Portland Pediatric Group

06/13/2024

We want to remind our parents about the potential health risks of consuming raw milk. Pasteurization is a process that heats milk to a certain temperature for a certain period of time to kill bacteria. Because raw milk has not been pasteurized, it can contain harmful bacteria - like Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and Tuberculosis. Because their immune system is still developing, children under the age of 5 have a higher risk of serious illness from consuming raw milk. Click the link below to learn more about the risks of consuming raw milk and the pasteurization process.

​Raw milk is not safe to drink, because it can carry harmful bacteria and other germs. Learn more how to protect your family from getting sick.

05/28/2024

Expecting a new addition to the family? 👶💗 Welcoming a new baby can be both exciting and challenging for older siblings. Starting the conversation early, maintaining routines, and involving them in preparations can all help ease the transition, but children of different ages will react differently. Check out the article below to learn more about what to expect from - and how to best prepare - the new brother or sister during this exciting time. We're here to support you every step of the way as your family grows. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. ☎️

​Are you wondering how you can prepare your older children for their new baby brother or sister? Kids react differently based on their age and knowing what to expect from each age group will make it easier to handle the changes in your family. Learn more here. 

05/18/2024

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! 💪⚽ Regular exercise not only strengthens muscles and bones, but also boosts mood, improves sleep, and enhances overall well-being. With the school year winding down, you might be thinking about how you'll keep your little one active this summer - but there are tons of options in the Rochester area for all interests and ages. Check out some of them through the link below!

Sports, Swimming, and Physical Fitness Summer Camps for kids in Rochester, NY. Soccer, baseball, football, lacrosse, basketball, tennis, martial arts, yoga, running, swimming, exercise, and lots more!

05/13/2024

05/12/2024

As pediatricians, we see firsthand the incredible bond between mothers and their children. Your unwavering commitment to your child's health and well-being inspire us every day. Today, we honor the mothers who trust us with the care of their precious little ones. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey as parents. Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and cherished moments with your families. ❤️💐 Happy Mother's Day!

05/09/2024

Today is Children's Mental Health Awareness Day. 🧠 As pediatricians, we understand that mental health is as important as physical health for a child's overall well-being. Childhood is a crucial time for emotional development, and it's essential to recognize and address any challenges early on - whether those challenges are anxiety, depression, ADHD, or any other mental health concern. We're here to listen, offer guidance, and connect families with the appropriate resources. If you have any concerns about your child's mental health, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in a child's life - now and as they transition into adulthood.

04/30/2024

Is it time for your little one's well-child visit? ⭐ Regular check-ups are key to ensuring your child is growing and developing as they should be. From monitoring milestones to discussing any concerns you may have, our pediatricians are here to provide personalized care for your littlest family members. Let's keep your child healthy and thriving! 👶
Call us today to schedule an appointment. ☎️ (585) 342-5665

04/21/2024

Spring is well underway, and tree pollen is at its peak in Rochester! 🤧🌳 Keep an eye out for pesky seasonal allergy symptoms this year. From sneezing to itchy eyes, we're here to help you navigate the season. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any concerns or need advice on managing your child's allergies. Let's keep our kiddos happy and healthy this spring! 🌷

04/20/2024

Laundry - the chore that never ends! 👖👗 From detergent pods to stain removers, household laundry products can pose risks to curious children. Be sure to store these items out of reach and out of sight (a locked cabinet is best), and always supervise young children around household appliances. Click below to learn more about childproofing your laundry room.

​Are you a family with young children? Then chances are you spend a great deal of time doing laundry! Help keep young kids safe by making sure that anything little fingers may try to open, pull on, or play with in the laundry room won't harm them. ​

04/20/2024

☀️ Start your child's day off right with a nutritious breakfast! As pediatric providers, we can't stress enough how crucial it is for kids to fuel their bodies with a healthy morning meal, which provides essential nutrients for growth and development and sets the tone for better focus and energy throughout the day! Want to learn more about the benefits of a balanced breakfast or read tips on preparing a healthier (and easier!) breakfast? Click the link below to learn more. 🍳🍴

Nearly half of all American families regularly skip breakfast. Is your family one of them? When it comes to getting your children to school, a healthy breakfast is just as important as gym shoes and sharp pencils.

03/30/2024

🌷 Spring has sprung in Rochester, NY! It's the perfect time to grow little minds and bodies. Get your family moving with a hike or bike ride in Mendon Ponds Park, Corbett's Glen, or the Erie Canal Towpath Trail, or broaden your child's horizons with a trip to the Seneca Park Zoo, Strong Museum of Play, or Genesee Country Village and Museum. What is your family planning this spring? 🌼☀️ Share in the comments!

03/28/2024

Ensuring our children's well-being includes promoting healthy social media habits. While social media can be a valuable tool for social connection, we urge our parents to establish limits on screen time, serve as role models in their own social media use, and foster open conversations about online safety. 💻 Click below to learn more about healthy social media use for children and teenagers.

A multipronged approach to social media management, including time limits, parental monitoring and supervision, and ongoing discussions about social media can help parents protect teens’ brain development.

03/15/2024

Quality sleep is crucial for growing minds! 🌙⭐ Wondering how much shut-eye your child needs? (They may need more than you think!) Until one year old, your little one should be getting between 12 and 16 hours of sleep (including naps!). As they get older, they'll need less and less. By their teens, expect them to doze for 8 to 10 hours. 😴💤

03/11/2024

⚽ Ensure your little athletes stay healthy! Our little patients' growing bodies are more vulnerable to stresses that a tough workout places on bones, muscles, and other growing tissues, so avoiding overuse injuries is important. Click the link below to discover essential tips to help keep your young athletes in the game! ⚾

Half of all sports injuries in children and teens are from overuse. Here's what pediatricians recommend to protect young athletes from overuse and overtraining Injuries that can keep them from participating in the sports they enjoy.

01/01/2024

Start the new year on a healthy note! 🍎 Make family wellness a priority in 2024 by helping your little ones build healthy habits for the new year. What are your family's health-focused resolutions for 2024? Share them below! ⭐

12/29/2023

Boost your child's immunity naturally this winter! Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like dark leafy greens, citrus, almonds, and sweet potatoes into your family's diet. 🥦 🍊 These nutrient-packed options will help support your little one's health during the colder months. Do you have a go-to, immune-boosting recipe? Share in the comments below!

12/24/2023

🎄 Wishing all of our wonderful families a joyous holiday season! Be sure to cherish the magic of time with your family. Sending you warmth and good health. ☃️

12/17/2023

❄️ Embrace the winter wonderland, parents! Keeping our little ones active is vital for their well-being. Try indoor activities, like dancing, or bundle up for some outdoor fun, like sledding or building a snowman. 🛷⛄ Let's keep those little legs moving and hearts pumping, even in the chilly months!

12/11/2023

❄️ Winter is here, parents! ❄️ Remember, bulky coats and car seats don't mix. To keep your little one safe and snug, dress them in thin layers and buckle them in without their coat. Once they're secured, you can layer a blanket over the harness to keep them cozy. For more tips on keeping your child safe and warm in the car, check out the article below. 🚗💨

​As a general rule, bulky clothing, including winter coats and snowsuits, should not be worn underneath the harness of a car seat. In a ​car crash, fluffy padding immediately flattens out from the force, leaving extra space under the harness. A child can then slip through the straps and be thro...

12/08/2023

👶 It's crucial to establish healthy eating habits for our littlest patients! For most healthy, full-term infants, you can look to your baby for hunger cues - a technique called responsive feeding. Generally, newborns will drink 1 to 2 ounces every 2 to 3 hours. The amount they consume will increase, and the number of feedings will decrease gradually as they age. Want more information? Check out the article below! 🍼

One of the most common questions new parents have is how often their baby should eat. Find answers here.

12/01/2023

🌟 Holiday Health Tip: Managing Stress for Happy, Healthy Kids! 🌟

🎄✨ As we dive into the festive season, let's make sure our little ones stay happy and healthy. Here are five tips to manage holiday stress for both kids and parents:

1. Stick to Routines: 🕰️ Keep consistent bedtimes and mealtimes to provide a sense of stability amidst the holiday hustle and bustle.

2. Create Relaxation Spaces: 🛌 Set up a cozy corner with blankets and pillows where your kiddos can unwind with a good book or calming activities.

3. Encourage Outdoor Play: 🌳 Fresh air and physical activity work wonders! Plan family outings or include fun outdoor games to keep everyone moving.

4. Mindful Gift Ideas: 🎁 Consider gifts that promote physical activity, like sports equipment or interactive games. It's a win-win for fun and fitness!

5. Take Breaks: ⏸️ Whether it's a short walk, deep breaths, or a quick dance party, breaks help reset and recharge during the holiday hustle.

Remember, the holidays are about joy and togetherness. Let's focus on creating special moments and ensuring our kiddos have a healthy, happy holiday season! 🎅❤️

11/26/2023

As the holiday season approaches, let's make health a priority! Encourage your little ones to enjoy festive treats in moderation and balance them with nourishing options.
🥕 At snack time, try offering colorful produce like carrots, sugar snap peas, or cherry tomatoes.
🍎 Fruit makes a tasty dessert! Make it more festive by topping it with cinnamon, nutmeg, or a drizzle of chocolate.
🥑 Family-favorite desserts can be made more nutritious by including wholesome ingredients. Look for recipes that use natural sweeteners, like applesauce, or substitute avocado for butter or oil in your favorite baked goods.
Let's celebrate a season of wellness together! 🌟

11/23/2023

🦃 We want to wish all of our families a Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and lots of delicious moments! 🍁

11/19/2023

Are you traveling with a baby this holiday season? Click on the link below for tips and tricks on how to fly comfortably - and safely - with your little one.

Babies and air travel can both be unpredictable, and they don't always mix well. But some advanced planning and preparation can help make for a better experience for your baby, for you, and for everyone else on the plane. ​Get answers here to some common questions you may have before traveling ...

11/17/2023

🍁🍂 Fall and Winter Allergies in Kids: What Parents Need to Know! 🤧❄️

🌟 As the seasons change, so do the allergens in the air, and we want to make sure your little ones stay happy and healthy. Here are some key points about fall and winter allergies in children:

1. Identifying Common Triggers: 🌾🍃 Fall allergies often stem from ragweed, mold, and dust mites. In winter, indoor allergens like pet dander and indoor mold can cause issues.

2. Recognizing Allergy Symptoms: 🤔 Keep an eye out for sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and coughing. Allergies can sometimes be mistaken for a cold, but understanding the difference is crucial for effective treatment.

3. Preventive Measures: 🍁 Minimize exposure by keeping windows closed, using air purifiers, and maintaining a clean indoor environment. Regular hand washing also helps reduce the risk of spreading allergens.

4. Consulting Your Pediatrician: 🩺 If you suspect fall or winter allergies, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help with proper diagnosis, treatment, and advice on managing symptoms.

5. Enjoying the Season Safely: 🍂 Despite allergies, kids can still revel in the beauty of fall and winter! We'll share tips on how to balance outdoor play while minimizing exposure to allergens.

Remember, your child's health is our top priority. Let's work together to ensure a sniffle-free and joyful fall and winter season for your little ones! ❄️👶

Have questions or concerns? Reach out to us anytime! 📞👨‍⚕️(585) 342-5665

Allergy expert Steve Handoyo, MD, tells parents what to expect this fall and winter allergy season and what should signal it's time for their child to be evaluated by an allergy specialist.

11/14/2023

It isn't too late to vaccinate your child this year! We'll be having another evening flu clinic on Wednesday, November 22. Give us a call to reserve your child's spot. (585) 342-5665

10/27/2023

Our office has scheduled another flu clinic for November 22nd between 5pm and 6pm. Please call the office to schedule your families appointment.

10/27/2023

🎃 Halloween Safety Tips from Portland Pediatric Group! 🍬👻

As the spookiest night of the year approaches, it's important to ensure your little trick-or-treaters have a safe and fun Halloween.

We care deeply about your children's well-being, so here are some essential Halloween safety tips to keep in mind:
🚶‍♂️ Safe Routes: Plan a safe trick-or-treat route in well-lit areas with sidewalks. Remind kids to use crosswalks and look both ways before crossing streets.
🏚️ Home Safety: If decorating your home, keep walkways clear of obstacles and well-lit to prevent trips and falls. Keep candles and open flames out of reach.
🧛‍♂️Costume Safety: Choose costumes that are easy to move in and don't obstruct vision. Consider adding reflective tape or stickers to make your child more visible to drivers.
🍬 Inspect Treats: Before indulging in the candy haul, inspect all treats for any signs of tampering. Avoid homemade treats from strangers.

Remember, Halloween can be a magical time for kids, and by following these safety tips, we can ensure it's both memorable and safe.

10/23/2023

📢It's National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week! This week, we join the nationwide effort to raise awareness about the importance of preventing lead poisoning in children. Lead poisoning can have serious and lasting effects on a child's health and development. It's crucial for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to work together to protect our kids from this preventable environmental hazard.

Click below to read about the steps you can take to protect your family from lead exposure. We are here to support you in keeping your children safe and healthy. If you have any questions or concerns about lead poisoning prevention, please don't hesitate to contact us. ❤️

The most important step parents, doctors, and others can take is to prevent lead exposure before it occurs. If you think that your child has been exposed to lead, talk with your pediatrician about getting a blood test to check for lead. Learn more here. 

10/23/2023

🩺 Protect Your Little Ones This Flu Season! 💉

The influenza virus can be especially dangerous for children, and vaccination is one of the most effective ways to safeguard their health.

Here's why we strongly recommend the flu shot:
🌟 Protection: The flu shot helps protect your child from the flu virus and its potentially severe complications, including hospitalization. Babies and young children are more vulnerable to the flu, and vaccination is essential.
🏥 Reduced Burden on Healthcare: By getting vaccinated, you also contribute to reducing the burden on our healthcare system.
💓 Community Health: Vaccination not only protects your child but also helps protect others in your community, especially those who may have weaker immune systems.

We always aim to administer flu shots before the flu season peaks. Don't delay—schedule your child's vaccination appointment with us today!