Entries by Dr. Joe Barber

About Autism

Autism is a common complex neurobiological disorder with a wide spectrum of presentations, a strong familial genetic pattern and an uncertain cause. Family history is very important as is making sure there are no hearing or vision problems. Published statistics for the prevalence of autism continue to increase. The most recent statistics suggest prevalence to […]

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

This is a common problem where small bumps like “goose bumps” appear on your skin. It is a disorder of keratinization where small papule (bumps) form with occasional redness around the bumps. It is commonly seen and felt on the anterior thighs, triceps area and cheeks. It is commonly seen in children who previously were […]

Your Child Has Autism

“Are you sure?” She asked. “Yes, I am,” I answered. She and her husband leaned into my words. Unwavering and unbroken eyes filled with strength, vulnerability, confidence and dignity met mine. Without turning they reached out to one another and held hands. “Can you help us?” I nodded and took their hands in mine. “I […]

Boiling Point

Have you ever wondered what your words sound like to your child? “I am sorry,” The little girl said to her mom. “I can’t believe you did this again!” The mother screamed angrily. “You know those markers will not come off no matter how hard we scrub.” The child looked down at her feet. “I […]

Newborn Skin Care

The skin of a newborn is different from adult skin. When you choose a topical skin treatment used on an infant’s skin parents must take these differences into consideration. An infant’s skin is about 50% thinner than compared to adult skin and has a more alkaline rather than an acidic pH. It takes about one […]

Self Esteem

A strong and healthy sense of self is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give to a child. Building strong self-esteem is the first step.  Self-esteem is the name given to the way we perceive ourselves.  Our perception is based on our own thoughts and feelings as well as how we perceive others […]

A New Year’s Resolution

The eyes of so many parents tell the tale of fatigue, confusion and love. There is so much to do but so little time. Here is my resolution for this year. I hope it helps you. The goal of every parent must be to encourage independence while discouraging both dependence and co-dependence. Dependence leads to […]

Acetaminophen and Asthma

Although acetaminophen has been used for many years there is evidence to suggest the liberal use of it is not healthy. It can lead to the development of wheezing disorders and can exacerbate wheezing and asthma symptoms in children known to have asthma. Some drug manufacturers point to the association of viral infections with the […]

A Christmas Birthday

What does your birthday mean to you? It was the week before Christmas, and we were making construction paper Christmas cards for our parents.  Glitter, glue and crayons were scattered across the table-top. Sister Marie Rene walked over to my table, put her hands on my shoulders and announced to the class, “Joey’s birthday is […]

The Greatest Gift

What are your three wishes? “If you had three wishes for anything in the world what would you wish for?” The eight year old looked at me with a puzzled look. “Take time to think,” I told him. His gaze drifted to the ceiling and his breathing slowed. His eyes lowered and met mine. “I […]