The Charlotte Observer [http://www.charlotteobserver.com] | Subscribe Weather Charlotte News Classifieds Coupons Home News Today's Buzz Pics Resources Giveaways Calendar Bloggers Plus digital subscription sign in About Rhonda Patt is a pediatrician at Charlotte Pediatric Clinic and the mother of 3 adorable children. Follow her on Twitter @mommy_doc. Protect young athletes from overheating, dehydration Hydration is key for kids playing sports, especially in the end of summer heat. More... Aug. 20, 2014 | Permalink How is the Ebola virus transmitted? With the deadly virus in the news so much lately, it's important for parents to understand the risks and symptoms, as well as the low chance of contracting the disease in the US at this time. More... Aug. 12, 2014 | Permalink Should newborn's cord blood be preserved? Stem cell research increases the potential of treatment through cord blood. More... Aug. 06, 2014 | Permalink Babies don't need solids until 6 months Recommendations for transitioning to solid foods has changed since the 1970s. More... Jul. 23, 2014 | Permalink Never wake a sleeping baby isn't always the right advice It's important for parents to know when it's ok to let a sleeping baby stay asleep. More... Jul. 14, 2014 | Permalink Key to sunburn: Prevention Dr. Patt discusses the importance of preventing sunburn and offers advice on how to enjoy the sun safely. More... Jul. 01, 2014 | Permalink Secondhand shopping for baby not always the right move Buying used baby items requires extra caution. More... Jun. 17, 2014 | Permalink Flat feet common with young children Most kids grow out of it; certain exercises can help More... May. 26, 2014 | Permalink Mercury fillings shouldn't interfere with breast-feeding The FDA finds no risk of mercury exposure in women who have dental amalgams while breast-feeding. More... May. 19, 2014 | Permalink How to take care of swimmer's ear this summer My daughter had swimmer’s ear several times last summer, and swim team starts next week. Is there any way to prevent swimmer’s ear this summer? A. Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the ear canal. It’s caused by bacteria in the ear canal and usually causes ear pain. After swimming, water often remains in the ear canal, and this moist environment promotes bacterial growth. Here are some basic prevention tips: &bul... More... May. 13, 2014 | Permalink Next Newsletter Sign up for our weekly Moms newsletter. Don't miss our great specials and deals on things to do, and places to go to. You can opt out at any time you wish. *Email: *Zip: *Gender Male Female Birthdate (MM/DD/YYYY) See A Sample Newsletter » Meet the Moms Admin Mandy Ravin is a mom of three who manages the MomsCharlotte site in between carpool drops-offs, soccer games, gymnastics meets, homework, laundry and trying to stay sane in the nutty world that is being a mom. Mandy can be reached at: mravin@charlotteobserver.com and welcomes your ideas, events, feedback, resources, and anything else that helps you be a happier mom. about us terms of service privacy policy about our ads copyright contact us