Breastfeeding 101: Tips for New Moms

Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding experiences for moms but it can also be very challenging.  Many people still follow the advice that “breast is best” but, truthfully, “fed is best”.  Don’t let the pressure of breastfeeding make you stressed when bringing a new baby home.  Here are some helpful tips for feeding your newborn.

Tip 1: Take it Day by Day

Remember, no two  days will be the same.  Some days your baby will be hungry every hour and other days your baby will want to feed every 3-4 hours.  We all know the baby is in charge when it comes to breastfeeding.  Take your time to make sure your infant latches properly to ensure a successful feed.  Try not to get frustrated-your baby can feel that energy and it makes it hard for them to concentrate too!

Tip 2:  Latch

Proper Latching is KEY to having success in breastfeeding.  If your child is not latching corrctly, it causes problems for both baby and mom.  The latch should be pain free and comfortable.  If you are having trouble getting your baby to latch properly, try moving to a quiet room with no distractions.  If you need help, Saving Grace offers postpartum care.

Tip 3:  Haaka Love

If you haven’t heard of a Haaka, take the time to Google it. The Haaka is a lifesaver when it comes to breastfeeding. It is a suction style pump that catches the let down of the opposite breast you are feeding from.  Some moms have reported capturing an entire feed from the opposite breast.  This milk can be stored and used when the child is unable to be at the breast.  Breastmilk is GOLD!

Tip 4: Enjoy

Every baby is different and your first baby may be a great breastfeeding baby and the next may need formula. Enjoy every minute you get to spend breastfeeding with your babies.  You won’t get that time back!  The grow up way too fast!

If you are a new mother and need breastfeeding help, Saving Grace offers postpartum visits in Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Wichita.

Parenting in the Digital Age

Parenting in the Digital Age: Navigating the Digital Landscape to Keep Your Teen Safe

In today’s digital age, parenting has evolved to encompass not only the physical well-being of our children but also their digital safety. With the proliferation of smartphones, social media, and online platforms, teens are more connected than ever before, but this connectivity also brings new challenges and concerns for parents. Let’s discuss guidance on how to navigate the digital landscape and keep your teen safe in the digital world.

Understanding the Digital Landscape

To effectively keep your teen safe in the digital age, it’s crucial to understand the digital landscape they inhabit. This includes recognizing the platforms they use, the potential risks they may encounter, and the importance of digital literacy.

• Familiarize Yourself with Popular Platforms: Stay informed about the social media platforms, apps, and websites your teen uses. Understanding how these platforms work can help you engage in meaningful conversations with your child about their online experiences. For example, did you know SnapChat allows people to see your location 24/7 on a very detailed map? Some of the games your children play allow strangers to interact with them and pollute their minds. 

• Teach Digital Literacy: Empower your teen with digital literacy skills. Discuss topics such as online etiquette, privacy settings, recognizing cyberbullying, and verifying information. Encourage them to think critically about the content they encounter online.

Communication is Key

Open and honest communication is the foundation of keeping your teen safe in the digital age. Create a safe space for your child to discuss their online experiences and concerns without fear of judgment or punishment.

• Regular Check-Ins: Initiate regular conversations about their online activities. Ask about their friends, interests, and any issues they may have encountered online.

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules and boundaries regarding screen time, appropriate content, and online behavior. Two of my favorites are; 1. No phones for anyone at the dinner table and 2. Phones and iPads are “turned in” to a centrally located charging station nightly. 

• Lead by Example: Be a positive role model when it comes to your own digital behavior. Show your teen how to use technology responsibly and respectfully.

• Digital Footprint: The choices your teen makes today will be searchable forever. It is critical to teach your child the responsibility they hold with each post. Once something is posted it will forever be searchable and seen. Grandparents, college peers and their future boss will all be able to see what is shared. 

Online Safety Measures

In addition to open communication, implement practical safety measures to protect your teen online.

• Privacy Settings: Teach your teen how to configure privacy settings on social media accounts and other online platforms. Encourage them to limit the personal information they share online.

• Parental Control Software: Consider using parental control software to monitor and manage your teen’s online activities. These tools can help you block inappropriate content and track their online behavior.

• Cyberbullying Awareness: Discuss the importance of recognizing and reporting cyberbullying. Encourage your teen to report any instances of harassment or intimidation they encounter online.

• Online Friends and Contacts: Set a firm boundary with your child about interacting with strangers online. Teach your teen people online are able to use a façade to trick them into thinking they are somebody they are not. Emphasize the importance of not sharing personal information with unknown individuals.

Empower Critical Thinking

Help your teen develop critical thinking skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

• Fact-Checking: Teach your child how to verify the accuracy of information they come across online. Encourage them to question the credibility of sources and to not take anything at face value. 

• Media Literacy: Discuss the impact of media and advertising on perception and self-esteem. Check in with your child about what they are consuming online and how it is impacting their mental health. Help them find a way to eliminate negative influences. 

• Honesty: It is important to have a blunt and open conversation with your teen about the dangers and effects of pornography. These are difficult conversations but life changing. Exposure to explicit content at a young age can have significant effects on their attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions of relationships and sexuality. Research has shown that early exposure to pornography may lead to unrealistic expectations about sex, body image issues, and potentially contribute to negative outcomes such as risky sexual behavior or addiction to explicit material. 

Parenting in the digital age presents unique challenges, but with proactive communication, education, and the implementation of safety measures, you can keep your teen safe online. The key is to strike a balance between fostering independence and ensuring their well-being in the digital world. By actively participating in your teen’s online life and providing guidance, you can help them navigate the digital landscape responsibly and safely. 

Managing Fevers in Children

As parents, few things can trigger our anxiety quite like our children running a fever. The sight of a flushed face, the warmth of a tiny forehead, and the worry that something might be seriously wrong can send our hearts racing. However, it’s important to remember that a fever is not always the enemy. In fact, it’s often a natural response that indicates your child’s immune system is doing its job.

What is a Fever?

In children, a fever is defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). A fever is not an illness in itself but rather a symptom of an underlying infection or illness.

If I Don’t Have a Thermometer, How Can I Tell if my Child Has a Fever?

Don’t panic when you can’t find your thermometer or it is not working but you think something is off with your child.  Is your child having an increase in heart rate, breathing faster, warm to the touch or have chills?  If so, it is likely they have a fever.  At this time it is okay to give fever reducing medication.  If your child perks up and seems to get better, they probably had a fever.

How High is Too High?

The number one question we receive is “how high is too high for a fever?” The answer is simple.  If your child has had an appropriate dose of fever-reducing medication and their temperature remains 106 or higher they should be taken to the Emergency Room.

For children under 1 year of age, taking a rectal temperature is the GOLD STANDARD way to take a temperature. If your child is 2 months or younger, and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 or greater, it is considered a medical emergency and they should be seen immediately in the ER.

How to Reduce a Fever

Fever-reducing medications Tylenol (Acetaminophen) and Motrin (Ibuprofen) are both great medication options for a child with a fever.  As a reminder, Motrin CANNOT be given under 6 months of age.  Genexa is an option for those looking for a “cleaner” medication. 

Additional ways to help your child cool down include:

• Remove layers of clothing and blankets
• Offer cold drinks
• Give your child a lukewarm bath
• Place cool packs behind the neck, knees, armpits and groin.

Most importantly, if your child has a fever and is doing well, medication may not be needed. 

Fevers in children can be distressing, but they are often a sign that your child’s immune system is doing its job. By understanding what a fever is, when to be concerned, and how to manage it safely, you can provide the best care for your child. If you are concerned  about your child’s fever, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can book a telemedicine visit and answer any questions you may have. 

Tips for Managing Postpartum Depression

The journey into motherhood is often portrayed as a blissful experience, filled with joy, love, and the promise of a bright future. However, for many new mothers, the reality can be quite different. Beneath the surface of those picture-perfect moments lies a deeply personal struggle that is rarely talked about openly: postpartum depression.

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression generally presents as early as one week after childbirth.  Symptoms of postpartum depression include sadness, worry, hopelessness, restlessness, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating and overall loss of energy.  It can also present as being uninterested in your baby or feeling like you’re not bonding with them.  PPD differs from “baby blues” in that the feelings are more intense and last longer than two weeks after childbirth. 

Here are some tips for dealing with postpartum depression.

Tip 1:  Give Yourself Grace

Becoming a new parent can be an incredibly challenging experience.  Unlike most medical procedures, there’s no time for recovery; immediately after giving birth, you’re entrusted with the care of not just yourself but also a precious new life. It’s a huge responsibility! Navigating all the “right” ways to care for your baby can be daunting and we all inevitably make mistakes along the way.  Give yourself and your partner the grace to make those mistakes and keep at it.

Tip 2: Know You Are Not Alone

1 in 8 women experience some form of PPD after childbirth.  That’s a staggering statistic.  Having postpartum depression does not make you a bad mom!  Chances are someone else in your circle has experienced something similar. Things completely out of your control can cause PPD including genetic predisposition and hormone changes. 

Tip 3:  Ask For Help

It is essential to remove the stigma around postpartum depression; everyone should feel comfortable asking for help.  There are a variety of treatment options for PPD ranging from lifestyle changes to medication.  You do not have to feel this way!  We are here to help, reaching out is the first step to feeling better.

Many moms struggle with postpartum depression after childbirth .  We are here to help those who are struggling.  If you or someone you know is experiencing PPD, please call or book an appointment online.  It’s time to break the silence, foster understanding, and provide support to those who need it most. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

Preparing for Sick Season: Essentials of a Well-Stocked Medicine Cabinet

What should you keep stocked in your medicine cabinet to be ready for whatever the season throws at you?  Here are our recommendations.

The back-to-school buzz, crisp morning air and pumpkin-flavored everything often come hand in hand with sniffles, coughs, and the dreaded onset of the sick season. Every parent knows the drill: midnight fevers, sudden earaches, or the unexpected tummy troubles. While there’s no magical potion to ward off every illness, being prepared can make those challenging days (and nights) more manageable. Here is a list of essential pediatric over-the-counter medications to have in your medicine cabinet, ensuring that when sickness strikes, you’re not making a midnight dash to the local pharmacy.

Medication #1:  Motrin/Tylenol

When your child is running a fever (100.4 or higher), typically we suggest giving a fever reducing medication.  Motrin and Tylenol are both great options for children HOWEVER, children under 6 months of age should not use Motrin.Tylenol can be used starting at 2 months of age.  If your child is younger than 2 months and running a fever of 100.4 or greater, they need to be seen for evaluation. 

Medication #2:  Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra

Who else suffers from seasonal allergies?  Our Saving Grace providers do not have a preference on which allergy medication you choose.  However, we do suggest that once a bottle is finished you try a different brand the the next time.  This prevents the body from becoming immune to one medication.

Medication #3: Miralax

Constipation is a common childhood problem.  Children who suffer from constipation have hard, dry stools and infrequent bowel movements.  Miralax is a great option for children when diet changes and probiotics are not doing the trick.  If your child has chronic constipation problems, schedule an appointment so we can get them on a specific regimen.

Medication #4: Benadryl

Benadryl is used for several situations.  Benadryl helps treat reactions to food, bug bites and medications.  Benadryl is also a great over-the-counter option for runny nose, cough and congestion.

*extra tip: pair your children’s Benadryl with honey to relieve cough but DO NOT GIVE HONEY TO CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 12 MONTHS.

As always, it’s important to consult with your pediatric provider before administering any medication to your child, but knowing what to keep on hand is half the battle.  We hope your family stays healthy during sick season but, if not, Saving Grace is here to help!  Give us a call or use our online scheduler to schedule a virtual or in-home visit.

Preventing Tick-Borne Illness in Oklahoma

5 EASY Tips to Prevent Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks in Oklahoma are very unlikely to carry Lyme Disease.  However, there are some tick-borne diseases that are present here in Oklahoma.  Here are some very easy and important ways to prevent illness. 

PICK AN EFFECTIVE REPELLENT

• 20-30% DEET is the best studied and most effective tick repellent.  And, yes, it is safe to use.
• Picaridin is also considered to be an effective tick repellent
• APPLY TO ALL EXPOSED AREAS OF SKIN.  For young kids, avoid the hands and face.
• More information about tick repellents can be found on the EPA website.

CLOTHING TIPS

Cover your body.  Yes, it is hot outside but this is a great way to prevent ticks from attaching!  This means long-sleeved shirts, long pants, closed toe shoes, etc.

• Tuck in your clothing.  The waistline is a spot that most people don’t spray with bug repellent and it is an easy spot for ticks to gain access.
• Treat clothes with 0.5% Permethrin.  This is especially important with socks and shoes.
• When washing and drying clothing, turn machines to high temperatures. 

TICK CHECKS.  EVERY SINGLE DAY.

• If you and your children have been outside during the day-perform tick checks!  They’re easy and it is better to find the tick early!  Ticks  often need to be attached for long periods to transmit lyme disease although this is not always true for other tick-borne illnesses. 
• Check your kids, your pets, shoes, coats and any equipment you use outdoors.
• Pay particular attention to crevices including:

                  -in and around the ears

                  -armpits

                  -feet, including between toes

                  -scalp

                  -groin

                  -around the waist

CHECK YOUR PETS TOO

• Check both your indoor and outdoor pets for ticks daily and remove any ticks you find.
• Discuss preventative medications with your veterinarian.  These can include, but are not limited to, flea and tick medications as well as Lyme disease vaccine options.
• Pay particular attention to crevices including:

                -in or around the ears and eyelids

                -around the collar area

                -backside of front and back legs

                -throughout the tail

                -between the toes

HAVE A PLAN

• Have a plan for what to do if you find. tick on you, your child or pet. 
• Be aware, having items you need on hand, and knowing how to effectively handle the situation is key.  Don’t find yourself going down a Google spiral.
• When in doubt, call Saving Grace Pediatrics and we can help you through what to do and what to watch for.  We are always here for you!  405-590-0950

Ditch the Itch of Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac Rashes

Tips for Preventing and Treating the Itchy Rash and Blisters from These Common Plants

It is that time of year again when we all enjoy the great outdoors in Oklahoma.  Sometimes we come into contact with plants that hold poisonous oils. A rash can appear as long a 1-2 weeks after contact with these oils.  The good news is that people can treat the rash at home with symptomatic care.

Preventative Treatment

Prevention is the best treatment!

• “Leaves of three, let them be”
• Wear protective clothing, ie: long shirts, pants, socks, gloves
• Apply Ivy Block or IvyX prior to visiting known areas with toxicodendron plants.
• Immediately wash area of contact with a detergent dish soap like Dawn, ideally within 2 hours after contact.

Rash Presentation

Poison Oak, Ivy and Sumac all present with itchy, red bumps and/or blisters in linear formations where the plant resin comes into contact with the skin.

Home Treatment

For mild, small areas on the body you can try the following treatments at home:

• Oatmeal baths
• cool, wet compresses
• Calamine lotion
• Topical astringents like witch hazel
• Topical itch creams like Benadryl cream, 1% hydrocortisone cream, or Gold Bond cream
• Oral antihistamines like zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra and Benadryl

Medical Treatment

For severe rashes, or rashes involving the face or genitals, seeking medical care is recommended.  The following treatments may be prescribed in addition to the aforementioned home treatments:

• High dose topical steroids
• Oral steroids

We hope you don’t come into contact with these poisonous plants but, if you do, Saving Grace is here to help.  If you have any questions or concerns about a rash from one of these plants, call us, schedule a virtual visit or, for families in the Tulsa and OKC metro areas, schedule an in- home visit.

It’s Back to School Time in Oklahoma. Are You Ready for Potential Separation Anxiety?

Easing back-to-school separation anxiety.

We are headed back to school soon and this can cause mixed emotions in both parents and children. Both feelings of joy for a new routine of cognitive stimulation and negative feelings of being apart are normal.  If you find yourself or your child struggling with the thought of back to school separation, here are some ways to make sure everyone feels comfortable with all the anxieties that can come with a new school year.

What are Signs of Anxiety in my Child?

Your child may:

• Refuse to get ready for school
• Complain of a tummy ache
• Fuss about not having any friends
• Cry and/or cling at drop off
• Refuse to participate once at school

What are Signs of Struggle for Parents?

Parents may:

• Prolong the “goodbye”
• Cave to multiple goodbyes
• Take extra time telling the teacher about your child
• Try leaving without saying goodbye
• Get frustrated when your child cries

What Can You Do to Help the Situation?

• Let your child know how you are feeling.  When we put on a “front”, our child can sense this and it raises their anxiety.
• Let your child know it is ok to feel scared or sad but they can still attend school.
• Reconnect with your child with some one-on-one time after school.
• Remember that your child will look to you for guidance. It is important to be prepared and give encouraging support.

Remember:

Separation anxiety and fear of a new school year can appear at any age.  Do not be alarmed if your child previously had a great year and is now showing anxiety with the upcoming school year.  This can be due to a new developmental period your child is going through.  It can also happen because of a life change at home (new house, divorce, new baby, etc. ). Keep a positive outlook and support your child with reassurance.  We wish you and your family the best school year in 2023-2024!

Successful Road Trip Tips

How to Make Long Car Trips Fun and Enjoyable

Summer Vacation? Weekend getaway? Prepare yourself for long road trips with the kids.  We’ve found that these tips make for much smoother car rides.

Tip 1:  Be Prepared

Pack a refillable water bottle for each child so they all stay hydrated!  Snacks are important!  Pack their favorite healthy snacks so you can limit stops and keep their bellies full!  Think about packing their school lunch box so they have their own set up and throw it in the cooler. 

Tip 2:  Schedule

Pro-tip.  Schedule road trip times around nap time so the kids can get some rest and mom and dad can enjoy some quiet time.  Don’t stress if it doesn’t work; go with the flow!

Tip 3:  Activities

Take a new activity that the kids have not played with before so it is new and exciting for them.  This will help keep them focused for extended periods of time.

Tip 4:  Stops

Stop and Stretch!  Plan ahead and try to find an activity or a playground that allows the kids to get out and stretch for a bit before getting back in the car.  This allows them to burn some extra energy and can help with nap time if you have to leave before then.

Tip 5:  Essentials

Lastly, don’t forget to pack the essentials just in case one of the kiddos needs it.  Think Tylenol, Motrin and Benadryl just in case.  If you are unsure of your kiddos doses or what to give them, schedule a virtual visit with Saving Grace to get all the info you need.

Tips to Avoid a Sunburn

How Do Sunburns Happen?

UV rays react with a pigment called melanin in the skin.  The lighter a child’s natural skin color, the less melanin it has to absorb UV rays and protect our body’s largest organ-the skin.  Regardless of your child’s skin tone, all kids need protection from UV rays to prevent damage.  Here are some tips for having fun in the sun without getting a sunburn.

Tip #1:  Timing Is Important

Limit time in the midday sun. UV rays are strongest between 10 am and 4pm so it’s important to limit sun exposure during these hours.

Tip #2:  Be A Good Role Model

Consistently wear sunscreen to teach your kids good sun sense! Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours after being in the water or sweating.  Most of the sun’s rays go through clouds so use sunscreen even on cloudy days. Make sure your sunscreen is SPF 30 or higher and protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Tip #3:  Children Under 1 Year Of Age

Try to keep children under the age of  1 year out of the sun as much as you can.  Dress babies in lightweight, light colored clothing and always cover their head.  Don’t forget about protecting ears, hands, feet or lips. 

Do not use sunscreen on babies 6 months or younger!

Tip #4:  Medicine Check

If your child is on any medication, make sure to double-check the warning labels.  Some medicines make skin more sensitive to UV rays-especially antibiotics and acne medicines.

Tip #5:  When Sunburns Happen

What if my child gets a sunburn? Apply moisturizing creme with aloe on the burn.  You can also give your child ibuprofen or Tylenol-Do NOT give aspirin to children or teens.  Benadryl can help with itching and swelling.  Most importantly, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.  Keep children out of the sun until the sunburn has healed.

If you have questions about your child’s skin, give us a call today!  We see everything from sensitive skin to full blown rashes.  We are here for you!