Tummy bugs: practical tips
When kids have the stomach flu (or gastroenteritis) it can be very frustrating. Not only is it very contagious, but the symptoms are dramatic and it’s hard to know what you can do to help your child feel better. Here are my pediatrician mom tips to get through it like a pro!
Beyfortus: the RSV shot
Beyfortus (nirsevimab-alip) is a monoclonal antibody shot that effectively protects babies from RSV but there is a great deal of confusion and misinformation about what it is and how it works.
It is not a vaccine. Here is a clear explanation and a review of the evidence for parents.
RSV bronchiolitis in kids
RSV is a common illness that can be very serious in young babies and the elderly. Here is a guide for what to do and watch for if your child is diagnosed with bronchiolitis, along with answers to common parent FAQs.
Influenza: What parents should know
Influenza is a viral infection that can be caused by different strains of Influenza virus. Although most people recover without incident, similar to COVID-19, certain groups are higher risk for severe illness (and even death): the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and young children (under age 5y - and especially those under 2y).
Mycoplasma pneumonia in kids
Mycoplasma pneumonia causes prolonged cough, along with fever, fatigue, and other symptoms in kids. We are seeing a lot right now. Here's what parents need to know.
Pneumonia in children
Hearing that your child has pneumonia is scary. Here's an overview of pneumonia in children for parents, written by a pediatrician mom.
Introducing Newborn to Sibling(s)
Introducing your child to their new sibling is a big deal, but don't worry, you’ve got this! From my experience with three kids, I can tell you that we often overthink this process. It’s going to be okay, I promise. But if you like to prepare, keep these tips in your toolbox for the transition!
Should I clip my baby’s tongue tie?
Tongue tie clipping is a controversial topic. Here’s a nuanced take on the recent AAP statement from a pediatrician who is also a mom who chose a frenotomy for her little one.
How to tell if your child is over-heated
Kids are at higher risk for over-heating and heatstroke. They also cannot always tell you when they’re feeling “off” - which is why parents need to know exactly what to watch for and what to do. Here’s a pediatrician mom overview that covers the most important information - including why we don’t recommend fever-reducers for heat-related illness.
What to do if you find a tick on your child
Here are pediatrician-mom recommended step-by-step instructions, along with what to know about Lyme disease in kids.
“Dry Drowning” info for parents
Should parents worry about “dry drowning”? What are drowning symptoms in kids? Should you worry if your child chokes and coughs while swimming? Here are some answers from a pediatrician mom.
Water safety
Top tips to keep children safe around water and prevent drowning, from a pediatrician mom.
Bug repellents
What are the best bug sprays for kids? And are insect repellents even safe? Here is a pediatrician’s take on exactly what parents need to know (and some info on which products a pediatrician mom uses on her own kids).
Environmental allergies: treatment for kids
Environmental and seasonal allergies can be so disruptive and uncomfortable. The good news is that there are many OTC treatment options available, but filtering through and figuring out the right one for your child is tricky. Here is a simple explanation of the best medication for your child’s specific allergy symptom.
Seasonal allergies
Allergies occur when our immune systems overreact to triggers. Antibodies called Immunoglobulin E cause mast cells to release histamine, which then triggers symptoms. Some children are predisposed to allergies. They tend to run in “atopic” families (which means families with asthma and eczema as well as allergies). But it is possible to develop allergies even without a known family history.