Children's Medical Center

07/25/2025

Christmas in July!

07/07/2025

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting swim lessons around age 1. Here’s why it matters:

💦 Builds water confidence: Getting comfortable in the water at a young age helps toddlers stay calm, reduces fear, and lays the foundation for safer swimming habits.

🏊 Improves coordination and motor skills: Swim lessons support whole-body development by strengthening muscles, improving balance, and enhancing coordination — all through fun, active play.

🧠 Teaches water safety awareness: Even at age 1, children can begin learning how to behave safely around water. Lessons introduce basic safety rules, which helps foster a healthy respect for the pool or beach.

Remember, no swim lesson can take the place of a watchful adult. Constant supervision and barriers (like pool fences) are still the most important layers of protection.

It’s never too early to start swimming safely!

07/03/2025

May your 4th of July be filled with explosive fun and unforgettable memories. Happy Independence Day! Below are our office hours for the 4th of July holiday.

06/30/2025

Reading over the summer helps prevent the “summer slide”; that learning loss that can happen when school’s out. Here are a few ways you can encourage summer reading:

📖 Set a daily reading habit: Just 15–20 minutes a day can help kids stay on track and build confidence in their reading skills.

🏆 Make it fun with challenges or rewards: Try a sticker chart, a small prize for finishing a book, or a friendly competition among siblings.

📚 Visit the library together: Most local libraries offer free summer reading programs, story times, and book lists for every age.

🧠 Let kids pick what interests them: Comic books, graphic novels, it all counts. When they enjoy the story, they’re more likely to keep reading.

A little reading each day adds up to a big difference and sets the stage for a strong start in the fall.

06/26/2025

It’s Scoliosis Awareness Month, and a great time to check in on spine health, especially for growing kids!

While scoliosis is often mild, spotting it early can make all the difference. At your child’s annual physical, we screen for early indicators to catch any issues before they become problems.

✅ What to watch for: Common signs like uneven shoulders or a crooked waistline can be easy to miss.

🩺 Time for a checkup: Our pediatricians know exactly what to look for.

📅 Schedule your child’s next checkup today! We’ve got their back (literally)!

06/25/2025

We’re committed to be a space where every family feels seen, heard, and supported. As healthcare providers, creating a welcoming and respectful environment is at the heart of what we do for every child and every visit.

06/16/2025

Outdoor play is one of the best parts of summer, but before you get going, a quick safety check can help prevent scrapes, sunburns, and overheated kiddos. Here’s what to keep in mind:

🔥 Surface Check: Slides, monkey bars, and rubber play mats can get hot fast. Do a quick hand test to avoid burns, especially during peak sun hours.

👟 Shoe Choice: Always opt for closed-toe shoes to protect little feet from sharp rocks, splinters, or stubbed toes.

🧢 Dress for Safety: Light, breathable clothes and a hat help keep kids cool while shielding them from the sun.

Happy, safe playing out there! ☀️

06/11/2025

06/11/2025

Ask your Palm Harbor Children’s Medocal Center docs about Reach out and Read today!!!!!

06/06/2025

Nothing says summer like a day at the pool, but safety comes first! 💦
Here are some important reminders for poolside play:

✅ Supervision is Key
Always keep a close eye on kids in or near water, even if they know how to swim.

✅ Designated “Water Watcher”
Assign an adult to stay off their phone and focused on the pool during swim time.

✅ Learn CPR
Being prepared can save lives, consider taking a child-focused CPR class.

✅ Secure the Area
Use pool fences, alarms, and covers when the pool is not in use.

Let’s keep pool time safe and fun this summer!

06/04/2025

Is it your baby’s first summer? Here are a few warm-weather tips to keep them comfy and safe:

🧴 No Sunscreen for Newborns
Babies under 6 months should stay out of direct sun and wear protective clothing instead.

🌡️ Dress Lightly
Opt for breathable cotton layers to prevent overheating.

⛱️ Shade is Your Friend
Use a stroller canopy, umbrella, or hat when you’re out and about.

🥤 Stay Cool
Offer more frequent feeds to keep baby hydrated.

Hot days can be tricky for little ones, but a few adjustments go a long way!

06/03/2025

Got a little too much sun? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some simple steps to help your little one recover from a sunburn:

🚿 Cool the Skin: A lukewarm bath can help soothe the burn—just be sure not to use hot water!
💧 Hydrate: Sunburns can dehydrate the body, so keep your child hydrated with plenty of water or electrolyte drinks.
🩹 Apply Soothing Creams: Aloe vera gel or over-the-counter creams can help reduce redness and irritation.

If the burn is severe, blistering, or causing discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician at CMC. Remember: Prevention is key, but if a sunburn happens, these tips will help your child feel better faster!