Traveling with a Baby or Toddler: Safety Tips for Flying, Sun Protection, Swimming, and International Travel Planning a vacation with a baby or toddler can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, family travel can be safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Whether you are flying with an infant, heading to the beach, or traveling internationally, understanding child travel safety is essential. This guide covers important tips for sun safety, airplane travel, water safety, and travel vaccines for babies and young children. Sun Safety for Babies and Toddlers Protecting babies and toddlers from the sun is especially important because young children have sensitive skin that burns easily. Choosing a Safe Sunscreen for Babies Sunscreen can be used at any age, including babies under 6 months old, as long as you choose a mineral or barrier sunscreen that primarily contains zinc oxide. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed. When selecting sunscreen for children: Choose products with mostly zinc oxide Avoid oxybenzone, which may disrupt hormones Avoid retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A that may increase sun sensitivity Avoid spray sunscreens to prevent inhalation Parents can research sunscreen ingredients and safety ratings through resources such as EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database and look for products with a hazard score under 4. Safe Sun Exposure for Infants Even with sunscreen, babies should not spend long periods in direct midday sunlight. Safer sun habits include: Keeping babies and toddlers out of direct midday sun Allowing limited early morning or late afternoon sun exposure Using hats, rash guards, and shade whenever possible Short periods of sun exposure very early or very late in the day may be reasonable without sunscreen, but prolonged exposure should always be avoided. Flying with a Baby or Toddler Air travel with children requires planning, especially when it comes to safety and comfort. The Safest Way for Babies to Fly Although airlines allow children under age 2 to sit on a parent’s lap, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants travel in an FAA-approved car seat. Many car seats are approved for both motor vehicles and aircraft. Check: The sticker on the side of the car seat Your car seat manual Your airline’s measurement and seating requirements Older children may be able to use the CARES harness system on airplanes. Traveling with Car Seats If you are bringing a car seat to your destination: Ask your airline whether car seats count toward baggage limits Many airlines check car seats for free Car seats used on the plane with a purchased seat usually do not count as carry-on luggage Helping Babies with Ear Pressure on Airplanes Changes in cabin pressure can cause ear discomfort during takeoff and landing. To help reduce ear pain: Nurse, bottle-feed, or offer a pacifier during ascent and descent Older children can suck on lollipops If your child recently had diagnosed middle ear fluid or an ear infection, you can give ibuprofen about 30 min before take off. If more than 6 hours has passed, you can give a second dose 30 min before landing. Preventing Illness While Flying Airplane travel itself is generally safe for babies, but crowded public spaces can spread germs. Helpful travel hygiene tips include: Wash or sanitize your hands frequently Clean your hands before touching your baby Wipe down commonly touched surfaces if desired Can Benadryl Help Kids Sleep on Flights? Some parents consider using Benadryl during flights. However, children can occasionally have the opposite reaction and become hyperactive or irritable. If you want to try it: Test it at home first during nap time Be aware that effects may last about 6 hours Avoid routine use Entertainment Tips for Long Flights with Toddlers Older babies and toddlers can quickly become bored during travel. Helpful ideas include: Bring a bag of small toys your child has never seen before Borrow toys from friends specifically for travel Introduce a new activity or toy every 15 to 30 minutes And remember: if your child cries or fusses on the plane, most passengers understand. Many are parents themselves. Water Safety for Babies and Toddlers Pools, lakes, oceans, and bathtubs all require constant supervision around young children. Never Leave Children Alone Near Water Children can drown quickly and silently, even in small amounts of water. Important safety rules include: Never leave a child alone near pools, lakes, oceans, bathtubs, or buckets of water An adult who can swim should always remain within arm’s reach of infants and toddlers Supervision from a distance is not enough Water Safety and Alcohol Adults supervising children around water should avoid alcohol or other substances that impair judgment or slow reaction time. If it's a party, please arrange for a LIFEGUARD! Ocean Safety for Young Children If visiting the beach with babies or toddlers: Watch tide conditions carefully Stay alert for strong waves Learn how to recognize rip currents Keep young children at arm's length closeness to an adult at all times in the water Travel Vaccines and Medications for International Travel Families traveling internationally may need additional vaccines or medications depending on the destination. Please write on the portal to check in before international travel. Early Measles vaccine If your child is 6 months to 11 months, it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics to get a measles vaccine prior to international travel. There is no specific recommendation for an early measles shot for travel within the US, but if you know you are going to a "measles hot spot," we DO recommend an early MMR. The measles vaccine given UNDER one year old does NOT count for the one year old vaccine, and it will need to be repeated. If your child already had their 1 year old measles vaccine, but has not yet had their 4 year old measles vaccine, you can get an early second MMR-V. This WILL count as the 4 year old vaccine and does NOT need to be repeated. Book a medical assistant visit to get this vaccine! Oral Typhoid Vaccine (Vivotif) Vivotif is approved for children ages 6 and older. Look at the CDC travel site for your destination to see if you need it. If you do, please book an appointment. If you have a recent weight, we can do that as a televist. Typical dosing instructions include: Take 1 capsule by mouth on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 Take capsules 1 hour before meals with a cold or lukewarm drink Complete the series at least one week before exposure Malaria Prevention with Malarone Malarone may be prescribed for travel to malaria-endemic regions. Look on the CDC travel site for your destination to see if you need it. Typical dosing recommendations: Start 1 to 2 days before entering the area Continue daily during travel Continue for 7 days after returning home Weight-based dosing: 11 to 20 kg: 1 pediatric tablet daily 21 to 30 kg: 2 pediatric tablets daily 31 to 40 kg: 3 pediatric tablets daily Over 40 kg: 1 adult tablet daily Book an appointment to get this prescribed. If you have a recent weight, we can do it as a telehealth visit. Travel Vaccine Clinics in Philadelphia Families in the Philadelphia area may consider the following travel medicine resources. General pediatricians cannot give Yellow Fever vaccine or injected Typhoid vaccine. Pennsylvania Hospital Travel Medicine Penn Presbyterian Medical Center Travel Medicine Passport Health Final Thoughts on Traveling with Young Children Traveling with babies and toddlers requires preparation, flexibility, and patience. Prioritizing sun protection, car seat safety, water supervision, and proper travel health precautions can help make your family vacation safer and less stressful. With thoughtful planning, traveling with young children can create wonderful family memories while keeping everyone healthy and safe.
Sunblock vs. Vitamin D for Kids: How to Protect Their Skin and Ensure Healthy Growth As parents, it’s essential to find the right balance between protecting your child’s skin from the sun and ensuring they get enough vitamin D. Too much sun exposure can lead to skin damage and even skin cancer, but not enough can result in vitamin D deficiency, which is crucial for bone health and the immune system. In this guide, we’ll break down the importance of sunblock for kids, the need for vitamin D in children, and how you can keep your little ones safe while they enjoy the outdoors. Why Sunblock Is Crucial for Protecting Your Child’s Skin Exposing your child’s skin to the sun can cause irreversible damage, especially when they are young. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer, and childhood sunburns can increase the risk of developing melanoma later in life. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), protecting your child's skin from UV damage is crucial for long-term skin health. Using sunblock for children is one of the most effective ways to prevent sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer. It's important to apply sunblock regularly, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds and damage the skin. Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Why Mineral Sunblock is the Best Choice for Kids When it comes to sunscreen, mineral sunblocks (also known as physical sunscreens) are often a safer choice for children. These sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin to block harmful UV rays. Mineral-based sunscreens are particularly effective for sensitive skin and are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Avoid sunscreens containing chemicals like oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate. Oxybenzone has been linked to hormone disruption, and retinyl palmitate may increase the risk of skin cancer when exposed to sunlight. You can refer to the EWG’s Skin Deep database to find safer sunscreen options. Also, it’s best to avoid spray sunscreens for kids. While they may seem convenient, they pose a risk of inhalation. The fine particles can be harmful to your child’s lungs, so stick with non-spray mineral sunblocks that are easy to apply and safer for their respiratory system. Vitamin D: Why Your Child Needs Sunlight Vitamin D plays an important role in your child’s health. It helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for building strong bones. It also supports the immune system and can even have a positive impact on mood and overall well-being. The body naturally produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to UVB rays from the sun. However, in today’s world, many children spend more time indoors, often engaging with screens rather than playing outside. This means they are not getting enough sunlight to maintain healthy vitamin D levels. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that vitamin D deficiency is becoming more common in children, particularly among those who don’t get enough time outdoors or live in regions with limited sunlight. Without adequate vitamin D, kids are at higher risk for bone problems and weakened immune systems. Balancing Sun Exposure: How to Get Vitamin D Safely You don’t need to expose your child to the sun all day, but it’s important to allow for short bursts of No-Sunblock time to let their bodies make vitamin D. During these short periods of sun exposure, your child will get a boost of vitamin D while minimizing the risk of sunburn. For babies, try No-Sunblock time before 9 am and after 5 pm. These hours provide weaker sun exposure, which reduces the risk of harmful UV rays. For older children, you can extend this window to before 10 am and after 4 pm. When you’re outside during peak sunlight hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm), apply a non-spray mineral sunscreen to protect their skin from UV damage. This approach allows your child to get their daily dose of vitamin D without the dangers of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Best Practices for Sun Safety and Vitamin D Here’s a summary of key recommendations to balance sun protection with vitamin D production: Get outside early or late in the day—before 9 am for babies and 10 am for kids, and after 5 pm for babies and 4 pm for kids. These times offer weaker sun exposure, reducing the risk of sunburn. Use a mineral-based sunblock (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) when spending extended time outside during peak sunlight hours. Avoid chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate. Avoid spray sunscreens—they can be harmful when inhaled. Stick to cream or lotion-based sunscreens. Check the EWG database to ensure you’re using a safe, effective sunscreen for your child. Conclusion: Keeping Your Kids Safe While Getting Their Vitamin D The key to keeping your child’s skin safe while ensuring they get enough vitamin D is to find a balance. Short, safe sun exposure allows them to produce the vitamin they need for healthy bones and immunity, while mineral sunblocks keep them protected from harmful UV rays. By following these sun safety guidelines, you can ensure your child enjoys the outdoors without compromising their health. With a little planning and a focus on safe sun practices, you can protect your child's skin and keep them healthy. Remember, sun safety for kids is about moderation and making smart choices when it comes to both sunscreen use and outdoor time. References American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). (2021). Sun Protection. Environmental Working Group (EWG). (2023). Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). (2023). Vitamin D on the Double.
Measles in Montgomery County: What Parents Need to Know About Vaccination and Protecting Your Family Over the weekend, there was a confirmed case of measles in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, near Plymouth Meeting. As a pediatric practice in East Norriton, Montgomery County, this news is very concerning, and we want to ensure that our community has all the information they need to protect their families. The situation is especially alarming because there are already over 100 cases of measles in Texas, with one child tragically passing away. This shows that the threat is real, and it is important for all of us to be prepared. I immediately began looking at the Montgomery County Health Department website for updated information, and today I’m reaching out to them for further guidance. All of the doctors in our office are collaborating to determine the best way to manage this situation, given how close the case is to our East Norriton office. Why Measles in Montgomery County is a Concern Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread quickly. This isn’t just a mild illness; measles can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and even death. The fact that a case has been confirmed so close to home is a reminder that measles is still a threat. The outbreak in Texas and other recent cases highlight how important it is to make sure your child is vaccinated. We must all do our part to keep the disease from spreading further. Early Symptoms of Measles: What to Watch For If you think your child may have measles, it’s important to recognize the symptoms early. Here are the signs to look for: Fever: Often the first symptom, which can get worse over time. Cough: A dry cough that becomes more persistent. Runny Nose: A clear nasal discharge, much like a cold. Red, Watery Eyes: Known as conjunctivitis or pink eye. Koplik Spots: Small white spots that appear inside the mouth, usually before the rash. Rash: The rash starts on the forehead and behind the ears and spreads down the body a few days after the fever begins. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to contact your doctor right away to prevent spreading the illness. The MMR Vaccine: Safe, Effective, and Long-Used The good news is that measles can be prevented through the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. The MMR vaccine has been used for over 50 years and has been shown to be very safe and effective in preventing measles. Most children receive the MMR vaccine in two doses: First dose: At age 1. Second dose: Between ages 4 and 6. One dose of the MMR vaccine gives about 93% protection against measles, and two doses provide about 97% protection. This high level of immunity is why the MMR vaccine has been so effective in preventing the spread of measles. Side Effects of the MMR Vaccine: What You Need to Know Like all vaccines, the MMR vaccine can cause some mild side effects, but these are usually short-lived and not serious. Here’s what to expect: Fever: A low-grade fever may occur for a few days. Rash: Some children may develop a mild rash, but this is not the same as the measles rash. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swelling of the glands may happen, but it’s typically mild. Rare Side Effects: Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare, and any serious side effects are quickly treated. These side effects are far less concerning than the potential risks of measles itself, which can cause permanent damage like pneumonia and brain damage. The Wakefield Scare: Why You Shouldn’t Worry About the MMR Vaccine and Autism You may have heard that the MMR vaccine is linked to autism. This myth comes from a study published in 1998 by Andrew Wakefield, which was later found to be fraudulent. The study was retracted, and Wakefield lost his medical license for falsifying data. Since then, many large studies involving millions of children have shown that there is no connection between the MMR vaccine and autism. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have made it clear that the MMR vaccine is safe and does not cause autism. The fear around the vaccine is based on misinformation, and it’s important for parents to understand that the vaccine is safe and necessary to protect your child from measles and other dangerous diseases. Why Vaccination is So Important Measles is a highly contagious disease, and if enough people in a community aren’t vaccinated, outbreaks can occur. When more people get vaccinated, herd immunity is created, which helps protect those who cannot get vaccinated, such as infants or children with medical conditions. That’s why it’s important to make sure your child is vaccinated. The MMR vaccine doesn’t just protect your child—it helps protect everyone in the community. Our Plan of Action: What to Do If You Suspect Measles We’ve developed a detailed plan to keep everyone safe, especially given how close the measles case is to our office. Here’s what you need to do if you suspect your child has measles: If you suspect measles: Please do not come physically into the office. Instead, call us when you arrive, and we’ll come out to see your child in the car. This keeps everyone safe and minimizes exposure to other patients. For children 6 months to 1 year: If you want to get an early dose of the MMR vaccine, please book a Medical Assistant appointment online through our website. This will not replace the vaccine given at age 1, but it will help protect your child. Under the age of six months, the vaccine will not be effective. For children 1 to 4 years old: If you’d like to get your child’s second dose of the MMR vaccine early, you can book a Medical Assistant appointment online as well. This dose counts as the vaccine given at age 4. Check Your Child’s Immunization Record: You can check your child’s immunization record through our patient portal to see if they’re up-to-date on the MMR vaccine. You may see MMR or you may see MMRV. MMRV also protects against chickenpox. If your child is unvaccinated: If your child is not vaccinated and you choose not to vaccinate, we recommend keeping your child away from others who are sick. By following these steps, we can help limit the spread of measles and protect those who are most vulnerable. Conclusion: Protect Your Family from Measles with the MMR Vaccine The recent case of measles in Montgomery County shows how important it is to keep your child protected with the MMR vaccine. Vaccination is one of the best ways to prevent measles and protect your family from this dangerous disease. Don’t let misinformation scare you—vaccines are safe, effective, and necessary to keep our children healthy. If you have any questions about the MMR vaccine, feel free to reach out to our office. We are here to help.
A few days ago, I had the chance to meet with a young patient I’ve known since he was born. Now seven years old, he came in to talk about his recent ADHD diagnosis. It was a big moment for him, but also a reminder of how important it is to really understand and support kids with ADHD. ADHD Symptoms and School Challenges Like many kids with ADHD, he was super outgoing and not at all shy about talking to me. He opened up right away about his relationships with his teachers, classmates, and how school was going for him. It was clear he was doing okay—he wasn’t crying at school or yelling at his teachers, which showed he had a pretty good handle on his emotions and impulses. That’s something kids with ADHD often struggle with, so it was nice to see that he had some self-control. Of course, like many kids with ADHD, he had trouble staying seated for long periods of time. It’s a common issue since kids with ADHD often have lots of energy and a hard time focusing for long stretches. This kid really struggled with staying in one spot for too long, which is a big problem in traditional classrooms where kids are expected to sit still and pay attention for hours. Creative Solutions for ADHD Kids: Thinking Outside the Classroom That got me thinking—what if there was a different kind of school for kids with ADHD? I’ve always wondered if programs like apprenticeships, where kids learn to be a woodworker or blacksmith, might work better. These types of hands-on jobs involve a lot of movement and learning by doing, which seems like it might be a better fit for kids who need to move around to stay engaged. Traditional school can feel like a tough fit for kids with ADHD, who often need to move and get their energy out in order to stay focused. I’ve also seen this firsthand with my own child, who has ADHD. My child had a math teacher who figured out that kids with ADHD need to move in order to stay engaged. Instead of sitting still at desks, the teacher had them stand up and use hand gestures to show math concepts. For example, they’d cross their arms to show multiplication and hold their arms parallel to show the equals sign. It wasn’t just fun—it worked! It helped the kids focus and made math a lot more interactive. That teacher understood that keeping kids with ADHD engaged meant thinking outside the box, and it made a huge difference for my child and the other kids. The Importance of ADHD Accommodations in School For the boy I saw recently, things at school were going okay, but we talked about the fact that he’d need support to keep thriving. Luckily, he already has a 504 Plan in place, which provides him with some important accommodations at school. Not all teachers are great at handling kids with ADHD, and some may not understand how important it is for kids to have room to move and get their energy out. But with his 504 Plan, he’s allowed to stand up and move around in class, which will help a lot. This kind of flexibility makes a big difference in helping kids succeed. ADHD Medication: A Tool for Focus and Success We also talked about the possibility of trying some medication to help with his ADHD. This is a topic that often brings up questions from parents. Just the other day, a mom asked me if giving her child a pill to help with ADHD might teach the child to look for pills as a way to solve problems in the future. It’s a good question, and I totally understand her concern. But research actually shows that kids with ADHD who take medication are less likely to develop substance abuse problems later in life. It’s a counterintuitive finding, but it makes sense when you think about it. Medication for ADHD helps improve focus, self-control, and overall functioning, which can actually make it less likely for kids to engage in risky behaviors. When ADHD is left untreated, kids may have a harder time with impulse control and regulating their emotions, which can sometimes lead to problems down the road. So, medication is just one part of a bigger picture—a tool in the toolbox, along with other strategies like therapy, lifestyle changes, and support at school. The Difference Between Drugs and Medication for ADHD The day before I met with this boy, I saw another child with ADHD. He was just as chatty and full of ideas, and I could’ve easily spent more time talking to him about his thoughts and creative ideas. He had a really interesting way of explaining the difference between “taking drugs” and “taking medication.” He understood that drugs are bad for you, but he also got that medication, when prescribed properly, can help you manage things like ADHD. It was a great reminder of how these kids, despite their challenges, often have a clear understanding of the world around them and how things work. The Joy of Working with Kids with ADHD Taking care of kids with ADHD is something I really enjoy. They’re often so smart, creative, and full of life—it’s impossible not to appreciate the way they see the world. These kids can be wildly inventive, and their way of thinking is often fresh and exciting. As a doctor, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their journey and to see how they grow and learn. For me, the most important part of this work is being a part of their team as they grow and helping them find the tools and strategies they need to become their best selves. It’s not just about treating a diagnosis—it’s about supporting them as they discover who they are and what they’re capable of. Building Strong Connections with ADHD Kids and Their Families But it’s also about the connections. Getting to know each child, understanding their unique strengths and struggles, is what makes this work so fulfilling. It’s not just about the medical side of things—it’s about the relationship, the trust, and the shared moments that come with working closely with these kids. Every child brings something special to the table, and it’s a privilege to witness their growth and to be there for them every step of the way. Helping these kids succeed is full of joy, laughter, and meaningful moments, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Conclusion: Supporting Kids with ADHD to Reach Their Full Potential In the end, my goal is to help kids with ADHD become the best versions of themselves. With the right tools and strategies—whether through hands-on learning, classroom accommodations, therapy, or medication—we can help them manage their challenges and succeed in school and life. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support these kids as they grow into their full potential.
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