Young children often suck on their thumbs. It's perfectly normal, even though some parents fret about it.

With childhood obesity on the rise, should parents worry about the weight of their babies?

Crying is the way babies communicate. They cry because of hunger, discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and even loneliness.

You have two choices in diapers—cloth or disposable, and each type has advantages. You must decide which works best for your child and family.

Fever in babies can be from infection, illness—or other causes that may be even more serious. Call your doctor immediately if your baby is younger than 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher.

Rotavirus is a viral infection that causes severe diarrhea in children. A vaccine is now available to help protect youngsters against this illness.

One way to take your baby's temperature is to place the thermometer in the child's anus. This method is accurate and gives a quick reading of the baby's internal temperature.

Some babies may constantly spit up all or most of every feeding, or gag and choke during feedings. This may be caused by reflux.

Cradle cap can occur on the scalp, diaper area, face, neck, and trunk. Symptoms include dry or greasy scales.

Colic is defined by the "rule of three": crying at least 3 hours per day, more than 3 days per week, and for 3 weeks duration or more.

Common causes of constipation in children: a low-fiber diet, not enough fluids, lack of exercise, and emotional issues.

Diarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency of stool—or both—when compared with a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few days and disappear on its own.

Gastroesophageal reflux is very common in infants, although it can occur at any age. It is the most common cause of vomiting during infancy.

Separation anxiety usually begins around 6 months of age. Babies may suddenly be afraid of familiar people such as babysitters or grandparents.

These fits of rage—the stomping, screaming, and falling on the floor—are a normal part of childhood development. Temper tantrums often occur only with a parent. They are a way for the child to communicate his or her feelings.

Most children don't have bowel and bladder control until 24 to 30 months of age. The average age of toilet-training is 27 months.

As the scientific community continues to study how babies and young children grow and develop, the issue of television watching becomes even more complex.