Imagine a book that provides simple and reliable information on caring for your child, one that treats you like an adult and gives you what you need to know, no more and no less. Imagine a book that promotes a softer approach to pediatric care and takes a stand against overuse of medication; a book, in short, that doesn't drive you crazy at a time when, as a new parent, you're scrambling to process all the available information and make good choices. Ten years ago, I established my pediatric practice in Manhattan's Tribeca district. My goal was to offer kids the best medical care while avoiding unnecessary intervention. Working with the thousands of parents who have entrusted me with their children, I developed the philosophy that informs this book: Less medicine is often the best medicine. We are entering a new era in health care. On the one hand, technology has made possible amazing advances in treatment. On the other hand, there's a return to the basic principle of the Hippocratic oath: "First, do no harm." Slowly but surely, patients and doctors are realizing that we need not medicate all ills. Not every fever should be reduced if it helps fight a virus. Not every cough should be suppressed if it clears the airway. Not every bacterial infection should be attacked with powerful antibiotics if the body stands a good chance of fighting off the infection and thus strengthening its own immunity. This new thinking makes even more sense in regard to children, to whom nature is very gentle. Most childhood illnesses are simple and self-resolving. One should be vigilant to monitor symptoms but also to respect the body's natural defenses and to avoid unnecessary or even detrimental interventions. The New Basics is the fruit of my ten years in practice, of raising my three kids, and of my experiences outside the realm of medicine. Within these pages, in a convenient A-to-Z format, you'll find the important medical and developmental issues you'll face in caring for your young child. To humanize this ocean of information, I have invented two imaginary patients: a baby named Lucy and a toddler named Jimmy. When facing challenging situations regarding your child, you'll know clearly when to worry, when not to worry, what to do, and what not to do. You'll receive guidance on when to actively intervene but also when a laissez-faire approach is your best option. You'll learn how to ignore the frivolous myths that can impair your judgment. In the end, I hope that reading this book wil help you relax as a parent.