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Ask the Experts

We have a wide range of experts on hand to answer your questions on everything from dental visits and playdates to dance lessons, lawns and so much more! If you have a question that needs answering, get in touch.

Q. Why should my child learn to code?

Coding has been called “the literacy of the 21st century” for good reason. Just like math, science and literature, coding is a key aspect of understanding and succeeding in our technologically advanced world. Understanding computers and learning the basics of coding help children develop an appreciation of how things work. There’s a huge need for a generation that understands both technology and how it works. Regardless of whether your kids one day pursue a career in coding, learning to code teaches them confidence, logic, resourcefulness and problem-solving skills that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.

Jason Hansen CODE NINJAS KC AREA OWNER

At Code Ninjas, kids learn to code while building their own video games. They gain problem-solving, critical thinking and STEM skills in a fun, safe and inspiring environment. 913.444.9448, CodeNinjas.com

Q. What are some good, longer chapter-style books I can read aloud to my child?

Chapter books make great read-alouds, but finding one that is the right length can be tricky. Get started with this list of chapter books that aren’t doorstoppers, but will take more than a couple bedtimes to finish. All can be placed on hold for pickup from any Mid-Continent Public Library branch with your library card.

Haley Lefholz, Mid-Continent Public Library

Mid-Continent Public Library has 33 branches and serves more than 816,000 residents across Jackson, Clay and Platte counties, offering resources and services for all ages. 816.836.5200, MyMCPL.org

Q. Why are my child’s teeth so crooked?

There is a genetic component to how teeth develop, and genetics play into the likelihood of whether your child will have crooked teeth as the adult teeth erupt. Other factors affect the development of teeth, too. One common example is thumb sucking. Thumb sucking for too long can cause a narrowing of the upper arch that may require treatment later. Another factor that may affect tooth position is if a child loses a baby tooth too early because of decay, it can disrupt the correct order in which the permanent teeth grow in and cause bite problems. Having a sweet treat from time to time is okay, but kids who constantly nibble or sip on snacks or drinks and don’t brush their teeth in between tend to get decay.

John P. Roth, DDS STARTING POINT PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry specializes in giving kids the care and special consideration they need for successful dental care. 913.553.2492, StartingPointDental.com

Marc Carver

Q. Hand, foot and mouth disease is going around my child’s daycare. Can you tell me about it?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is caused by a few different viruses. It results in red spots in the back of the throat and a rash on the hands and feet, and sometimes a fever. In younger kids, it’s often on the buttocks too. Children will typically be irritable, complain of a sore throat and not want to eat/drink due to the pain. Kids can feel pretty miserable, and unfortunately, because it’s a viral illness, we don’t have medicines to make it better. The most important things are making sure kids are staying hydrated and giving Tylenol and ibuprofen (if they are over 6 months) for pain. Symptoms typically resolve in seven to 10 days.

Elizabeth W. Musil, MD, FAAP Olathe Health

Olathe Health is a regional health network that serves four counties through Olathe Medical Center, Miami County Medical Center, the 40 family care and specialty clinics of Olathe Health Physicians. 913.791.4200, OlatheHealth.org

Are you an expert in your field with advice for our readers, contact editor@kcparent.com and we may consider adding you to our panel.

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