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November 17, 2020
It may sound silly to talk about silliness in the exam room, but there is real science that thinking in creative ways helps children to build cognitive flexibility. Making new and surprising connections allows children to develop executive function skills that they need for their overall health and wellness. Something as small as saying you…
Read moreNovember 10, 2020
Offering children choices in the exam room allows children to feel a sense of control over what is happening to them. This is essential in supporting autonomy. Offering choices also makes it more likely that children will comply with directions. For example, when you ask a child which ear you should look in first, it makes…
Read moreNovember 3, 2020
Positive opposites are a concept you can discuss, model or praise in well-child visits. Every unwanted behavior has a positive opposite! By replacing “don’t” with “please do,” you can think of yourself as helping a child learn how to behave – not just tell them what not to do. And, you are giving them the…
Read moreOctober 27, 2020
15-20% of all children have a temperament that makes them more reactive to their environment. While this is not a diagnosis, these children have a different way of experiencing the world. It can be easier to navigate an office visit if you can recognize which kids need more attention to sensory input and a gentler,…
Read moreOctober 20, 2020
Taking a diet history of a young child can be a great way to assess and promote early numeracy. Early numeracy refers to the foundations of mathematical understanding. It’s promoted through everyday discussion and exposure to basic mathematical ideas, such as different quantities, the relationship between large and small amounts, and actual number naming. Ask…
Read moreOctober 13, 2020
Recognizing positive behavior not only makes parents and children feel good, it motivates them to repeat that behavior in the future. At each visit, try and find one specific thing to notice and affirm! Could it be how well a child answered your questions? How well a parent comforted their child in distress? A child’s…
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