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.
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).
The Melatonin Question
While melatonin is widely available, effective, and generally well-tolerated for short-term use in children, there is limited data on its long-term safety. Studies looking at the longer-term effects of melatonin are reassuring but have limitations.
Fave products (sun protection)
What products should you have to make sure your child stays safe in the sun? Here are my top tips on everything from sunscreen to UPF clothing to hats!
Sun safety: 5 things to know
Apply the sunscreen 20-30 minutes before you go outside, and then make sure to re-apply after 2 hours, or after your child has been in the water. Using a make-up applicator brush or sponge makes applying sunscreen much easier and less-messy.
Treating dehydration in kids
Oral rehydration can be a good approach for mild symptoms but it is important to discuss with your pediatrician to determine at what point you need to step up the level of care.
Questions to ask before your child has surgery
In most cases, you will also get to meet the anesthesiologist before your child’s procedure (sometimes for a pre-op visit a few days before, and always in the pre-operative area). This is a good opportunity to discuss risks and what you can do to keep your child comfortable before, during and after the procedure.
Bicycles & Helmets
Learning to ride a bike is an important milestone and staying active is obviously something pediatricians encourage. But a recent study from the University of Michigan found that nearly 1 in 5 parents admit to not enforcing helmet-wearing when their children are on their bikes.