Harastani Pediatrics

08/26/2025

Happy Labor Day from Harastani Pediatrics!

Labor Day is a time to celebrate the dedication and hard work of families in our community. As you enjoy the long weekend, here are a few important health and safety reminders for children:

Sun & Heat Safety
Even in early September, sun exposure can be strong. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), reapply every 2 hours, and provide hats or sunglasses when outdoors. Keep children well hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion.

Outdoor Play & Safety
If biking, skating, or using scooters, children should always wear properly fitted helmets. Reinforce road and traffic safety rules for older children.

Healthy Holiday Eating
Cookouts and picnics are a Labor Day tradition. Balance festive foods with fruits, vegetables, and water. Be mindful of food safety by keeping perishable items properly chilled to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Water Safety
For families spending time at pools, lakes, or beaches, close supervision is essential. Young children should remain within arm’s reach, and U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets are recommended when boating.

Insect Protection
Use child-safe insect repellent to help prevent mosquito and tick bites, especially during evening activities.

Back-to-School Readiness
Try to maintain consistent sleep schedules over the holiday weekend. Predictable routines help children transition smoothly back to school following the break.

From all of us at Harastani Pediatrics, we wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!

07/25/2025

🏃‍♂️⚽️ Time for a sports physical?
Get your child ready for the season with a quick and easy visit to Harastani Pediatrics, conveniently located right off Hill Road and US-23!

✅ Same day appointments
📞 Call us at 810-410-3023
💻 Book online at Pedsmd.care

Let’s keep them healthy and in the game 🏀🏈🥎

07/17/2025

🎆 It’s the perfect time to book your child’s appointment
Whether it’s a checkup, vaccines, or back to school physicals, we’re here for you.

📞 Call us at 810 410 3023
🖥️ Book online anytime at PedsMD.care
👶 Same day appointments available

06/23/2025

Keep the Beat: Supporting Your Child’s Heart Health
A healthy heart is essential for a healthy life, starting from childhood! While heart disease often seems like an adult concern, the foundations for lifelong cardiovascular health are built early. The good news? There are fun, simple ways parents can help kids develop heart healthy habits that last.

Encourage Physical Activity
Kids need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. That doesn’t mean hours of structured sports (unless they love that!) Free play counts too. Encourage your child to ride a bike, dance to music, play tag, or join a family walk after dinner. The goal is to get their heart pumping regularly while keeping it fun and screen free.

Focus on Healthy Eating
Nutrition is one of the most powerful tools to support heart health. Fill your child’s plate with colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and avocado. Try to limit sugary drinks, salty snacks, and processed foods. Teaching your child to enjoy a variety of healthy foods now makes it easier for them to make good choices later.

Maintain a Healthy Weight
Weight is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s an important one. Helping your child stay within a healthy weight range supports not only heart health, but energy, sleep, and confidence too. Regular checkups with your pediatrician are a great way to track growth and talk about healthy lifestyle habits without focusing too much on the scale.

Know Your Family History
Some heart conditions run in families. If heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol are common in your family, let your child’s doctor know. They may suggest earlier or more frequent screenings as your child grows. Being aware of risks can help you and your doctor take preventive steps early.

Make Heart Health a Family Thing
Kids are more likely to build lifelong healthy habits if they see you doing it too. Cook and eat healthy meals together. Take family bike rides. Limit screen time as a team. Laugh, move, and play. It’s good for everyone’s heart.

04/23/2025

🌼 Spring into Health! 🌼
As the weather warms up, kids are spending more time outdoors — and while it’s great for their bodies and minds, springtime can bring a few extra health concerns. Here’s how to help your child enjoy the season safely and comfortably:

🌸 Allergy alert
Seasonal allergies can sneak up fast. If your child is sneezing, rubbing their eyes, or waking up congested, they might be reacting to pollen in the air.
✔ Ask us about age-appropriate allergy medications
✔ Keep windows closed on high-pollen days
✔ Encourage evening showers to rinse off allergens

🦟 Bug bite prevention
Mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs are back in action.
✔ Use a child-safe repellent when playing in wooded or grassy areas
✔ Dress kids in long sleeves and pants for hikes or camping
✔ Check for ticks on legs, behind ears, and along the scalp after outdoor play

🤕 Minor cuts & scrapes
Outdoor play means more chances for little injuries.
✔ Wash cuts with soap and water
✔ Apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection
✔ Cover with a bandage — and change it daily

🌞 Sun safety
Even spring sun can cause sunburns!
✔ Use SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin — and don’t forget ears and noses
✔ Reapply every 2 hours, especially after sweating or water play
✔ Pack a hat and sunglasses if your child will be outside for long stretches

💧 Stay hydrated
Kids may not notice how much they’re sweating in mild weather.
✔ Encourage regular water breaks, even if they’re not thirsty
✔ Avoid too many sugary drinks — water is best!
✔ Pack a reusable water bottle in their backpack or play bag

💬 Not sure when to call?
Fevers, persistent coughs, swelling from bug bites — if something seems off, give us a call. We’re always happy to help you figure out what’s normal and when your child needs to be seen.

📍 Harastani Pediatrics — keeping your kids healthy, happy, and ready to bloom all spring long! 💙🌿

08/30/2024

Celebrating Labor Day with Fun and Family! 🇺🇸

As Labor Day approaches, it's a great time to celebrate the hard work and dedication of all the workers in our community—especially the parents who juggle work and raising amazing kids! It's also a perfect opportunity to enjoy the last days of summer with some fun family activities.

Why not make the most of this long weekend with some fun, healthy activities that the whole family can enjoy?

Outdoor Adventures:
Take advantage of the warm weather with a family hike, a visit to the park, or a bike ride. Fresh air and physical activity are great for kids and adults alike!

Family Picnic:
Pack a healthy picnic and enjoy a meal together outdoors. Include some fruits, veggies, and whole grains for a nutritious and delicious spread.

DIY Crafts:
Get creative with some Labor Day-themed crafts! You can make patriotic decorations or have the kids draw pictures of different jobs they find interesting.

Backyard Games:
Organize a mini Olympics in your backyard with fun games like sack races, water balloon tosses, or a scavenger hunt. It’s a great way to keep the kids active and entertained.

Family Movie Night:
After a day of outdoor fun, wind down with a family movie night. Pick a movie that everyone can enjoy, and don’t forget the healthy snacks!

A Time to Reflect and Recharge: While Labor Day is a day of celebration, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of balance. As we head into the busy fall season, take some time to recharge and prepare for the school year ahead. Encourage your kids to express gratitude for the hard work of others, and remind them of the importance of teamwork and cooperation.

Whatever your plans are for Labor Day, remember to stay safe. If you're spending time outdoors, don't forget the sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. And if you're gathering with friends or family, make sure to follow any local health guidelines.

Happy Labor Day! We wish all of our wonderful families a happy and relaxing Labor Day. Enjoy this time with your loved ones, and let’s get ready for an exciting new season!

Now offering virtual visits - Book online today! Trusted Board Certified Pediatricians serving Lapeer, MI & Flint, MI. Visit our website to book an appointment online: Lapeer Pediatrics

08/29/2024

🏫 Back to School: Excitement, Stress, and Everything in Between! 🎒

As the new school year kicks off, it's an exciting time filled with new school supplies, fun backpacks, and fresh outfits. But for many kids, it’s also a time of stress and anxiety—whether they’re starting Pre-K, Kindergarten, or tackling the challenges of high school.

Wondering how you can help your child manage the pressures of school? We've got you covered! In our latest article, we discuss practical strategies to reduce anxiety, foster healthy habits at home, and prepare your child to face the new school year with confidence.

From establishing morning routines to providing emotional support during the school day, these tips can make all the difference.

👀 Check out the full article here: https://www.harastanimd.com/blog/coping-strategies-for-your-anxious-child

Let's work together to make this school year a positive and stress-free experience for your child! 💪✨

From getting the perfect school supplies, the fun new backpack and back to school outfits, the new school year can be a very exciting time. It can also be very

08/20/2024

🌟 Meet Sydney Howard, PA-C! 🌟

We're thrilled to shine the spotlight on one of our amazing team members, Sydney Howard, who has been an integral part of our pediatric care family for over 4 incredible years! 💫

Sydney graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with her Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Prior to completing her Master’s, she earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology with university and departmental honors from Wayne State University.

Her passion for working with children took root during her college years while volunteering in the NICU/PICU at Children's Hospital of Michigan. These experiences, where she offered comfort and care to hospitalized children, solidified her commitment to pediatric healthcare and inspired her to pursue a career in this field as a PA.

Since joining our practice in 2020, Sydney has made it her mission to create a welcoming, safe, and enjoyable environment where children can receive high-quality medical care with confidence and ease.

Outside of work, Sydney enjoys boxing, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends. 🥊👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Join us in thanking Sydney for her unwavering dedication and commitment to pediatric care! ✨

08/15/2024

🏀⚽ Back-to-School & Sports Season is Here! 🏈⚾

As the new school year begins, make sure your child is ready to hit the field with a thorough sports physical! 🩺 Not only do sports physicals ensure your child is healthy and safe for play, but they also help identify any potential risks before the season kicks off.

✨ Why Sports Physicals Matter:

Assess overall health
Prevent injury
Boost performance
Promote healthy habits

🏃‍♂️ SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE! Whether it's for football, soccer, or basketball, we’re here to provide the care your child needs to stay strong all season long. Call today to schedule your appointment and ensure your child is ready for a successful school year, both in and out of the classroom.

🎉 New to Our Practice? We’re excited to welcome new patients! Schedule your child’s first visit today and experience personalized care that prioritizes their health and well-being. 🛍️✨

Need help with other back-to-school health essentials like vision checks or immunizations? We’ve got you covered—our office offers comprehensive care for all your child's needs.

📞 Call us today to book your child's appointment or visit our website to learn more about the services we offer!

We're dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive pediatric care for your little ones. From wellness check-ups to sick visits, our team is here to support your child's health every step of the way. Join us in nurturing healthy, happy kids!

08/13/2024

The Power of Probiotics!
Did you know that probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut? These beneficial bacteria help boost your immune system, improve digestion and promote overall wellness. Incorporating probiotics into your child’s daily routine can lead to
improvements in belly symptoms and overall health. Click the link for the full article on probiotics and gut health, including our top recommendations for high-quality probiotics for your child!

Probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut! These beneficial bacteria help boost your immune system, improve digestion and promote overall well

08/05/2024

🌟 Back to School with Health in Mind! 🌟

As the school year approaches, it's the perfect time to focus on your child's health and well-being. Whether they're hitting the books or hitting the field, staying healthy is key to a successful year! Here are some tips and tricks to help your child thrive:

🏃‍♂️ Sports Physicals 🏃‍♀️
Is your child gearing up for school sports? Ensure they're ready to play safely with a comprehensive sports physical. We offer same-day appointments and thorough, timely care to accommodate your busy schedule. These check-ups are crucial for identifying any potential health issues and ensuring your child is in top shape for their favorite activities. Don't wait—get them cleared to participate!

🍎 Healthy Habits 🍎
Set your child up for success with these healthy habits:
Balanced Diet: Encourage a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A nutritious breakfast can kickstart their day!
Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. This can be anything from sports to dancing or even a family walk.
Sleep Routine: Ensure your child gets enough rest. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help them wind down and get the sleep they need.

🧠 Mental Wellness 🧠
Open Communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings and talk about their day. This helps them process emotions and feel supported.
Mindfulness Practices: Simple techniques like deep breathing or meditation can help manage stress and improve focus.

🖍️ Back-to-School Prep 🖍️
Organizational Skills: Help your child set up a homework station and use planners or apps to keep track of assignments and activities.
Set Goals: Encourage them to set realistic academic and personal goals for the school year.

📅 Schedule Your Appointment Today! 📅
We're excited to welcome new patients in the Genesee County and surrounding areas! Our caring and experienced team is here to support your family's health, offering everything from routine check-ups to specialized care. With same-day appointments and a commitment to thorough, timely care, we make it easy to keep your children healthy. Book your child's back-to-school appointment with us today. Let's make this school year the best and healthiest yet!

We're dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive pediatric care for your little ones. From wellness check-ups to sick visits, our team is here to support your child's health every step of the way. Join us in nurturing healthy, happy kids!

07/25/2024

Attention Parents!

Are you looking for top-notch supplements to support your child's health and wellness? We’ve put together a list of recommended brands to help guide your choices. This article, authored by our PA Danielle Hannah, provides valuable insights on selecting quality vitamins for your child.

👉 Read the full article on our website to explore our top recommendations and learn more about each brand: https://www.harastanimd.com/blog/top-vitamin-brands-for-kids-expert-recommendations-from-our-pediatric-team

Choosing the right supplements can make a big difference in your child's health journey. Rest assured, our recommendations are based on thorough research and trusted brands.

Stay tuned for more posts on specific supplements, their uses, and why we trust them!

, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Are you looking for top-notch supplements to support your child's health and wellness? As your pediatricians and health care providers, we are frequently asked