Q. Should I worry if my children refuse to wear a hat, coat and gloves in subfreezing weather?

A. It’s never easy, but it is important to get your kids to cover up against the cold to avoid frostbite. The extra clothing protects against losing heat from their skin in frigid weather, when children lose heat from their skin faster than adults do. Frostbite is what it says — frozen body tissue. To prevent cold weather injuries, have them dress in layers, and wear hats and gloves. Bring your kids indoors frequently. Warm them up with a cup of hot chocolate.
Rana Ziadeh, MD/Jeannette, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. My husband and I smoke cigarettes, but we don’t want our children to take up the habit. How can we talk to them about not smoking?

A. First, demonstrate that you can stop smoking. Call Clean Air PLUS, at Children’s Primary Care Center (412.692.3276) for information about how to do it. Also, talk to your kids. Explain that your smoking doesn’t make it right, and that smoking causes serious health risks. Start discussing the dangers when your children are young. The younger you teach them, the greater the chances for good behavior.
Mark Diamond, MD/South Hills Pediatrics Associates, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. How can we help our kids cope with stress now that homework and extracurricular activities are mounting up?

A. Sit down with your children to discuss priorities and why it’s just as important to carve out time to think and read. They may be forced to limit extracurricular activities if they don’t have enough time for homework and other studies. Review their activities with them and encourage them to make choices. For example, if it’s important for your child to run track now, perhaps he can join the Drama Club next semester.
Arthur Kovel, MD/Bass Wolfson, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. We’re thinking about a pet, but are concerned that our children may be too young to learn about caring and responsibility. What is a good age?

A. In most cases, 7-year-old children are mature enough to learn how to care for a pet. What kind of pet? That depends on your family’s situation. If no one is home all day, you may want to start with fish. While you want to teach your children responsibility, remember that as an adult you need to ensure that the pet is properly cared for.
Victoria Jewell-Mahler, MD/Moon & Wexford, Children’s Community Pediatrics