Spokane Pediatrics

August 1-7 marks World Breastfeeding Week! 🍼🧸

This year’s theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” emphasizes the vital role of breastfeeding in promoting the health and well-being of both babies and families. Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed, both options are essential for your baby’s growth and development. 💫

We want to acknowledge all parents, including those who breastfeed, ensuring they feel seen and heard. Sharing relatable experiences about breastfeeding and the importance of comprehensive support is key. Our goal is to support all parents while honoring their healthy choices for their children. 💛

For more information and resources related to breastfeeding and the health and well-being of your child, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics at https://ow.ly/obBv50SMvnZ today.

As the new sports season kicks off and back to school, it’s important to be aware of the signs of concussions in children to keep them safe and healthy.🧠🏈🥅

“If there is a chance that a child has had a concussion...they must stop playing — and get medical attention. It’s important to get medical attention any time there is concern about a possible concussion, both to be sure there isn’t a more serious brain injury, and to do a good assessment of the symptoms, so that they can be monitored over time."❤️‍

Signs of a Concussion:
▪️Headache or “pressure” in the head
▪️Nausea or vomiting
▪️Balance problems or dizziness
▪️Double or blurry vision
▪️Sensitivity to light or noise
▪️Feeling sluggish, hazy, or groggy
▪️Confusion or memory problems

What to Do if signs of a Concussion:
▪️Stop Playing Immediately.
▪️Seek Medical Attention .🩺
▪️Monitor Symptoms. 📋

Early recognition and proper management of concussions can help ensure a safe return to play. Let’s keep our young athletes safe and healthy! 🌟

For detailed information on concussion care, check out Harvard Health Publishing at https://ow.ly/U1Rk50SMs0Z. Questions? Talk to your provider! As always, if you need immediate assistance, CHAS Health's Urgent Care is here to provide expert care and support, located in North Spokane and Spokane Valley.

As we prepare for the new school year, let’s prioritize sleep for our children’s health and success. 📚✨

⏰How much sleep does your child need?
Here are the recommended amounts:
▪️Infants: 12 to 16 hours (including naps)
▪️Toddlers: 11 to 14 hours (including naps)
▪️Preschoolers: 10 to 13 hours (including naps)
▪️Grade school-aged children: 9 to 12 hours
▪️Teens: 8 to 10 hours

💡Tips to ensure your child gets enough sleep:
▪️Make sleep a priority 🕒: Schedules create routines.
▪️ Winding down: Start at least an hour before bed.
▪️Shut off screens 📵: Avoid blue light disruption before bed.
▪️Create a sleep-friendly environment 🛏️: quiet, dark, & cool.

"Remember, too, that children pay more attention to what we do than what we say. If you make your own sleep a priority, you will set a good example for your child — and feel better yourself." 🌙

For more information on the importance of sleep, visit Harvard Health Publishing at https://ow.ly/SBSc50SMpUI.

💛🚗Car sickness is a type of motion sickness that occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ears, eyes, and body.

Imagine a child sitting low in the back seat or reading a book while the car is moving. Their inner ear senses motion, but their eyes and body don’t, leading to symptoms like an upset stomach, cold sweat, fatigue, loss of appetite, or vomiting.

Here are some strategies to help prevent it:
▪️Encourage your child to look outside the car.
▪️Avoid large meals before or during travel.
▪️Ensure adequate air flow in the car.
▪️Engage your child with talking, music, or singing songs.

For persistent issues, talk to your child’s provider about other options. For more information, check out this article from the Mayo Clinic : https://ow.ly/NMPC50SIuTh.

Did you know✨ 🍼

Playing early games with your baby can significantly boost their brain development and can help strengthen your bond?

Engaging in responsive play, such as peek-a-boo or patty-cake, helps build millions of new nerve connections in your baby’s brain, making them more efficient and setting the foundation for a healthy, happy, and smart child.

This type of play is crucial for your child’s development and can be as simple as imitating their sounds or playing hide-and-seek with toys.🧸💛

For more tips on how to engage in meaningful play with your baby, check out this insightful article from Harvard Health , https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-play-early-games-build-bonds-and-brain-202302022884

Spokane Pediatric's ability to see patients has not been impacted by recent international computer system issues. We are able to see all scheduled patients at this time.

🌊✨Have your heard of the 's Aquatic SplashPass?

The SplashPass gives you free access to Spokane's aquatic centers for open swim and lap sessions, Whether you're swimming laps or just enjoying the pool, the SplashPass has you covered! 🏊‍♂️🌞.

How Do You Get Your SplashPass? Get your SplashPass online—no printing required. Staff will check you in using your digital account. If you’ve had a SplashPass before, you’re all set for this season. 🏊‍♂️

Follow this link https://ow.ly/Bb1l50SxsQt to get your SplashPass today. For further questions, reach out to Spokane City Aquatics at 509.625.6960 regarding the SplashPass.

Have you tried the Rainbow Plate with your kids? Because healthy eating can be as vibrant as a double rainbow! 🌈🌟

🍓 Red Magic: Strawberries—sweet and vitamin-packed!

🥕 Orange Crunch: Carrots = crunchy sunshine for little eyes.

🌱 Green Power: Peas = fiber and plant protein boost.

🌽 Yellow Sunshine: Corn on the cob? Yes, please!

🍆 Purple Adventure: Eggplant = fancy taste, purple power!

🍊 Bonus Orange: Tangy, juicy oranges = vitamin C smiles.

Nourish their imaginations! 🌟 For more tips on infant and toddler nutrition, visit https://ow.ly/rR7u50SBF8M

Our Spokane Urgent Care clinics will be closing early (6pm) today, July 11th, for an employee event.

🌞 Stay Cool and Active! 🌞
As the temperature rises, let’s keep our little ones safe and active. Whether it’s scorching outside or you’re seeking indoor adventures, here are some games to play:

▪️Play movement-based games like “Simon Says” or have a dance party in the living room.

▪️Set up an obstacle course using pillows, cushions, and chairs. It’s like a mini adventure right at home!

▪️Find kid-friendly yoga videos online or create your own poses. Pretend to be animals, trees, or superheroes.

Keep the energy flowing—it’s not just healthy; it’s a blast! 🌟 For more indoor fun, check out more awesome activities: https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/8-indoor-activities-to-release-kids-energy. Let’s get those little feet moving! 🏃‍♂️🌿

In celebration of Independence Day, our primary care clinics and Spokane Urgent Care locations are closed today, 7/5.

In celebration of Independence Day, our primary care clinics and Spokane Urgent Care locations are closed today and tomorrow, 7/4 & 7/5.

In celebration of Independence Day, our primary care clinics and Spokane Urgent Care hours are as follows:

Thursday, 7/4: Primary care clinics and Spokane Urgent Care locations are closed.

Friday, 7/5: Primary care clinics and Spokane Urgent Care locations are closed.

Saturday, 7/6: Locations resume regular hours.

4th of July Safety Tips for Kids ✨

🔥 Firework Safety: Kids and teens love fireworks, but safety is crucial. Even sparklers, while popular, can cause severe burns due to their extreme heat.

🟡Opt for Firework alternatives (Glow Sticks, Flags etc.)
🟡Protect Their Ears from Loud Noises
🟡Designate a safe, fire-free zone away from children.
🟡Always watch kids near water (pool, lake, or ocean).

Stay safe this holiday! For more tips, visit https://www.safekids.org/safetytips/field_risks/fireworks.✨

🌞 Summer Bug Safety Tips for Kids 🌿

🐞Skip perfumes and scented soaps to reduce the risk of bites.
🐞Be cautious around pools, ponds, and wooded spots.
🐞Opt in for long sleeves and pants in grassy areas.
🐞Use kid-friendly repellents with up to 30% DEET.
🐞Treat Bites: Apply ice packs or cool, wet cloths for relief.

Remember, prevention is key! 🦟🌼If you have any further concerns, please consult your child’s pediatrician or schedule an appointment with us by calling (509) 960-8894 today.

Hey parents! Want to set your baby up for success? Check out this awesome infographic about healthy habits to master in your baby's first two years. It's an easy and visually appealing way to ensure your little one grows up happy and healthy. 🌟👶🏽

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Healthy-Habits-to-Master-in-Your-Babys-First-Two-Years.aspx

Hydration Tips for Kids! 💧🌟

🥤 Age 1 - 4 : Sip 28 oz daily.
🥤 Age 4 -7 : Aim for 32 oz.
🥤 Age 7-10 : Target 33 oz.
🥤 Age 10 -13: Optimal intake is 40 oz.

And here’s the secret: Kids can drink their age in 8-ounce glasses until age 8! So, a 6-year-old needs six 8-ounce glasses, while an 8-year-old should aim for eight. 🙌💦

Remember, water with meals makes it a breeze! 🌞🥤

For more information, head to https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/summer-hydration-what-should-kids-be-drinking-in-the-summer

As we roll into summer, let's stay safe on wheels. 🚴 🛼
Protect your kids by always making sure they are wearing a helmet! ✨🛴

For more information, go to http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/bicycle-helmets-what-every-parent-should-know.aspx?

Are you sending your little ones off to summer camp soon? Want to make sure they're safe in and around the water? Check out these questions you should be asking your camp.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/ask-the-pediatrician/Pages/How-can-I-make-sure-my-child-is-safe-in-the-water-at-summer-camp.aspx

Provider spotlight!✨🌞

Meet Timothy Crum, MD, a dedicated pediatrician at Spokane Pediatrics. Dr. Crum brings more than 30 years of experience serving our community and specializes in addressing behavioral concerns such as ADHD, Autism, and other pediatric behavioral disorders.

Dr. Crum’s certification as an Autism Center of Excellence (COE) by the state of Washington ensures that he provides top-notch evaluation, diagnosis, and management for pediatric Autism and related issues. Being a COE means that Dr. Crum has undergone training to offer in-depth evaluations and prescribe Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services for Autism when needed. Only COE providers like Dr. Crum can conduct the required evaluations to provide APA therapy through Apple Health/Medicaid.

Let’s work together to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Crum today by calling 509.960.8894.

Don't forget to floss! Flossing is an important part of your child's (and your own) healthy dental routine, at least once a day, ideally before bed.

Pop Quiz: How many times a day should you floss? 🦷

If you said once a day, you were correct! Flossing helps by removing the dental plaque between your teeth which helps prevent tooth decay. Our team here at CHAS offers exams, cleanings, fluoride, and sealants for both children and adults - so schedule your dental exam today!📆👉https://chas.org/get-care/dental/

🎓 Graduation season is a time of mixed emotions for parents and caregivers! As your teen takes this huge step, remember to celebrate their accomplishments and give them the space to explore their next steps. However, with this excitement comes situations neither you nor your teen might not have on your radar. Check out these great tips to help you better support your grad.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/young-adult/Pages/Mental-Health-Tips-for-Teens-Graduating-from-High-School.aspx

Hey parents! Is your little one struggling with a stuffy nose? Check out this helpful article on how to help your baby sleep safely. From humidifiers to saline drops, there are plenty of tips to ease their congestion and ensure a good night's sleep.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/ask-the-pediatrician/Pages/my-baby-has-a-stuffy-nose-how-can-i-help-them-sleep-safely.aspx

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out or make an appointment. https://www.spokanepediatrics.org

Please help us welcome Dr. Veronica Jessick to Spokane Pediatrics! ✨🌞

Dr. Jessick grew up in Oregon, went to medical school in Virginia and came to Spokane for residency training. She has been providing primary care in Spokane since 2013. Dr. Jessick is passionate about women's health and pediatrics, and she enjoys procedural care as well.

During her free time, Veronica likes spending time with her family and their dog. She enjoys camping, hiking, skiing, and traveling.

Ready to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jessick? Give us a call at 509.960.8894 today! 🌟

In honor of Memorial Day, Spokane Pediatrics is closed today (Monday, May 27th).

If you have an urgent need, Spokane Urgent Care locations are open from 8 am - 6 pm.

As our kids grow, it's important to help them navigate their social world. Check out this article from HealthyChildren.org on how to equip your child with the skills they need to choose friends wisely. Let's make sure they surround themselves with positive influences! 🌟 🌈

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/Pages/Friend-or-Foe.aspx

🌟 Is your little one struggling with speech and language development? Don't worry, you're not alone! Check out this helpful guide on how to raise concerns and support your child's communication skills. Let's work together to help our kids thrive! 💬

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/Pages/How-to-Raise-Concerns-about-Childs-Speech-Language-Development.aspx

Did you know you now have access to the pediatric behavioral health resources of CHAS Health? Learn more: https://chas.org/get-care/behavioral-health/

1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year (NAMI).

Our Behavioral Health program gives established patients with acute or chronic behavioral health concerns access to counseling, medication management and treatment consultation in the same place as our primary care clinics.

Learn more: https://chas.org/get-care/behavioral-health/

Is your child struggling with the idea of being perfect? Here are 5 ways to help them break free from the cycle of unrealistic expectations and self-criticism. Check out this article from HealthyChildren.org to learn more about fostering a healthy mindset in your child. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/young-adult/Pages/What-Fuels-Perfectionism.aspx 🌟