Abstract

This colour textbook is a comprehensive guide to diagnosis and treatment in paediatric acupuncture. Ill health related to modern lifestyles is discussed, as is the role of family dynamics in childhood disease. Rebecca Avern examines treatment of children from both a TCM and a Five Element perspective. Throughout, she highlights how diagnosis and treatment should be tailored depending on the age of the child. The book includes information on a wide variety of treatment methods, including needling and pediatric tui na.

The book covers all the conditions that children commonly present with in modern practice, including food allergies, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, issues relating to Autism Spectrum Disorder, and teenage depression, anxiety and eating disorders.

There aren't many books written specifically about treating children so Rebecca Avern's book is especially welcome. Rebecca has created a well organized book for acupuncturists interested in treating children of all ages. In 'Acupuncture for Babies, Children and Teenagers', she thoroughly examines the causes, diagnoses and treatments of common illnesses that occur from birth through the teenage years. Importantly she focuses on conditions that are commonly seen in acupuncture clinics today.

'Acupuncture for Babies, Children and Teenagers' addresses the stages of development as well as the numerous influences on a child's physical and emotional health. Recognizing that all children are unique, Rebecca offers a variety of ways to accommodate those differences. The book also offers several treatment suggestions for specific ailments and the best acupoints points for children with these complaints.

Rebecca's advice is comprehensive and includes lifestyle and diet advice in addition to needling techniques for children. Plus, there is an important overview of other therapeutic techniques that can be used when treating children, such as shonishin, pediatric tui na, cupping, laser acupuncture and more. 'Acupuncture for Babies, Children and Teenagers' is for anyone interested in learning how to treat children or expand their knowledge. Rebecca's book is jam-packed with clear, useful information and knowledge. It belongs on your shelf.

Jennifer Dubowsky, L.A.c.
Rebecca Avern is a traditional acupuncturist and founder of The Panda Clinic, a children's acupuncture centre in Oxford. She is also a senior lecturer and clinical supervisor at the College of Integrated Medicine, Reading, UK.
Rebecca has an engaging, warm teaching style which is reflected throughout this beautifully written book. It is thorough, clear and fully informed by her own learning and extensive experience. In short, it is an invaluable resource for students, teachers and practitioners of acupuncture who are interested in the treatment of children and adolescents, and I can see that the day will very soon come when we will all wonder how we ever managed without it!
Julie Ann Reynolds, Joint Principal of the Acupuncture Academy, Leamington Spa, UK
Any practitioner of Chinese medicine who wishes to expand their knowledge of pediatrics need not reach for other texts; Rebecca Avern thoroughly and thoughtfully presents the subject in exquisite detail. Every pediatric issue, from history, background, diagnosis, and treatment is analyzed. A smart and sensitive exploration of childhood ailments for the 21st century.
Dr. Melanie Katin, DAMC, L.Ac. Faculty, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
This book is a delight. It is a wonderful resource for acupuncturists who deal with children, or indeed the parents of children. As well as being packed with wise advice about the causation and treatment of childhood illness, its descriptions of childhood illnesses are systematic, thorough and beautifully presented, and enriched throughout with case vignettes.
Clare Stephenson MA(Cantab), BM BCh (Oxon), MSc (Public Health Medicine), LicAc (Licentiate in Acupuncture)
The best book available on treating children! Rebecca runs a busy children's practice and, crucially, has two children of her own. It is clearly written, easy to read and you can dip into it to find an abundance of illustrations, tips and other gems.
Angela and John Hicks, Co-Founders, College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, Reading, UK
In Acupuncture for Babies, Children and Teenagers Rebecca Avern provides us with a comprehensive exploration of childhood and the treatment of common childhood conditions. The book stands out for its exploration of the psycho-emotional realm, the interpersonal skills needed to work with children of differing ages, and the integration of both Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns with Five Phase dynamics. For practitioners working with children, this source will be a valuable reference for common conditions and patterns, including acupuncture and Tui Na protocols to initiate care, and considerations regarding the child's experience and how to optimize interpersonal connections.
David W. Miller, M.D., FAAP, L.Ac., Dipl. OM