Treating The Common Cold

Tis the season for cough and colds! Young children oftentimes will get several respiratory illnesses during the course of a winter season, and those coughs and runny/stuffy noses can be quite annoying! While the common cold is caused by viruses, and otherwise healthy children typically will overcome the illness with a little bit of time, there are some things that you, as parents, can do to help alleviate some of the discomfort.

Cough

The cough that accompanies the common cold can be frustrating for the child and the parent, as sometimes it is seen as a disruption in the classroom or disturb the child’s sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages the use of cough and cold medications under the age of 6 years old, as there is insufficient data to prove their safety and efficacy in this age group. DO NOT give a smaller dose of an adult medication to a child, as this can potentially result in harmful effects on the child. Honey may be used for children older than a year of age (babies should never be given honey due to the risk of botulism); studies have shown honey to be an effective natural cough suppressant. Sometimes the cough is worse at nighttime due to postnasal drip; elevating the head when sleeping may improve the cough. Avoid secondhand smoke exposure, as it can cause further irritation to the airways, thereby worsening cough.

Children with a predisposition to wheezing or a history of asthma should be monitored for worsening cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath, and be evaluated by their pediatrician when appropriate.

Runny & stuffy nose

Nasal drainage and congestion are both common manifestations of the common cold. Mucous may be clear, yellow or green, depending on the stage of illness the body is going through. A few days of yellow or green nasal discharge is completely normal with a viral infection, and not necessarily indicative of a sinus infection.

Use of a humidifier in the child’s bedroom is helpful, because breathing in moisturized air helps to soothe the nasal passages and lessen irritation. Nasal saline sprays or rinses can help loosen mucous and soothe the nasal tissue. Suctioning of the mucus will help your young child remove the mucous blocking the nose; older children can blow their nose. Vicks vapor rub can be used for congestion – apply to the bottoms of the feet in babies and toddlers, chest and back on older children.

Sore throat

Some children may experience a sore throat along with their cold symptoms. They may not eat as much as a result of this. Ensure your child stays well-hydrated despite the pain. Some children prefer cold fluids or popsicles to ease the pain, others prefer hot fluids, like tea or soup. Honey and lemon water/tea can help soothe a sore throat. Occasionally, the child may have a concurrent throat infection – if you see pus on the tonsils, it is best to have your child checked by the pediatrician for strep infection.

Fever

Fever is often seen by parents as a scary or concerning symptom when a child is ill, but keep in mind that it is one of the methods the body utilizes to fight infection. However, high fever can make a child uncomfortable and increase risk of dehydration, so use of a fever reducer is warranted in these scenarios. Low-grade fevers may be monitored if the child is comfortable and hydrating well. Other ways of bringing down a fever may include cool towels to the forehead and warm baths (never bathe a febrile child in cold water).

Viral respiratory illnesses typically are worse during the initial 4-5 days, then gradually improve, usually resolving completely in two weeks, on average. Make sure your child gets enough fluids and rest in order to allow the body’s immune system to be fully equipped to fight the illness. If your child exhibits any concerning symptoms (i.e. worsening cough, wheezing, ear pain, etc), be sure to have him/her checked out by the pediatrician!

For more information:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/Coughs-and-Colds-Medicines-or-Home-Remedies.aspx

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/ear-nose-throat/Pages/Children-and-Colds.aspx

https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-patients/symptom-relief.html

The post Treating The Common Cold appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Frisco Pediatrician Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/treating-the-common-cold/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/11/13/treating-the-common-cold/

How To Prepare Your Child for a Healthy School Year In Texas

A healthy child for a new school year is important. Some children are excited to be back in school. For others, it can be stressful and overwhelming. Read below for some useful tips to help your child prepare for a healthy school year in Frisco Texas.

 

Get back on schedule

Summer days are more relaxed and filled with lazy days. To get back on schedule, let your child know what time school begins and ends. Start their sleeping schedule a week before school starts. If school starts at 8 AM, have them go to bed at 9 PM and wake up at 6 AM. This gives your child 8-10 hours of much-needed sleep, as sleep is important in maintaining focus and concentration. Having your child wake up at least 2 hours before school starts gives you plenty of time to prepare for school. A healthy child with enough sleep is a happy child who can learn efficiently.

 

Have a nutritious breakfast 

It’s important for your healthy child to have a strong immune system. Start by making a nutritious breakfast that includes protein and complex carbohydrates. It’s a healthy option & a great source of energy. It can be part of a quick meal on the go or a sit-down breakfast.

 

Hydrate & drink more water

Staying hydrated in Texas is important when your child is active & playing outside. To keep your child healthy while playing sports, ensure adequate access to fluids. Water is the best option to prevent dehydration. Drinking a soda will not help to replenish water. Water is the best option to prevent dehydration.

 

Encourage your child to wash hands frequently

Your child has a less sophisticated immune system and is more susceptible to cuts, scrapes and dirty hands. If your child needs to see a pediatrician from a minor cut or laceration contact us for an appointment. Hand washing will protect your child from getting sick and bringing bacteria & viruses home. Not only will this be helpful in childhood, it’s useful for life. Encourage them to wash hands frequently by washing your hands together. Make hand washing fun by singing a fun song together.

 

Make sure immunizations are up to date

Some schools require your healthy child to have immunizations before they can go to school. Make sure you check your child’s Texas school requirements.

Having immunization is important because it protects your child from diseases. It helps them get to know the bacteria or virus before getting exposed. If the bacteria or virus comes in to contact again, your child’s immune system will be ready for it.

We offer vaccines for your child, so if he/she needs immunizations, contact us for an appointment.

 

Remember if your child needs to see a pediatrician we offer same day appointments.

 

The post How To Prepare Your Child for a Healthy School Year In Texas appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Frisco Pediatrician Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/healthy-child-tips-texas/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/08/01/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-a-healthy-school-year-in-texas/

Fruitful Tips for Children Proper Nutrition | Kids with ADHD in Frisco

Kids with ADHD in Frisco Guide

When you have a kids with ADHD in Frisco that has been clinically determined, you have to pay attention to their diet plan and nutrition. Anything they eat could have a actual impact on their symptoms, so try to comply with an organic diet, focus on fruits, fruit and vegetables and health proteins. It may possibly take a while to sort out what their activates are, but when you have taken out them out of your child’s diet plan, it may definitely assistance with managing the signs.

With a healthy diet, your child will be capable of focus and control impulses. Avoid certain kinds of species of fish that are loaded with mercury ranges, and see to it to supply your son or daughter an organic and natural diet program. Focus on necessary protein and foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids, and offer a multivitamin each and every day.

Read more: Allergy and Asthma Management

Children Proper Nutrition Tips

Use vegetables in unusual strategies to increase the amount your children consume. Utilizing veggies in food that typically will not call for them, such as lasagna or home made pizzas, can make mealtime fun for youngsters.

Children’s flavor buds will not operate the same as they grow. Allow your Kids to make the choices of food for themselves but make sure to assist them on the kitchen on preparation then add some healthy ingredients ex. Pizza instead of just plain pepperoni,ham, and cheese that kids usually crave for add some mushrooms, bell pepper, eggplant, pineapples, and fresh tomatoes and onions. Then for the drinks instead of sodas, introduce them a healthy drinks like fresh fruit shakes ex. lemon,melon,watermelon,banana,apple,and orange etc..just make sure they are the one who will make their own fruit shakes it is  very healthy way of enjoying while being healthy at the same time.

Start on your kids proper proper nutrition especially kids with adhd in frisco. Earlier diet strengthens healthy eating routine. Supplying directly into your child’s demands for top sugar, fatty and fried comfort meals is only going to established them on a route for being overweight and poor nutrition afterwards. Insist which they take in fruits, veggies, healthier low fat protein and whole grains.

As stated well before, appropriate diet is important for all. Having appropriate nutrition is crucial if you would like stay a lengthy and healthful life while getting the most from it. Should you remember the recommendations based in the post previously mentioned, then you can certainly have correct nutrients and acquire the most from daily life.

Schedule an appointment today at Entirely Kids Pediatrics We offer appointments for well-child visits and immunizations, same-day sick visits, as well as prenatal consultations to expecting parents. Please contact our office at (469) 425-3600 to schedule or visit our website https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com for more tips.

Here is our exact location:

The post Fruitful Tips for Children Proper Nutrition | Kids with ADHD in Frisco appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Frisco Pediatrician Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/kids-with-adhd-in-frisco/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/07/03/fruitful-tips-for-children-proper-nutrition-kids-with-adhd-in-frisco/

Some Advice On Common Allergies

Unfortunately common allergies can affect people of all ages, and whether you are born with specific ones or develop them as you age, allergies can be a major roadblock in many ways. There are a few important things to always remember if you have a child with severe allergies when you have to leave them in someone else’s care. Here are some tips to help you feel more comfortable when others are going to be supervising your child.

C”Every season can be allergy season, depending on what you’re allergic to.”
— Clara Chung

Guide for Common Allergies

• Whether severe or moderate-make sure your child’s allergies are known and listed
• If any medications or inhalers are used make sure to inform the caregiver whom is watching your child of directed dosage and frequency
• Always include your Physicians contact information when leaving your child with someone just in case of an emergency
• List any allergy triggers ahead of time so they are known
• If at any time there are any changes in medications be sure you inform the caregiver of changes too

No matter if a food allergy, dairy, outdoor seasonal, insect, nuts, skin or certain products, always be aware of situational elements at your child’s daycare, school, field trip, a friend’s birthday party, and more that could directly affect a negative reaction! Being proactive and keeping your friends and family aware of certain triggers can ultimately save a loved one’s life!

Common Allergies : Social Interactions

Allergies don’t have to spoil the participation in specific activities for your child or family. Be prepared in advance and on top of planned social interactions and activities before common allergies take place.  A little precaution on your part can make a big difference in battling common  allergies for you and your family. At your next Pediatric visit make sure you address any allergy concerns you may have with the Doctor and if allergy testing may be necessary for your child.

Remember if your child needs to see a pediatrician we offer same day appointments.

The post Some Advice On Common Allergies appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Frisco Pediatrician Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/common-allergies/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/06/15/some-advice-on-common-allergies/

Take The Healthy Approach With These Kids Nutrition Tips

When considering kids nutrition, it is important that you incorporate foods that you love because there is no better way to get nutrition than when you are enjoying it. There are many ways that you can add extra nutritional benefits to foods you love simply by adding in or leaving out key ingredients. Searching for low fat recipes will provide many good results.

Kids Nutrition : Low Fat Recipe

Create fruit smoothies. Self made smoothies aren’t as healthy. When you make smoothies yourself, you can ensure that they’re very nutritious. Plus, it is easier to fit into your eating plan. Ingredients worth considering are ice, bananas or other fresh fruit, yogurt, and skim milk.

Instead of milk or even white chocolate, opt for the healthier dark chocolate alternative. The dark variety is good for your heart as it aids in controlling your blood pressure. Eating foods rich in antioxidants will help you keep your cholesterol under control. Just be sure to choose chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cocoa to maximize the benefits. Don’t overdo it with the chocolate as it still contains a lot of calories.

Nutrition for Kids with ADHD

If you have a child that has been diagnosed with ADHD, you need to pay close attention to their diet and nutrition. What they eat may have a real effect on their symptoms, so try to follow an organic diet, focusing on fruits, veggies and protein. It might take a while to work out what their triggers are, but once you have removed them from your child’s diet, it could really help with managing the symptoms.

Children with ADHD’s parent should pay careful attention to their diet. It should be with a healthy diet, your child will be better able to focus and control impulses. Avoid certain types of fish that are high in mercury levels, and try to feed your child an organic diet. Concentrate on proteins and foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids, and provide a multivitamin on a daily basis.

Now that you have read a few tips describing how to eat healthily, all that remains is to get started doing it. There is a lot of temptation in the form of fast foods and a vast array of processed junk sold at the supermarket. But with a solid nutrition plan you can rise above that temptation and forge a new, healthy you.

Schedule an appointment today at Entirely Kids Pediatrics We offer appointments for well-child visits and immunizations, same-day sick visits, as well as prenatal consultations to expecting parents. Please contact our office at (469) 425-3600 to schedule.

Here is our exact location:

The post Take The Healthy Approach With These Kids Nutrition Tips appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Frisco Pediatrician Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/kids-nutrition-tips/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/06/12/take-the-healthy-approach-with-these-kids-nutrition-tips/

Nutritional Tips For Frisco Families During The Texas Summer

It’s summertime, and school is out. What does this mean for kids? A lot of chill time and spending time with the family, no doubt. However, we, as pediatricians, often see this time as one of noticeable weight gain in some children. Why? Texas summer heat tends to keep a lot of children indoors and inactive, as well as drive us to indulge in more high-sugar sweets like ice cream and thirst quenchers such as sodas and lemonade. Family cookouts often make way for foods high in calories, sodium, and fat, like hamburgers and hot dogs. Therefore, even though summertime is usually time for fun and relaxation, we still encourage parents to be cognizant of their children’s nutritional intake.

Watch out for the sweets

Sweets are not completely discouraged – we definitely don’t want to take away the fun of an ice cream treat or a nice glass of lemonade when it’s so hot outside! Just remember to limit serving sizes and to encourage adequate physical activity in order to burn off those calories! Consider offering frozen yogurt, “light” ice creams, fruit popsicles or homemade popsicles as alternatives; frozen fruit can be yummy to munch on as a healthy snack as well (frozen grapes are actually quite good)!

In the sweltering heat, water itself probably isn’t as attractive as something tasty like some ice-cold lemonade, iced tea or fruit juice. Once again, moderation is key, especially with all the sugar that goes into making the first two taste so yummy. Consider flavoring water with fresh fruits like orange slices or berries. Watermelon is also a great thirst quencher (it’s >90% water) and low in sugar too!

From the grill

Family cookouts are fun and sometimes frequent during the summertime, especially when we have Father’s Day and Independence Day coming up! Beware though, of our two all-time grilled favorites – hamburgers and hot dogs, as they can potentially pack on quite a bit of sodium, fat and cholesterol. If you make your own burger patties, consider using leaner ground beef or mixing ground beef with some ground turkey to cut down on the fat. Veggie patties on whole-wheat buns are another healthier option. Switch things up a bit with grilled chicken breasts with a teriyaki sauce or cajun seasoning to boost the flavor a bit. Throw in some grilled veggies – zucchini, onions, bell peppers – they taste great with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Grilled pineapple is amazing too!

Movie time

Your children may be watching a few more movies in the summertime than usual, since movie theaters usually have great air conditioning and many children’s movies do get released in the summer! Who doesn’t like to munch on some buttery popcorn while watching the latest new release? Be mindful though, of the calories contained in those movie theater popcorns – if you get one of those big buckets, make sure the kids share; otherwise, buy smaller sizes for each child. Having movie night at home? Pop your own popcorn! And dress it with whatever flavorings you so desire – a butter and honey drizzle, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, a little bit of sea salt and caramel…the possibilities are endless!

Remember if your child needs to see a pediatrician we offer same day appointments.

For more information:

https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/healthy-summer-foods#1

http://www.superkidsnutrition.com/summer-time-when-kids-gain-weight/

The post Nutritional Tips For Frisco Families During The Texas Summer appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Frisco Pediatrician Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/nutritional-tips-for-frisco-families-during-the-texas-summer/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/06/06/nutritional-tips-for-frisco-families-during-the-texas-summer/

Proper Nutrition & ADHD

Many people tend to associate the use of medications in the management of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Did you know that proper nutrition can potentially help with ADHD symptoms as well?

                                                      What To Avoid

Sugar is commonly known to be associated with hyperactivity, but what many people do not realize is that other foods consisting of simple carbohydrates (i.e. white bread, waffles, pop-tarts) can also contribute to hyperactivity initially, followed by irritability when blood sugar dips later on. Therefore, it is not only important to remove excess sugar in the child’s diet (i.e. sugary drinks, processed foods), but also to ensure their meals consist of high protein foods and complex carbohydrates. Together, this combination allows for more steady blood sugar levels that allow the child to concentrate better.

Food additives, especially food coloring, has also been associated with worsening ADHD symptoms. Take the time to read the ingredients label on packaged foods and try to avoid those with artificial coloring, artificial flavorings, and preservatives.

Some research suggests that food sensitivities can worsen ADHD symptoms. Common foods that cause sensitivities include dairy, wheat and soy. Keep in mind though, that food sensitivities are not the same as food allergies, as allergy testing on these children usually are negative. It is best to discuss this with your child’s pediatrician if you are considering seeking out food sensitivities as possibly contributing to your child’s symptoms, so that he/she may guide you in trialing an elimination diet.

What To Encourage

Other than a diet consisting of high-protein and complex carbohydrates, omega-3s have also been shown to have beneficial effects on the symptoms of ADHD. Omega-3s are an essential fat that aids in brain function, so regular ingestion can help with concentration, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Unless your child can eat fish regularly in their diet, fish oil supplements are a great way for them to reap the benefits of omega-3s.

Iron is also an important element to maintain in your child’s diet. Even if your child is not anemic, their iron level may be a little lower than average, hence contributing to some of their ADHD symptoms. Since ingesting too much iron is dangerous, it is best to consult with your child’s pediatrician before starting any iron supplements.

Zinc and magnesium are two other minerals that may have an effect on ADHD symptoms, although current study results do not provide as strong of a correlation as those for omega-3 and iron.

In Summary

Since many children with ADHD undergoing medication therapy tend to have decreased appetites, it is extremely important to make the calories they put into their bodies be of value – healthy and nutritional.

Meal ideas:

https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-diet-brain-food-health/

For further information:

https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-diet-for-kids-food-fix/

https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-diet-nutrition-sugar/

Remember if your child needs to see a pediatrician we offer same day appointments.

The post Proper Nutrition & ADHD appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/proper-nutrition-adhd/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/05/31/proper-nutrition-adhd/

Family Fun Around Frisco

Things to do in Frisco when you are not at the pediatrician’s office

 “Never, ever underestimate the importance of having fun.” Randy Pausch

Frisco, Texas is one of the fastest growing cities in North Texas, and with that the activites & places to go are abundant as well. Residents have lots of choices when heading out for family adventures around this booming city, and here are just a few things paritcularly aimed at those with younger children. A few of these are sure to bring memories and photo opportunities of smiling faces! Remember to use sunscreen on family members when heading outdoors this summer, take along lots of hydrating liquids, and even pack insect spray to have on hand if needed!

On-Going Fun For You & Your Family This Summer

Barnes & Noble bookstores offer free story times Wednesdays at 10:30 & Saturdays at 11:00am Check store for other events

Pottery Barn Kids offers free story times every Tuesday from 11:00-11:30am

Crayola Experience Willow Bend  – Open 365 days a year with on-going events for children to engage in http://www.crayolaexperience.com/plano

The Little Gym of Frisco, TX. Offers a variety of classes, camps, and has now teamed with Kindermusik and will soon be offering 3 dimensional classes for multiple ages https://www.thelittlegym.com/friscoTX/classes/kindermusik

Astronomy Night at Frisco Commons Park – Frisco StarFest is a once a month event that starts at sunset and ends at 10:30pm, every second Saturday of the month. The unique draw about the event is that about a dozen telescopes are set up for viewing. The best part is that it’s FREE!

Frisco Music in the Square, Simpson Square – Recurring weekly on Friday eve’s now throughout June from 7:30-9:30 & it’s FREE – Plus, different vendors and/or food options available too!

Pack up the kids & the strollers & visit the Frisco Farmers Market every Saturday through October 27, 2018, 8:00 a.m. until Noon for fresh veggies & fruits, local crafts, occasional live music, and more!  8821 4th St,Frisco, TX.

Play Street Museum Frisco Texas – On-Going Open Play is Mon-Fri 9:00-5:00 – 1^st Sunday morning of each month is Open Play by reservation only https://psmfrisco.com/frisco-events

“There’s no fear when you’re having fun.” – Will Thomas

Remember if your child needs to see a pediatrician we offer same day appointments.

The post Family Fun Around Frisco appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/family-fun-around-frisco/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/05/23/family-fun-around-frisco/

Your Frisco Public Library

Frisco is blessed to have a tremendous public library system that offers a variety of activities for all ages. From story times, special classes, arts & crafts, guest speakers, etc., a visit to the library can add something for both you & your child to enrich your days. “I have found the most valuable thing in my wallet is my library card.”–Laura Bush

During the heat of the summer, the Frisco Public Library is also a great place to keep cool indoors while expanding your child’s knowledge.

• Expose your child to the resources available to them at an early age and they will use it throughout their growing years. Not to mention, getting lost in a good book or magazine for moms or dads-can be a nice treat during the day to day business of raising a family.
• Movies & magazines can also be checked out from the Frisco Library, and make for a great way to save on additional expenses if you are frugal-minded!
• Story times are free and are offered on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:30, and are listed on the Friscolibrary.com website calendar for your easy access.
• Summer camps and activities for Frisco residents

There are a number of other resources available to you though the Frisco Public Library that you can find on their website or at askus@friscolibrary.com! www.friscolibrary.com to include free parking, free wifi, computer & print resources, and more.

“Bad libraries build collections, good libraries build services, great libraries build communities.”–R. David Lankes

Happy Reading, from you Frisco Pediatrician.

 

 

 

 

The post Your Frisco Public Library appeared first on Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics.

from Blog – Frisco Pediatrician Entirely Kids Pediatrics https://www.entirelykidspediatrics.com/frisco-public-library/

from WordPress https://entirelykidspediatrics.wordpress.com/2018/05/22/your-frisco-public-library/

A Day in the Life | Pediatric Clinic

 Today I have Christie of Mama OT stopping by to share what a typical day in a pediatric clinic setting is like for her. Christie works in both school and clinic settings and I'm so happy that she is sharing what a "typical" clinic day looks like for her.

Life as a pediatric occupational therapist is anything but boring! I currently work as an OT in both the clinic-based and school-based settings, with one day per week being in the clinic, and the rest of the days being in a nearby school district. Each setting involves different task and scheduling demands. It’s so hard to provide ONE example of what my day is like in either of these settings because there can be so much variation depending on the day of the week and time of year. That’s something I love about this job – variety in the midst of the routine. I’m the type of person who craves routine but also needs variety to keep me engaged and on my toes, so it’s a great fit for me.

For the purpose of this post, I’m going to walk you through what a “typical” day might be like for me in the pediatric clinic setting. The clinic I currently work for provides pediatric OT, PT, and Speech within the clinic setting, plus we are also an insurance vendor for in-home ABA (behavioral) services for children with autism. We also routinely host OT observers, volunteers, and fieldwork students. Because of this, our clinic is typically filled with lots of different types of individuals from a variety of disciplines, which is awesome for collaboration and professional growth.

“Typical” Clinic Day:

8:15-9am – Admin time. Arrive, settle in, grab charts for clients I’ll be seeing that day, set up mats in the OT gym for the day, prep any materials or activities needed for morning clients, gather any swings or other therapy equipment I might need for the morning, check email if time.

9-9:50am – Provide treatment to a 4 ½ year old child with fine motor delays and low muscle tone/endurance, focusing on postural strength and control, hand strengthening, and dissociation of the two sides of the hand for improved tool use. Talk to parent for last 5 or so minutes of session to review how last week went for them at home, share some highlights from the session, and discuss what they can do at home during the rest of the week to support progress on OT goals.

9:50-10am – Write as much of the treatment note from the previous session as possible while also grabbing the next client’s chart and setting up for that session.

10-10:50am – Provide treatment to a 2 ½ year old child with a medical diagnosis of Autism who presents with limited attention to tasks, low frustration tolerance, lack of verbal language, tactile defensive and vestibular and proprioceptive seeking patterns, and generally disorganized and injurious behavior to self and others (head banging, biting, scratching, pinching). Fine motor and self-help skills are significantly delayed as a result. Session focuses on organizing behavior through sensory and behavioral strategies to extend ability to engage in functional and meaningful tasks in order to support progress on self-help goals. Parent is present in therapy room for duration of session and participates in training opportunities throughout session as it relates to encouraging participation in fine motor and self-help activities, as well as related to meeting/addressing sensory needs.

10:50-11am – Clean up room, take a quick breather.

11-12pm – Admin time. Finish treatment note from 10:00 session. Write up a home program for a client I started working with a few weeks ago, as mandated by the insurance provider. Check and respond to emails. Make sure materials for afternoon clients are available. Collaborate with other therapists if needed/available.

12-1pm – Clinic closed for lunch. Sometimes my husband and two little ones come have lunch with me and my co-workers at the clinic, which my boys love because they get to play with fun stuff while they’re there! Usually I stay at the clinic for lunch and powwow with the other therapists, or we’ll take a walk to the nearby coffee shop to fuel up for the afternoon stretch of clients.  

1-1:50pm – Provide treatment to a 4 ½ year old child with a recent diagnosis of Autism, along with challenges with sensory processing, motor planning, and self-help skills. Parent is present for full session and participates. Session focuses on sensory diet activities, fine motor development, practicing self-help skills appropriate to the setting, parent education, and collaborating on ideas for home carryover.

1:50-2pm – Decide I’ll have to get to my 1pm session note later and move around mats and materials for next session.

2-2:50pm – Provide treatment to a 5 ½ year old child with global developmental delays and medical diagnosis of Autism. Parent is present for full session and participates. Session focuses on overall strength and stability, motor planning, fine motor development, and practicing self-help skills appropriate to the setting. Parent education and collaborative planning for home carryover occurs throughout session.

2:50-3pm – That note will have to wait as well!

3-3:50pm – Provide treatment to a 10-year-old child with Asperger’s and Developmental Coordination Disorder who presents with delayed self-help skills, sensory processing challenges, and difficulty with emotional control. Session focuses on overall strength and control, praxis, sensory diet activities, practicing self-help skills appropriate to the setting (such as tying shoes), and addressing emotional control with the Zones of Regulation program to support progress on goals. Talk with parent for last few minutes of session.

3:50-4pm – Write part of that 3:00 note and get set up for the last client of the day.

4-4:50pm – Provide treatment to a 6 ½ year old child with no formal medical diagnosis, but who presents with challenges with social interactions, sensory processing, emotional regulation, praxis, and fine motor skills. Session focuses on sensory diet activities, fine motor development, and working our way through the Zones of Regulation curriculum. Talk with parent for 5-10 minutes after session about how things went last week and additional suggestions for the coming week.

4:50-5pm – That conversation runs long (they always do!).

5-5:30pm (or whenever I finally finish) – Finish up treatment notes from earlier in the day. Send follow-up emails to parents from today as necessary. Respond to any final emails that can’t wait until tomorrow. Make a list of what I need to get done when I work in the clinic again next Monday since I only currently see clinic clients one day per week (e.g., home programs, progress reports, etc.). Return clients’ charts, lock up, and head home. I don’t take clinic work home with me.

Article Source: A Day in the Life | Pediatric Clinic