The Pediatric Center

03/13/2026

Getting enough sleep is essential for your child’s growth, mood, learning, and overall health. The chart below offers a guide as to how many hours to aim for.

Tips to help kids get quality sleep:
✅ Keep a consistent bedtime routine
✅ Limit screens at least an hour before bed
✅ Make the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool
✅ Encourage physical activity during the day
✅ Avoid sugary snacks or drinks right before bedtime

For more information, visit: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/sleep/Pages/healthy-sleep-habits-how-many-hours-does-your-child-need.aspx?_gl=1*vfcj9o*_ga*NTM3NTI3MTYwLjE3NDU5NTE3ODg.*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*czE3NzEzNDc0ODMkbzE1JGcxJHQxNzcxMzQ3NDg3JGo1NiRsMCRoMA..

03/12/2026

On-line gambling is more accessible than ever-even for teens. What can parents do about it? This article has helpful tips for parents
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/how-online-gambling-hurts-teens-and-what-parents-can-do-about-it.aspx

03/12/2026

🦠 Let’s Talk About HPV and the Vaccine 🦠

HPV (human papillomavirus) is super common-almost everyone will get it at some point. While most cases don’t cause problems, HPV can lead to several types of cancer later in life.

💉 The good news: The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and a true cancer-prevention tool!

-Recommended starting at age 9
-Works best when given before exposure
-Protects against cancers of the cervix, throat, and more

Protect your child early - ask us about the HPV vaccine at your next visit!

03/11/2026

🌡️ Managing Your Child’s Fever 🌡️

A fever can be worrying, but it’s usually a sign of an infection (viral or bacterial) and a natural, healthy response to help fight germs. Here are some tips to manage it safely:

✅ Keep your child comfortable with light clothing and plenty of fluids
✅ Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed for discomfort (never give aspirin to children)
✅ Monitor for warning signs: trouble breathing, persistent vomiting, unusual drowsiness, or a rash
✅ Allow your child to rest, but encourage gentle movement if they feel up to it

💙 Remember: fever itself isn’t dangerous-it’s your child’s body doing its job. Call us anytime if you’re unsure!

03/10/2026

When your child isn’t feeling well, it can be hard to know whether to call the pediatrician, go to urgent care, or head to the emergency room. We’re here to help-don’t hesitate to reach out to us first!

We’ve hired new providers and have same-day appointments available, so your child can get care quickly without unnecessary trips to urgent care or the ER.

Check out this helpful guide to see when each option makes sense and be sure to save our number in your phone so we’re always just a call away when your child needs care! 📲 301-662-0133

03/09/2026

Daylight Saving Time = Safety Check Time

Now that we’ve “sprung forward,” take a few minutes to:
✅ Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
✅ Replace batteries if needed
✅ Make sure everyone knows where fire extinguishers are stored

Quick fire safety tips for families:
🔥 Keep matches & lighters out of reach
🚪 Review a simple fire escape plan & meeting spot
🚫 Remind kids to never hide during a fire-get out and stay out

A few minutes today can make a big difference! ❤️

03/08/2026

🌟 We’re Welcoming New Patients! 🌟
Looking for a pediatric practice that puts your child first? Come see why families love us!
From first visits to same-day sick care, our team is here for your family—every step of the way. Call 301-662-0133 today to schedule a visit or share this post with someone who’s looking for a trusted pediatric home! 💙👶👧👦

03/07/2026

⏰Daylight Saving Time Reminder! ⏰

This weekend, it’s time to Spring Forward!

Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour before bed tonight.

A few quick tips to help kids adjust:
💤 Aim for a slightly earlier bedtime
📵 Limit screens before bed for better sleep
☀️ Get outside for natural sunlight Sunday morning

Losing an hour isn’t fun… but longer daylight is! 🌞

03/06/2026

💙 Happy Employee Appreciation Day! 💙

Today we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible team that makes The Pediatric Center what it is.

From our front office staff who greet families with a smile, to our clinical and triage teams who provide compassionate care, to our providers who go above and beyond every day - and our administrative and support staff who keep everything running behind the scenes… we are truly grateful and so proud of the team we have.

And to our families - thank you for trusting us with your children’s care. We truly appreciate the confidence you place in our team every day.

03/04/2026

💊 OTC Medication Safety Reminder for Parents

Over-the-counter medications can be very helpful when your child is sick, but they should always be used carefully.

A few important reminders:

✔️ Always use the dosing syringe/cup that comes with the medication
✔️ Dose based on your child’s current weight, not just age
✔️ Double check active ingredients - many cold/flu meds contain the same ones, which can lead to accidental double-dosing
✔️ Never give cough/cold medicine to young children unless directed by your provider
✔️ Keep all medications locked up and out of reach (even vitamins!)

For more information on visit: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/medication-safety/Pages/Choosing-Over-the-Counter-Medicines-for-Your-Child.aspx

03/03/2026

📚 We’ve loved seeing our patients’ smiles since launching our Read Well – Grow Well Initiative! From 6 months through preschool, kids attending well visits get to take home an age-appropriate book - and our providers and clinical team are having just as much fun picking them out!

Here at The Ped Center, we’re always promoting reading, and for Read Across America Week, we encourage families to make reading a daily habit and spark a love of books at any age.

If you’d like to share the joy, we’re happily accepting gently used books - Donations can be dropped off at our Taney Ave location so they can be sorted and shared with our patients - thank you for helping us inspire young readers!

03/03/2026

Helpful tips for "springing ahead" this weekend from a well known pediatric sleep specialist

This Sunday March 12, the clocks go forward as we re-enter daylight savings time. Teenagers can struggle with this, and so can anyone who struggles to get up in the morning. Here's what you can