IUDs, School, and Homework

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IUDs make family planning easy

The Mirenda and ParaGuard intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small T-shaped devices which don't trap bacteria as early IUDs did. The Mirenda has the added benefit of curbing heavy menstrual bleeding. It lasts for up to five years.

The ParaGard has the lowest failure rate of any device at 0.8 percent, followed closely by the Mirenda at 0.1 percent. For those who have had reactions to The Pill or the injections, IUDs are a good choice.

Depo-Provera injections have a failure rate of 3 percent; The Pill, 8 percent (progestin only pills); condoms, 15 percent; and diaphragms, 16 percent, according to Planned Parenthood.

How sick is too sick for school?

If you wonder whether or not to send your child to school, doctors at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta say:

* If you think your child has a contagious illness, keep him home and contact your doctor.

* A child with vomiting or diarrhea is considered contagious until vomiting and diarrhea stop and the child has no fever. Keep him home until then.

* If you send your child to school when he or she seems borderline, let the teacher know and be accessible in case the child's condition worsens.

* Know that a child who vomited in the middle of the night may feel great the next morning. If there are no other symptoms, send the child to school.

How to help with homework

Experts writing in Ladies' Home Journal say:

Provide a place that is clean, well lit, and especially for homework. There should be no TV or phone calls.

Help your child get started on tasks and brainstorm ideas for projects.

Give praise. Effort is more important than success. Applaud small milestones.

Reward homework that is done well with an activity such as a trip to the zoo.