Opal Court Pediatrics

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween from the Opal Court Pediatrics Disney crew! 🎃👻

10/10/2025

Helping children feel confident and capable sets the stage for success both in and out of the classroom.

Praise effort as much as results, and encourage hobbies or activities your child enjoys.

Modeling positive self-talk and teaching problem-solving skills helps them navigate challenges with resilience. Many communities offer programs, clubs, or sports teams focused on building character, teamwork, and self-esteem and participation can give children an extra boost of confidence.

Building self-esteem early gives children the tools to face setbacks with confidence and develop a healthy sense of self.

Want more ideas for boosting your child’s confidence? Or need help finding a good community program? Ask us at your next visit, we’re happy to help.

10/09/2025

Cow’s milk protein allergy occurs when a baby’s immune system reacts negatively to proteins in cow’s milk.

Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or fussiness after feeding. Both breastfed and formula-fed babies can experience this allergy, so it’s important to monitor symptoms regardless of feeding method. While some babies outgrow it, others may need ongoing formula changes or breastfeeding modifications.

We follow evidence-based guidelines to identify symptoms, confirm diagnosis, and create a safe feeding plan for your baby.

If your baby shows signs of a possible allergy, send us a message to schedule an evaluation and discuss feeding options.

10/08/2025

10/07/2025

Frequent tummy aches in school-age children are often caused by constipation, stress, dietary changes, or mild infections.

The location of the pain can give clues: upper stomach pain may be due to reflux or gastritis, central (near umbilicus) stomach pain can signal constipation, and around the belly button is often normal, especially in younger children.

Most of the time, these aches are not serious. However, seek medical attention if your child has severe pain, persistent vomiting, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss.

Keeping a diary of symptoms, meals, and school events can help identify triggers and guide treatment. Also, you can help by encouraging hydration, offering fiber-rich foods, promoting regular bathroom habits, and using relaxation techniques if stress may be a trigger.

Concerned about your child’s stomach pain? Schedule a visit so we can figure out the cause and give guidance on relief strategies.

10/05/2025

The RSV vaccine is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months who are entering their first RSV season, particularly those whose mothers did not receive the maternal RSV vaccine during pregnancy.

In the United States, RSV season varies by region but typically occurs between October and March each year.

Infants born to mothers who received the maternal RSV vaccine during pregnancy do not need the infant RSV antibody injection.

If an infant is born during RSV season, and the mother did not get the maternal RSV vaccine, then the RSV shot can be given as early as possible after birth.

The CDC recommends discussing RSV vaccination with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for each infant.

If you feel that your infant needs the RSV vaccine, please call the office and discuss with someone on the team. At Opal Court Pediatrics, we take pride in keeping ourselves up-to-date on current recommendations.

10/01/2025

Safe sleep saves lives. Every nap and bedtime should follow these guidelines:

- Back to sleep: Always place your baby on their back.

- Bare crib: Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet—no pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals.

- Room share, don’t bed share: Keep the baby in your room but in their own sleep space for at least 6 months, but the best practice is until 12 months.

- Avoid overheating: Dress baby in a sleep sack instead of loose blankets.

Provider tip: Dr. Rao recommends checking the safe sleep approval on all products prior to purchasing. For example, weighted sleep sacks are not approved for safe sleep so should be avoided.

Have questions about your baby’s sleep setup? Bring a photo to your next visit so we can help make sure it’s safe.

09/29/2025

Is your teen at college? Are you unsure what they do for health care during this transition?

College students get sick, stressed, and overwhelmed too, but knowing when to call our office versus when to see the student health center can be tricky. It’s usually best to call us for things like questions about chronic conditions, annual wellness care, or help with medication refills. If they’re dealing with symptoms like fever, sore throat, stomach issues, or minor injuries, they should head to the student health center.

Encourage your college student to save our number in their phone and reach out if they’re unsure.
We’re here to support your child, even from a distance. If your teen is in Maryland, our providers are available to do a telemedicine appointment.

09/26/2025

By age six, most kids are ready to take on more responsibility for their dental health, but still need reminders and help along the way.

At this age, children should be brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day (with a little help from a grown-up). Regular dental checkups every six months are essential, along with limiting sugary snacks and drinks.

Fun fact: dental cavities are the most common chronic disease in children, but they’re almost completely preventable.

If you are having trouble finding a pediatric dentist for your child, speak with one of our providers at your child’s next visit.

If you need help getting connected with a great dentist we can help!

09/24/2025

Eczema is a common skin condition in children that can cause dryness, itching, and irritation, often flaring up quickly from triggers such as:
- Dry air, heat, or cold
- Fragranced soaps or detergents
- Food sensitivities
- Scratching and tight clothing

Keep skin moisturized 2-3 times a day (apply moisturizing cream within 3 minutes of bath), use gentle, fragrance-free products, and avoid known triggers.

Severe flares? We can help with stronger creams or specialist referrals when needed.

Call today to schedule an appointment.

09/22/2025

Sleep training can be helpful for some families, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach and not every baby is ready at the same time.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports sleep training as a safe and effective method for improving infant sleep when done appropriately and developmentally. The AAP recognizes behavioral sleep training techniques like graduated extinction (letting the baby cry for gradually longer intervals before responding) and bedtime fading (adjusting bedtime to match natural sleepiness) as safe and effective for infants over 6 months.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to let your baby "cry it out" if that doesn’t feel right for your family. Remember, sleep challenges are common during the baby phase.

We’re always here to talk through different options, whether gentle, gradual, or more structured so you can find a path to better sleep that works for your baby and your family’s needs.

09/19/2025

Many teens are eager to try the latest skincare trends, but not all products are designed for young, sensitive skin.

The best skincare routines and products are simple and gentle. Look for non-comedogenic products (which won’t clog pores), fragrance-free options to reduce irritation, and daily use of SPF even in winter months. A good cleanser and light moisturizer are often all a teen needs to start.

We recommend products such as Cerave SA and Cetaphil for a gentle wash and their moisturizing products as well.

If your teen is struggling with acne or sensitive skin, we can help create a skin care routine that is specifically tailored to their skin type. Call today to schedule an appointment.