Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics I have a confession to make. I’ve never been a big fan of Halloween. I’m just not someone who enjoys being scared or spooked. But my kids have always loved the holiday, which I get. Candy and dressing up are pretty fun. So […]

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it’s important to keep in mind that infants and babies under 12 months require extra care and attention during this season. As a caregiver, there are several things you can do to ensure that your little one stays safe and healthy during this season.    […]

Navigating discussions about drugs and alcohol with your children can seem daunting, but it’s a conversation every family should have. As the holiday season approaches, bringing with it family gatherings and festive parties, it’s an opportune time to have heart-to-heart conversations with our children about drugs and alcohol. Current concerns, such as the prevalence of […]

With the start of summer break, children are excited for the outdoor activities that await. Make sure you’re ready for a summer full of enjoyable memories by preparing your family for a safe summer! FUN IN THE SUN Summer means sunshine and good times! Make sure your kids are prepared and ready for outdoor activities […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics. I have a confession, I used to be a snob about graphic novels. I thought of them as not really reading or as just glorified comic books. But I’ve completely changed my mind. Many graphic novels are some of the most exciting books […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Happy June and the beginning of summer! As we talked about last month, summer is a great time to encourage kids to read. And what’s better to read than books about kids having summer adventures. Try some of these out as family read-alouds […]

This is a trying time for us all.  As your trusted healthcare provider, we aim to be a helpful resource for you as you navigate your family’s health, wellness, and education during the COVID-19 pandemic.   Our Coronavirus landing page provides information about COVID-19, what we are doing at our practice, and what you should do […]

Why Sleep is So Important Sleep is vital for everyone’s health — but especially for kids since it affects their mental and physical development and well-being.  Without sufficient sleep, children can experience increased irritability, stress, forgetfulness and decreased energy, focus/attention problems, troubles with memory retention and motivation issues. Over time, lack of sleep can contribute […]

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects approximately 1 in every 700 babies born in the United States. It is caused by an extra copy of the 21st chromosome which results in physical and mental developmental delays. Individuals with Down syndrome often have a characteristic facial appearance. They may also experience cognitive delays and […]

September is Newborn Safety Month, a time to focus on ensuring your little one is safe and secure in every aspect of their daily life. Whether you’re a new parent navigating the world of newborn care for the first time or a seasoned parent welcoming another child into the family, staying updated on the latest […]

There are so many things I look forward to in the fall. Cooler weather, crisp apples, the start of school, warm sweaters. But perhaps my favorite part of fall is the beauty of the leaves. These books are the perfect way to enjoy the season’s brilliant colors inside as well as outside.  Lois Ehlert’s Leaf […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Last January I shared a list of kid-approved books that have also won the coveted Newbery award for the most distinguished overall contribution in children’s literature. I thought I’d return to the treasure trove of past Newbery winners for a list of a […]

Source    October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month. More than 1 out of 3 sudden unexpected infant deaths that occur in the United States each year are from SIDS.    SIDS, also commonly referred to as “crib death,” is a sudden and silent medical disorder that can occur anytime during a baby’s […]

As the new school year approaches, it’s essential to ensure our children are equipped with not only their academic supplies but also the knowledge and habits that keep them healthy and safe. At South Riding Pediatrics, we understand that good hygiene practices are crucial for preventing illness and promoting overall well-being. Here are some essential […]

August is back to school month for kids everywhere. It also happens to be the month of National Book Lovers Day (on August 9th), which I think is a perfect coincidence. When I ask kids what they like best about school, a lot of them tell me reading or going to the library. Get a […]

It’s official — school is back in session! We’ve put together the ABCs of keeping your kids thriving academically, socially, and physically this school year. Avoiding Illness Germs loving running amuck through classrooms, but good hand-washing can help prevent infections from spreading. Encourage your child to wash his or her hands thoroughly throughout the day […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics If your family is like mine,  you are shocked to realize the summer is almost over and it’s time for school to begin. Starting school can be both exciting and terrifying for kids of all ages. A great way to help kids get […]

This fall marks an exciting time across the country as many students return to in-person instruction for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Protecting children from the virus is undoubtedly the priority for most parents at this time, however it is important to remember there are also other aspects to school […]

Mid-Summer and many of us want to be at the beach enjoying the waves and sand. If you can’t go there yourself, the next best thing is sharing a great book about the beach with your kids. These picture books about the ocean are sure to delight kids of all ages.   Night of the […]

We get parents’ concerns about bedwetting all the time. Why is scolding/punishing ineffective when it comes to your child wetting the bed? Nighttime bedwetting is often a physiological symptom of the simple fact that many kids’ bladders are not large enough to hold urine throughout the night.  Children who are naturally lighter sleepers often awake […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics It’s the gift-giving season! Books are my favorite things to give and to receive. I thought instead of a general gift guide I’d share what I’m getting my own kids. Your kids might have different interests but maybe this will spark some ideas. […]

By Danielle Steinberg for PBS.org Inch by inch, row by row, learn to make your garden grow! Browse through these seed-filled reads and explore the outdoors through books. From Seed to Plant Gail Gibbons Age: 4-8 Hard to understand concepts like plant reproduction, seed dispersal, pollen transference, and seed germination are made simple with big, beautiful […]

In the world of parenting, it’s easy to get caught in the crossfire of the “Mommy Wars.” This term, often used in social media and parenting circles, refers to the intense debates and judgments parents face over their childrearing choices. But let’s shift our perspective and consider a world where differences in parenting styles are […]

This month I have a list of great historical fiction for kids of all ages. Historical fiction is often a way to get kids interested in a time or place or culture different from their own. It also is a way to make history more accessible than just learning about dates or wars or famous […]

One of my family’s favorite vacations was to Iceland. The natural beauty was the main attraction, but I’ve also always felt a special place in my heart for Iceland, a country with many book lovers. They even have a unique holiday tradition, Jolabokaflod, where you give loved ones a new book on Christmas Eve, and […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics One of the best parts about having kids is learning about the things they are interested in. One of my kids really loved birds when he was younger (so much so that he became a vegetarian at age 5 when he realized the […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Thanksgiving is possibly my favorite holiday. It’s (mostly) free from the commercial pressures of the bookends of Halloween and Christmas. It’s really all about eating good food, hanging out with family and friends and remembering our blessings. Gratitude is a character trait that […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics I hope you and your family are doing well and staying safe during this unprecedented time. Since we’re all staying home a lot more than usual, why not explore all things related to houses and homes with your kids this month through books? […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics March is the beginning of spring which means bunnies and flowers and cute baby animals. And of course, it is also one of the best holidays of the year….pi day (3/14 to the non-math geeks out there). Math seems to be a polarizing […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics If your kids are like most kids, they love snow. Since we haven’t seen much of the white stuff yet this winter in Virginia, here are some great snow and winter themed books to read together while you dream of a White Christmas […]

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it usually means spending time with extended family. Holidays are an excellent time for children to connect and bond with grandparents and relatives living farther away. Whether traveling or hosting this year, these books are great for children and grandparents to enjoy together.  What Grandmas Do Best […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of Farrell Pediatrics Reading to kids is one of the best things you can do as a parent. Reading helps with language development, boosts vocabulary, and builds early literacy skills. Plus, it’s fun! It’s never too early to start reading to your kids, even as babies. We all know […]

Reading to kids is one of the best things you can do as a parent. Reading helps with language development, boosts vocabulary, and builds early literacy skills. Plus, it’s fun! It’s never too early to start reading to your kids, even as babies. We all know this, but sometimes as a parent, it’s hard to […]

February is a short month full of what feels like long cold days. Nothing is better on one of those endless winter days than a cozy mystery. Kids like mysteries and puzzles as much as adults. Here are some of great books for your mystery loving kids of all ages. Nancy Clancy, Super Sleuth by […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics As we head into the middle of August, I find that at our local pool, the topic of school is on everyone’s minds. In particular this year, as parents face new challenges and worries over their child’s education it seems that it’s all […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Last month we featured books that celebrate mom…this month we’ll celebrate dad! Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney In this book, the father and son hares play the “I love you more game” that kids often like to play. Little Nutbrown Hare […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Mothers can be hard to find in children’s literature. My kids and I joke that you have to get the mothers (and fathers) out of the way somehow in order for all the adventuring to begin. Still, in this month that we celebrate Moms, […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics ​​I’m writing this on a well-known holiday in January. Of course I am talking about National Hat Day which is January 15th. No worries if you missed celebrating. You can still join in the fun with these books about hats. Read them while […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics You might think of pumpkins in October. Or candy corn. Or apples. But maybe what you should think of is pizza….October is National Pizza Month after all. Pizza is fun to eat and also fun to read about. Here are some pizza themed […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics It’s almost Thanksgiving, and at the top of my list of things to be thankful for is books! Here is a short list of some of my family’s favorite books to read around this holiday: Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet Melissa Sweet’s […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Winter is here! It’s the perfect season for curling up with a good book and a big cup of hot chocolate. Here is a list of winter themed books that kids of all ages can enjoy as you snuggle up together by a […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Happy New Year! Don’t worry, I’m not a month late…February ushered in the Lunar New Year in many Eastern countries. And in 2022 it also ushered in the Year of the Tiger. Enjoy these tiger themed books with your kids!  It’s a Tiger […]

One of the best things we can do for kids is to teach them to see the world from many different perspectives. A great way to do this is to read books about other cultures and especially to read books written by authors from other countries or cultures than our own. September is World Kid […]

It’s almost time for a new school year. Whether you have a five-year-old starting kindergarten for the first time or a college student headed out on their own, this is a time of new challenges and adventures for kids of all ages. Here are some book recommendations to help your kid’s  school year get off […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics May is here! If your family is like mine, May feels like a race to the finish line of the school year made more complicated by a seemingly never-ending list of spring activities. However, May also brings a promise of summer and long days […]

As a parent or guardian, your ultimate goal is to raise capable, self-sufficient individuals who can confidently navigate the complexities of life. The teenage years are a critical period for fostering independence and preparing your teens for adulthood. In this blog, we share some practical strategies that can help you transform your adolescents into self-reliant […]

September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about mental health issues, particularly in children and adolescents. Children’s mental health plays a fundamental role in shaping their emotional, cognitive, and social development. A positive mental state fosters resilience, self-esteem, and healthy relationships, whereas untreated mental health issues can lead […]

Symbolically, babies represent the dawn of possibilities, new adventures, and the promise of growth and discovery. Welcoming a newborn into your family is an experience filled with hope and joy, mirroring the fresh start that each New Year brings. While it’s a journey filled with joy, it also comes with many questions, especially for new […]

If you are like me, you are enjoying the beautiful warm sunny days and abundance of flowers and blooms everywhere. What better month than April to celebrate Earth Day? These are books you can share with your kids to celebrate our planet this month or any time of year.  To start off your Earth Day […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Whew, it’s mid-June and 2020 has been quite a year! I think a lot of us have been thinking about the importance of talking to our kids about race and racism. Sometimes, it’s a hard conversation to know how to have. One way […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics. April is National Poetry Month! It’s a great time to read poetry with kids. Maybe you have never been a poetry lover or your kids think poetry is boring. Give some of these books a try…they just might change your mind.  Hailstones and […]

This month brings the beginning of the Lunar New Year for millions of people around the world. And 2024 ushers in the Year of the Dragon, which is a perfect excuse for reading these excellent books about dragons.  Red is a Dragon: A Book of Colors by Roseanne Thong is a wonderful book for preschoolers […]

Climate change is apparent: heat waves across the country, flooding in coastal cities, wildfires in the west. Higher temperatures, prolonged droughts, and severe storms all have a significant impact on children’s health.  In a recent Pediatrics on Call podcast, Aparna Bole, MD, FAAP, Chair of the AAP Council on Environmental Health, discusses how changing weather […]

  It’s that time of year again. The kids are back in school one minute and the next, home sick with the sniffles or worse, the flu. Seasonal influenza is a virus that infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat and lungs). The flu season is usually from October to April. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, […]

February is a lot of people’s least favorite month. Even though it’s short it feels long. Part of that is that it usually is gray and rainy and dull. One way to avoid the February doldrums is to read some colorful books with your kids. These books are guaranteed to brighten even the greyest day.  […]

An entire generation is growing up with internet-enabled devices, and many parents wonder how they should be controlling screen time. A 2017 Common Sense Media survey showed 70 percent of parents said they’re concerned about the amount of time their kids spend using digital media. How do you distinguish what’s too much for your child’s […]

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have recently expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine to adolescents ages 12 – 15. They will likely authorize one or more of the COVID vaccines for use in younger children in the months ahead. But many […]

reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics As I write this we are in the middle of the dog days of summer. (I just learned that saying comes from the Romans and refers to the brightness of Sirius (the Dog Star) during mid-July to mid-August. Apparently they though the star […]

August is the time for back-to-school, but our family is pretending not to know that and squeezing in a mini vacation to a lake. You might not be able to join us, but you can still get away through the pages of one of these lake-themed books.   “Over and Under the Pond” by Kate […]

April is Autism Awareness Month.  While awareness of autism is growing, many misconceptions still exist about the disorder and the individuals diagnosed with it.  ​​We’ve provided answers to commonly asked questions regarding autism, its symptoms, and its causes. What is autism? Autism is a neurological disorder that affects about 1 in 44 American children. Due […]

Autumn has arrived. Spend quality time with your family this fall! Fall Family Fun List 🍂 Pumpkin Patch Adventure 🎃: Visit a local pumpkin patch, choose pumpkins to carve, and enjoy hayrides. Leaf Pile Jump 🍁: Rake up a big pile of colorful autumn leaves and take turns jumping into them. Apple Picking Day 🍎: […]

February is National Heart Month and we’re reminded that heart disease — the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States — can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle.  The American Heart Association recommends that kids and teens (ages 6-17) get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics September is here which means it’s fall. You may not believe it with the 90 degree days and sun…but just go to the store and look at all the pumpkin spice products and you’ll know it’s true. Fall is my favorite season. So […]

Making the right food choices for your baby during the first year of life is very important, but many new parents stress over what to feed their little ones. To alleviate some of the anxiety around feeding, we’ve put together this helpful guide for your baby’s first year.    Age 0-4 months: Fed is Best […]

Food is a vital part of our survival, yet it seems like some kids could live on nothing but cereal for weeks. As a parent/guardian, it can be challenging to ensure that your children eat a healthy diet. Many parents ask their pediatrician how to know if their child is consuming enough calories and, more […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics The next best thing to eating yummy food is reading about it. Here is a selection of books guaranteed to appeal to your imaginary tastebuds. For extra fun, pair the books with go along snacks or cooking adventures as a family. Bon appetite! […]

As parents, one of the toughest challenges we face is discussing world events that frighten or disturb our children. Whether it’s natural disasters like the recent hurricanes and devastating floods, ongoing global conflicts, or the tension of political elections, these conversations are crucial but delicate. By talking openly in ways appropriate for each age group, […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Did you know that April is National Humor Month? It makes sense that this month kicks-off with April Fool’s Day (which I think can be fun but I’ve never been a fan of pranks that border on mean). Since we all know that laughter is […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics I have a confession to make: I have whatever kind of thumb is the opposite of a green thumb. I cannot keep any kind of flower alive and although I love the idea of having a yard full of beautiful flowers, it just never […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics This month I have a collection of books to share for Women’s History Month in March. All of these books will introduce your kids to amazing women from history. I chose to focus on lesser known women whose voices you may not have […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics One of the things my family is most looking forward to this month is watching the Summer Olympics. I’ve always loved watching the Olympics. One way to make the experience even richer for your kids is to read books together about the Olympics! Nada […]

Antibiotics save lives, but antibiotic overuse is creating a serious health threat worldwide. Some medications that used to be standard treatment for bacterial infections are now less effective or don’t work at all. When bacteria in the body are exposed to antibiotics, they adapt to resist the effect of the drug. The more often that […]

Congratulations! Whether you’re the parent of a high school or college graduate, this is a monumental time in your child’s life, as well as yours. As they step into a new phase full of opportunities and responsibilities, it’s crucial to support them in adopting healthy habits that will ensure their success and well-being. From managing […]

It’s the holiday season, and one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and our families is the gift of health.  We’ve put together a list of helpful tips to safeguard the health of your entire family this winter.   While the holidays are all about sharing, there’s one thing you don’t want to […]

It’s not quite “Back-to-School” yet, but it’s never too early to start preparing for a healthy transition. While your kids are still savoring these final weeks of summer fun and freedom, the 2019-2020 school year is just around the corner, and soon the chaos of school supplies shopping and packing lunches will settle in. This […]

Dear Families, We are saddened by the recent shooting at the UVA campus and know that the news is disquieting to parents and children alike. We are aware that many of you have children at the school who were directly impacted by the incident. We also understand that kids and teens may experience secondary stress […]

When my kids were younger, people would often ask me how I found books to read with them. There are tons of fantastic resources out there for book ideas:  You can look at the booklists at Read Aloud Revival or Heritage Mom, or countless other book blogs.  You can get a copy of the Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease or How […]

Effective February 1, 2018 South Riding/Farrell Pediatrics is a Participating Provider with the Cigna Connect Insurance Plan.  Our practice name will appear on their directory as soon as Cigna updates their data base. You may still make an appointment with our office for your child’s check-up and/or sick visits.

Exercise is essential all year long and an important part of both physical and mental well-being, but cold weather often keeps us indoors and less active in the winter. Unless there are extreme weather conditions or extenuating circumstances, playing outside in the winter is safe for children and adults. That said, physical activity does not […]

May makes me think about dance, probably because my daughter is a dancer and has a spring performance every year. May might not bring the same thoughts of twirling tutus to your head but if you have a dancer you might enjoy sharing these books. And if you don’t have a dancer yet, reading these […]

As Summer 2021 approaches, many parents may be considering their options to get their kids out and about this summer. After a year of social limitations and in-home learning, summer camps can offer valuable opportunities for children to interact with their peers and explore the great outdoors. Summer camp also promotes community and character building, […]

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness month. It is important to acknowledge that there are high rates of dating violence across the United States, and those numbers are only getting higher as the pandemic continues to take its toll. Dating violence impacts people of all ages and is especially common among both teens and young […]

VA-AAP member Dr. John Farrell‘s first foray into advocacy was an eyeopener: “I was naïve – If I went into it knowing what I know now, I would have doubted it could have been done!” But done it is – Dr. Farrell and the family of Brody Watson, of Leesburg, were in attendance in Warrenton […]

With children spending more time online than ever, parents are struggling to ensure their safety from online predators and cyber bullies.  Reports of online child exploitation have risen since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.  43% of teens aged 13 to 17 report that they have experienced some sort of cyberbullying in the past year. […]

As the school bells ring for the last time and summer officially starts, it’s important to balance fun with continued learning and healthy habits. The “summer slide”—a term educators use to describe the knowledge and skills students lose over the break—can impact academics, but it also affects diet, fitness, and mental health. We believe a […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics January is an exciting month in the world of children’s literature. Mid-January the top awards in children’s literature are announced. These awards include the Caldecott award (for the most distinguished picture book) and the Newbery award (for the most distinguished overall contribution in […]

Children and teens are experiencing unprecedented changes to their lives and routines during the COVID-19 pandemic.  These challenges can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and stress.  While parents have received a lot of information on the physical effects of the disease and how to avoid exposure, they’ve been given little guidance on how to […]

Recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics I thought I’d depart from my usual book recommendations this month. With the coronavirus pandemic, many of you are faced with school closures and may be looking for resources for educational things to do with your kids to supplement any online learning the schools […]

It’s January which means lot of people are making new resolutions about exercising more. Encouraging kids to enjoy moving their bodies and being active is something that is great to do all year long. These books are fun ways to read about exercise and most of them have the added benefit of inviting movement as […]

Spring is the perfect time to STEP UP your fitness routine.  It’s time to move those feet!   First, you’ll need to purchase pedometers so you can track your progress, have fun adding to your step numbers, and celebrate your success! It doesn’t have to be a Fitbit or other high-tech option – an inexpensive clip-on […]

January 23, 2022 Dear Parents, As doctors who have dedicated our careers to safeguarding the health and welfare of the children in our community, and especially as the physicians you have chosen to care for your children, we feel it imperative to share the following thoughts and information with you regarding masking in our schools. […]

Important Notice: As of June 1, 2019, our practice will be open to the following Medicaid products only: Anthem HealthKeepers Plus (Medicaid MCO) Virginia Premier Health Plan (Medicaid MCO)   Please check your Medicaid Insurance ID card to verify that you are enrolled in one of these plans in order to begin or continue your healthcare […]

Back-to-School is an exciting time of year, but also a stressful one for both parents and kids. Here are our recommendations for minimizing back-to-school stress and anxiety: Manage Expectations In a society that strives for perfectionism, we are bombarded with pressures to perform at our highest level.  But life doesn’t always run smoothly — messes […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics I’m continuing to share some books we’ve used in our house as educational supplements. Last month we tackled reading and phonics. This month we’ll revisit some of my favorite books to use as to show kids that Math can be more than workbooks […]

National STEM/STEAM Day is November 8th! November 8th is “National STEM/STEAM Day” – a day to encourage kids to explore and pursue their interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math in fun and engaging ways. The ultimate goal is to show kids that these subjects are already all around them in everyday life, and […]

Parents going through a divorce often worry about their children’s well-being. A divorce is a significant change for everyone involved, and a child’s routine is often drastically disrupted in the early stages. This can lead to the child feeling out of control, worried and confused. As parents are trying to navigate this new phase of […]

Eating habits are an integral part of a child’s growth and development. While it’s common for children to go through phases of picky eating, it’s important for parents and caregivers to recognize when these behaviors may signify something more serious, such as disordered eating. In this blog post, we’ll explore the spectrum of eating behaviors, […]

January is a great time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the new one.  While it’s easy to make (and let’s be honest, break) resolutions for yourself, it’s a good idea to put some thought into how you as a family can improve together.  Below are some suggestions for New Years […]

With cold weather comes comfort food. As the temperature drops, healthy eating can be an increasing challenge. We’ve put together some tips for how to help keep your children’s nutrition on track this winter:   Avoid the Obstacles Food is at the center of a number of winter celebrations, but many traditional winter/holiday foods are […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Mid-Summer and many of us want to be at the beach enjoying the waves and sand. If you can’t go there yourself, the next best thing is sharing a great book about the beach with your kids. These picture books about the ocean […]

One of the best things about the weather getting warmer is how easy it is to get outside. Biking has always been one of my kids favorite activities. When they were younger it was a great way to get some exercise and have fun. And as they got older their bikes became a way to […]

School children of any age can experience classroom-related performance anxiety. Parents and pediatricians are noticing more stress and anxiety symptoms in children than ever before. This anxiety can sometimes overlap with panic attacks, sleep disturbances, and depression. The pressure can come from well-meaning parents, teachers, siblings, friends, and even the students themselves. Parents often struggle […]

April is National Poetry Month! It’s a great time to read poetry with kids. Maybe you have never been a poetry lover or your kids think poetry is boring. Give some of these books a try…they just might change your mind. Hailstones and Halibut Bones by Mary O’Neill A classic from 1961, this book contains poems about […]

A baby is often used to personify the new year in pop culture and cartoons. Thus it seemed fitting to focus our first blog post of 2022 on newborns.  If you’re expecting your own Baby New Year, or rather, a baby IN THE new year, read on for a checklist to make the transition easier. […]

Summer is the perfect time for new adventures, and for many children, this means nights away from home—whether it’s sleepovers with friends, visits to family members, or time spent at summer camp. These experiences are exciting and provide valuable opportunities for independence, socialization, and personal growth. However, it is essential to ensure that your child […]

As parents, it is crucial to be prepared for unexpected emergencies. While we cannot always prevent them, we can take steps to ensure we are equipped to handle them. This blog post provides essential tips to help you prepare for emergencies and keep your family safe.   Teach Your Child What To Do Parents need […]

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, many parents of high school seniors find themselves facing a bittersweet reality: their child is about to embark on a new journey. This transition is not just about academics or work; it’s about preparing them to be self-sufficient adults. As trusted pediatricians, we’ve seen countless […]

Book recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics February is a great time for reading about American history. It’s when we celebrate President’s Day and Black History Month. There are so many excellent books you can share with your kids. This year being an election year is an especially good time […]

Family gatherings, celebrations, traditions, travel, and gifts … while the holidays are intended to be a happy festive time, they can also be stressful for both children and adults.  Here are some tips for managing your family’s mental health this holiday season: Stick to Your Routine Holiday travel, events, and guests can wreak havoc on […]

April is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month along with National Child Abuse Prevention Month. It is important to raise awareness about the prevalence of different types of abuse inflicted on children. Every year, millions of children are exposed to violence and assault. The majority of documented cases involve family members or trusted caregivers. By […]

Recently we sat down and answered some of the most pressing questions we get from parents. What are important cognitive milestones for my one year old? One-year- olds are curious about most everything and try hard to explore the world around them. A typical 12-month- old: explores objects in many different ways (shaking, banging, throwing, […]

Modern families experience tremendous amounts of stress.  Children and adolescents are especially susceptible to mounting pressures from academics, extracurriculars, and their peers. In today’s environment, children and teens need to develop strengths, acquire skills to cope, recover from hardships, and be prepared for future challenges. They need to be resilient in order to succeed in […]

One of our favorite fall family activities is Apple Picking!  When you’re back from the orchard turn your harvest into this healthy snack with our recipe for Autumn Apple & Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins 🍎 Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats 1 1/2 cups milk (or almond milk) 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and grated 2 eggs […]

  Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Thanksgiving is possibly my favorite holiday. It’s (mostly) free from the commercial pressures of the bookends of Halloween and Christmas. It’s really all about eating good food, hanging out with family and friends and remembering our blessings. Gratitude is a character trait […]

2020 has been a year of challenges and changes for our kids… and ourselves.  Physical distancing, remote learning, fear and uncertainty have taken a toll on our children’s emotional health and sense of well-being.  But the new year brings with it new hope and the retrospect of lessons learned and resilience gained.  Resilience is the […]

This year marks 200 years since the first dinosaur (Megalosaurus) was discovered by William Buckland. That’s a good reason to check out these dinosaur themed with the young future paleontologist in your house. Another reason is that many kids are fascinated by dinosaurs and these books are a way to share that fascination with them. […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics This fall, I’ve been sharing some books to use as supplements for schooling at home during this season when school looks different than the norm. This month we’ll look at my favorite subject: science. Science is one of the easiest subjects to teach […]

Nothing says summer like ice cream. Of course, you can eat ice cream in any season but there is something especially delicious about a sweet cold treat on a hot summer day. Enjoy these equally delicious books with your kids maybe while eating a cone of mint chocolate chip or a dish of rainbow sherbet. […]

“Put your oxygen mask on first before assisting others.” Most of us have heard these words as we scramble to get ourselves situated before a flight. It is sage advice that should be incorporated into your daily life – not just inside the cabin of a 737. As a parent, there can be a strong […]

Grumpy, Sneezy and Sleepy may be names of Snow White’s dwarves, but they’re also signs your child may be suffering from seasonal allergies.  Read on to learn how to differentiate allergies from illness, and whether or not your child needs to be seen by their Doc (see what we did there?)… According to the American […]

Who isn’t excited to wake up to snow on the first snowy day of the year? Even die-hard snow haters have to find the first snowfall of the season magical. These are great books to curl up and read with hot chocolate on a snow day or on a day when you are wishing for […]

Sports are a great way to introduce children to an active lifestyle, build camaraderie with their teammates, and expend extra energy. While there are numerous physical, social and emotional benefits to playing sports, it is vital to consider safety before, during, and after sports to prevent injury.  Follow the safety tips below to ensure your […]

Spring is just around the corner and with it, spring cleaning!  A good spring clean-up is a tradition that promotes wellness by keeping your environment clean and orderly.  But a changing season can inspire change in our routines as well. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be limited to your home; there are lots of ways […]

As the days grow warmer and longer, spring brings a sense of renewal and a perfect opportunity to focus on the health and wellness of our children. Here are some tips to ensure your family enjoys a healthy and active spring season: 1. Outdoor Safety: With children eager to play outside, it’s crucial to ensure […]

As I was driving to work today, I was struck by how much my son would have once loved all the construction trucks and equipment on RT 66 now. This may mostly have to do with the fact that my son is a second semester senior in high school and I find myself nostalgic about […]

Family gatherings, celebrations, traditions, travel, and gifts … while the holidays are intended to be a joyful time, they can also be stressful for both children and adults.  Here are some tips for managing your family’s mental health this holiday season:   Stick to Your Routine Holiday travel, events, and guests can wreak havoc on […]

As parents, we’re constantly on a quest to ensure our children grow up healthy, happy, and well-adjusted. This includes everything from choosing the right foods to enrolling them in enriching activities. Yet, the push to schedule every moment can lead to stress for both parents and children. Here we explore how to find the perfect […]

Summer is often the time when families travel. These books might be good companions on a trip or might help satisfy wanderlust if your family is staying home this summer.   Picture Books:   Journey by Aaron Becker This beautiful wordless picture book was a 2014 Caldecott Honor Book. It tells the story of a […]

June is National Safety Month.  This year especially, safety is on the top of every parent’s mind.  We’ve compiled a list of 8 key areas of concern and how you can safeguard your children this summer. 1. COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic is still active in our area.  As restrictions loosen and more people are out, […]

Now that school is almost out, your child will be spending more time in the great outdoors. Summer skin care is important at every age, so here are some tips and ideas to keep your children safe and healthy. HYDRATE! Your child’s skin needs proper hydration just as much as their body. Skin is the […]

Vacationing with kids can be a great adventure that allows family members to reconnect and strengthen their bonds. Summer break offers more opportunities for both short and long trips. The excitement that comes with the anticipation of upcoming travel can be short-lived when a member of your family becomes injured or ill. Here are some […]

One of the best things about warm weather is spending time in the water. Whether you’re at the lake, pool, beach, or water park, being in the water is the perfect way to cool off. But water poses a serious threat, especially to children.  According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), drowning remains the […]

Skin cancer is the most preventable cancer there is today. It is also one of the fastest-growing cancers among adults, and it is rapidly increasing among children. The dangers of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation or UV light are well documented. Luckily, we can still enjoy time outdoors with the proper precautions. Keep reading to learn […]

Although teen pregnancy rates in the United States have reached record lows, pregnancies under the age of 20 are still relatively common. If you learn that your teen is facing a pregnancy, the best course of action is to remain calm and offer your support. The best suitable course of action to follow hinges on […]

It’s the time of gift-giving which often means books in our house. A great gift is the first book in a series that will then promise hours and hours of happy reading.The series below are all ones our family has enjoyed together. Many of these we read-aloud as a family (with the oldest child hearing […]

Studies have shown that children who move schools frequently are 35% more likely to fail a grade. When a child moves schools, they have to rebuild familiarity, trust, and meaningful relationships. If a child has a learning disability or a condition that calls for additional assistance, repeat moves can be even more difficult. Although a […]

  It’s time to get stepping! Join Farrell and South Riding Pediatrics in our annual step challenge from April 1-30. The top three children or adolescent finishes will receive $50 towards their favorite athletic brand or store! Anyone who meets the Super Stepper goal of 300,000 steps will receive a prize in our office. (That’s […]

February is American Heart Month, National Children’s Dental Month and, thanks to Valentine’s Day, it’s also one of the highest months of sugar consumption each year.  The average adult American eats about 17 teaspoons of added sugar a day, which is nearly double the recommended limit for men and triple the recommended limit for women. The average […]

Music soothes the savage beast…or the cranky toddler. Kids love music, and books about music are a great way to explore this love differently. Here is a list of musical books you can enjoy with kids of all ages.   Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin by Lloyd Moss is a classic that was featured on […]

  If your child is like 97% of America’s youth between the ages of 12-17, they’re likely playing video games. Unfortunately, the resulting increase in sedentary behavior has become the new norm for summer schedules. Children are more likely to engage in screen time than physical activity. As this trend continues, younger children are becoming […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Back in May we talked about books that centered on home because we are all spending more time at home. If your family is like mine, you are missing summer travel. Even if you can’t travel due to the pandemic, you can read […]

What is RSV? Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that primarily affects the respiratory system, causing cold-like symptoms in most children. While many children experience mild illness, RSV can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and young children, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia. These complications can sometimes result in hospitalization, particularly for […]

When your child gets older, their medical care is different than when they are young. As they reach puberty and their teenage years, the need for privacy increases, and their health and medical needs are no exception. Many young adults and teenagers are not comfortable reaching out to their parents for help. Instead, they rely […]

Many parents worry about whether or not their baby will be safe in a public environment, fearing that they may contract a virus or disease. Thankfully, there are multiple vaccines that are administered between the age of birth to six months that prevent the infection and spread of harmful illnesses that can be life-threatening to […]

We get a lot of questions about vaccines from parents. Here are some answers to some of the most common questions. Why should I vaccinate my child?  The use of vaccines has led to major improvements in child health over a relatively short period.  Immunizations have helped children stay healthy for more than 50 years. […]

Bullying is a concern for many families and their children and can have devastating consequences including depression, anxiety, and in some cases self-harm. In order to tackle this problem head-on, it is important to understand how to recognize, respond, and prevent bullying in all its forms.   We often think of bullying as something that […]

February is National Heart Month, and it is a great time to educate ourselves about common health concerns related to children’s hearts. Heart conditions can be severe, and it is critical for parents to know the various heart conditions that can affect their children. Thankfully, many are treatable and caught before they become severe medical […]

Punxsutawney Phil may may have predicted an early spring, but rest assured we have plenty of winter weather left in the season.  Here are some helpful tips on how to keep your family healthy during the cold weather months:   Dress for the cold Whether you’re battling a teen who wants to wear shorts, a […]

Reading recommendations from Dr. Alice Mar of our sister practice, Farrell Pediatrics Ah, summer! Time to laze by the pool. Time to savor an ice cream cone. Time to go on a long road trip and watch the world go by out the window. And time to read great books. Try these books that conjure […]