Winter Skincare Tips for Kids: Managing Dry Skin, Eczema, and Seasonal Changes

When the temperature drops, many parents notice their children’s skin becomes dry, flaky, or irritated. Winter air tends to be cold and dry, and indoor heating only worsens the problem by pulling even more moisture from the skin. Kids’ skin is naturally more delicate than adults’, making them especially prone to winter dryness and eczema flare-ups.

The good news? With a few simple changes, you can help your child’s skin stay soft and healthy all season long.

Keep baths short, around 10 minutes, and use lukewarm water instead of hot, which can strip natural oils and worsen dryness. Skip bubble baths and bath bombs, and instead choose a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser made for sensitive skin. After bathing, pat your child’s skin dry (avoid rubbing) and immediately apply a thick, hypoallergenic moisturizer to lock in moisture. Ointments or creams in tubs are usually better than pump lotions, as they contain fewer preservatives and provide a stronger barrier against dryness.

In the winter months, it’s helpful to apply moisturizer at least twice a day, especially after bathing or washing hands. If your child’s skin is extremely dry, look for products that contain ceramides, which help restore the skin’s natural protective layer.

Eczema often worsens in the winter, so staying ahead of flare-ups can make a big difference. Apply prescribed creams or ointments as directed by your pediatrician, and keep your child’s nails trimmed short to reduce irritation from scratching. Dressing your child in breathable, cotton layers can also help. Avoid wool or rough fabrics directly against the skin, as they can trigger itching.

Running a humidifier in your child’s bedroom adds moisture back into dry indoor air, especially while heating systems are running. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water, since hydration supports healthy skin from within.

Even though it’s winter, UV rays can still cause skin damage, and sunlight reflecting off snow can actually increase exposure. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is a smart habit, even on cold or cloudy days.

If your child’s dry skin or eczema becomes painful, red, or shows signs of infection, contact Fairhope Pediatrics. Our team can help you find the right treatment and create a skincare plan that keeps your child’s skin comfortable and healthy all year long.

What to Know About ADHD Treatment Options & Insurance Coverage

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in children, affecting about 6 million children in the U.S. according to the CDC. If your child has recently been diagnosed – or you’re concerned about symptoms – it can feel overwhelming to understand treatment options and how insurance plays a role in coverage.

The good news is that ADHD is highly treatable, and early support can make a big difference in your child’s success at school, home, and in relationships. Treatment is often tailored to the child’s needs and may include behavioral therapy, parent training, school-based support, and/or medication. For younger children (ages 4–6), behavior therapy is usually recommended as the first step. For school-age children and teens, a combination of behavior strategies and medication is often most effective.

Parents also play an essential role in managing ADHD. Simple changes at home like consistent routines, clear expectations, positive reinforcement, and minimizing distractions, can go a long way in helping children thrive. Schools can also provide Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans to ensure children have the right accommodations for learning.

When it comes to cost, it’s important to know what your insurance covers. Most insurance plans will pay for ADHD evaluations, follow-up visits, and medications, but coverage can vary. Some medications may require prior authorization, which means your provider must submit paperwork before the prescription is approved. Therapy coverage can also differ; some plans cover a set number of counseling sessions per year, while others require you to use specific in-network providers.

Tips for parents navigating insurance:

  • Call your insurance company before starting treatment to ask what ADHD services such as occupational or behavioral therapy are covered.

  • Check if your child’s medication requires prior authorization or has a generic version available.

  • Ask your pediatrician for documentation to support school accommodations, which are not covered by insurance but are critical for your child’s success if needed.

  • Keep copies of evaluations, test results, and school reports as they often help with insurance and educational planning.

ADHD looks different in every child, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. With the right combination of strategies, support, and insurance planning, children with ADHD can thrive at home, in school, and beyond. If you have questions about your child’s symptoms, treatment options, or navigating insurance, schedule a visit.

You can also visit this page over on Healthy Children to find more resources.

Transitions: new schools, new routines, & new emotions

The first few months of school often bring excitement, fresh routines, and new friendships. But as the calendar fills with homework, sports practices, music lessons, and social activities, many families find themselves in a different kind of transition about a month in—shifting from “new” to “busy.” It’s during this time that balancing schedules, keeping healthy habits, and ensuring everyone gets enough rest becomes the real challenge.

Even when the day starts smoothly, after-school schedules can change from one day to the next. Monday may involve rushing to soccer practice, Tuesday may be full of homework, and Wednesday might mean a late return from a game or rehearsal. This variety can make it difficult to keep a consistent bedtime routine, but sleep remains one of the most important factors in your child’s academic performance, mood, and overall health. School-age children typically need 9–12 hours of sleep each night, and teens need about 8–10. Without it, concentration, behavior, and even immune function can suffer.

To help your child adapt to these fluctuating evenings, try anchoring certain parts of their routine. For example, keep a consistent “wind-down” period which could include reading, putting together a puzzle, or listening to calm music before bed, no matter what time they get home. Encourage them to avoid screens at least 60 minutes before sleep, since blue light can make it harder to fall asleep.

Alongside rest, healthy fuel is key to keeping up with a busy pace. Active kids need regular hydration and balanced meals that include protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Packing a water bottle and offering healthy snacks—like cheese sticks, fruit, or trail mix—can prevent the energy crashes that lead to crankiness or poor focus.

Don’t forget movement outside of organized sports. If a practice gets canceled or your child does not participate in a sport, a quick walk, bike ride, or time at the playground gives the body and brain a boost. Physical activity supports mental health, helps manage stress, and can even improve sleep quality.

This mid-semester adjustment period is a perfect time to pause, reassess your family’s schedule, and make small changes that protect the essentials such as sleep, nutrition, hydration, and unstructured downtime. By setting these healthy rhythms now, you help your child build habits that will serve them well long after this school year ends. Need extra resources? Send us a message through the patient portal, or check out this article from the AAP.

 

Supporting Pre-Teens: What to know about puberty, scoliosis checks, and digital safety

The pre-teen years include ages 9 to 12 and are a time of rapid change, growth, and discovery. Parents play a critical role in helping children navigate this transitional stage. Your child’s pediatric provider is a good resource to help make this stage as smooth as possible. Here are three key areas to keep in mind:

  1. Puberty: Normalizing the changes
    Puberty can start as early as 8 in girls and 9 in boys, bringing physical, emotional, and social changes. Hormonal shifts lead to growth spurts, body odor, skin changes, and mood swings. For girls, breast development and menstruation may begin; for boys, testicular enlargement and voice changes are common. Parents can help their child by starting conversations early about body changes, normalizing emotions and mood swings as part of hormonal changes, and teaching healthy ways to cope, and providing hygiene products like deodorant, face wash, or menstrual supplies before they’re needed. 
  2. Scoliosis checks: Early detection matters
    Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine which often emerges during the growth spurts of puberty. Pediatric providers screen for scoliosis during well-child visits, usually between ages 10–12. It’s a simple physical exam where your child bends forward, and we look for uneven shoulders or hips. Early detection can prevent worsening curvature and, in many cases, avoids the need for more intensive treatment.
  3. Digital safety: Setting smart boundaries
    Pre-teens are spending more time online for school, games, and social interaction. It’s the perfect time to talk about healthy digital habits. Discuss screen time limits, appropriate content, and the importance of privacy. Teach your child never to share personal information online and to tell a trusted adult if something makes them uncomfortable. Using parental controls and keeping devices in common areas can support safe use.

Final thoughts
Supporting pre-teens means recognizing the whole child’s body, mind, and social world. Regular check-ups at Fairhope Pediatrics give us a chance to monitor development, answer questions, and partner with you through this important season. If you ever have concerns about your child’s growth, behavior, or safety please bring them to us. We’re here to help.

 

Back-to-school health checklist: sleep, lunches, and emotional wellness

As the back-to-school season approaches, you may be focused on shopping lists, school supplies, and class schedules. But just as important as notebooks and new shoes is preparing your child’s health and well-being for the school year ahead. Making sure your child is well-rested, well-fed, and emotionally prepared helps support their focus, behavior, and overall school performance.

Start with Sleep:

Did you know that kids produce the most growth hormone while they sleep?

That means bedtime isn’t just for rest, it’s when their bodies are busy growing.Over the summer, it’s common for bedtimes to drift later and wake times to follow. But restful, consistent sleep is essential not only for growing, but also learning, memory, focus, and mood. Begin gradually shifting your child’s sleep schedule back to school-night hours about two weeks before school starts. Aim for a bedtime that allows your child to get the recommended hours of sleep (9–12 hours for ages 6–12, and 8–10 hours for teens). Establish a calming nighttime routine, and limit screens at least an hour before bed.

Pack Power-Packed Lunches:

A balanced lunch helps fuel your child’s brain and body for the school day. Include a variety of whole foods: lean protein (like turkey, hummus, or cheese), complex carbs (whole grain bread, crackers, or pasta), fruits, veggies, and a healthy fat like avocado or nut butter. Let kids help pack their lunches when possible as it helps build independence and increases the chances they’ll actually eat what’s inside. Don’t forget to include a water bottle to keep them hydrated throughout the day. School-age children typically need about 5–8 cups of water per day, while teens may need 8–11 cups especially if they’re active or playing sports.

Support Emotional Wellness:

Returning to school often comes with a mix of changes such as new teachers, routines, and social dynamics which can be stressful for some kids. Regular check-ins can help you catch early signs of anxiety or difficulty adjusting. Ask specific, open-ended questions about school, peers, and daily routines. Keep consistent schedules at home to reduce stress, and if your child seems unusually anxious, withdrawn, or overwhelmed, consider speaking with your pediatric provider here at Fairhope Pediatrics or school counselor for guidance.

Why Developmental Screenings Matter in Pediatric Care

As a parent, it’s natural to keep a close eye on how your child is growing – physically, emotionally, and mentally. One of the most important ways pediatricians support this journey is through developmental screenings. These screenings help track how a child is progressing in areas like speech, motor skills, social interaction, and emotional development.

But developmental screenings aren’t just routine check-ins. They’re a key part of preventive care that help identify potential concerns early, when support and intervention can make the biggest difference.

What are developmental screenings?

Developmental screenings are simple, age-appropriate tools used by pediatricians to monitor your child’s growth and milestones. These can include parent questionnaires, hands-on activities, and observations by the provider. They’re usually done at regular well-child visits, typically around 9, 18, 24, and 30 months, according to guidelines from the CDC and Bright Futures.

One example you may be familiar with is the autism screening, which often takes place between 18 and 24 months. These screenings give providers and families a chance to check for developmental patterns that may need further evaluation or support.

Why are they important?

  1. Early support leads to better outcomes
    When developmental concerns are identified early, kids have a better chance of getting the help they need during the most critical stages of brain development. For example, early therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can significantly improve social skills, language, and overall development.
  2. They help track milestones over time
    Every child develops at their own pace, but having a general idea of what’s typical at certain ages helps spot red flags. Screenings help monitor things like speech, movement, attention span, and social behaviors. If something seems off, your provider can offer reassurance or connect you with helpful resources – like a speech-language pathologist or occupational therapist.
  3. They support school readiness and learning
    Children who experience delays in communication or motor skills may struggle when they start school. Addressing these areas early on can prevent learning challenges later. For example, a child with speech delays can benefit from speech therapy that helps them communicate confidently and build relationships with peers.
  4. They also check on emotional and behavioral health
    Development isn’t just physical, it’s emotional too. Screenings can help spot concerns like anxiety, trouble focusing, or difficulty with self-regulation. Early intervention, such as counseling or behavior therapy, can help kids manage their emotions, reduce stress, and strengthen family relationships.

What should parents do if they have concerns?

Don’t wait for the next wellness visit. If something feels off – whether it’s a delay in crawling, difficulty with communication, or behavior changes – reach out to your child’s provider. Developmental screenings are a great tool, but your observations at home are just as important.

The bottom line

Developmental screenings are a simple but powerful way to support your child’s growth. They help families and providers work together to make sure every child gets the support they need, when they need it. If you ever have concerns, your provider at Fairhope Pediatrics is here to listen, guide you, and connect you with the right resources.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions, schedule a visit, or advocate for your child – you know them best.

Autism Acceptance: Raising Awareness

Autism Awareness Month just passed and offered an opportunity for families and communities to learn more about autism, its characteristics, and the importance of early intervention. As your pediatric care provider, we aim to support your child’s development and health, which is why we encourage parents to utilize wellness visits to monitor their child’s progress.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. The spectrum includes a wide range of abilities and challenges. Children with autism may face difficulties with verbal communication, social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or engage in repetitive behaviors. Identifying the signs of autism early can lead to better outcomes, as early interventions help children build skills and progress in key areas.

Why Early Screening is Important

Autism screenings during wellness visits are essential for detecting developmental concerns early on. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children receive routine developmental screenings at their well-child visits, particularly at ages 18 months and 24 months. These screenings help pediatricians assess whether a child is meeting developmental milestones and can highlight potential signs of autism. Early detection is crucial because the earlier a child receives support, the more effective interventions can be in promoting development in areas like language, social skills, and behavior.

What to Expect During a Screening

Autism screenings are generally brief and involve observing your child’s behavior and interactions or having you fill out a few questions on an online questionnaire. The pediatrician may ask questions about your child’s speech, eye contact, play habits, and social interactions. If the screening suggests concerns, further evaluations or referrals to specialists may be recommended.

Promoting Understanding of Autism

We encourage everyone to learn more about autism and promote understanding. Autism is one part of an individual’s identity, and it’s important to support children with autism by fostering inclusive environments. Whether or not your child shows signs of autism, our office is here to assist you in navigating their developmental path with care and guidance.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, we encourage you to contact our office and schedule a wellness visit. Early screenings can help ensure your child is on track.

Respiratory Illnesses in Kids: What to Know This Season

We are in the cold months and respiratory illnesses are on the rise, particularly in children. Currently, pediatric offices are seeing a surge in cases of influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), mycoplasma pneumoniae, and rhinovirus (the common cold). It’s important for parents to be aware of the symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical care.

Common Respiratory Illnesses in Children

  1. Flu: The flu is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting. If caught early, antivirals can be prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of the illness. However, antivirals should only be given if symptoms started within 48 hours and are recommended for certain high-risk groups, such as young children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions such as asthma and diabetes.

  2. RSV: RSV is a common virus that typically causes cold-like symptoms but can lead to more serious respiratory issues, especially in infants and young children. RSV symptoms include a runny nose, cough, and fever, but it can also cause wheezing and difficulty breathing. RSV often peaks around days 5 to 7 of illness, and while most children recover with supportive care, severe cases may require hospitalization. Symptoms from RSV can last 4-6 weeks.

  3. Mycoplasma Pneumoniae: Mycoplasma is a type of bacteria that causes cough, bronchitis, and in some cases pneumonia. It can be self-limiting in many cases, but if symptoms persist or worsen, antibiotics may be necessary, especially if the child develops pneumonia.

  4. Rhinovirus (Common Cold): Rhinovirus is the main cause of the common cold, characterized by a stuffy nose, cough, and mild fever. Moderate cold symptoms can last for several days but typically improve within 3-4 weeks.

For most respiratory illnesses, supportive care is essential in helping children recover. This includes rest, hydration, cool mist humidifier, nasal saline spray, and honey for children over 12 months.

If your child develops any severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or if symptoms do not improve, call our office for an appointment. Early intervention can make a significant difference, especially in the case of more severe illnesses like RSV or influenza.

Talking to Boys About Puberty

Puberty can feel like a confusing time for both boys and parents. 

As your son starts going through those big changes, you might be wondering when and how to bring it up. The good news is, you don’t need to have “the talk” all at once. In fact, it’s better to have a series of conversations over time as their body is changing and their understanding is growing. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started.

Start Early—You Don’t Have to Wait for “The Talk”

Puberty begins earlier than most people realize—often around 9 or 10 years old for boys. It’s a great time to start talking about the changes your son will experience in a simple and straightforward way. Let him know that his body is going to grow in different ways, like getting taller, developing more muscle, and starting to grow hair in new places. Talking early gives him a chance to feel more comfortable with the idea before the changes start happening.

Create an Open, Comfortable Space for Questions

Your son will likely have a lot of questions about puberty, and he may feel awkward asking them. That’s completely normal. Approach the topic with an open mind and make sure he knows it’s okay to ask anything. You can keep it light while still giving honest, age-appropriate answers. For example, if he asks why boys grow facial hair, just say, “It’s part of growing up and becoming an adult. Your body is pumping out more hormones”

When They Get to Middle School—It’s Time to Dig Deeper

Around ages 11 or 12, things start to get more noticeable, both physically and emotionally. Your son may be feeling more self-conscious or experiencing mood swings. This is the time to get into the nitty-gritty—talk about hygiene, body odor, and the importance of taking care of his changing body. Be ready to discuss bigger topics too, like emotional changes, relationships, and even sexuality. You don’t need to give him all the details at once, but laying a foundation of trust and openness now will make him feel more comfortable coming to you with questions later on.

It’s Not Just About the Body—It’s About Emotions Too

Puberty isn’t just physical; there are a lot of emotional changes that come with it. Your son might experience mood swings or feel more sensitive than usual. Reassure him that this is all part of growing up and that it’s okay to feel a bit out of sorts. Let him know that it’s normal to have mixed emotions as his body goes through these changes—and that talking about it can help.

Puberty doesn’t have to be a scary or awkward topic. Keep the conversation open and honest, and remember that it’s okay to take things slow. If you ever feel uncertain or need more guidance, our pediatric team is always here to help with advice and support.

Staying Healthy This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with loved ones, share a meal, and create lasting memories. However, with colder weather and more close contact indoors, it’s also a time when germs can easily spread. At Fairhope Pediatrics, we want to help you enjoy a safe, healthy Thanksgiving.

Here are some tips to keep your family healthy and our holiday hours to keep in mind.

Tips to Avoid Illness During Thanksgiving

~ Wash Hands Frequently

Handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Encourage everyone in your family, especially kids, to wash their hands before eating, after using the restroom, and after playing with others. Hand sanitizer is also helpful when soap and water aren’t readily available.

~ Practice Good Food Safety

With so many dishes on the Thanksgiving table, it’s important to handle food safely. Make sure turkey and other proteins are cooked to the correct internal temperature, avoid leaving perishable foods out for more than two hours, and refrigerate leftovers promptly. Safe food handling can prevent foodborne illnesses, which can quickly disrupt holiday fun.

~ Stay Home if Feeling Unwell

If anyone in your family feels under the weather, it’s best to stay home and rest. This prevents spreading any potential illness to others and helps your family member recover faster. Encourage open conversations about symptoms and remind everyone that it’s okay to miss out on gatherings to prioritize health.

~ Boost Immunity

Encourage healthy habits like eating nutritious meals, getting plenty of sleep, and staying active to help boost immunity. If your child hasn’t received their flu shot, this is a good time to schedule one for added protection.

 

 

Fairhope Pediatrics Thanksgiving Hours

During the Thanksgiving holiday, our office will have adjusted hours to allow our staff time with their families. Here are our Thanksgiving hours:

  • Wednesday 27th: Open
  • Thursday 28th, Thanksgiving Day: Closed
  • Friday,29th: Open
  • Saturday, 30th: Closed

We encourage you to schedule any necessary appointments or prescription refills in advance. Should you have questions or need to make an appointment, please give us a call.

Wishing you and your family a safe, happy, and healthy Thanksgiving!