Happy New Year 2014

We hope you all have a wonderful and SAFE New Year. We will be seeing sick patients only on Tuesday Dec 31st until around 2:00 pm. We will also be in the office on Jan 1st seeing urgent care only. Our office will start accepting phone calls at 10:00 am on Wednesday. We will begin normal clinic on Thursday Jan 2nd at 8:00 am. Have a wonderful and SAFE New years!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from everyone here at Willow Creek Pediatrics! We will be closed on Wednesday December 25th and will re-open on Thursday December 26th. Our phones will turn on at 8:00 am. Please have a wonderful and safe Holiday season!

Do you have a kindergartner for 2015?...If so you should sign up!!

There is a new online program preschool for children that will be starting kindergarten fall 2015. UPSTART is unlike any other preschool program in the nation. Funded by the Utah State Legislature, UPSTART gives Utah families an easy–to–use, at–home preschool program that will start their children on the path to success in school.

The Importance of Early Education

Recent research demonstrates that success in school depends on what happens before kindergarten. Simple activities like reading to a preschooler, singing nursery rhymes, and learning the alphabet can set the stage for a lifetime of success.
Parents today often do not have the time or resources to engage in these important activities with their children. Some parents even wonder if they have the know–how to work with their children. The result is many children enter kindergarten unprepared to learn and make the most of their school experience. Some children succeed in spite of these challenges. But far too many fail.

The Challenge

Many state governments have funded universal preschool to give their children the best start possible. But there are challenges associated with universal preschool including cost, the limited number of well–qualified preschool teachers, and concerns about taking children out of the home for formal schooling at an early age.

Waterford Institute’s Solution

In 2009, Waterford Institute was selected to oversee the UPSTART pilot program. More than 7,000 Utah homes have participated in the program during its first five years.
Waterford’s program provides world–class reading, math, and science instruction as well as a program to assess and remediate young children. Waterford’s curriculum has been:

• Allowing children to access education from home
• Costing less than traditional preschools
• Providing research–based, proven, complete instruction
• Engaging children with fun activities
• Testing each child’s progress
• Giving families the support needed to succeed
• Fitting into families’ busy schedules

Participating families not only receive Waterford’s proven curriculum, but they also receive extensive support to keep motivated and make the most of this learning opportunity.
Waterford believes that children’s first and most important teachers are their parents and family. UPSTART is designed to give these first teachers the tools to prepare their preschoolers for a lifetime of learning.


To sign up go to www.utahupstart.org

Info from the utahupstart website

Happy Thanksgiving!

We wanted to wish all of our patients a very Happy Thanksgiving! We will be CLOSED on Thanksgiving day.

We will re- open on Friday November 29th. We will start taking phone calls at 8:00 am and have several doctors in our clinic to help with your sick children. Please have a safe and healthy Thanksgiving day!

Technology in children's bedrooms said a barrier to adequate sleep

 

Dr Jopling wanted to share this story he read from the AAP.

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Technology such as computers and smartphones in children's bedrooms can cause anxiety and sleep loss, scientists at Canada's Dalhousie University report. Having technology such as televisions, smartphones and game consoles in the bedroom teaches the brain to see the room as an entertainment experience rather than a place for quiet and rest, they said.  Playing violent video games in the bedroom conditions the brain to see it as a place of danger, leading it to stay in a state of alert rather than resting, they added.
"One of the biggest culprits for inadequate and disturbed sleep is technology," Dalhousie researcher Jennifer Vriend, the study's lead author, said. "Many teenagers sleep with their phones and they are awakened regularly by it ringing or vibrating throughout the night when they get a text, email or Facebook message. "Having televisions and game consoles in the bedroom is also a problem," she said. "It sets up the brain to see the room as an entertainment zone rather than a quiet, sleepy environment." Losing just one hour's sleep can reduce a child's performance at school, the study published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology found. "Even modest differences in sleep duration, accumulated over a few days, can affect critical cognitive and emotional functions in children," the study authors wrote.


Read more: http://www.upi.com/Science_News/Technology/2013/11/13/Technology-in-childrens-bedrooms-said-a-barrier-to-adequate-sleep/UPI-31021384388839/#ixzz2l7J4NTs9

A FUN and Spooky day!

We hope you had a safe and fun Halloween! We had a great time on Halloween and wanted to show some pictures of our great staff! Happy FALL!!

 

 Our newest MA Amber and Dr Joplings MA Traci

 

 

Dr Lynch and his MA Tanji

 

 Office Manager Margie and Dr Joplings/Dr Omara's MA Mandy

 



 

Dr Omara with her awesome Halloween Sweater!

 

Our Amazing front Staff---Trishell, Tracey and Nicole

 

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Happy Halloween!! Remember to be SAFE!

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Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to help ensure they have a safe holiday.

All Dressed Up:

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.
• When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
• If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if he stumbles or trips.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
• Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and a prescription from an eye care professional. While the packaging on decorative lenses will often make claims such as “one size fits all,” or “no need to see an eye specialist,” obtaining decorative contact lenses without a prescription is both dangerous and illegal. This can cause pain, inflammation, and serious eye disorders and infections, which may lead to permanent vision loss.
• Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.

Carving a Niche:

• Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers. Then parents can do the cutting.
• Consider using a flashlight or glow stick instead of a candle to light your pumpkin. If you do use a candle, a votive candle is safest.
• Candlelit pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects, and should never be left unattended.

Home Safe Home:

• To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
• Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.

On the Trick-or-Treat Trail:

• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
• Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind trick-or-treaters:
• Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
• Remember reflective tape for costumes and trick-or-treat bags. 
• Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
• Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.
• Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
• Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

Healthy Halloween:

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
• Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.
• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
• Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween

AAP-Warning about decorative contact lens

When 14-year-old Robyn and her friends saw decorative contact lenses for sale at a convenience store, they thought they would be a fun way to change their looks. Unfortunately, Robyn ended up with a serious eye infection. When her eye healed, the scar left her partially blind. She had to have surgery on her eye to be able to see again.

“All contact lenses have risk, corrective or decorative,” said Thomas Steinemann, M.D., the eye doctor who treated Robyn. “The risk is infection. The risk is increased if you don’t take care of your lenses; the risk is increased if you sleep in your lenses; the risk is increased if you share your lenses.”
Actors and musicians with decorative contact lenses are everywhere, it seems. From Lady Gaga to Twilight, changing the look of their eyes with decorative contact lenses is the latest craze. As Halloween nears, costume shops begin to sell the contacts, too. There are plenty of styles to choose from: colored lenses, shapes, spirals, even white. But most people do not know that these lenses are not legal. They have dye in them that can cause problems. One size does not fit everyone.
This can stop air from getting to the eye, and trap germs underneath.

Anyone who wants to wear decorative lenses should get them from an eye care professional and be measured first. The eye doctor will write a prescription for lenses that are made to fit your eyes. These contacts are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Contacts that are bought from a store or online without a prescription are not. Wearing these decorative contacts can cause:
• a scratched eye (corneal abrasion),
• infections from bacteria, viruses, parasites or funguses, and
• allergic reactions.
Some problems can cause blindness in hours. Parents should keep an eye on any child who wears contacts, decorative or prescription. Problems include redness and pain, light sensitivity, and tearing or drainage from the eye, said Dr. Steinemann. “If it hurts, get it out and see an eye care
professional right away.”

— Trisha Korioth
Only buy decorative lenses with a prescription

**AAP statement

Flu shots are here!!

It is that time again to book your appointment for your FLU SHOT or FLU MIST! This year we are offering the Quadrivalent Flu Shot and Mist. The new Quadrivalent provides protection against additional flu strains. We are booking appointments now and they are filling up fast. We will not be doing Flu walk in's and you must schedule and appointment. See you soon!

Infant Motrin RECALL

McNeil Consumer Healthcare Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc. (McNeil), has voluntarily recalled three lots of Concentrated MOTRIN® Infants’ Drops Original Berry Flavor 1/2 fl oz bottles from wholesalers and retail stores in the United States.

McNeil is asking consumers to stop using and dispose of any product they may have that is included in this recall.

Product	Lot #	UPC Code	Case UPC Code
Concentrated MOTRIN® Infants’ Drops Original Berry Flavor 1/2 fl oz bottles NDC 50580-100-18	DCB3T01 DDB4R01 DDB4S01	300450524157	30300450524158

After releasing these three lots of Concentrated MOTRIN® Infants’ Drops Original Berry Flavor 1/2 fl oz into the market, tiny plastic particles (approximately 1 mm in size or about the size of a poppy seed) were identified in a different product lot during manufacturing. This lot was not released to the market. It was determined that the particles originated in a shipment from a third party supplier of ibuprofen, the active ingredient in Concentrated MOTRIN® Infants’ Drops Original Berry Flavor 1/2 fl oz. Out of an abundance of caution, McNeil is voluntarily recalling the three lots released to the market made with the same batch of active ingredient. McNeil has worked with the third party to ensure that corrective measures are currently in place and are effective. The potential for adverse medical events related to the reason for this recall is not likely. Concentrated Infants’ MOTRIN® Drops Dye-Free Berry Flavor 1 fl oz is not included in this recall. Children’s and Adult MOTRIN® products also are not included in the recall.

Please call our office if you have questions  or would like to inquire about a refund, please call Consumer Care Center at 1-877-414-7709

Breast Feeding Fair "Empowering Mothers, Healthy Babies"

Did you know that it is World Breastfeeding week? This year the Salt Lake County Health Department is doing a Breast feeding fair to help educate people in various topics. If you have time this week look at the schedule below to find a class you may want to attend. They also will be Peer Counselors available to do one-on-one consultations with mothers free of charge. This fair is FREE! and a great resource to help your families.

Wednesday August 7th through Wednesday August 14th 9:30-4:30 each day

Salt Lake County Health Department

South Main Public Health Center

3690 South Main Street

South Salt Lake City, 84115

 

 

Here is the schedule of classes :

 

Wednesday 8/7

Kick off even 4:00-6:30

 

Thursday 8/8

Expo 9:30-4:30

10:15-10:45 "C-Section birth and Breastfeeding Barrier : How to cope"

12:30 - 1:00 "Breast Feeding Benefits"

3:00-4:00 "Skin to Skin Contact"



Friday 8/9
Expo 9:30-4:30
10:00-11:00 "General Breastfeeding class"
11:00-12:00 "How to deliver without medication"
1:00-2:00 Open House
2:30-3:00 "Baby Massage"
3:15-4:00 "Nutrition and Physical Activity"

Monday 8/12
Expo 9:30- 4:30
9:30-10:00 "Nutrition/Breastfeeding or 6 month old babies"
10:00-10:45 "Work Shop: Debunking Breastfeeding Myths"
11:00-12:00 "Prenatal Class"
12:15-12:55 "Skin to Skin"
1:00-2:00 "Nutrition and Breastfeeding":
2:45-3:15 "Proper Latch technique"

Tuesday 8/13
Expo 9:30- 4:30
9:30-10:45 "Baby wearing, Baby Massage and happiest Baby on the Block"
1:00-2:00 "Responses to Crisis or Emergency"

Weds 8/14
10:00-10:30 "Tongue Tie"
10:30-11:00 "Growth Spurts"
12:30-1:00 "Pumping"
1:00-2:00 "Baby wearing and Galactogogues"
2:00-3:00 "Baby Massage"

Note--these classes are subject to change

Have a great time and if you go we would love to hear about it! :)

Happy 24th of July!!

We hope you all have a wonderful and safe 24th of July. Our office will be open for SICK patients on Wednesday.  You may start calling at 9:00 am and we will be there for urgent sick patients for a few hours. We will resume our regular office hours Thursday starting at 8:00 am. Happy 24th of July!

HOT?...How to protect your kids in this heat!!

Protecting Children from Extreme Heat: Information for Parents

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Extreme heat can cause children to become sick in several ways. Make sure to protect your child from the heat as much as possible, watch for symptoms, and call your doctor if you see any develop.

Preventing Effects of Extreme Heat:

There are several steps you can take to protect your child from heat-related illness: 

• Plan to have a cool, air-conditioned space for your child. If your home does not have air-conditioning, find a nearby building that does. Libraries can be a great place for a cool retreat from the heat. 
• Make sure your child stays hydrated. Encourage her to drink water regularly, even before she asks for it.
• Plan for more time to rest than usual; heat can often make children feel tired.
• When your child is feeling hot, give him a cool bath or water mist to cool down.
• Don’t forget about the effects of sun exposure.
• Never leave children in a car or other closed motor vehicle, especially when temperatures are high. The temperature inside the car can become much higher than the outside temperature, and can rise to temperatures that cause death.

Potential Health Effects:

Extreme heat can make children sick in many ways, including:

• Dehydration
• Heat exhaustion
• Heat cramps
• Heat stroke

When to Call Your Child’s Doctor:

Call your child’s doctor immediately if he or she develops any of the following symptoms. Your child’s doctor can advise you on the next best course of action and whether an immediate evaluation is needed. 

• Faintness
• Extreme tiredness
• Headache
• Fever
• Intense thirst
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Breathing faster or deeper than normal
• Skin numbness or tingling
• Muscle aches
• Muscle spasms

For more information on how recognize and treat these heat related illnesses, click here.

Psychological Effects:

Don’t forget about your child’s mental health, as well. Children may become anxious or restless from being kept indoors. Plan ahead for entertainment with indoor activities and games, and limit the amount of time spent watching television.
Children may become fearful or stressed from effects of the heat. For example, seeing dead animals or wildlife may be distressing. Reassure your child that many people are working to resolve the situation and keep them safe. Children take their cues from their parents and the environment, so remember to keep calm and answer their questions openly and honestly. Keep in mind not to share more than is appropriate for their age.

--Thanks to healthychildren.org CLICK here for the full article

Happy Fourth of July!!

We hope you all have a safe and wonderful 4th of July! We will be in the clinic seeing children for urgent sick issues. Please contact our office after 9:00 am on Thursday July 4th--We will also be available Friday and our usual weekend clinic. Enjoy your holiday weekend--From Everyone at Willow Creek Pediatrics

Free Passes to The Living Planet Aquarium

Do you want to know a really easy way to earn 2 passes to The Living Planet Aquarium?....Just refer a friend or family member to our office! It is that easy! Make sure your friend tells us when they book a new appointment that YOU referred them and we will send you 2 adult admission passes. This will expire 8/31/2013 so make sure you do it soon. We have 20 sets to give away so now is the time to refer your friends! Good LUCK!!

June is Internet Safety month

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The Internet can connect you and your family to all types of resources. At your computer, you and your family can read the latest news, look up information, listen to music, play games, buy things, or e-mail friends. The possibilities for learning and exploring on the Internet are endless. However, not all information and resources are safe and reliable. Read more about how to make sure you and your family's experience on the Internet is safe, educational, and fun.

When you and your family surf the Web it's important to keep the following in mind:

• Online information is usually not private.
• People online are not always who they say they are.
• Anyone can put information online.
• You can't trust everything you read online.
• You and your family may unexpectedly and unintentionally find material on the Web that is offensive, pornographic (including child pornography), obscene, violent, or racist.

Setting the rules

It's important to have a set of rules when your children use the Internet. Make sure your children understand what you consider appropriate and what areas are off limits. Let them know that the rules are for their safety.

Safety first

The following are tips you can teach your children about online safety:

• NEVER give out personal information unless a parent says it's OK. This includes your name, address, phone number, age, race, school name or location, or friends' names.
• NEVER share passwords, even with friends.
• NEVER meet a friend you only know online in person unless a parent says it's OK. It's best if a parent goes along and to meet in a public place. (Older teens that may choose not to tell a parent and go alone should at least go with a friend and meet in a public place.)
• NEVER respond to messages that make you feel uncomfortable or hurt your feelings. Ignore these messages, stop all communication, and tell a parent or another adult you trust right away.

Good behavior

The following is what you can teach your children about how they should act online:

• NEVER send mean messages online. NEVER say something online that you wouldn't say to someone in person. Bullying is wrong whether it's done in person or online.
• NEVER use the Internet to make someone look bad. For example, never send messages from another person's e-mail that could get that person into trouble.
• NEVER plagiarize. It's illegal to copy online information and say that you wrote it.

Time limits

Surfing the Web should not take the place of other important activities, including homework, playing outside, or spending time with friends. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting total screen time in front of a TV or computer to no more than 1 to 2 hours a day for children older than 2 years. An alarm clock or timer can help you keep track of time.

For Other steps you can take and some great tips by age group click HERE for the full article. Thanks to the AAP for a great article.

 

 

How do your kids like their veggies?

How do your kids like their vegetables? We have given you ideas before on sneaking them in to sauces or a puree--Here is another great article that helps get those very needed vegetables in our kids bodies:)....

Children eat more veggies when flavored dips are offered (Click for full article)
A small study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics showed that 64% of preschoolers said they liked a vegetable when it was served with a low-fat dip, while only 31% of participants said they liked the vegetable by itself. Researchers also found that pairing celery or squash with a flavored dip resulted in greater intake among children, compared with serving the vegetables alone.

(You can try to use any flavoring and wean down the caloric value over time.)

--Thanks Dr. Jopling for the link

Utah Public Health warns of Hep A infection in food

We wanted you to be aware of a recent outbreak sent out by the Utah Public Health Department:

Utah Public Health has identified three cases of hepatitis A infection associated with consumption of a contaminated product sold in Costco stores. The contaminated food has been identified as Townsend Farms Organic Anti-oxidant Blend frozen berry mix that contained pomegranate seeds and other produce from the U.S., Argentina, Chile and Turkey. Costco is notifying its members who purchased this product since late February 2013, and has removed this product from its shelves. Consumers are advised not to eat ‘Townsend Farms Organic Anti-Oxidant Blend’ and discard any remaining product from freezers. Even if some of the product has been eaten without anyone in the home becoming ill, the rest of the product should be discarded. For current information on this outbreak, visit http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/Outbreaks/2013/A1b-03-31/index.html.


Confirmed cases in Utah have been reported in Davis County, Kane County and Utah County. Onset dates range from mid-April to mid-May. As of June 3, 2013, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 34 people ill with acute hepatitis A that may be linked to the same outbreak in five states: Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Arizona, and California. These numbers are expected to change as the investigation continues. Investigation by state health departments, FDA, and the CDC is ongoing.


Providers are asked to contact the Utah Department of Health at 801-538-6191 or your local health department regarding any patients who may have been exposed to the contaminated food and exhibit the following symptoms: jaundice, abdominal pain, pale stools and dark urine. Contact your local health department for information about hepatitis A IG. You can find local health department information at http://www.ualhd.org/lhds.html.



    •   Hepatitis A vaccine can be given to persons between one year and 40 years of age.
    

If you feel like your child has been exposed or is having symptoms please call our office today to get an appointment with your doctor.

Happy Memorial Day

We hope you are all enjoying a safe and relaxing Memorial Day. We will be in the office today starting a 9:30 for just a few hours for sick patients only. Our office will open again tomorrow at 8:00 am. Enjoy this beautiful day and wonderful holiday!

GO to the Park!!

 

National Kids to Parks Day is May 18

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To spotlight the importance of outdoor activity, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is a partner in National Kids to Parks Day on May 18, a campaign from the National Park Trust (NPT). The purpose of the day is to mobilize children across the country to have an American park experience by visiting a national, state or local park and play outdoors on May 18, 2013. Thousands of children already have committed to visit a national, state or local park on May 18 by signing up at www.kidstoparks.org. The site includes resources for families for healthy, outdoor living. Kids are also encouraged to participate in social media around the event.

For more information about National Kids to Parks Day, visit www.kidstoparks.org

Get out there and have some fun and let us know what you did!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's day from everyone here at

 Willow Creek Pediatrics!

Reminder CPR class this Saturday!

This is a reminder for the CPR course this SATURDAY!!! We have a few slots left so please call our office now to save your spot!

Saturday, May 11th 2013 at 2:00 pm

The class will last approximately 1 hour

$15 per person

15-20 spots available

To sign up, please speak with our office coordinator, Margie. You can contact her by calling the office or email her at margiet@wasatchpeds.net.

Spots will be offered on a first come first serve basis!

This is only a CPR class, NOT certification. It will be taught by Christine Keddington, who is certified to teach CPR.

Talking to Children about Disasters

 

Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and communities of Boston and West, Texas. We look for answers as parents and want to know the best way to talk to our children about two events, while very different, still both devastating. Here is an amazing resource that  the American Pediatric Association has put out. Please feel free to talk to your pediatrician about any of these hard topics. Thanks to the AAP for a great article!

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Children can cope more effectively with a disaster when they feel they understand what is happening and what they can do to help protect themselves, family, and friends. Provide basic information to help them understand, without providing unnecessary details that may only alarm them.

For very young children, provide concrete explanations of what happened and how it will affect them (eg, a tree branch fell on electrical wires and that is why the lights don't work). Let children know there are many people who are working to help them and their community to recover after a disaster (such as repair crews for the electric company, or firefighters, police, paramedics, or other emergency personnel). Share with them all of the steps that are being taken to keep them safe; children will often worry that a disaster will occur again.

Older children will likely want, and benefit from, additional information about the disaster and recovery efforts. No matter what age, start by asking children what they already know and what questions they have and use that as a guide for the conversation. Limit media coverage of the disaster—if children are going to watch media coverage, consider taping it (to allow adults to preview) and watch along with them to answer questions and help them process the information. While children may seek and benefit from basic information about what happened so that they can understand what is happening in their world, they (and adults) don't benefit from graphic details or exposure to disturbing images or sounds. In the aftermath of a crisis is a good time to disconnect from all media and sit down together and talk as a family.
Be sure to ask children what questions or concerns they have. Often they have fears based on limited information or because they misunderstood what they were told. Reassure children when able to do so, but if their fears are realistic, don't give false reassurance. Instead, help them learn how to cope with these feelings.

Help Children Cope:

After a disaster or crisis, children benefit from adults who can help them learn how to cope effectively. Although it is not useful for adults to appear overwhelmed by the event, it is helpful to share some of their feelings and what they are doing to deal with those feelings. Children can't be expected to cope with troubling feelings if no one models effective coping. Allow children to "own" their feelings. Let your child know that it is all right to be upset about something bad that happened. Use the conversation to take the opportunity to talk about other troubling feelings your child may have. A child who feels afraid is afraid, even if adults think the reason for the fear is unnecessary. If you feel overwhelmed and/or hopeless, look for some support from other adults before reaching out to your child.
Don’t feel obligated to give a reason for what happened. Although adults often feel the need to provide a reason for why someone committed such a crime, many times they don’t know. It is okay to tell your child that you don’t know why at this time such a crime was committed.
Children are not only trying to deal with the disaster, but with everything else that follows. They may have to relocate, at least temporarily, and could be separated from friends or unable to attend the same school. Parents may have less income and the change in finances may impact their ability to participate in activities they enjoyed or travel to visit family out of town. Allow children to express their regrets over these "secondary losses" (without accusing them of being selfish) and help them figure out ways to minimize the impact or find alternatives.
Children, just like adults, often feel helpless after a disaster. Help them figure out what they can do—that is meaningful to them—to help others in their community impacted by the disaster. For more information on helping your child cope, click here.

Support Grieving Children:

Children who have experienced the death of a family member or friend need to understand and grieve a personal loss, above and beyond adjusting to the disaster itself. For more information on how to support grieving children, click here.

Talking to Children about the Economy:

The current economic situation is impacting adults throughout the United States and abroad. The effect that it may have on children and adolescents may be less direct—they may be worried about changes they see in their parents' mood or behavior because their parents are concerned about finances—but it is still something that parents and pediatricians should address. Talking to children about the economy, and the impact it is having on their family, can help them develop strategies for coping with the current financial situation and their day-to-day life.

Talking to Children in the Aftermath:

Click here for resources and information to help children cope with the aftermath of community or school shootings. If you have concerns about your child’s behavior, contact his or her pediatrician, other primary care provider, or a qualified mental health care specialist.

Additional Resources:

Getting Your Family Prepared for a DisasterHow to Prepare for Disasters
Communicating with Children and Families: From Everyday Interactions to Skill in Conveying Distressing Information
Tips for Talking to Children After a Disaster (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
School and Family Resources (National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement)
Catastrophic Mass Violence Resources (National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Talking to Children About Earthquakes and Other Natural Disasters (AACAP)

--Info all from Healthychildren.org Click on all links about for more information!

Car seats--Have you checked your car lately?

One of the most important jobs you have as a parent is keeping your child safe when riding in a vehicle. Each year thousands of young children are killed or injured in car crashes. Proper use of car seats helps keep children safe. But with so many different car seats on the market, it’s no wonder many parents find this overwhelming. The APP has a great new article about car seats. CLICK HERE for the full story. Here is a few key points:

The type of seat your child needs depends on several things, including your child’s age, size and the type of vehicle you have. Note: The “Types of car seats at a glance” chart is a quick guide on where to start your search. It’s important to continue reading more about the features and how to use your car seat. Additional safety tips are at the end of this article.
To see a list of car seats and safety seat manufacturers, click here.

Types of car seats at a glance

Age Group	Type of Seat	General Guidelines
Infants/toddlers	Rear-facing only seats and rear-facing convertible seats	All infants and toddlers should ride in a Rear-Facing Car Seat until they are 2 years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car seat's manufacturer.
Toddler/preschoolers	Convertible seats and forward-facing seats with harness	Any child 2 years or older who has outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for their car seat, should use a Forward-Facing Car Seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed their car seat’s manufacturer. This also applies to any child younger than 2 years who has outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit of their seat.
School-aged children	Booster seats	All children whose weight or height is above the forward-facing limit for their car seat should use a Belt-Positioning Booster Seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are between 8 and 12 years of age.
Older children	Seat belts	When children are old enough and large enough to use the vehicle seat belt alone, they should always use Lap and Shoulder Seat Belts for optimal protection. All children younger than 13 years should be restrained in the rear seats of vehicles for optimal protection.

Important reminders

1. Be a good role model. Make sure you always wear your seat belt. This will help your child form a lifelong habit of buckling up.
2. Make sure that everyone who transports your child uses the correct car seat or seat belt on every trip, every time. Being consistent with car safety seat use is good parenting, reduces fussing and complaints, and is safest for your child.
3. Never leave your child alone in or around cars. Any of the following can happen when a child is left alone in or around a vehicle. A child can
• Die of heat stroke because temperatures can reach deadly levels in minutes.
• Be strangled by power windows, retracting seat belts, sunroofs, or accessories.
• Knock the vehicle into gear, setting it in motion.
• Be backed over when the vehicle backs up.
• Become trapped in the trunk of the vehicle.
4. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you do not have the manufacturer’s instructions for your car seat, write or call the company’s customer service department. They will ask you for the model number, name of seat, and date of manufacture. The manufacturer’s address and phone number are on the label on the seat. Also be sure to follow the instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual about using car seats. Some manufacturers’ instructions may be available on their Web sites.

-- Info from AAP and Healthychildren.org Link to the full story above

Spring Break Safety Tips

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Spring break is a great time for the family to get away from the cold, dark days of winter and have some fun in the sun. Every year the AAP post a list of safety reminders for Spring Break---Here they are and have a safe and fun Spring Break this year! 

Sun Safety for Babies

• Babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight. Move your baby to the shade under a tree, umbrella or stroller canopy. It is okay to apply a small amount of sunscreen on infants under 6 months if there is no way to avoid the sun.
• Dress babies in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs, and use brimmed hats.

Sun Safety for Kids

• Choose sunscreen that is made for children, preferably waterproof. Before covering your child, test the sunscreen on your child’s back for an allergic reaction. Apply carefully around the eyes, avoiding eyelids. If a rash develops, talk with your pediatrician.
• Select clothes made of tightly woven fabrics. Cotton clothing is both cool and protective.
• When using a cap with a bill, make sure the bill is facing forward to shield your child’s face. Sunglasses with UV protection are also a good idea for protecting your child’s eyes.
• If your child gets sunburn that results in blistering, pain or fever, contact your pediatrician.

Sun Safety for the Family

• The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to keep out of the sun during those hours.
• The sun’s damaging UV rays can bounce back from sand, snow or concrete; so be particularly careful of these areas.
• Most of the sun’s rays can come through the clouds on an overcast day; so use sun protection even on cloudy days.
• When choosing a sunscreen, look for the words "broad-spectrum" on the label - it means that the sunscreen will screen out both ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. Choose a water-resistant or waterproof sunscreen and reapply every two hours.
• Zinc oxide, a very effective sunblock, can be used as extra protection on the nose, cheeks, tops of the ears and on the shoulders.
• Use a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
• Rub sunscreen in well, making sure to cover all exposed areas, especially the face, nose, ears, feet and hands, and even the backs of the knees.
• Put on sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outdoors - it needs time to work on the skin.
• Sunscreens should be used for sun protection and not as a reason to stay in the sun longer.

Beach Tips*

• Drink plenty of water, non-carbonated and non-alcoholic drinks, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Stay within the designated swimming area and ideally within the visibility of a lifeguard.
• Never swim alone.
• Be aware of rip currents. If you should get caught in a current, don’t try to swim against it. Swim parallel to shore until clear of the current.
• Seek shelter in case of storm. Get out of the water. Get off the beach in case of lightning.
• Watch out for traffic – some beaches allow cars. .

--Info from AAP.org and links to healthychildren.org

Save the Date: CPR Class for Parents!

Announcing CPR Courses for Parents! Such a huge hit every time and so many of you keep asking for it!

Saturday, May 11th 2013 at 2:00 pm

The class will last approximately 1 hour

$15 per person

15-20 spots available

To sign up, please speak with our office coordinator, Margie. You can contact her by calling the office or email her at margiet@wasatchpeds.net.

Spots will be offered on a first come first serve basis!

This is only a CPR class, NOT certification. It will be taught by Christine Keddington, who is certified to teach CPR.

Hiring Energetic and Friendly MA

Our office is looking for an energetic and friendly MA for one of our amazing, busy pediatricians. This is a full time position with insurance and benefits provided. Requirements for this position require someone that is high energy, pleasant and loves to work with children.

Please send your resume to margiet@wasatchpeds.net

Daylight savings alters sleep patterns

Did day light savings alter your sleeping patterns at home? It seems to take most families a few weeks to get back in the routine. If you are lacking sleep with this day light savings, read below for some great tips on how to help you and your child's sleep!

Sleeping Environment

• Get comfy. Make sure your bed and bedding are comfortable.
• Remove distractions. Get the TV out of the bedroom. Avoid watching or listening to upsetting, violent, or scary materials within 2 hours of bedtime. That includes the news, conflict-filled talk shows, and high-anxiety dramas. Use the bed only for sleep and intimacy, not for TV, reading, working, talking on the phone, or playing electronic games.
• Soothing sounds. Listen to relaxing music, sound from nature, or the sound of silence. Keep the noise level down. Consider earplugs if you can’t control the environment.
• Security and safety. Before you head for bed, make sure your doors are locked, the stove is off, the iron in unplugged, the water taps are turned off, and there are no bogeymen under bed (just kidding on this last one, but it does help to go through a routine to ensure you’ve done what you can to ensure your personal safety).
• Darker is better. Turn the light off. Darkness promotes sleep and healthy levels of melatonin, an important hormone that regulates sleep and wakefulness.
• Keep it cool. Cool room temperatures promote sleep and minimize interfering itchy sensations.
• Smell the roses, or better yet, lavender or chamomile. Soothing scents such as lavender have proven effective in helping people fall asleep, even in noisy intensive care units.
• Warm it up. A person warmed passively by a hot bath or sauna (not from intense exercise) falls asleep more quickly than someone who is cold. Even just a hot foot bath has proven helpful to ensuring good night’s sleep in a scientific study; so even if for some reason you can’t soak your entire body, consider a warm foot bath before bed to help you drift into dreamland. Keep the body warm and the room cool

Sleeping Routines

• Consider eating a light snack containing a protein (eg, seeds, nuts, low-fat milk, hard-boiled eggs) and a complex carbohydrate (eg, whole grain cracker or toast, slices of fruit or vegetables) within 2 hours before bed.
• Take a warm bath or shower within an hour before bedtime.
• Make it routine. Head to bed at the same time daily.
• Read something soothing, reassuring, or inspiring. Save the action/adventure stories, headline news, and murder mysteries for daytime reading.
• Manage your stress constructively. Practice mediation, autogenic training, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, prayer, counting your blessings, extending good will to others, or other relaxing stress management techniques.
• Keep a journal. Write down or record any worries, anger, irritations, or other negative perceptions. Get them out of your head, set them aside, and let them wait until tomorrow. Write down or record a list of things you appreciate or for which you are grateful. Make notes about little kindnesses you have observed in others or offered to others. Did someone smile at you today? Offer a handshake? Ask how you were? Open a door? Let you go first? Just noting small acts of kindness can help us feel better and more connected to other people. This helps us feel more positive and secure.

During the Day

• Limit daytime naps to 45 minutes, maximum.
• Expose yourself to bright light in the morning; this helps set your biological clock so you’ll be tired in the evening. Avoid bright lights before bed.
• Exercise during the day; yoga or other slow, meditative exercises may be helpful in the afternoon or evening.
• Check with your doctor. Make sure you can breathe easily at night; congestions and obstructions to breathing reduce restful sleep. If you snore, ask your doctor to check for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. If you have a painful or itchy condition, discuss optimal management with your health professionals. Review your medications (if any) to make sure they aren’t the culprit.

What Else Can You Do?

• Consider a cup of calming herbal tea such as chamomile, lemon balm, hops, or passion flower.
• Talk with your clinician about trying valerian, melatonin, tryptophan, or 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) supplements.
• Get a massage or at least a hand, foot, shoulder, or back rub from someone you trust.
• Consider trying acupuncture, especially if pain makes it hard for you to sleep. (Sleepiness and a sense of calm and relaxation are side effects of acupuncture.)
• Ask your clinician about cranial electrotherapy stimulation or electrosleep.

What to Avoid

• Avoid alcohol within 4 hours before bedtime (alcohol use just before bed can lead to rebound wakefulness 2-4 hours later).
• Avoid caffeine 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.
• Avoid heavy or spicy foods 4 hours before bedtime.
• Avoid strenuous exercise within 2 hours of bedtime.
• Avoid stimulating TV, electronic games, and arguments within an hour of bedtime

If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, get out of bed, leave the bedroom, and try one of these strategies – snack, warm bath, soothing music, inspiring book, making a list or jotting in a diary.

--TIPS from the AAP

Time to schedule Sport and Yearly Physicals

It is that time of year again where your child may need a physical to play sports or to attend a scouting event for this summer/spring. Also, remember if you have a child going into Kindergarten or junior high they need to come in for a physical and updates on immunizations before registration. Our doctors will try to fit every child in but please call as soon as possible to get those scheduled.

We do recommend the following schedule for Well Child Check ups.

Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits

Visits can include physical measurements, patient history, sensory screenings, behavioral assessments, and planned procedures (immunizations, screenings and other tests) at the following suggested intervals:

• 2 weeks
• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months
• 9 months
• 12 months
• 15 months
• 18 months
• 24 months
• 3 years
• 4 years
• And once every year thereafter for an annual health supervision visit that includes a physical exam as well as a developmental, behavioral, and learning assessment.

See you soon!

We need your suggestions!

We need your help! In the next few months our company website is going to have a whole new look! We are asking for help to see what you would find helpful. Is there something you would like to see on that website?

You can check out the website at www.wasatchpeds.net

 

Take a look around and let us know what you would like to see. This is your chance to have a great resource at your fingertips. Thank you for your suggestions, we really appreciate it~! 

Having clean teeth helps keep your child healthy

 

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Tooth decay is the number-one dental problem among preschoolers, but it can be prevented. Starting children with good dental habits from an early age will help them grow up with healthy smiles. The following is important information about how to care for your child's teeth from birth to 24 months of age and beyond.

 

Baby teeth are important!

Tooth decay can develop as soon as the first tooth appears. It’s important to care for your child’s baby teeth because they act as placeholders for adult teeth. If baby teeth are lost too early, the teeth that are left may move and not leave any room for the adult teeth to come in. And tooth decay in baby teeth can be painful and cause health problems like infections, which can at times be life-threatening. It can also lead to teasing and speech development problems.

How to care for your child’s teeth

Birth to 12 months

• Good dental habits should begin before the first tooth appears. After feedings, gently brush your baby’s gums using water on a baby toothbrush that has soft bristles. Or wipe them with a clean washcloth.
• Ask about fluoride. After the first tooth appears, ask your child’s doctor if your baby is getting enough fluoride. Many experts recommend using a fluoride-free toothpaste before the age of 2, but check with your child’s doctor or dentist first.
• Schedule your baby’s well-child visits. During these visits your child’s doctor will check your baby’s mouth.
• Schedule a dental checkup. If your baby is at high risk for tooth decay, your child’s doctor will recommend that your baby see a dentist.

12 to 24 months

• Brush! Brush your child’s teeth 2 times a day using water on a baby toothbrush that has soft bristles. The best times are after breakfast and before bed.
• Limit juice. Make sure your child doesn’t drink more than 1 small cup of juice each day and only at mealtimes.
• Consult with your child’s dentist or doctor about sucking habits. Sucking too strongly on a pacifier, a thumb, or fingers can affect the shape of the mouth and how the top and bottom teeth line up. This is called your child’s “bite.” Ask your child’s dentist or doctor to help you look for changes in your child’s bite and how to help your child ease out of his sucking habit.
• Schedule a dental checkup. Take your child for a dental checkup if he has not had one.

24 months

• Brush! Help your child brush her teeth 2 times a day with a child-sized toothbrush that has soft bristles. There are brushes designed to address the different needs of children at all ages, ensuring that you can select a toothbrush that is appropriate for your child. Encourage her to brush her teeth on her own. However, to make sure your child’s teeth are clean, you should brush them again. If your child doesn’t want her teeth brushed, it may help to turn it into a game. For example, the toothbrush can look upstairs and downstairs in the mouth for missing treasure in the teeth.
• Use fluoride toothpaste. You can start using fluoride toothpaste, which helps prevent cavities. Teach your child not to swallow it. Use a pea-sized amount or less and smear the paste into the bristles. Swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can make white or brown spots on your child’s adult teeth. If your child doesn’t like the taste of the toothpaste, try another flavor or use plain water.
• Floss. You can begin flossing your child’s teeth as soon as 2 teeth touch each other. But not all children need their teeth flossed at this age, so check with your dentist first.
• Schedule a dental checkup. Take your child for a dental checkup at least once a year.

What is a cavity?

Your child’s teeth are protected by an outer coating called enamel. Tooth decay happens when germs in the mouth mix with sugar in foods and drinks. The germs then make acids that break down the enamel. Cavities are holes in the enamel caused by tooth decay.

 

Next time your are in our office as for a referral to a local dentist. We have several suggestions for you!

 

**Thanks to healthychildren.org for a great reminder . Click here for full article

How to show love for your child this Valentines Day

 

It is that time of the year again when we all rush to the store to find the perfect Valentine. What are you ding this year to make your child feel extra special?  This year we thought it would interesting what the AAP thinks we should be doing. Here are some amazing tips from the AAP

TheValentine's Day tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

1. Use plenty of positive words with your child. Try to avoid using sarcasm. Children often don’t understand it, and if they do, it creates a negative interaction.
2. Respond promptly and lovingly to your child's physical and emotional needs and banish put-downs from your parenting vocabulary. Be available to listen to your child when he/she want to talk with you even if it’s an inconvenient time.
3. Make an extra effort to set a good example at home and in public. Use words like "I'm sorry," "please," and "thank you."
4. When your child is angry, argumentative or in a bad mood, give him a hug, cuddle, pat, secret sign or other gesture of affection he favors and then talk with him about it when he’s feeling better.
5. Use non-violent forms of discipline. Parents should institute both rewards and restrictions many years before adolescence to help prevent trouble during the teenage years. Allowing children of any age to constantly break important rules without being disciplined only encourages more rule violations.
6. Make plans to spend time alone with your young child or teen doing something she enjoys. Send a Valentine’s Day card to your older child or teen. Make Valentine’s Day cards together with your preschool or younger school age child.
7. Mark family game nights on your calendar so the entire family can be together. Put a different family member's name under each date, and have that person choose which game will be played that evening.
8. Owning a pet can make children, especially those with chronic illnesses and disabilities, feel better by stimulating physical activity, enhancing their overall attitude, and offering constant companionship.
9. One of the best ways to familiarize your child with good food choices is to encourage him to cook with you. Let him get involved in the entire process, from planning the menus to shopping for ingredients to the actual food preparation and its serving. It is wonderful when families eat together as much as possible. Good food, good conversations.
10. As your child grows up, she'll spend most of her time developing and refining a variety of skills and abilities in all areas of her life. You should help her as much as possible by encouraging her and providing the equipment and instruction she needs. Start reading to your child beginning at six months. Avoid TV in the first two years, monitor and watch TV with your older children and use TV time as conversation time with your children. Limit computer and video games.
11. Your child's health depends significantly on the care and guidance you offer during his early years. By taking your child to the doctor regularly for preventive health care visits, keeping him safe from accidents, providing a nutritious diet, and encouraging exercise throughout childhood, you help protect and strengthen his body.
12. Help your child foster positive relationships with friends, siblings and members of the community.
13. One of your most important gifts as a parent is to help your child develop self-esteem. Your child needs your steady support and encouragement to discover his strengths. He needs you to believe in him as he learns to believe in himself. Loving him, spending time with him, listening to him and praising his accomplishments are all part of this process.
14. Don't forget to say, "I love you" to children of all ages!

**Check out this link for the full story and great ideas WWW.Healthychildren.org

Reminder on new Dosage on Fever and Pain medicine

Parents need to be aware of a major change in infant’s and children’s liquid acetaminophen products (such as Tylenol) available on store shelves. Since Summer 2011, some manufacturers have changed the amount of acetaminophen in these medicines to one standard amount. Infant drops, which contain 3 times more medicine than the children’s liquid, will be phased out and no longer available.
However during this transition, you may find both concentrations on store shelves and in your home.
Parents need to be aware that the dosing amounts are different depending on the concentration they are using.

Why the change?

The change to one concentration for all children is being done to help reduce dosing errors that can lead to accidental overdoses. Too many times parents have mistaken the strength of the infant drops, which are stronger than the liquids, and accidentally given their children too much medicine.
What to do
Always call your pediatrician before giving acetaminophen to a child under 2 years of age, and call right away if your child is under four months of age and has a fever. Be sure when calling that you know which concentration you have, either 80mg/0.8mL (these are the drops which are being discontinued) or 160mg/5mL (children’s liquid). You can find this information on the front of the medicine bottle.  Have the bottle with you when you call.
For children over the age of 2 years, check the label to see how much medicine to give. If you know your child's weight, use that. If you do not know your child’s weight, go by age for the dose amount.
Important reminders
•Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
•Use only the dosing device that comes with the product
•Never give adult medicines to children
•Always read and follow the instructions on the label
•Talk to your pediatrician if you have any questions
•If you think your child has taken too much of this or any medicine, call poison control at 800.222.1222

*AAP info