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
AAP Advises Parents against Using Retail-Based Clinics
AAP Advises Parents against Using Retail-Based Clinics Families may decide to use a retail-based health clinic because they believe it is convenient and less expensive, but according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), these clinics do not provide children with the high-quality, regular preventive health care children need. In an updated policy statement published in the March 2014 Pediatrics, the AAP emphasizes that retail-based clinics are an inappropriate source of primary care for children because they fragment children’s health care and do not support the medical home. The policy statement, “AAP Principles Concerning Retail-Based Clinics” released online Feb. 24, updates the Academy’s 2006 policy statement, which expressed strong opposition to the use of retail-based clinics. The AAP acknowledges that the number of retail-based clinics has grown to more than 6,000 as of 2012. Surveys indicate 15 percent of children are likely to use a retail-based clinic in the future, although the majority of patients are adults. “The AAP recognizes that convenience and access to care will continue to be important drivers of how health care is delivered,” said James Laughlin, MD, FAAP, lead author of the policy statement. “However, the expertise of the pediatrician and the medical home should continue to be recognized as the standard for care of children, and we encourage all AAP members to provide accessible hours and locations as part of a medical home.” Pediatricians are specifically trained in child health issues. They know each child’s health history, and are best equipped to take care of both simple and complicated problems comprehensively within the medical home. As young patients and their health issues become more complex, the possibility arises that even a simple complaint may be related to a more serious, underlying condition that could be overlooked by someone who is less familiar with the patient, according to the AAP. While the AAP believes the medical home is the optimal standard of care for pediatric patients, and does not recommend that parents use retail-based health clinics, it is understood that the services of these clinics may be used for acute care outside of the medical home. If parents choose to use a retail-based clinic for their child’s illness, they should ask if the clinic has a formal relationship with their pediatrician, if the clinic will communicate with the pediatrician about the visit, and what the protocol is for following up if the illness does not resolve or the clinic is closed. Parents should consider only using retail-based clinics that have a formal relationship with their child’s pediatrician
Colic
Does your infant have a regular fussy period each day when it seems you can do nothing to comfort her? This is quite common, particularly between 6:00 p.m. and midnight—just when you, too, are feeling tired from the day’s trials and tribulations. These periods of crankiness may feel like torture, especially if you have other demanding children or work to do, but fortunately they don’t last long. The length of this fussing usually peaks at about three hours a day by six weeks and then declines to one or two hours a day by three to four months. As long as the baby calms within a few hours and is relatively peaceful the rest of the day, there’s no reason for alarm. If the crying does not stop, but intensifies and persists throughout the day or night, it may be caused by colic. About one-fifth of all babies develop colic, usually between the second and fourth weeks. They cry inconsolably, often screaming, extending or pulling up their legs, and passing gas. Their stomachs may be enlarged or distended with gas. The crying spells can occur around the clock, although they often become worse in the early evening. Unfortunately, there is no definite explanation for why this happens. Most often, colic means simply that the child is unusually sensitive to stimulation or cannot “self-console” or regulate his nervous system. (Also known as an immature nervous system.) As she matures, this inability to self-console—marked by constant crying—will improve. Generally this “colicky crying” will stop by three to four months, but it can last until six months of age. Sometimes, in breastfeeding babies, colic is a sign of sensitivity to a food in the mother’s diet. The discomfort is caused only rarely by sensitivity to milk protein in formula. Colicky behavior also may signal a medical problem, such as a hernia or some type of illness. Although you simply may have to wait it out, several things might be worth trying. First, of course, consult your pediatrician to make sure that the crying is not related to any serious medical condition that may require treatment. Then ask him which of the following would be most helpful. If you’re nursing, you can try to eliminate milk products, caffeine, onions, cabbage, and any other potentially irritating foods from your own diet. If you’re feeding formula to your baby, talk with your pediatrician about a protein hydrolysate formula. If food sensitivity is causing the discomfort, the colic should decrease within a few days of these changes. Do not overfeed your baby, which could make her uncomfortable. In general, try to wait at least two to two and a half hours from the start of one feeding to the start of the next one. Walk your baby in a baby carrier to soothe her. The motion and body contact will reassure her, even if her discomfort persists. Rock her, run the vacuum in the next room, or place her where she can hear the clothes dryer, a fan or a white- noise machine. Steady rhythmic motion and a calming sound may help her fall asleep. However, be sure to never place your child on top of the washer/dryer. Introduce a pacifier. While some breastfed babies will actively refuse it, it will provide instant relief for others. Lay your baby tummy-down across your knees and gently rub her back. The pressure against her belly may help comfort her. Swaddle her in a large, thin blanket so that she feels secure and warm. When you’re feeling tense and anxious, have a family member or a friend look after the baby—and get out of the house. Even an hour or two away will help you maintain a positive attitude. No matter how impatient or angry you become, a baby should never be shaken. Shaking an infant hard can cause blindness, brain damage, or even death. Let your own doctor know if you are depressed or are having trouble dealing with your emotions, as she can recommend ways to help. Last Updated 10/31/2013 Source Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5 (Copyright © 2009 American Academy of Pediatrics)
Meet the Team: Tiffany Daniels
Tiffany just had her 2 year anniversary with us! She is a Medical Assistant working weekends and the Wednesday night shift. Q: Where are you from? A: I’m from Hinesville, Georgia Q: Where did you go to school? A: I graduated from Trinity Baptist College and majored in history. Q: Do you have a spouse, children or pets? A: I have a husband and two children. A girl that is 4 and a boy that is 3. Q: How do you spend your time outside of work? A: I love to read, mostly classic literature and mystery. I also love to cook, but I HATE baking. Q: I understand you are very crafty, and even have your own Etsy store. A: I love craft projects to the point of obsession. I am a master at party streamers! I love holidays and celebrate as many as I can, much to the annoyance of my family. Q: How would you describe your job at Pediatric Care Center? A: I love my job and my co-workers!
Meet the Team: Amanda Boggs
Amanda has worked as a front desk receptionist for 2 ½ years! On her first weekend working she didn’t want to call in sick so she came into work with stomach pain. As the day went on it became worse and the provider working was so concerned she sent her home. An hour later her husband called that she was going into surgery for acute appendicitis! From that time on we knew we had a dedicated and hard- working employee! Let’s learn a bit more about Amanda. Q: Where are you from? A: I was a military brat so we moved around but I graduated high school in St. Louis, MO Q: How long have you been in Jacksonville? A: 14 years Q: Do you have a spouse, children or pets? A: I have a husband and two children ages 5 years and 2 months. And a Pomeranian named Static. Q: How do you spend your time outside of work? A: I have two more years of college to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Health Administration. I spend time with my family. I do Cross-fit and enjoy throwing the football with my husband. Q: How would you describe your job at Pediatric Care Center? A: Fun and interesting. I’m still learning new things Q: What’s the #1 question you get asked most in the office? A: What time do you close?
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
New Years Resolutions for Kids!
We’ve found some great resolutions for kids of all ages. Pick a few with your kids for 2014! Preschoolers I will clean up my toys and put them where they belong. I will brush my teeth twice a day, and wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating. I won’t tease dogs or other pets – even friendly ones. I will avoid being bitten by keeping my fingers and face away from their mouths. I will talk with my parent or a trusted adult when I need help or am scared. Kids, 5- to 12-years-old I will drink reduced-fat milk and water every day, and drink soda and fruit drinks only on special times. I will put on sunscreen before I go outdoors on bright sunny days. I will try to stay in the shade whenever possible and wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when I’m playing sports. I will try to find a sport (like basketball or soccer) or an activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) that I like and do it at least three times a week! I will always wear a helmet when riding a bike. I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I’ll sit in the back seat and use a booster seat until I am tall enough to use a lap/shoulder seat belt. I’ll be nice to other kids. I’ll be friendly to kids who need friends or who may have a hard time making friends – like someone who is shy, or is new to my school. I’ll never give out private information such as my name, home address and school name or telephone number on the Internet. Also, I’ll never send a picture of myself to someone I chat with on the computer without asking my parent if it is okay. Kids, 13-years-old and up I will try to eat two servings of fruit and two servings of vegetables every day, and I will drink sodas only on special times. I will take care of my body through physical activity and eating the right types and amounts of foods. I will choose non-violent television shows and video games, and I will spend only one to two hours each day – at the most – on these activities. I will help out in my community – through giving some of my time to help others, working with community groups or by joining a group that helps people in need. When I feel angry or stressed out, I will take a break and find helpful ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or talking about my problem with a parent or friend. When faced with a difficult decision, I will talk about my choices with an adult whom I can trust. When I notice my friends are struggling or making risky choices, I will talk with a trusted adult and attempt to find a way that I can help them. I will be careful about whom I choose to date, and always treat the other person with respect and without forcing them to do something or using violence. I will expect to be treated the same way in return. I will resist peer pressure to try tobacco, e-cigarettes, drugs or alcohol. I agree not to use a cell phone or text message while driving and to always use a seat belt. The preceding New Years resolutions for kids are from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
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.