Maria Clariza Coronado Pediatric Clinic

17/02/2026

Our clinic is closed today February 17 Tuesday (Holiday).

14/02/2026

Happy Valentine's (Vaccine) Day! Thank you dear parents and babies for your thoughtfulness and generosity ❤️❤️❤️

03/02/2026

10 Naughty NICU Baby Behaviors

1. Pulling out my feeding tube. Repeatedly. Immediately after it’s taped perfectly.

2. Grabbing monitor wires with shocking precision for someone who “isn’t coordinated yet.”

3. Waiting until the nurse walks away to desat…then popping right back up the second they return.

4. Demonstrating advanced knowledge of IV pump sensitivity by holding my arm just so until it loses its mind.

5. Spitting out my pacifier with precision, then crying because it’s gone.

6. Pushing my leg out of the swaddle one tiny toe at a time, like a mini escape artist.

7. Acting offended by temperature checks, but unbothered by everything else.

8. A full-blown diaper explosion after my diaper is changed, lined up, and the tabs are sealed with confidence.

9. Spitting up right after my linens were changed. Bonus points if it’s on a clean outfit.

10. Having an absolutely great day…right up until someone says it out loud.

We aren’t “really” naughty though!
We’re just tiny humans with big personalities, learning how our bodies work and reminding everyone we’re stronger than we look. 🧡

What would you add to this list?

02/02/2026

To the NICU Mama—

You are not just a mom.

You are a nurse, catching alarms before they sound.

A speech therapist, celebrating the tiniest swallows.

A physical therapist and occupational therapist, cheering on every stretch, every grip, every milestone.

You’re a medication manager, knowing doses and schedules by heart.

A schedule coordinator, planning life around rounds, cares, and kangaroo time.

A nutritionist, tracking milliliters like they’re gold.

An inventory director, packing pump parts, syringes, and hope—every single day.

A safety supervisor, a child advocate, a constant voice when your baby cannot speak.

And somehow… you are still a mama.

Loving fiercely in a place filled with wires and worry.

Showing up exhausted, scared, and brave all at once.

Fighting battles no one sees with a strength you didn’t know you had.

You are a superhero, even on the days you feel broken.

Your love is powerful. Your presence matters.
Your baby is stronger because you are there.
This is for every NICU mama—past, present, and future.

You are seen. You are needed. You are everything. 💜

02/02/2026

Our PEDIA CLINIC IS CLOSED February 2 to 4. We will resume on February 5 Thursday.

27/01/2026

💜💜

25/01/2026

💜 Not All NICU Stories Look the Same 💜

When people hear “NICU,” they often think only of premature babies. While prematurity is one reason babies need the NICU, it’s far from the only one. Many babies—including full-term babies—need specialized care after birth, and every NICU journey is valid.

Let’s talk about some common reasons babies may arrive early or need NICU support, and feel free to interact in the comments 👇

👶 Premature Birth (Born Before 37 Weeks)

Prematurity can happen for many reasons, including:
• Preterm labor
• Preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome
• Infections during pregnancy
• Placental issues
• Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
• Maternal health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

Premature babies may need help with breathing, feeding, temperature regulation, and growth.

💬 Comment “Preemie” if your baby was born early.
-----------------------------------------------------

🫁 Breathing or Lung Issues

Even full-term babies can struggle to breathe at birth.

This may include:
• Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
• Meconium aspiration
• Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN)
• Underdeveloped lungs

These babies may need oxygen, CPAP, or ventilator support for a short time—or longer.

💬 Did your baby need breathing support?
------------------------------------------------------

❤️ Heart Conditions

Some babies are born with congenital heart defects that aren’t diagnosed until after birth.

These babies may need monitoring, medication, or surgery in the NICU.

💬 If heart warriors are part of your story, drop a ❤️.
--------------------------------------------------------

🧠 Neurological Concerns

Babies may be admitted to the NICU for:
• Seizures
• Brain bleeds
• Lack of oxygen at birth (HIE)
• Abnormal muscle tone

Early monitoring and treatment can make a huge difference.

💬 NICU parents know how scary those monitors can be!
-----------------------------------------------------

🦠 Infections & Immune Concerns

Newborns—especially preemies—have fragile immune systems.

The NICU may be needed for:
• Sepsis
• Maternal infections passed at birth
• Fever or low body temperature

Antibiotics and close monitoring save lives.

💬 Were antibiotics part of your NICU stay?
-------------------------------------------------------

🍽️ Feeding & Blood Sugar Issues

Some babies struggle with:
• Feeding by mouth
• Low blood sugar
• Poor weight gain

NICU teams help babies learn to eat, grow, and thrive—at their own pace.

💬 Feeding struggles are more common than people realize.
-------------------------------------------------------

🌈 Every NICU Stay Matters

Whether a baby stayed one day or many months

Whether they were born at 25 weeks or 40 weeks, every NICU journey is real, valid, and life-changing!

NICU parents are strong. NICU babies are warriors and awareness matters.

💬 If you’re comfortable, share your NICU story below.

You never know who needs to read it today 💜

10/01/2026

The Ins and Outs of Kangaroo Care in the NICU 🦘

Kangaroo Care—also known as skin-to-skin care—is one of the most powerful and evidence-based practices used in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). While it may look simple, its benefits for both babies and parents are profound.

What Is Kangaroo Care?

Kangaroo Care involves placing a diaper-clad baby upright on a parent’s bare chest. The baby is then covered with a blanket to keep them warm. This position mimics the natural closeness of a womb-like environment and can be practiced with moms, dads, and other primary caregivers when medically appropriate.

Why Is Kangaroo Care So Important?

Research has shown that Kangaroo Care provides both short-term and long-term benefits, especially for premature and medically fragile infants.

Benefits for Babies Include:

Improved heart rate and breathing stability
Better temperature regulation
Increased oxygen saturation
Improved weight gain and digestion
Reduced stress and pain responses
Better sleep cycles
Support for brain development

Benefits for Parents Include:

Strengthened bonding and attachment

Increased confidence in caregiving

Reduced anxiety, stress, and feelings of helplessness

Support for milk supply and breastfeeding success

Is Kangaroo Care Safe in the NICU?

Yes—when guided by the NICU care team. Even babies on ventilators, CPAP, or with IV lines can often participate. Nurses and respiratory therapists help with safe transfers and positioning to ensure everything remains secure.

How Often Should Kangaroo Care Be Done?

The more, the better—when possible. Studies show that longer and more frequent sessions (at least 60 minutes) provide the greatest benefit. Always follow your NICU’s policies and your baby’s medical plan.

Common Myths About Kangaroo Care:

♥️"My baby is too sick.” Many critically ill babies can still do skin-to-skin with proper support.

♥️“Only moms can do it.” Dads and partners benefit just as much—and so do babies.

♥️“It’s just bonding.” Bonding is important, but Kangaroo Care is also a medical intervention with measurable health benefits.

Kangaroo Care is more than cuddles—it’s medicine. It supports healing, growth, and emotional connection during one of the most challenging times families can face. If you’re in the NICU, ask your care team when and how you can begin.

💜 Every heartbeat, every breath, and every moment of skin-to-skin truly matters.

Has Kangaroo Care been part of your NICU journey? Share your experience below to support other NICU families.

03/01/2026

🩺 Flu & RSV Season: What NICU Families Need to Know

15 Ways to Keep Your NICU Baby Safe During the Holidays

The holiday season is full of magic, celebrations, and togetherness—but for NICU families, it also brings increased worry. Flu and RSV season peaks right when families gather indoors, kids share germs, and everyone wants to visit the newest little miracle.

For our tiniest fighters—especially preemies and medically fragile infants—even a “simple cold” can turn serious very fast. Their lungs are still developing, their immune systems are immature, and they need extra protection to stay safe and healthy.

Here’s a helpful guide for understanding the risks and 15 practical ways to protect your NICU baby this holiday season.

🎄 Why Flu & RSV Are Extra Dangerous for NICU Babies

Immature immune systems make it harder for them to fight infections.

Premature lungs are more vulnerable to inflammation and respiratory distress.

Common holiday exposures—school-aged kids, workplaces, shopping, and gatherings—dramatically increase the risk of viral spread.

What looks mild in an adult can lead to hospitalization, oxygen support, or complications for a NICU baby.

The good news? Small steps create BIG protection.

🧼💙 15 Ways to Keep Your NICU Baby Safe This Holiday Season

1. Limit sick visitors—no exceptions.

2. Require hand washing before ANY baby touch time.

3. Don’t be afraid to say “no visitors right now.”

4. Use a “germ sign” on the incubator or room door.

5. Ask family to stay up to date on flu shots.

6. Encourage mask-wearing for anyone around the baby.

7. Avoid taking siblings to busy holiday events.

8. Skip large gatherings this year.

9. Keep hand sanitizer at the bedside.

10. Wipe down phones, tablets, and incoming items.

11. Clean holiday gifts before bringing them into the unit.

12. Change clothes after returning from public places.

13. Ask others to help with errands and siblings.

14. Advocate for your baby—always.

15. Remember: Guilt-free boundaries save lives.

💚❤️💚❤️💚❤️💚❤️💚❤️💚❤️💚❤️💚❤️

🎁 A Holiday Message for NICU Parents

You’re not being overprotective—you’re being a good parent.
This season may look different, but the NICU community understands how powerful small acts of protection can be.

Protecting your baby is the most meaningful holiday gift you can give.

If you’re a NICU parent this season, you’re doing an incredible job. 💙✨

01/01/2026

Happy New Year!!! 🥳🎉

30/12/2025

29/12/2025

Our clinic is closed on December 29 to January 6.
Happy Holidays!