennessee Department of Health is an example of a concerning trend of politicizing public health expertise.
For families who have guns in the home, studies show that teaching kids about gun safety, or to not touch a firearm if they find one, is not enough. All guns in your home should be locked and unloaded, with ammunition locked separately. More in
@CNN
New on
@PedsOnCall
-hosts
@davhill
&
@JPBelinkieMD
talk with Dr. Suzanne Mcclintick and Darci Brosnan, lead family advisor for Children's Health Associates of Salem, OR., about the importance of family advisors and family engagement. Listen here:
Today is the 6-year anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. 20 children lost their lives that day and far too many have been injured or killed by guns since then. (1/5)
Our statement: AAP is encouraged that we may be one step closer to a COVID vaccine for children under 5. We urge a transparent and data-driven process to evaluate the vaccine for this age group and look forward to offering its protection to our youngest children.
This month is National Immunization Awareness Month! Delaying your child's vaccines, or refusing vaccines, leaves your child vulnerable and puts others at risk. Learn more about how vaccines work to protect others.
#NIAM18
#VaccinesWork
In the midst of a global health pandemic, there could not be a more meaningful moment to recognize the doctors and medical professionals who are risking their lives to keep their patients and communities healthy. Happy
#NationalDoctorsDay
& thank you for all you do!
We join
@TXPeds
to strongly oppose the actions taken this week in Texas that directly threaten the health and well-being of transgender youth. Our statement:
Pediatricians across the country are already seeing impacts of Congress’ inability to act to
#SaveCHIP
long-term. Families need certainty, children need services, states need assurance. More from
@KHNews
:
US states with stricter firearm legislation such as universal background checks had a 35% lower rate of child deaths from firearms, according to a Pediatrics study released today. For more, go to:
Congratulations to the newly confirmed Assistant Secretary for Health at
@HHSGov
, pediatrician Dr. Rachel Levine! We look forward to Dr. Levine leading efforts to help shape policies that prioritize children and families across the country.
Exciting day for kids ages 5-11 who are now eligible for the updated COVID booster.
#CallYourPediatrician
to schedule your child's booster and ask about getting their flu shot at the same time!
Want to build children's brains, improve their relationship skills and help them buffer negative impacts of stress? Let them play! A new AAP statement says that the importance of children's play cannot be overemphasized.
After 114 days of worrying, the families of nearly 9 million children and their pediatricians finally know the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) will be here to
#KeepKidsCovered
.
Children in detention face trauma that can damage their physical and mental health with life-shortening consequences, pediatrician Nadine
@DrBurkeHarris
writes in
@washingtonpost
. She explains toxic stress and why all children must be protected.
“We should be treating authorizations of COVID vaccines for children with the same urgency that we have been treating COVID vaccines all along.”
@AAPPres
discusses rising COVID-19 cases in children and safely returning to school in
@mitchellreports
.
AAP agrees with ending the forced separation of children and parents at the U.S. southern border, but detention facilities are an environment AAP has said is no place for a child. Read AAP's statement on today's Executive Order here:
#ProtectFamilies
Getting children safely back to school is necessary and possible with layered protections. Pediatricians urge families to get vaccinated and offer advice on school reopenings and the Delta variant. 🧵
Vaccines are safe. Vaccines save lives. Thank you to
@SELFmagazine
for partnering with AAP to create free photos that are medically accurate and available for use by anyone to promote good health.
#VaccinesWork
Make no mistake: the final
#PublicCharge
rule issued today is a threat to the health of immigrant children and families. Read
@AmerAcadPeds
' statement opposing the final rule here:
Today is the
#SaveCHIP
Day of Action! It's been over 100 days since Congress failed to pass long-term funding for CHIP. Pediatricians are telling Congress: inadequate, patchwork funding is not the answer. It's time to
#ExtendCHIP
for five years before another day goes by.
We want our children back to school in-person, but many students will not yet be eligible to get COVID-19 vaccines. Masks are an important layer of protection to keep students and staff safe.
"Educators and pediatricians share the goal of children returning safely to school this fall...but we must pursue re-opening in a way that is safe for all students, teachers and staff." Our statement with
@NEAToday
@AFTunion
@AASAHQ
:
AAP is deeply concerned about the impact of today’s Supreme Court ruling on admissions programs and its impact on the future of the physician workforce.
Long-term symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, also known as “long-haul COVID,” can occur in children and adolescents. Pediatricians can learn about guidance on follow-up care after infection with COVID-19—including physical and mental health.