Q. My 8-year-old daughter says she wants to go to overnight camp with her friends. She has never been away for more than one night at a time. Is she too young?

A. Some camps offer limited stays so children can find out whether they enjoy the “camp experience.” You may want to try that first. Find out about camps that are suitable for your daughter, and review the brochures together. Talk about any concerns she may have being away from home. If she goes, don’t forget to write! Many camps now have computers for children to e-mail their families and friends.
Kenneth Levin, MD/South Hills Pediatric Associates, Brentwood & Jefferson Hills, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. After a summer away, how can I help my kids prepare for school?

A. Help them understand what to expect. Will they wear uniforms? What’s for lunch? If they’re entering a new school, go meet the teachers. Does your child need a physical exam? Make an appointment with the pediatrician. And start adjusting sleep schedules several weeks before school starts so your child becomes accustomed to going to bed — and waking up — earlier.
Harold M. Glick, MD/GIL Pediatrics, Oakland & Murrysville, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. My younger son wants to hang out with his older brother and his friends, but the older boy gets annoyed. Should I insist?

A. No. Instead, provide distractions for the younger sibling. Depending on his age, suggest he invite friends to visit, as well. Forcing your children to play together will lead to resentment, which could harm their relationship.
Sun Woo Park, MD/South Hills Pediatrics, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. How can I ease my toddler into potty training?

A. Start when he shows an interest, which usually isn’t before 18 months old. If your child resists, he may not be ready. Try again later when he’s more receptive. Be consistent and offer positive reinforcement. Ask at regular intervals whether he has to go to the bathroom, and praise him when he goes on the potty. Remember, accidents are inevitable. Say nothing. Just clean him up, and praise him the next time he uses the bathroom.
Dwayne Shuhart, MD/Mt. View Pediatrics,Greensburg, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. When my 18-month-old is upset, he bangs his head against the crib. I’m worried he might crack his skull.

A. Ignore him. If you react, he may persist just for your attention. Children may starthead-banging at about 16 months old, and continue until they’re almost 2 years old. Like many other stages of development, this, too, shall pass. Call the pediatrician if you feel the head-banging is injuring your child or there’s an underlying emotional cause. Children with severe autism may hurt themselves.
Ann S. Menzel, MD/HealthQuest Pediatrics,Gibsonia, Children’s Community Pediatrics