Lake Pediatrics

05/25/2026

🏊 Water Safety Post

In Florida, water safety isn't a seasonal reminder — it's a year-round necessity. But with summer approaching, now is the perfect time to review the basics:

👀 Always designate a Water Watcher — one adult, no phone, eyes on the kids
🏊 Enroll young children in swim lessons if they haven't started yet
🚪 Make sure pool gates are self-closing and self-latching

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in young children, but a few simple habits can make all the difference.

05/21/2026

🦟 Mosquito & Bug Safety Post

Florida mosquitoes don't take days off! When kids are playing outside:

✅ Use EPA-registered insect repellent (DEET is safe for children over 2 months)
✅ Dress kids in light, long-sleeved clothing during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn)
✅ Check for ticks after outdoor play in grassy or wooded areas
A little prevention goes a long way! 🌿

05/19/2026

😴 Evergreen Sleep Post
How much sleep does your child actually need? Here's a quick guide:
🍼 Infants (4–12 months): 12–16 hours
🧒 Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours
👧 Ages 3–5: 10–13 hours
🎒 Ages 6–12: 9–12 hours
🎧 Teens: 8–10 hours
Consistent sleep affects mood, immunity, focus, and growth. If your child is struggling to sleep, mention it at your next visit!

05/19/2026

04/28/2026

📢 Attention Lake Pediatrics Families!

We are currently experiencing an internet outage that has affected our phone lines and telehealth services. As a result:

📵 We are unable to answer phone calls at this time.

💻 All telehealth appointments for today will be canceled.

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and are working to restore services as quickly as possible. If you have an urgent medical concern, please visit your nearest urgent care or emergency room.

04/07/2026

Per CDC data, there have been over 1,670 confirmed measles cases reported in the U.S. this year. For comparison, there were 2,286 confirmed cases reported in all of 2025, which is more than any year since 1991 and could put the U.S. measles elimination status at risk.

About 92% of people who have contracted measles this year have been unvaccinated or had an unknown status. Experts say it is likely that cases are significantly undercounted, as many go unreported.

The AAP recommends ensuring patients are covered with a two-dose measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination series. Read the full update in AAP News:
https://bit.ly/4vdnxjN

04/07/2026

⚠️Warning for Parents: Be Wary of Caterpillars ⚠️

We’ve recently seen an increase in children coming in with painful rashes caused by contact with certain caterpillars here in Florida.

These caterpillars may look soft and harmless, but they are covered in tiny venomous spines that can cause:
• Sudden, intense pain
• Red or burning rash
• Swelling or even blistering

How to prevent it:
• Teach children not to touch caterpillars, even if they look fuzzy or cute
• Be cautious around trees, shrubs, and outdoor play areas
• Consider wearing long sleeves when playing in wooded or landscaped areas

If your child is stung:
• Do NOT rub the area
• Gently remove spines using tape
• Wash with soap and water
• Apply a cold compress
• Seek medical care if pain is severe or symptoms worsen

If you’re unsure whether a rash could be from a caterpillar sting, we’re happy to take a look. Stay safe and keep an eye out—these little guys are easy to miss!

04/02/2026

Important Update for High School Athletes 🏃‍♀️
Parents, we want to make you aware of an update from the Florida High School Athletic Association regarding sports physical requirements. Under the Second Chance Act, there is now an increased focus on cardiac screening, including the use of ECGs (electrocardiograms) for student athletes.

Who needs an ECG?

All Student Athletes grades 9-12

An ECG completed on or after July 1, 2024 will meet the requirement.

At Lake Pediatrics, our providers are up to date on these guidelines and can help determine next steps, complete your child’s physical, and guide you through any needed screening.

✅ We recommend scheduling sports physicals early to avoid delays before the season starts.

📞 Call us at (352) 589-8111 to schedule or ask questions—we’re here to help!

03/12/2026

02/23/2026

Protecting Children Starts with Speaking Up

If you ever suspect that a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect, it’s important to know that you do not need proof to make a report — reasonable suspicion is enough. Reporting concerns can help connect families with support and protect children from harm.

In Florida, reports can be made to the
📞 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)
🌐 Online at: https://reportabuse.dcf.state.fl.us

📱 TTY: 1-800-453-5145

Reports can be made 24 hours a day and may be made anonymously.

If a child is in immediate danger, always call 911.

If you have concerns about a child’s safety or well-being, our team is also here to listen and guide you toward appropriate resources. You are not alone in protecting our community’s children.