Tips for Soothing a Fussy Baby
Written for www.confessionsofadrmom.com blog on May 7, 2014 by Melissa Being a newborn can be hard work. Being a parent of a newborn can be even harder. It’s exactly like everyone told you it would be, except now you’re living it. It’s overwhelming. Exhausting. All Consuming. But also the most beautiful, amazing, and important moment of your life. Parenthood certainly changes you. And just when you feel like you’re easing into your new role…the crying begins. And it only seems to be getting worse. Your beautiful bundle of joy has taken to distressing bouts of crying. She often looks like she’s in pain and no matter what you do, the crying continues. Sure, it could be “colic” which is really a non-descript term that, by definition, follows the rule of 3′s: crying for more than 3 hours per day, for at least 3 days per week, and for 3 weeks or longer. We know all babies go through a phase of increased crying. This crying peaks between 2 weeks of life up until 3 months of age. After which, the crying dramatically improves. Their digestive and nervous systems are still maturing, not yet completely ready to take on all the sights/sounds/tastes that the world has to offer. And some babies are simply more sensitive to these outside stimuli. Here are some ways to help your little one through this increased crying phase: Swaddle: Invest in a generous sized/thin swaddling blanket and hone those burrito wrap skills. Most babies dislike the process of swaddling, but once they’re snug and secure…they love it. Give it a try. And try again. Have a seasoned mom friend show you the way or ask your pediatrician to show you. Rock/Walk/Sway. Get moving. Babies love to move. Find your rhythm with your baby. And remember, this is a soothing and gentle process. Never shake your baby. Non-nutritive sucking. Sucking is soothing for babies. So if you know your baby is full and/or has just been fed; offer a pacifier to help calm him down. Side or tummy hold. While you should always place your baby on his back to sleep to decrease the risk of SIDS, try holding your baby on his side or tummy and rub his back. Or do the bicycle legs while talking or singing to your baby. Get outside. A little fresh air and change of scenery does everyone good. I recall vividly how well this worked for my own little one. It was amazing to see that the crying instantly stopped the second we stepped outside. Warm bath. Every baby is different and some dislike this completely while others love it. Give it a try for your little one and see how she responds during her fussy period. Quiet or soft/soothing white noise. Some babies just need to be. Turn down the loud ambient household noise and turn on some soothing background white noise (think sound machine or relaxing music) to help your baby feel calm. It might just work for you too. Take care of yourself, take a break! Crying can weigh on our souls as new parents. No matter how hard we try, we can’t help but take the persistent crying personally. It’s distressing to us. So, ask for help. Put your baby down in a safe place like a crib or bassinet and take a breather. Take shifts with your partner. Go for a walk and take that overdue shower. A little self care will go a long way in getting through the crying spells of infancy. Remember, you are a good parent and your baby is a good baby. Crying is not bad. It’s a normal development process for our newborns. And yes, you can be a baby whisperer too. Always talk to your pediatrician about your baby’s crying and bring him in to be checked if you’re worried about the crying. Infant reflux, food sensitivities, and other conditions could exacerbate this period of crying. Medication such as gripe water, “gas drops”, and probiotics have not been proven to help but some parents swear by them. Above all, remember, that this too shall pass. It will. There is a light at the end of this crying tunnel…and that light is the bright smile that suddenly greets you one fine morning. The smile that beams pure love. From your beautiful baby. And it’s all for you.
100 Free (and almost free) Things to Do In Jacksonville this Summer
At this point of the Summer, you may be running out (or have already run out!) of things to do with your kiddos. Luckily, Jacksonville Mom has the perfect list chock-full of free or cheap activities to help keep you and your kids enjoy the rest of the Summer season. Check it out below and make this Summer one to remember! Summer Bucket List: 100 Free & Cheap Things to Do In Jacksonville
Finding the Right Read ~ from Kids Health from Nemours
Books make great gifts for kids, but it’s important to find reading material that fits a child’s interests, maturity, and reading level. Before you set off to the bookstore or library, here are some guidelines. Babies and Toddlers Until kids are about 2 years old, think tactile and short. Thick board books with bright colors, bold yet simple pictures, and few words are ideal. These books may include interactive elements, such as parts that move, items that invite touching, and mirrors. Books with different textures, fold-out books, or vinyl or cloth books also are appropriate for babies and toddlers. Books that can be propped up or wiped clean are excellent choices. Look for books about bedtime, baths, or mealtime or about saying hello or goodbye, especially if they’re illustrated with photos of children. And if peek-a-boo is your little one’s favorite game, books with flaps are a perfect choice. Many older toddlers (2- and 3-year-olds) start to understand how reading works and will love repetitive or rhyming books that let them finish sentences or “read” to themselves. From colors to numbers to how to get dressed, older toddlers love books that reinforce what they are learning every day. And if you have a budding ballerina or animal enthusiast on your hands, look for books about these (or other) passions. Preschoolers Around the time kids are 3 or 4, they start to enjoy books that tell stories. Their increasing attention spans and ability to understand more words make picture books with more complicated plots a good choice. Stories with an element of fantasy, from talking animals to fairies, will spark their imagination, as will books about distant times and places. Try nonfiction books about a single topic of interest that the child likes. Since many kids this age are learning the alphabet and numbers, books with letters and counting are ideal. Those dealing with emotions, manners, or going to school can help kids navigate some of the tricky transitions that happen during this time. Electronic books (e-books) are becoming more common these days. There isn’t enough research yet to know their full impact on reading development and comprehension. But whether your child is reading a traditional book or an e-book, it’s important to stay close. There is no substitute for your presence and for quality parent-child conversation. School-Age Kids For kids entering school and starting to read, look for easy-to-read books with vocabularies they know so that they can read them independently. Many book publishers indicate the reading level of books on the cover and may include a key to help you understand those different levels. You can also choose books that are above a child’s reading level to read aloud. Look for books that relate to kids’ interests but also encourage exploration of new interests through reading about unfamiliar subjects. For example, if a child is interested in cowboys, look for books that talk about the days of the Wild West, what cowboys are like today, or historical fiction set in the 19th century. Kids this age might like reading with an e-reader, and choosing e-books is really no different from picking a traditional book. Consider the child’s interests and reading level. When young kids use e-readers, parents should still be nearby to talk about the book and help extend the child’s thinking about what was read. Kids of All Ages All kids love to giggle, so books of silly poems, jokes, or songs are sure to be a hit. Collections of fairy tales, children’s stories, poetry, or nursery rhymes offer a wide variety within a single book. Wordless books with imaginative illustrations can be fun even for kids who know how to read. Looking at pictures and creating a story develops imagination and broad thinking. And don’t forget the books and stories you loved as a child. Chances are, you had good reasons to love them — and your kids will, too.
What you should know about the Affordable Care Act (AKA – Obamacare)
Since it took effect in 2010, the health reform law, otherwise known as the Affordable Care Act or ACA, has made important changes to the way health care coverage works for children and families. Starting October 1, 2013, you can compare insurance options to find the right plan for you and your family. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has created this list to explain some key things you should know. 1. Benefits and protections are already available. Expanded Coverage: Children under age 26 can be covered by a parent’s health insurance policy. Youth under age 26 who aged out of foster care at age 18 or older will be eligible for Medicaid coverage effective January 1, 2014 (enrollment begins October 1st). Children under age 19 can’t be denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition. Benefits: Families can choose a pediatrician as a child’s primary care doctor. New private health plans must cover the cost of preventive care. Out-of-pocket costs are capped at $5,950/individual/year and $11,900/family/year. Protections: Insurance companies can no longer set lifetime dollar limits on health benefits. Insurance companies can no longer drop people if they get sick. 2. Having health insurance is now a requirement. As of January 1, 2014, almost all Americans will be required to have health insurance or pay a penalty. If you have access to affordable insurance through your employer: You do not need to change insurance coverage if you don’t want to. If you do not have access to affordable coverage: You can get health insurance through your state’s marketplace. Enrollment for new coverage begins October 1, 2013. 3. The marketplace is a new way to get health insurance for you and your family. You can buy insurance directly from an insurance company or through a broker, or you can sign up through your new state marketplace. Through the marketplace, you can also find out if you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Through the marketplace, you can also find out if you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). 4. Your application in the health insurance marketplace will tell you if you are eligible for financial assistance to help you buy private insurance. The amount of assistance depends on your family’s yearly income. You may also have no cost if you qualify for Medicaid or CHIP. 5. The marketplace offers a number of different health plans, and families should compare plans to ensure they meet their needs. The marketplace offers 4 different levels of health insurance plans. Those least expensive (bronze) have fewer benefits and higher out-of-pocket costs. Those that are the most expensive (platinum) have more benefits and lower out-of-pocket costs. Make sure you choose an insurance plan that works for your family’s needs. Families, especially those who have children with special health care needs, need to make sure the plan they purchase includes: Access to pediatric specialists and pediatric surgical specialists. Preventive care, such as well-child check-ups and immunizations. Habilitative services to help a child keep, learn, or improve functioning. Rehabilitative services such as physical or speech therapy. Vision and dental care (dental plans may be sold separately) 6. Make sure your current pediatrician is included in the plan you choose. Choosing a plan that includes your pediatrician will allow you to stay within your current medical home. 7. Have questions? There are people who can help. Your state’s marketplace has people who can help you compare plans and enroll your family in coverage. Information shared from: https://www.healthcare.gov/what-is-the-marketplace-in-my-state/ Contact via phone (available ): 1-800-318-2596
Write Down Questions and Concerns for Our Pediatric Doctors
When your child is sick, your attention is focused on helping him or her feel better — as it should be! But while you’re soothing and hugging and making chicken soup, it’s also important to take a minute to write down information that will help us help you. Our children’s doctors, nurse practitioners and nurses in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach can serve you better if you arrive at your appointment with details about your child’s illness and questions about things that concern you. For a sick child visit, it helps us if you have written down when you started seeing symptoms, what the symptoms are, and how they have progressed. Memory can be unreliable, so keep a running list of the information and bring it with you to the office. Also write down a list of questions you might have about your child’s condition and how you can help speed his or her recovery. Have you ever said to yourself, “Oh, I need to remember to ask the doctor about…” but then forgot when you got the office? You’re not alone. The best solution is to put your concerns on paper. Writing down your questions as they occur to you is just as important for well visits to our pediatric doctors and nurses. Because of the time between visits, a question that comes to mind a month or two before your scheduled appointment could be long gone by the time you come in. Whether you’re seeing us for a well visit or because of an illness, every symptom and question is important, so don’t take chances by relying on memory alone.
Employers and KidCare
Did you know that some Jacksonville employers offer 24X7 KidCare coupons as an employee benefit? They understand that by providing a resource for their employees to have their children receive timely treatment from pediatric doctors, they’re building worker loyalty and reducing the amount of time employees might need to have off from work to care for sick kids. For parents, pre-paid KidCare coupons provide peace of mind in two ways. For one, they allow you to save more than 50 percent on Jacksonville children’s doctor visits. For another, they help you avoid the potentially troublesome expense of an unplanned visit. Several options are available. Individuals can purchase a booklet for one well visit, five sick visits and five rechecks for $270 (a $630 value), or two well visits, five sick visits and five rechecks for $350 ($710 value). A family coupon booklet for two well visits, eight sick visits, and eight rechecks is available for $499 ($1,040 value). If you haven’t tried KidCare coupons, you can find more information here, or purchase a coupon booklet now by clicking here and following the instructions. And why not mention to your employer that providing workers with 24X7 KidCare coupons is great employee perk, either as a paid benefit or as part of a cafeteria plan of services. On top of that, it’s a sound business decision.
Our Children’s Doctors in Jacksonville Provide Summer Tips
Meet the Team: Allison Corbett
This month, we sat down with Allison Corbett, one of our office managers, to learn a little more about her. Here’s what we found out: Q: Where are you from? A: Jacksonville Beach, FL Q: What’s your favorite activity after work? A: Spending time with my family Q: How many children do you have or would you like to have? A: I have 2 girls. Isabelle, 12 and Abigail, 3 ½ Q: Do you have pets? A: NO Q: How would you describe your job at Pediatric Care Center? A: Fun and Fulfilling Q: Are you what you wanted to be when you grew up? A: I have never been able to pin point exactly what I wanted to be but once I started this job I knew I am exactly where I should be. Q: What’s the number 1 question you get asked in the office? A: Do you speak Spanish? Q: Have you seen any trends in the area that parents have questions about? A: A lot of children have a stomach virus. Parents want to know when to come in, what to feed their child when they have it and how long it can last. Q: Do you have any tips about what parents can do to make the most of their visit with the doctor? A: Make sure you come prepared with a list of questions you want to ask. Q: Tell us a funny story from the office. A: We had a cat out at the Beach office that lives on the porch. He was very playful and super sweet. One night a dad that we were checking in said, “Oh you have a cat?” So I said, “Yes, we have a cat,” as I was looking behind him, out the front door. He quickly responded, “NO, not outside, right behind you!” We all got a good laugh at the cat sneaking inside.
Meet the Team: Jennifer Kesphol
Please take a moment to get to know our office’s Referral Coordinator, Jennifer Kesphol, this month’s featured staff member. Q: Where are you from? A: I am of Puerto Rican & Spanish decent. Originally from Brooklyn, NY but consider myself a beach girl since I did go to Fletcher. Q: What’s your favorite activity after work? A: My favorite is riding bikes around the beach. My “usual” is cleaning and laundry through! Q: How many children do you have or would you like to have? A: I have a 6 yr old daughter and almost 2yr old son. Q: Do you have pets? What kind? A: Yes, we have a retired racing Greyhound named Percy. Q: How would you describe your job at Jax Beach Pediatrics? A: Busy! I don’t see our patients face-to-face as much as I did as an Medical Assistant and I’m on the phone A LOT but I have a direct impact on their specialized care and enjoy what I do. Q: Are you what you wanted to be when you grew up? A: Yes, happy! Q: What’ the number #1 question you get asked in the office? A: By Patients: “how old is your baby now!?!” For some reason our patients always remember me as the very pregnant one and can’t believe it’s been 2 years already. By co-workers “did you get that message?” Q: Have you seen in local trends (in illness) in the area that parents have questions about? A: In my position I see patients who need specialist care. The most common things I see are nutrition related or allergy issues. Q: Do you have any tips about what parents can do to make the most of their visit with the doctor? A: Prepare your child and be honest. If they are coming for shots, tell them so. When kids think everyone at the office is “the mean one” they don’t trust us and that makes it harder to get them to cooperate. Q: Tell us one funny story from the office. A: Well, I helped with adopting one of our “office-cats”, Patrick through First Coast No More Homeless Pets. His tag was registered in my name. One night I got a phone call at 2am from the Gate gas station next to the office. They had Patrick locked in their bathroom!! They said he was running into the store and trying to steal snacks from the shelves! That cat was hilarious. He ended up going to a “real home’ with one of our patients families because he was too friendly to be just a porch kitty.
Best Places to Work in NE Florida
We just found out we were chosen as one of the Jacksonville Business Journal’s Top 25 Best Places to Work in Northeast Florida – for the 2nd year in a row!! YEA!!