Minneapolis: Stroke is very rare in children, but colds, flu and other minor infections may temporarily increase stroke risk in children, according to a study published recently in the online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study also found routine childhood vaccines may decrease the risk of stroke.

Detroit: Teens who spend hours on the Internet may be at risk for high blood pressure, say researchers at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

Rochester: The risk for hospitalization doubles for kids with asthma who are exposed to secondhand smoke, according to a study led by Mayo Clinic Children’s Research Center. 

Ann Arbor: The digital age has given teens new platforms for cruelty: A social media prank intended to embarrass a classmate. Spreading online rumors about peers and posting unflattering pictures of others. But at what point does teens being mean cross over to cyberbullying, and what should the consequences be?

Evanston: Many things parents can do to make the “dreaded homework hour” less difficult. The Family Institute at Northwestern University’s Education Specialist, Barbara Resnick offers hints for parents to make homework a success this school year.

Washington: Back to school means getting back into a routine that helps students achieve success in the new school year. Start the year off on solid footing by making good nutrition part of your child’s schedule. Multiple studies have shown that good nutrition, improved hydration and proper sleep play a huge role in academic success.