Pityriasis Alba: A Common Skin Condition in Children

This summer in clinic, I’ve been hearing a recurring question: what are these white spots on my child’s face? In most cases, the answer has been: Pityriasis Alba And though the name is somewhat fancy and possibly confusing, this skin condition is quite common in children between the ages of 3-16. What is Pityriasis Alba?…

5 DOs and 1 DON’T when getting children to take their medicine

Sometimes our children need to take medicine, and sometimes making them do it can be downright painful. Your toddler may run and scream at the sight of the medicine dropper. Or your preschooler stands firm, looks you straight in the eyes, yells “NO!” and clamps her mouth firmly shut. You’re likely wishing Mary Poppins would…

A very personal and important message

“I was just in a bad car accident” Words you never want to hear out of a loved one’s mouth. It was a Friday afternoon and we had been looking forward to attending a fun concert with the kids. I had just settled the kids in for an afternoon rest before dinner. We were awaiting…

Squaring Off: SpongeBob Fancy Pants

That’s how he’s known in our household. Unfortunately, as of late, he’s known as the animated sponge that is apparently destroying your child’s brain. Yes, yes I exaggerate, but surely you have heard of this recent study. If not click here, then come right back. Now you see, the only thing the study has actually…

Does Your Child Get Enough Sleep?

Sleep. Essential. Elusive. In seemingly short supply. We all crave it. We all need it. And most of us know the untoward effects of sleep deprivation on ourselves. However, do you know the long term effects of sleep deprivation on your children? Sure, we all know they can get cranky and prone to temper tantrums….

In the ER feeling scared and helpless

That’s where I was ten years ago on 9/11. We all have that date and time forever imprinted on our hearts and minds. I never felt quite right sharing my own version of “where were you” on 9/11 because honestly, my story paled in comparison to being there. In New York. In the Twin Towers….

I Pay My Kids to go to Sleep

Bedtime is serious business around here. Once I’ve announced that the bedtime routine has commenced, I’m in no mood for elaborate stalling techniques or having to repeat myself 10 times before a certain Big Brother actually brushes his teeth. I guess you could call me the bedtime drill sergeant…whatever. I’m completely serious about bedtime. It’s…