With Texas Summer sun fast approaching, we hope you are ready to have your children getting plenty of exercise while out of school for summer break. Summer is a perfect time for children to get some much-deserved relaxation and time to let their busy little minds rest and relaxation. With relaxation time we hope much of it is spent outside having fun rather than inside with too much screen time.
 While fun in the sun is the goal, one should keep safety in mind. The sun provides several benefits such as Vitamin D, lowers depression and increases energy levels. But, too much sun for too long can be harmful. Out of the possible damage, children under the age of 18 are most susceptible. It is always wise to send your children out covered even if you think it will only be a short while.
Sunburn Prevention
Skin cancer is diagnosed over a million times a year in the USA, and one in 5 Americans will get skin cancer at some point in their lifetime. Melanoma kills thousands of Americans each year. As always, prevention is the best medicine.
 Between the hours of 10AM and 4PM, you should be especially vigilant in making sure your child is protected from sunburn with sunscreen. If possible, try to avoid being outside too much during these times. If your child is going to be spending some time in the sun, you will want to make sure you apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every 2-3 hours. Cloudy days do not stop sunburns or harmful rays, either. Also, protective covering is beneficial always. Try to make sure you keep a hat and sunglasses handy for yourself and your children.
 Hydration, hydration, hydration!
If there is one thing we see a lot of in Austin, it is children who get dehydrated. In fact, this is common through all of Texas. Make sure your child is drinking water at regular intervals, and not when they are thirsty. By the time children want a drink, they are often already dehydrated.
Choose a proper sunscreen
When choosing a sunscreen for the extreme Austin heat, remember, not anything will work. You want to choose a full-spectrum sunscreen covering both UVA and UVB rays. The SPF should be as high as possible and no less than 50. If you will be near water, remember to select a waterproof sunscreen, and that needs to be applied every hour to hour and a half. Besides, lotions or creams are better than spray on, as you want to be sure the coat is liberal and full.
 We hope you take care when adventuring around Austin with your children.  Remember, you can always contact us at Capital Pediatric at 512-454-4545 if you have any concerns about what is safe. If a mistake happens and your child is injured from too much time in the sun, please make sure to contact us for advice. In a worst-case scenario, we to schedule an appointment if necessary. Remember, we at Capital Pediatric are always here to help. We would much rather see your child happy, healthy and safe than in our offices tending to a burn this summer.

​Technology use by children has become somewhat of a debate in recent years. Cell phone use and games are becoming prevalent as devices become more available, this debate is not going away. At Capital Pediatric we have noticed and want to be sure our family is happy and healthy in mind as well as body.
 While the jury is still out on exactly what effect technology may have on children, there are some points of consideration. Last year, Bill Gates made headlines when he stated he prefers to limit screen time for his children. Gates admitted he limits his children’s screen time, it then came out that several others did the same. Steve Jobs had similar rules. Mark Zuckerberg wrote a message to his children to spend more time exploring the world and less behind a computer. When the builders of our world do not want to expose their family to their creations, we should take note.
Why are we worried about this technology? The primary concern is what we call 'screen time'. Children show in studies not to be able to process time spent in front of a screen, whether it be a cell phone, tablet, computer or television. Screen time is not all bad, but excessive screen time can be dangerous.  Studies have shown that too much screen time can damage eyes. Yet, that is the least of the worries in comparison to the psychological effects. A child exposed to too much screen time can affect performance in school, concentration and depression. Years of compounded excessive screen time links to severe depression in adults.
There is no need to be concerned if your child is using computers or cell phones for entertainment; the key is moderation. Cell phone addiction is possible. The signs of screen time addiction are like other bad habits. If the child is obsessive about devices, using them or begging for them often. If they are always talking about them when not using them. Lack of concentration with devices around, depression and lack of motivation when not using the device are all signs of addiction.  This is not to say that talking about a device or game is wrong. If the child can not go 30 minutes without speaking about a device for hours at a time, there may be a problem.

What you can do to prevent a problem:
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-Limit screen time
My house has a 30-30-30 plan; we give the children 30 minutes each of tablet, computer and television time. They have every right to 'cap and trade' with other devices. For example, my son will watch two episodes of Power Rangers for 40 minutes before moving on to the tablet for 20 minutes.
-Split up time
After finishing one device, it is break time, meal time, or it is time to do something else like playing outside or read a book before moving on to the next.
-No use an hour before bedtime
This is a good thing to do regardless because screen time excites the brain and will leave them in an agitated state at bedtime. It is good to have children play or read in the time before bed, calming the mind and making sleep faster.
-Taking away time
While it is not a good idea to use such things as a reward for good behavior, taking it away for bad behavior is healthy for the child.

These tips will help you raise a healthy child. Pay attention to warning signs. If you have any questions, remember you can always give the doctors here at Capital Pediatric a call for helpful advice.

​Children enjoy exercising naturally. Young people getting enough exercise has historically never been very much of an issue until recent years with all of the technological advances of modern times. Both parents are usually working and when they get home are too tired to participate in exercising with their children. The problem of exercise is indeed one of all ages, but poor habits practiced by children are particularly concerning, as this sets a pattern for life.
There are technological problems; children spend more time watching television and playing video games than in the past. Cell phones are not only limiting exercising, but studies are showing ties to depression in children. Even in schools, with budget cuts come cuts to physical education programs and fear of litigation has severely limited what children are allowed to use to play. This creates a more motionless recess period.
The American Heart Association recommends children get at least an hour or two of exercise a day. Many children do not have that much play time in the school day, and once they get home, activity is even less. Unfortunately, lack of exercise creates a vicious circle in children as well as adults. Lack of physical activity creates less overall energy and depression in children, both of which lower exercise even more.  Physical activity lowers chances of obesity, and obesity as well reduces energy levels. It is essential today for parents to make sure children are getting the amount they need to stay happy and healthy.
Besides the many health issues related to lack of exercise, getting plenty of physical activity also has several benefits to the child. Children who are more active tend to be more active adults. When a child is more active during the day, it has been proven they show improved performance in school and behavior in the home as well. Exercise improving physical development has also shown to go hand in hand with mental development. Hand-eye coordination is improved as is cognitive development and problem-solving abilities involved with solutions to activity. Also, frequent exercise leads to higher self-esteem. Everything you want for your child is gained from exercise.
Now the question is how do you help encourage this?
The most obvious is to cut down on use of technology. Limit computer, cell phone, and video game use to 30 minutes to an hour a day. Same with television. Children will not be bored and will find something to do. If they are not able to think of anything else but technology, you may consider addressing addiction issues, as this is somewhat common in children, they are less able to regulate the mental dopamine boost from games and may suffer withdraws and not be able to think of anything else but the next game session.
Use exercise as a reward. Taking your child to the park to play is a simple way to get them exercising, they are out of the home element and in a different place where all the technological comforts are not available, getting your child's mind off of them.
Finally, try to remember to allow a child to engage in physical activity in the home. Try not to get upset when your child is running back and forth in the house flying like Superman making swooshing noises during your favorite show. Try to be patient and remember, as long as he is happy and getting exercise, it is far healthier than quiet video game time, even if it may be less peaceful at times. Health and happiness should come first.

​This year's flu season seems never to end. The flu season has claimed 38 lives in Travis County alone, which is by far the worst in over a decade. In most years, the flu season tends to die off about now; however, due to the severity of this year, many indicators show the end is not here yet. Many estimates are saying that this year, the season may extend into April or May.

This year, the flu has been no laughing matter. So far, there have been no child deaths yet in Travis County, there have been reports in other counties. In fact, on Wednesday, February 15th, five more deaths were reported in Dallas County in the one day alone, bringing the total in that county to 67. Also, these are not just affecting children and the elderly like many years, two of those five cases were a 42-year-old Farmers Branch resident and a 31-year-old Richardson resident.

The Centers for Disease Control are saying that hospitalizations are at the highest levels they have ever seen. Texas had 2,897 combined adult flu and pneumonia deaths and five flu-related pediatric deaths since Feb. 2 when the last report was released, and the numbers have grown substantially since.
For those of you who have considered passing on the flu vaccine this year, now may be a time to reconsider. While it can take up to two weeks for a vaccine to take full effect, there could be three months or more left in this years season, and with the damage caused so far, this is something that should be worth considering. While the deaths involving children this year have been lower, considering the severity, avoiding a vaccine may not be worth the risk, even at this point.

While a vaccine is one measure of prevention, remember, whether you get the vaccine or not, preventative steps should be taken to reduce your risk.
From the CDC website, they provide these reminders:
-Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
-While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
-If you are sick with flu symptoms, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine.)
-Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
-Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
-Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
-Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

Source: CDC Says “Take 3” Actions to Fight the Flu
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm
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Remember, no matter what you do for the remainder of the year, please, stay clean and sanitary, be mindful of others around you who are ill. If you start to show some of the signs and symptoms of having the flu, especially for your child, give Capital Pediatric Group a call for an appointment. 
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Central Austin Office: 512-454-4545 
North Austin Office: 512-250-0220

2017-2018 Flu Vaccine, What You Need to Know.
1. The flu virus is a common and unpredictable illness, and it can cause serious complications and death, even in healthy children.  The best way to protect your child is by getting the flu vaccine each year.   According to recent studies, At least 101 children died from the flu in the 2016-2017 seasons.

​The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual influenza vaccination for all people ages 6 months and older, including children and adolescents. Especially out of home caregivers and caregivers of children with high risk conditions including all children under the age of 5.

2. Even though it may seem late, now is the time to get your child vaccinated.  Flu vaccine shipments have already arrived.  Call your local Pediatrician to schedule your appointment. 

3. People DO NOT get the flu from the flu vaccine.  The Flu vaccines are made from killed viruses. Mild symptoms, such as nausea, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and chills, can occur. The side effects of the flu vaccine are usually mild and resolve quickly. The most common side effects are pain and tenderness at the site of injection as with any other vaccine. Fever can also be seen within 24 hours after immunization. 

4. This year’s flu vaccine is only available by injection.  The nasal form of the vaccine was not found to be as effective.   

5. Can I still get the Flu if I have been vaccinated?  Yes. Previous studies have shown that the flu vaccines are about 60% effective. The good news is that vaccinated people who do get the flu usually get a milder form of the virus. People who are not vaccinated will be more likely to be in bed longer with fever feeling miserable and could develop a secondary infection like pneumonia.  

6. The flu vaccine can be given at the same time your child receives his/her other vaccines. It is also important to note that children 6 months through 8 years of age may require 2 doses of the vaccine spaced one month apart to be fully protected. These children should receive their first dose as soon as the vaccine becomes available.

Please contact the office to schedule your child’s Flu Vaccine today:

Central Office: 1100 West 39 ½ Street, Austin, TX 78756 
Phone: 512-454-4545 

North Office: 4100 Duval Rd., Bldg 4, Ste. 100, Austin, TX 78759 
Phone: 512-250-0220 

Additional Resources:

• Flu.gov (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• Preventing the Flu: Resources for Parents & Child Care Providers

 

Here are 5 great ways to involve your child in the kitchen that will not only teach them useful skills but also help them build confidence.

Engage other senses.
It can be a challenge raising a picky eater, but some of these challenges can be overcome by encouraging your young ones to join you in the kitchen. Did you know that taste not only includes the sensations on your tongue but also smelling with your nose? For many children it causes anxiety to try new and foreign foods. However, if they participate in the cooking process they can be familiar with the ingredients along the way. Encourage them to touch, taste, or smell new ingredients to build familiarity.

Use cooking to raise smart kids.
Many lessons can be taught in the kitchen. Children learn the process of planning and completing a project by following a recipe. This can also provide children with a sense of fulfillment. Children can also learn math skills such as adding and measuring.

Make cooking part of the family culture.
Family meal time does not have to start at the table. You can create family traditions and make memories by cooking together as a family. This is a great way to pass down recipes from your cultural heritage and teach your children the importance of a healthy lifestyle. It is also beneficial to share with your child some of your holiday traditions that often revolve around meals. Share with them the meaning of your traditions and encourage them to help you maintain these seasonal traditions.

Keep it safe.
It is very important to teach your children the proper skills to stay safe in the kitchen. Show them how you can use a hot pad to protect your hands from heat and how to hold kitchen utensils properly. When you involve your child in the kitchen make sure to keep in mind their abilities. Assign simple tasks like rinsing produce and tearing lettuce leaves to ensure the safety of little ones in the kitchen.

Ask for input.
Help your children feel more included by involving them in the meal planning and preparation process. Ask them what recipes they would like to make and have them help you shop at the market. When you are cooking together let your child critique the recipe and discuss what you do and do not like together. Overall these tips will help your children feel more included and build more confidence in the kitchen.
 
Reference: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Cooking-With-Your-Children.aspx

The holiday season is an exciting time filled with friends, family, fun, and of course food. Holiday traditions continue to become more centered around food. As you enter this holiday season feel free to divulge in a few meals but remember that the purpose of celebrating is not simply to over eat. 
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The rate of childhood obesity has continued to increase throughout the United States. “The consequences of obesity on children include health issues that are typically seen only in adults, such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint problems and high cholesterol.” As parents let us do our best to decrease childhood obesity by creating healthy habits within our own homes.
Here are some tips we have for you!

Eat Right
-Save calories by filling up on fruits and vegetables instead of heavy casseroles and desserts.
- Try infusing water with lemons, limes, and other fruits. This will add a twist to your beverage but will save you and your children calories that would have been consumed by soda and other sweet beverages.

Be Active
-Offset the extra calories consumed over the holidays by getting active with your family. Choose to spend one less hour in front of the TV and swap it for some family games and activities outside.

Have Fun
-After big holiday meals encourage friends and family to stay active to boost their energy rather than becoming lethargic.
- Promote physical activities by encouraging games like football, jump rope, and other group related exercises.

Remember you are your children biggest role model. Implement these habits into your own lifestyle and your children are likely to follow.

We hope you have a happy, and healthy holiday season!
The Team at Capital Pediatrics 
 
Reference article: https://www.choa.org/~/media/files/Childrens/about-us/newsroom/english/thanksgiving-tips.PDF
 

Many children look forward to dressing up as their favorite character and going trick or treating during the Halloween season. We here at Capital Pediatrics also love to celebrate the season but we want to help you keep your children safe and healthy during Halloween.

Here are some tips we have for making Halloween a great experience:
First teach your children to watch out for candy that has already been opened. These treats may have been tampered with or can contain choking hazards. For the same reason discourage your child from eating homemade treats and goodies that have been made by strangers.

Second you can encourage you children to get their recommended 60 minutes of daily activity by playing games and activities at Halloween parties. This can even include the walking you do while trick or treating. This will allow their bodies to burn off all those extra sugary calories from the candy and it will help limit the amount of post-Halloween rushes/crashes. 

Lastly limit the amount of treats your child eats. It may sound exciting for a child to indulge in their Halloween candy haul, but we know this can negatively affect their health. Some parents discourage candy consumption by offering a dollar to their child for every pound of candy they “sell” to their parents.
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We hope you have a great Halloween with your children! Stay Safe!
 
 Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/index.htm

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​Did you know that up to 40% of kids contract the flu simply by being in close proximity with each other? Children spend the most time together in a confined environment when they head to school. This is the basis for the experts stating that fall is the best time to get your flu shots.

Generally, back to school is the time when the temperature also starts dropping. Schools reopen on the cusp of the fall season, which is followed by the winter. The low temperatures can lead to an increased risk of flu and the common cold, and immunizing your kids against the flu is essential.

Children, in particular, resist the flu shots because of the fear of the needle. You are unlikely to find many kids who willingly head to the doctor if you tell them they will receive an injection. As a parent, you need to understand the importance of the influenza vaccine. Kids have to receive the vaccine at a young age, because the immune systems of older kids are likely to resist the vaccination. You can explain to your children that the flu shot is for their protection, because contracting the flu can lead to a torrid experience for them.

According to the CDC, over 100 children die because of the flu every year. This is an extreme case but it gives you an idea of the importance of the flu vaccine. Hence, because you should not skip flu shots and have to receive them once a year, schedule them before or around the fall season. You can receive the shot along with your child to give him/her a sense of comfort. You can be the best role model for your children, which will also make it easier for you to convince your kid to head to the pediatrician. 

Call us today either of our two convenient locations to schedule your child's flu shot!
North Office Phone Number: 512-250-0220
Central Office Phone Number:  512-454-4545

Or you can fill out the form below and we'll get back to you shortly.