Arbor Pediatrics provides high-quality, personalized medical care for infants, children, and adolescents in Southlake, TX.

Why do we ask so many questions about what your child can do?

Developmental screenings help us understand how your child is growing, learning, moving, communicating, and interacting with others.

These screenings are a routine part of pediatric care and help us recognize strengths while also identifying areas where a child may benefit from additional support. Finding developmental concerns early can help connect children with resources and services when they can make the biggest difference.

We encourage you to complete your child’s developmental screening before their well visit, and don’t hesitate to share any concerns you have. You know your child best.

Energy drinks may look like another flavored beverage, but they can contain large amounts of caffeine along with other stimulants.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that energy drinks should not be consumed by children or adolescents.

Too much caffeine can cause a racing or pounding heart, shakiness, headaches, stomach upset, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and disrupted sleep. And that lost sleep can create a cycle: your teen is tired, reaches for more caffeine, sleeps poorly again, and needs another energy boost the next day.

Energy drinks can be especially concerning before or during sports. They are not the same as sports drinks and should not be used for hydration. Water is usually the best choice for routine activity.

Talk with your teen about what’s actually in their favorite energy drink.

When energy is running low, encourage the basics first: adequate sleep, regular meals, physical activity, and plenty of water.

If you think your teen is addicted to energy drinks, bring it up at their next visit so we can provide further education.

Standardized testing can bring extra nerves for kids and parents, but test week doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. A few simple things at home can help your child walk into school feeling rested, fueled, and confident.

In the days leading up to testing, prioritize a consistent bedtime and plenty of sleep. Start the morning with a balanced breakfast, arrive at school on time, and keep the usual morning routine as normal as possible. Encourage your child to take their time, read directions carefully, and simply do their best.

Try to keep the pressure in check, too. Children often pick up on our anxiety and expectations. Remind them that a test measures how they performed on a particular set of questions on one particular day. It does not measure their kindness, creativity, effort, talents, or potential.

Are you worried your child may have more than just the normal worries when it comes to tests and school work? Call to schedule an appointment to speak with one of our pediatric trained providers.

Toddlers love independence, and mealtime is no exception.

Encourage self-feeding by offering small portions, toddler-safe utensils, and foods that are easy for little hands to manage.

Keep meals and snacks on a predictable schedule and offer simple choices, such as “Would you like strawberries or blueberries?”

Try to avoid pressure, bribing, or forcing “just one more bite.”

Parents decide what foods are offered, when meals happen, and where your child eats. Your toddler gets to decide whether to eat and how much. And yes, some mess is part of learning.

Not sure if your toddler is eating enough? Chat with your provider at their next visit. We would love to provide guidance.

Newborn skin is delicate and sensitive, and products with fragrances or dyes can sometimes cause dryness and irritation. When choosing soaps, wipes, and laundry detergent, look for gentle, fragrance-free products made for sensitive skin.

Remember, “unscented” isn’t always the same as “fragrance-free.” Unscented products may still contain fragrance ingredients used to mask other smells. Some of our favorite brands are Cerave, Aquaphor, and Eucerin.

Do you have questions about a product for your newborn? Call or send our phone nurse a message today. We are here to help.

Breastfeeding shouldn’t feel like a test of endurance.

Finding the right position can make a big difference in your baby’s latch, milk transfer, and your overall comfort while feeding.

There isn’t one “best” breastfeeding position.

The cradle hold is a classic choice, while the cross-cradle hold can give you more control of your baby’s head when working on latch. The football hold can be especially comfortable after a C-section or for moms feeding twins, and side-lying can provide a more restful position once breastfeeding is established.

Pillows, rolled blankets, and good back and arm support can also help bring baby to the breast rather than having mom lean forward throughout the feeding.

Some tenderness can happen as you and baby learn, but persistent pain, cracked or bleeding nipples, clicking sounds, difficulty staying latched, or concerns about baby`s weight gain are reasons to ask for help. Sometimes a small adjustment in positioning or latch can make a big difference.

Have questions about breastfeeding?

Your provider at Arbor is happy to help. We can answer your questions and also get you any support you may need. Call to schedule an appointment today.