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Tag: Pediatrics

  • Why an Annual Well-Child Visit Matters for Pre-Teens and Teens

    As children grow into their pre-teen and teen years, an annual well-child visit remains an important part of their health and well-being. While many parents schedule regular checkups when their children are younger, an annual well-child visit is just as important during adolescence, as it is a time of rapid physical, emotional, and social development.

    Why is a Well-Child Visit important?

    Pre-teens and teens experience many changes between the ages of 10 and 18. An annual well-child visit helps pediatricians monitor growth, identify potential health concerns early, and support healthy habits that can help them in adulthood.

    The visit also provides an opportunity for teens to ask questions about their health in a safe and confidential environment. Topics such as nutrition, physical activity, mental health, sleep, and personal safety can all be discussed with their pediatrician.

    What to expect during a Well-Child Visit?

    A well-child visit is much more than a sports physical. During the appointment, your teen’s pediatrician may:

    • Measure height, weight, and blood pressure
    • Track growth and development
    • Review medical history and current medications
    • Ensure vaccinations are up to date
    • Discuss nutrition and healthy eating habits
    • Evaluate sleep patterns and physical activity
    • Screen for vision or hearing concerns
    • Assess emotional and mental well-being
    • Discuss safety topics such as driving, social media use, and substance avoidance

    For older teens, their providers may also discuss topics such as relationships, sexual health, and making healthy choices as they prepare for adulthood.

    What Parents Should Know

    Parents play a key role in supporting their teen’s health. Encourage your teen to go for their annual wellness visit, even if they seem healthy. Many health concerns, including anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and nutritional deficiencies, may not have obvious symptoms.

    It is also common for the pediatrician to spend a few minutes speaking with your teen privately. This helps build trust and encourages honest conversations about health concerns they may be hesitant to discuss in front of others.

    Setting the Foundation for Lifelong Health

    An annual well-child visit helps your teen stay on track physically, emotionally, and socially. By making preventive care a priority, you can help your teenager develop healthy habits, address concerns early, and gain the confidence they need to navigate adolescence and adulthood.

    Schedule your teen’s annual well-child visit today and take an important step toward a healthier future for them.

    This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.

  • The Importance of Summer Sleep for Kids

    Ah, summer! The days are longer, the sun shines brighter, and kids are buzzing with energy. But amidst all the fun, there’s one vital factor that often gets overlooked in the sunny chaos: sleep. While children may wish for endless playtime, sleep is their secret weapon for health and well-being.

    We talked to APRN Kimberly Litwiller, a nurse practitioner at White-Wilson Pediatrics Clinic in Niceville, about how sleep impacts children’s health during the summer months.

    Understanding Sleep’s Role in Development

    “Sleep is a vital component of children’s overall health and well-being. It helps their bodies grow, their brains work well, and their emotions stay balanced,” says APRN Litwiller.  “Longer daylight hours and changes in daily routines during summer can affect children’s sleep. This shift can be challenging and may impact their growth, learning, mood, and how they interact with others.”

    Understanding the significance of sleep during this time is essential for fostering healthy habits that ensure children thrive. “Sleep isn’t just a time for recharging—it’s a nightly upgrade for your child’s brain and body. It helps with everything from physical growth to emotional regulation.” Continues APRN Litwiller, “During deep sleep, your child’s body releases growth hormones that are vital for physical development. Without sufficient sleep, their bodies can’t build muscle, repair tissue, or grow properly.”

    Not all age groups are created equal when it comes to sleep. Infants, toddlers, and school-aged kids each have unique sleep needs. “While a newborn might snooze for a whopping 16 to 18 hours a day, school-aged kids typically require around 9 to 11 hours, and teenagers need about 8 to 10 hours. So, whether your child is practicing for a summer soccer tournament or binge-watching kids’ shows, understanding their sleep requirements is vital for their overall health,” explains APRN Litwiller.

    Let’s explore with APRN Kimberly Litwiller as she breaks down the impact of longer days on sleep patterns, and shares tips for maintaining healthy sleep routines for children during the summer months.

    Common Sleep Disorders in Children During Summer Months

    Natural Light and Circadian Rhythms

    Sunshine is great for playing, but it can also interfere with your child’s internal clock. Their circadian rhythms—those fancy biological processes that regulate sleep-wake patterns—are influenced by natural light. When those endless summer evenings roll around, the sun may still be shining brightly while your kids are supposed to be winding down. This can lead to late nights and cranky mornings.

    Common Sleep Disruptions During Summer

    Summer can often turn into a sleep sabotage operation. Late-night barbecues, firefly chasing, or an overly energized outdoor activity can disrupt even the most established bedtime routines. Not to mention the classic “Five more minutes, please!” plea you hear from your child.

    Sleep Deprivation on Physical Health

    Under-sleeping can lead to a whole host of physical issues, from weakened immune systems to increased risk of obesity. If your child is groggier like a bear emerging from hibernation, it’s not just their mood that suffers. Poor sleep can lead to a lack of energy for activities like sports or playing outside, which are crucial for their overall health.

    Tips for Maintaining Healthy Sleep Routines in Summer

    • Establishing Consistent Bedtimes

    With the sun blazing longer and the allure of evening adventures, maintaining a consistent bedtime can feel like herding cats. However, establishing a routine helps signal to your child’s body that it’s time to wind down. Aim for a consistent bedtime—it sets the stage for restorative sleep, which is essential for their health and mood. Make bedtime a fun ritual. Read a book, share stories, or play some soothing tunes while tucking them in, so they associate it with good feelings, rather than a sad end to summer fun.

    • Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

    When it comes to a great night’s sleep, the bedroom should be a sanctuary. Keep the lights dimmed and the noise level down. Consider blackout curtains to fight off the morning sun that tries to sneak in and disrupt dreamland. A cool and comfy room temperature will help your little one drift off to sleep. A sleep-friendly environment is your secret weapon in fighting the summer sleep struggles.

    • Encouraging Healthy Sleep Habits Year-Round

    While summer is the perfect time to instill healthy sleep habits, let’s not forget that this should carry over into the rest of the year. By making sleep a priority, establishing routines, and creating a sleep-friendly environment, we can help our children grow, laugh, and thrive—because a well-rested kid is ready to take on the world.

    • Limiting Screentime before bedtime

    Screens emit blue light, which disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. This makes it harder to fall asleep and can delay sleep onset. The stimulation from screen content increases brain activity and arousal, making it difficult to relax and wind down. Additionally, frequent notifications and alerts can interrupt sleep and prevent deep, restorative rest.

    • Encouraging Teens to use Alarm clocks

    Using an alarm clock with teens promotes independence and accountability, encourages time management, builds confidence, and helps establish healthy social routines—preparing them for adulthood.

    By understanding the challenges that summer brings to sleep patterns and implementing effective strategies to maintain healthy routines, parents can help their children enjoy the benefits of restorative sleep. As we encourage our kids to embrace the joys of summer, let’s also remind them of the importance of a good night’s sleep for their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.

    APRN Kimberly Litwiller, FNP-C is a board-certified family nurse practitioner providing care for patients at White-Wilson Pediatrics in Niceville. Her specialty lies in pediatric care, including wellness care, preventive medicine, the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and physical exams. Learn more about APRN Litwiller and her approach to patient care here.

  • Childhood Obesity – A Parent’s Guide to Prevention and Health

    Childhood obesity has become a growing concern, but the good news is that it’s largely preventable. White-Wilson Pediatrics specialist, Samantha Beard, APRN, shares important insights to help parents protect their children’s health and establish lifelong healthy habits.

    The Hidden Dangers

    Childhood obesity poses serious health risks, such as heart disease, joint problems, and mental health concerns. “Type 2 diabetes in children is preventable and reversible,” explains APRN Beard, stressing that this condition, once rare in children, is now affecting kindergarteners. The encouraging news? With proper diet and physical activity, it’s “100% reversible.”

    Aside from diabetes, obesity can affect orthopedic health, impacting knees, feet, and ankles, while also negatively influencing a child’s mental health and self-image. Regular well-child exams, including lab work are essential for early detection of obesity-related health issues.

    Making Better Food Choices

    The shift from home-cooked meals to processed convenience foods has significantly contributed to rising obesity rates. When reading food labels, APRN Beard recommends focusing on protein content over calories: “Protein is especially important for healthy growth, feeling full, and providing true energy for children.”

    Her shopping strategy is simple: shop the perimeter of grocery stores where whole foods like fresh produce, meats, and dairy are located, avoiding processed foods in the center aisles. She warns against processed foods that contain corn syrup, vegetable oils, and artificial dyes.

    “Addressing childhood obesity requires a family-wide approach,” emphasizes APRN Beard. Children model their caregivers’ behaviors, making it essential for the entire family to adopt good eating habits together.

    The Beverage Battle

    Sugary drinks are major contributors to weight gain. “Water should be the default drink for children,” APRN Beard advises, adding that even drinks marketed as healthy can be high in sugar. This includes soda, juice (even 100% juice), Gatorade, and sweet tea. Parents should model proper healthy hydration habits for their children and educate them on the benefits of water.

    Family-Centered Solutions

    Physical activity doesn’t need to be complicated. “Walking is super underrated,” she says, encouraging families to put down electronic devices and spend active time together such as walking, swimming, or biking. The increased use of devices and screen time has led to more sedentary lifestyles, making family-based physical activity even more crucial.

    Practical Tips for Parents

    Smart Snacking Strategies:

    • Offer variety in nutritious snack options and involve children in choosing and preparing them.
    • Avoid total restriction of treats, which can be counterproductive.
    • Focus on education about healthy choices rather than strict prohibition.
    • Give children several healthy options to increase the likelihood of nutritious choices.

    Portion Control Made Easy:

    • Pair less healthy foods with protein-rich options like chicken, cottage cheese, or Greek yogurt.
    • Include salads to boost nutritional value and satiety.
    • Avoid meals with high fat and carbohydrates but low in protein.

    Creating Healthy Habits:

    • Remove unhealthy options from the home environment.
    • Involve children in healthy food purchases and meal preparation.
    • Encourage outdoor activities like walking, swimming, and biking.
    • Set specific times for family walks or physical activities.
    • Use safety equipment like helmets and pads for active play.

    Managing Modern Challenges:

    • Address stress and boredom eating by encouraging physical activity.
    • Recognize that children may eat as a coping mechanism.
    • Make healthy foods more appealing and accessible.
    • Consider supplements like daily multivitamins with vitamin D and probiotics for gut health.

    Moving Forward Together

    “Remember, genetics and metabolism play a role, but lifestyle choices remain the most significant factors in preventing childhood obesity.” According to APRN Samantha Beard, the long-term health and well-being of your child can be significantly improved by making changes to diet and physical activity. “The key is making these changes as a family, creating an environment where healthy choices become natural and enjoyable.”

    Samantha Beard, APRN, CPNP-PC, is a board-certified pediatric nurse practitioner providing care for patients at White-Wilson Pediatrics in DeFuniak Springs. Her specialty lies in pediatric care, including wellness care, preventive medicine, the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and physical exams. Learn more about APRN Beard and her approach to patient care here.

  • Tips for Navigating the Formula Shortage Crisis

    By Dr. Dale Volquartsen, Pediatrician

    Many parents today are faced with difficult decisions concerning the feeding of their infants in the midst of what is now a crisis due to the shortage of infant formula. As with most crises, there are numerous factors that play into the shortage.  For one, as the nation is emerging from the pandemic and there has been a significant increase in demand that was not anticipated. For another unexpected reason, fewer mothers are electing to nurse their children and that’s increasing the demand for formula. The largest factor, however, is the closure of a factory in Michigan where Abbott produces a large portion of their formula. In 2021, there were four infants, two of which who died, who are believed to have been made ill by consuming formula that became contaminated with bacteria from that factory. In February, that formula was recalled and the factory was closed. It is expected to reopen soon, but the supply will likely take about two months to reach the shelves.

    This shortage may be leaving families feeling desperate and willing to turn to potentially dangerous alternatives.

    Avoid these common mistakes:

    1. Please do not attempt to make your own formula. Right now, the internet is being flooded with people promoting different formula recipes. This is not a new phenomenon and has resulted in bad outcomes for infants in the past. Too much protein can harm an infant’s kidneys and liver. Inadequate electrolytes such as sodium have resulted in seizures and death. Inadequate fat and sugar content has a lasting effect on brain health and development. These are just a few of the bad outcomes from these imbalanced alternatives.
    2. Do not water down formula to make it “stretch”. The baby will get inadequate calories and the lower electrolytes can lead to seizures and death.
    3. I recommend that whole cow’s milk only be introduced after the first birthday. After six months of age, a day or two may be acceptable but only as the very last resort. The protein is more difficult for an infant to digest and cow’s milk increases the risk of iron deficiency.
    4. Plant-based milk alternatives are never appropriate alternatives for infants. Even though the ingredient labels may be similar to cow’s milk formulas, the actual ingredients are different in function. This means that the infant’s body does not metabolize and use those ingredients the same way.
    5. Toddler formulas are significantly different than infant formulas and should not be used except in older infants and only after all other options have been exhausted.
    6. The FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that you do not purchase formula imported from outside America. There are numerous reasons for this, but the primary concerns include the difference consumer protection rules, shipping concerns and language/labeling risks. The importing of formula is also highly regulated, making it more difficult and expensive to procure.
    7. Avoid the temptation to hoard formula when you find it. This is actually part of the reason we are in such short supply. Early in the pandemic, there was widespread hoarding. This was followed by a significant decrease in demand the following year since there were ample supplies in homes. With the decreased demand, the formula companies did not accurately predict the demand for this current year.

    So, what is a mom to do in the face of this shortage? There are no simple answers, but here are some recommendations:

    1. If able, rely on nursing as much as possible. No formula can hold a candle to the milk a mother provides for her infant. Even if you are only able to provide a few ounces a day, that may make a big difference for your baby. Contact a lactation consultant in the case you may even be able to help a mother re-lactate.
    2. Look in smaller stores where the shortage may not have had such a large impact.
    3. For most babies, switching to a different formula or brand will not be a problem. However, if you have your baby on a special formula, ensure you speak with your pediatrician before making a switch. Samples of the proper formula may be available.  Your pediatrician will also ensure that the options chosen are healthy and appropriate.  Further, anyone needing a specialized formula can call Abbott at 1-800-881-0876 to request a formula on a case by case basis.
    4. If you qualify for WIC, be sure to enroll as they are the single largest customer purchasing infant formulas. SNAP (food stamps) and food banks may also be a solution. Here in the Florida Panhandle, you can call 2-1-1 to be connected with public services and nonprofits that that may be able to help.
    5. There may be some community groups that are working with families as well. They will often coordinate through social media outlets.

    I am confident that we will get through this crisis. Why?  Because we know we have excellent parents caring for their children.  We, the pediatricians of White-Wilson, are here to help all of you through this time and to help you make the best choices for your growing child.  Don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for any questions or concerns you have.

    Dr. Dale Volquartsen is a board-certified pediatrician with more than 30-years’ experience caring for children. Dr. Volquartsen cares for patients at White-Wilson Medical Center in DeFuniak Springs, Florida where he is accepting new patients.

  • How Technology Can Affect Your Little One’s Restful Sleep

    Technology is an ever-present part of our lives. From the computer you work on to smartphone you use to connect with friends and family, there is rarely a day that we go without some sort of screen in front of our faces. For many of us, daily use of screen-based technology didn’t become a part of lives until we were into our teens or even adulthood; but today’s children are being introduced to the latest innovations earlier and earlier.  As a result, doctors are seeing the effect it has on our little one’s growth and development.

    “Technology, at its core, can be beneficial,” explains DeFuniak Springs-based pediatrician, Dr. Dale Volquartsen. “It makes important tasks easier and quicker for many of us including our children. Where it becomes a problem is when it negatively affects a child’s health, and that’s just what we are seeing when it comes to screen-based technology and our kids’ sleeping habits.”

    As Dr. Volquartsen explains, studies have shown that too much technology use close to bedtime can inhibit a child’s ability to get a restful night of sleep. In fact, the greatest hindrance to a restful sleep for our children today is the presence of electronics in bedrooms.

    “The main perpetrators are laptops, tablets, smartphones and televisions,” he says. “These all emit blue light from their screens and it is that blue light, when overexposed to it, that has been shown to negatively affect sleep patterns and make it difficult not only for your child to fall asleep but also to stay asleep.”

    Beyond blue light, technology-use before bed can affect sleep on other levels as well. These including causing excessive brightness in sleeping areas and over-stimulating children with content when their minds should be winding down.

    “Anyone who has a child knows that entertainment aimed at them has so much going on,” explains Dr. Volquartsen. “From quick actions to loud noises and colorful scenes, it is enough to make anyone’s brain feel busy and overwhelmed. Now, consider a child whose brain hasn’t reached full maturity yet and therefore doesn’t process things as quickly as an adult usually can. It takes them longer to recover from that over-stimulation and when it occurs near bedtime, that leads to a decrease in the quality of and number of hours they’re actually sleeping.”

    To decrease the risk of reduced sleep time, Dr. Volquartsen recommends setting a bedtime for all electronics 60 minutes before the child’s personal bed time. This will allow the child’s brain the appropriate time to reset before its needs to fall asleep. Dr. Volquartsen also recommends that when it’s time to go to sleep, your children’s bedroom becomes a no-tech zone and that it is dark and quiet.  In fact, it would be wise to keep the bedroom free of electronics all the time.

    “The last thing you want to happen after your child has fallen asleep is for a noise or light from a notification to wake them up,” he says. “Keeping unnecessary electronics out of bedrooms during the night will eliminate that possibility.”

    Lastly, Dr. Volquartsen recommends keeping a routine sleep schedule, including a set time that a child goes to bed and when you wake them up.

    “Between the tech bedtime and your child’s actual bedtime, you can also introduce a calm activity such as reading them a story, giving them a bath, introducing a simple meditation or a time to pray. Whatever you choose, you will want to make sure you do it every night, so your child’s brain can recognize the pattern that this activity means sleep is soon.”  Prevent their exposure to frightening media as well realizing that what would never alarm us as parents could still be very alarming to a young child who has limited ability to discern between reality and make believe.  Even a simple cartoon can generate fear and nightmares in the young child.

    “Regardless whether they are related to tech, sleep issues are something you always want to discuss with your child’s pediatrician,” concludes Dr. Volquartsen. “They could be a normal part of growth and development or there could be something more at play, but your pediatrician can definitely help you figure out how to get your child the rest they need to grow and to thrive.”

    Dr. Dale Volquartsen is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and cares for patients at White-Wilson Pediatric Clinic in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. He is now accepting patients from birth to age 18. To learn more about him and his approach to patient care or to schedule an appointment online, click here.