The Penguin Post

Back-to-School Safety Tips

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:54:36 GMT

A Healthy Start to the New School Year

It's that time of year again — backpacks are packed, new shoes are laced up, and the school bells are about to ring! At Priority Care Pediatrics, we want to make sure every student heads back to the classroom healthy, safe, and ready to learn. Here are our top tips for a smooth and safe start to the school year

�� Backpack Safety

A too-heavy backpack can cause back pain, poor posture, and even headaches. Keep your child comfortable by following these guidelines:
A backpack should weigh no more than 10% of your child's body weight. For example, if your child weighs 60 pounds, their backpack should weigh no more than 6 pounds.
Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
Make sure your child uses both straps — slinging it over one shoulder can strain muscles.
Pack heavier items closest to the back, and encourage your child to use their locker or cubby throughout the day.

�� Getting to School Safely

Whether your child walks, bikes, or rides in a car, travel safety matters every single day.

Car riders: Children under 13 should always ride in the back seat. Make sure your child is in the right car seat or booster for their age and size, and that seat belts are always buckled.
Walkers: Walk through the route with your child before the first day. Teach them to use crosswalks, look both ways, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Bikers and scooter riders: A properly fitted helmet is a must — every single ride. Helmet use significantly reduces the risk of head and brain injuries. Review hand signals and road rules together.

�� Sleep: The Secret Superpower

Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your child's success in school. Kids who get enough sleep have better attention, behavior, memory, and emotional regulation. Not enough sleep is linked to trouble concentrating, behavioral issues, and even obesity.

Here's how much sleep your child needs each night:

Ages 3–5: 10–13 hours
Ages 6–12: 9–12 hours
Ages 13–18: 8–10 hours

Tip: Start adjusting bedtimes 1–2 weeks before school starts so the transition isn't a shock. Create a calming bedtime routine — bath, brush teeth, read a book, lights out. Keep screens out of the bedroom, as they can interfere with your child's natural sleep cycle.

�� Fuel Up With Good Nutrition

Kids who eat well learn better. A healthy diet supports focus, energy, and growth.

Aim for meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy.
Limit sugary drinks, fast food, and highly processed snacks.
Don't skip breakfast! A nutritious morning meal helps your child stay focused and energized throughout the school day.
Pack a balanced lunch and healthy snacks — think apple slices with peanut butter, veggies and hummus, or a cheese stick and whole-grain crackers.

�� Stay Active

Kids need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day . Encourage your child to play outside, join a sport, ride their bike, or simply run around at recess. Physical activity supports not only physical health but also mood, sleep, and school performance.

If your child is joining a sport this year, make sure they have the right protective gear — including helmets for biking, skateboarding, skiing, and contact sports.

�� Screen Time Check

The start of school is a great time to reset screen time habits. Too much screen time can interfere with sleep, physical activity, and face-to-face social interaction.

Work with your family to create a Family Media Use Plan that sets limits on when and how long screens are used.
Keep mealtimes and bedtime screen-free.
Encourage your child to balance screen time with active play, reading, and time with friends and family.

�� Emotional Wellness

Going back to school can bring excitement — but also anxiety, nervousness, or worry, especially for kids starting at a new school or facing social challenges.

Talk openly with your child about their feelings. Let them know it's normal to feel nervous and that you're there to listen.
Help them practice coping skills like deep breathing or positive self-talk ("I've got this!").
Watch for signs that your child may be struggling, such as changes in sleep, appetite, mood, or reluctance to go to school.
If concerns persist, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help.

�� Immunizations: Are They Up to Date?

Before the school year begins, check that your child's vaccinations are current. Many schools require proof of immunization for enrollment. Key vaccines for school-age children include:

DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus , pertussis )
Polio
MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Varicella (chickenpox)
Annual flu vaccine

Children entering middle school (around age 11–12) may also be due for the Tdap booster, HPV vaccine, and meningococcal vaccine. Call our office to schedule a well-child visit or immunization check before the rush!

☀️ A Few More Quick Tips

Label everything — lunchboxes, water bottles, jackets — with your child's name.
Wash hands often — it's still one of the best ways to prevent illness. Teach your child to wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Know your child's school emergency plan and make sure the school has your up-to-date contact information.
Talk about safety with strangers and make sure your child knows their full name, your phone number, and what to do if they feel unsafe.

--
We love watching your kids grow, and we're here to support your family every step of the way.
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and safe school year! ��

Is Your Child's Diarrhea Lasting Too Long? It Could Be Cyclospora.

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:22:46 GMT

Cyclospora in Children: Symptoms, Causes & When to Call Your Pediatrician

Watery diarrhea is common in children and is often caused by a viral stomach bug that improves within a few days. But if your child's diarrhea lasts for a week or longer , especially during the summer or after travel, another infection called Cyclospora may be the cause.

Recent outbreaks across several states have increased awareness of this parasite, making it important for parents to recognize the symptoms and know when to seek medical care.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine. Children usually become infected after eating contaminated fresh produce or drinking contaminated water.

Unlike many stomach viruses, Cyclospora is not easily spread from one person directly to another . The parasite must spend time in the environment before it becomes infectious.

What are the symptoms?

The hallmark symptom is prolonged watery diarrhea .

Your child may also develop:

Stomach cramps
Bloating
Excess gas
Nausea
Poor appetite
Fatigue
Weight loss
Low-grade fever
Vomiting
Headaches
Muscle aches

One clue that helps distinguish Cyclospora from many common stomach viruses is that symptoms often improve, then return days or weeks later .

How do children get infected?

Most infections occur after eating contaminated foods such as:

Fresh leafy greens
Herbs like cilantro or basil
Berries
Other fresh fruits and vegetables

Children can also become infected while traveling to areas where Cyclospora is more common.

When should parents suspect Cyclospora?

Most viral stomach illnesses resolve within several days.

Cyclospora should be considered if your child has:

Watery diarrhea lasting more than a week
Diarrhea that seems to improve but then returns
Persistent fatigue with diarrhea
Unexplained weight loss
Recent travel or possible exposure to contaminated produce

How is it diagnosed?

Your pediatrician may recommend a stool test to look for the parasite. Because Cyclospora can be difficult to detect, specialized testing—or occasionally more than one stool sample—may be needed.

Is there treatment?

Yes.

Cyclospora is usually treated with an antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) . Most children take the medication for 7–10 days , although some children with weakened immune systems may require longer treatment.

Just as important, children should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration while recovering.

When should I call my pediatrician?

Contact your child's healthcare provider if your child has:

Diarrhea lasting more than a few days
Severe or persistent watery diarrhea
Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination, lethargy)
Blood in the stool
Persistent vomiting
Fever with diarrhea
Weight loss
Symptoms that improve but then return

Seek emergency care immediately if your child cannot keep fluids down, is difficult to wake, or shows signs of severe dehydration.

Can Cyclospora be prevented?

While no prevention method is perfect, families can reduce their risk by:

Washing hands with soap and water before eating or preparing food.
Rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
Scrubbing firm produce such as melons and cucumbers.
Refrigerating cut produce promptly.
Drinking safe water, especially while traveling.

Although washing produce may not completely eliminate Cyclospora, it remains an important part of food safety.

The Bottom Line

Most cases of diarrhea in children are caused by viruses and improve within a few days. However, persistent watery diarrhea that lasts for weeks—or repeatedly comes back—deserves medical evaluation.

Cyclospora is uncommon but treatable. Early diagnosis can shorten the illness and help your child recover more quickly.

If your child has ongoing diarrhea or you're concerned about dehydration, contact Priority Care Pediatrics . We're here to help determine the cause and get your child feeling better.

When Should You See a Lactation Consultant? PCPeds

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:38:18 GMT

Breastfeeding support, pumping guidance, and expert lactation counseling for families throughout North Kansas City, Liberty, Parkville, and the Kansas City Northland.

Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn't always mean it's easy. Many parents experience questions or challenges during the newborn period, from concerns about milk supply and latch difficulties to pumping, returning to work, or simply wondering if their baby is getting enough to eat.

The good news is that you don't have to navigate those concerns alone. Priority Care Pediatrics is here to help . Lactation consultants are specially trained to help families meet their feeding goals and support healthy growth and development during infancy.

One of the most valuable resources for breastfeeding families is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, commonly known as an IBCLC .

What Is an IBCLC?

An IBCLC is a healthcare professional with advanced training and certification in breastfeeding and infant feeding. IBCLCs help families overcome feeding challenges, improve breastfeeding success, and ensure babies receive the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

IBCLCs complete extensive education, clinical training, and certification requirements focused specifically on lactation and infant feeding.

When Should I See a Lactation Consultant?

Many parents assume lactation support is only needed when breastfeeding is not going well. In reality, meeting with a lactation consultant can be helpful anytime questions or concerns arise.

Common reasons families seek lactation support include:

Difficulty getting baby to latch
Pain with breastfeeding
Concerns about milk supply
Slow weight gain
Premature or medically complex infants
Pumping questions
Returning to work while breastfeeding
Bottle refusal
Suspected tongue tie or feeding difficulties
Questions about introducing formula or combination feeding

Is It Too Late to Meet with a Lactation Consultant?

No.

While many families meet with a lactation consultant during the newborn period, support can be beneficial at any stage of infancy. Whether your baby is a few days old or several months old, an IBCLC can help address feeding concerns and develop a plan tailored to your family's goals.

What Happens During a Lactation Visit?

During a lactation consultation, your provider may:

Review feeding history
Observe a feeding session
Assess latch and milk transfer
Evaluate infant growth patterns
Discuss pumping and milk storage
Provide individualized feeding recommendations
Coordinate care with your pediatrician when needed

The goal is to support both baby and parent while creating a feeding plan that works for your family.

Lactation Support at Priority Care Pediatrics

At Priority Care Pediatrics, our lactation services are provided by Jennifer Cauble, PhD, RD, LD, IBCLC. As both a registered dietitian and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, she provides evidence-based support for breastfeeding families throughout North Kansas City, Liberty, Parkville, and the Kansas City Northland.

Whether you're experiencing feeding difficulties or simply want reassurance that things are going well, we're here to help.

If you have questions about breastfeeding, pumping, infant nutrition, or feeding concerns, contact Priority Care Pediatrics to learn more about our lactation services.

Every Child Deserves to Belong: Why Pride Month Matters for Children and Teens

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 12:49:46 GMT

Why Pride Month Matters for Children and Teens

Every June, communities across the country celebrate Pride Month. Pride is a time to recognize the history, contributions, and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. As pediatricians, Pride Month also serves as an important reminder of something even more fundamental: every child deserves to feel safe, accepted, and valued.

At Priority Care Pediatrics , we care for children, teens, and families from all backgrounds. While Pride Month is often associated with celebrations and parades, it is also an opportunity to talk about an important pediatric health issue—mental health.

The Health Impact of Acceptance

Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, bullying, and suicidal thoughts than their peers. According to data from the CDC and The Trevor Project , LGBTQ+ youth are significantly more likely to report poor mental health and suicidal thoughts, not because of who they are, but because of the stigma, discrimination, rejection, and isolation they may experience.

The good news is that acceptance makes a difference.

Studies have found that LGBTQ+ youth who live in supportive homes, attend affirming schools, and feel connected to their communities have substantially lower rates of depression and suicide attempts. Young people who feel accepted by the important adults in their lives are more likely to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

What Children Need Most

Every child is unique. Some may identify as LGBTQ+, some may still be exploring who they are, and others may have friends or family members who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Regardless of identity, all children benefit from the same things:

Loving and supportive families
Trusted adults who listen without judgment
Safe schools and communities
Access to mental health care when needed
Opportunities to build healthy friendships and relationships

Children and teens who know they are loved and accepted are better equipped to handle life's challenges. They develop stronger self-esteem, healthier coping skills, and greater resilience.

Pride Month and Pediatric Care

As pediatricians, our role is not simply to treat illnesses. We also help support the emotional and mental well-being of children and teens.

That means creating an environment where families feel welcome, where questions can be asked openly, and where young people know they have trusted adults who care.

Pride Month reminds us that belonging matters. Feeling accepted by family, friends, schools, and communities can have a profound impact on a child's health.

How Parents Can Help

Parents do not need to have all the answers. Often, the most important thing a child can hear is:

"I love you."

Simple actions can make a meaningful difference:

Listen before reacting.
Keep communication open.
Avoid dismissing a child or teen's feelings or experiences.
Seek support from trusted healthcare professionals when needed.
Let children/teens know they are loved and valued exactly as they are.

Research shows that supportive relationships are among the strongest protective factors against depression, self-harm, and suicide in adolescents. A caring adult can make an enormous difference in a young person's life.

A Message for Pride Month

Pride Month is ultimately about people. It is about recognizing the value and dignity of every individual and fostering communities where all children can grow, learn, and thrive.

At Priority Care Pediatrics, we believe every child deserves to feel welcomed, respected, supported, and cared for. We know that children and teens thrive when they feel safe, accepted, and loved for who they are—and that is something worth celebrating every month of the year.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, thoughts of self-harm, or a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. LGBTQ+ youth can also contact The Trevor Project by calling 1-866-488-7386 , texting START to 678678 , or visiting The Trevor Project online for confidential support.

A New Chapter in Care: Priority Care Pediatrics & Children’s Mercy

Thu, 14 May 2026 19:03:37 GMT

Stronger Together

For more than 20 years, Priority Care Pediatrics has had one simple mission: to provide compassionate, high-quality pediatric care while building lasting relationships with the families we serve.

We are excited to share that we are preparing to begin a new chapter in that mission by affiliating with Children's Mercy.

This affiliation represents an important step forward—not just for our practice, but for the children and families of Kansas City.

What This Means for Our Families

By affiliating with Children’s Mercy, our patients and providers will benefit from:

Easier access to pediatric specialists
Improved coordination for complex medical needs
Stronger connections to pediatric research and innovation
Enhanced collaboration between primary care and specialty care teams

Most importantly, our goal is to continue providing the same trusted pediatric care families know and value, while strengthening the resources and support available to our patients.

What Will Stay the Same

While this affiliation brings exciting opportunities, many things families value about PCPeds will remain unchanged:

The providers and staff you know and trust
Our commitment to accessible, relationship-based care
Our local clinics and community presence
Our focus on treating every child like family

We remain deeply committed to serving the Northland and the greater Kansas City community with compassionate, patient-centered care.

Insurance & Coverage Questions

We understand that changes in healthcare partnerships can sometimes create questions about insurance coverage. If there are situations where we are no longer able to participate with a family’s insurance plan, we sincerely apologize for the stress and inconvenience that may cause.

For families wishing to continue care with PCPeds, our Penguin Program may be an option. The Penguin Program is a cash-pay membership option designed to help families maintain access to PCPeds services and appointments for a yearly fee. More information about the program can be found here .

Looking Ahead

Healthcare continues to evolve rapidly, and pediatric practices across the country face increasing challenges in providing comprehensive care while maintaining access and affordability for families.

We believe this partnership positions Priority Care Pediatrics to continue growing and innovating for years to come. It allows us to strengthen the care we provide while remaining focused on what matters most: the health and well-being of children.

This new chapter is about building a stronger future together—for our patients, our families, and our community.

We are incredibly grateful for the trust our families have placed in us over the years and are excited about what lies ahead.

We’re stronger together—and we look forward to continuing to care for Kansas City kids for many years to come.

Where Should I Go When My Child Is Sick?

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:28:33 GMT

Pediatrician vs Urgent Care vs Emergency Room

When your child gets sick, it can be stressful trying to decide where to go. Should you call your pediatrician, head to urgent care, or go straight to the emergency room?

The good news: most childhood illnesses can safely be treated at your pediatrician’s office—and we’re usually the best place to start.

�� Start with Your Pediatrician (Most of the Time)

Your pediatrician knows your child’s history, medications, and past illnesses—and we’re equipped to handle most common childhood problems . Some examples include:

Fever (in children older than 1 month)
Ear pain or tugging
Cough, cold, congestion
Vomiting or diarrhea
Rashes or hives (with no trouble breathing)
Sore throat
Mild asthma attack or symptoms
Minor injuries (cuts, sprains, bruises)
Pink eye
Pain with urination
Sports injuries
Allergic reactions (without trouble breathing)
Behavior concerns
Constipation
Fainting
Bug bites
Minor burns
Seizure that stops on its own
Stomach pain
Swallowed objects with no trouble breathing (and not a battery)

These are some of the most common reasons kids get sick—and we treat them every day.

�� Bonus: You’ll often have shorter wait times, lower costs, and more personalized care.

�� When Urgent Care Makes Sense

Urgent care is a good option when:

Your child needs more urgent care the same day
If not urgent, remember you can schedule a clinic appointment with us online, day or night.
Minor injuries that may need X-rays or stitches

Examples include:

Minor fractures
Cuts that may need stitches

�� Keep in mind: urgent care providers don’t know your child’s history like we do.

�� When to Go to the Emergency Room (or Call 911)

Some symptoms need immediate emergency care . Examples include:

Trouble breathing or working hard to breathe
Blue lips or face
Seizure that doesn’t stop
Serious injury or broken bone with deformity
Difficulty waking or not responding normally
Severe allergic reaction (swelling, breathing trouble)
Concerns for abuse or neglect
Dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, no wet diapers for 18 hours)
Head injury with persistent vomiting or behavior change
Severe headache with neck pain
Ingestions (call Poison Control first at 1-800-222-1222)
Suicide attempt or threat to others
Swallowed battery or any object causing trouble breathing
Slurred speech or trouble speaking
Numbness, paralysis, sudden weakness or vision loss

�� Important:

Any fever in a baby under 1 month old should go to the ER immediately

�� When in Doubt, Call Us First

If you’re unsure where to go, call our office . We can help you decide the safest and fastest place for your child to be seen. Even at night our phones are answered by a nurse triage line, with one of our doctors on call as backup.

Our goal is simple: get your child the right care, at the right place, at the right time.

Measles is Making a Comeback: What Parents Should Know

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 23:58:03 GMT

Measles in Children: Symptoms, Risks, and How to Protect Your Family

Over the past few years, measles—once nearly eliminated in the United States—has begun to reappear in communities across the country. While many parents have never seen measles firsthand, recent outbreaks are a reminder that this highly contagious disease still poses a real risk, especially in areas where vaccination rates have declined.

The good news is that measles is preventable , and understanding the symptoms and how it spreads can help keep children and communities safe.

What Is Measles?

Measles is a viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes in a shared space. It is one of the most contagious diseases known in medicine .

In fact, if someone with measles enters a room, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours . About 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people who are exposed to the virus will become infected.

Because of this high level of contagiousness, even a single case can lead to outbreaks if enough people in a community are not protected.

Early Symptoms of Measles

Measles often starts like a common viral illness, which can make it difficult to recognize at first.

Early symptoms usually appear 7–14 days after exposure and may include:

High fever (often over 104°F)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Fatigue and irritability

A few days later, the classic measles rash appears. The rash typically:

Starts on the face or hairline
Spreads downward across the body
Appears as red spots that may blend together

Children are contagious before the rash even appears , which is one reason measles spreads so easily.

Why Measles Can Be Dangerous

While many children recover, measles is not just a rash illness . It can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.

Possible complications include:

Ear infections (which can lead to hearing loss)
Pneumonia , the most common cause of measles-related deaths in children
Encephalitis , or swelling of the brain
Hospitalization
Rare but severe long-term neurologic complications

About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people who get measles will require hospitalization .

Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable.

The Best Protection: The MMR Vaccine

The most effective way to prevent measles is through the MMR vaccine , which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.

The vaccine is extremely effective:

One dose provides about 93% protection
Two doses provide about 97% protection

The recommended schedule is:

First dose: 12–15 months of age
Second dose: 4–6 years of age

During times of measles outbreaks, the second dose of the MMR vaccine may be offered earlier than usual. The second dose can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose and will still count toward the routine two-dose series required for school entry.

For families traveling internationally or to areas experiencing measles outbreaks, we also recommend considering early vaccination for infants . Babies as young as 6 months old can receive an extra early dose of the MMR vaccine for protection during travel. This early dose does not replace the routine doses , so the child will still need the standard vaccinations at 12–15 months and 4–6 years .

If you are planning travel or have questions about the best timing for your child’s vaccines, our team is happy to help guide you.

Millions of doses have been safely given for decades, and the vaccine has played a critical role in protecting children worldwide.

Protecting Your Family and Community

Vaccination not only protects your own child—it also helps protect:

Infants who are too young to be vaccinated
Children with weakened immune systems
Pregnant women
Members of the community who cannot receive vaccines for medical reasons

This community protection, sometimes called herd immunity , helps stop outbreaks before they spread.

At Priority Care Pediatrics, we care for many children who are especially vulnerable to infections, including newborns, infants too young to be fully vaccinated, and kids with medical conditions that affect their immune systems. For this reason, we maintain a strong vaccine policy aligned with the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics . Keeping our patients up to date on recommended vaccines helps reduce the risk of preventable illnesses entering our office and helps protect not only your child, but also the many medically fragile children who share our waiting room. Our goal is to create the safest possible environment for every family we care for.

When Should Parents Call the Doctor?

If your child develops:

A high fever
A new rash , especially with cough or red eyes
Possible exposure to someone with measles

Please contact us before coming into the office so our team can guide you on the safest next steps.

Early awareness helps prevent further spread.

The Bottom Line

Measles is highly contagious, but it is also highly preventable . Staying up to date with recommended vaccines remains the best way to protect children and prevent outbreaks.

If you have questions about measles or your child’s vaccine schedule, our team is always happy to help.

Together, we can continue to keep our children and community healthy.

From Our Pediatric Team

At Priority Care Pediatrics , our board-certified pediatricians care for thousands of children across the Kansas City Northland each year. We follow the vaccination recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics to help protect our patients from preventable diseases like measles.

If you have questions about the MMR vaccine , measles symptoms, or your child’s vaccine schedule, our team is always happy to help guide you.

Medically reviewed by:
J. Bryan Wohlwend, MD FAAP
Board-Certified Pediatrician
Priority Care Pediatrics

Have questions about measles or your child’s vaccines?
Schedule a visit with our pediatric team or call our office to speak with one of our nurses.

Exciting New Service!

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:45:33 GMT

Online Scheduling is Here!

Why Online Scheduling Is a Game-Changer for Families

At Priority Care Pediatrics , we’re always looking for ways to make care easier, faster, and less stressful for families. One of the simplest tools that has made the biggest difference? Online scheduling.

If you haven’t tried it yet, here’s why more and more parents are loving the ability to book appointments from their phone quickly.

⏰ 1. Schedule Anytime — No Waiting on the Phone

Kids don’t get sick between 9 and 5.

With online scheduling, you can:

Book an appointment late at night , early morning, or during a lunch break
Avoid hold times
See real-time availability and pick what works for your family

No phone tag. No waiting. No stress.

�� 2. See Your Options Instantly

Online scheduling lets you:

View same-day sick visit openings
Choose the location most convenient for you
Pick a time that fits around school, work, and activities

You’re in control of the schedule, not the other way around.

�� 3. Faster Care for Sick Kids

When your child wakes up with a fever, sore throat, or ear pain, the last thing you want is a delay.

Online booking helps you:

Grab the next available sick visit immediately
Get seen sooner
Start treatment and feel better faster

�� 4. Fewer Errors, Smoother Visits

When you schedule online, you can:

Select the reason for the visit
Ensure we know what’s going on before you arrive
Help our team prepare for exactly what your child needs

That means less time explaining at check-in and more time focused on care.

��‍��‍�� 5. Designed for Busy Families

We know your life is full:

School drop-offs
Work meetings
Sports practices
Multiple kids with different schedules

Online scheduling lets you coordinate care around your life, not rearrange your life for care.

�� 6. Perfect for Well Visits and Follow-Ups

It’s not just for sick visits.

You can also use online scheduling for:

Well child checks
Medication follow-ups
ADHD visits
Simple rechecks

No need to call — just book and you’re done.

�� The Bottom Line

Online scheduling is about convenience, speed, and control for families.

It saves time.
It reduces frustration.
It gets kids seen sooner.

And it’s available 24/7, whenever you need it.

Ready to try it?

Next time you need an appointment, skip the phone and use our online scheduler.
You might be surprised how easy it is.

Find Help in Your Area

implementation@officepracticum.com (Graham Daugherty) — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 18:53:35 GMT

Find food assistance, help paying bills, and other free or reduced cost programs in your area.

Visit the Find Help web site and enter your zip code to find assistance in your area for:

Food
Housing
Goods
Transit
Health
Money
Care
Education
Work
Legal

Visit FindHelp.org to get started!

Learn more about FindHelp .

Welcome To Our Practice News

implementation@officepracticum.com (Graham Daugherty) — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 18:40:24 GMT

Hello, parents, caregivers, and all those invested in the well-being of our little ones!

We are thrilled to provide Practice News on our website. We understand the unique joys and challenges that come with raising healthy, happy kids. Through our news section, we aim to provide valuable insights, practical tips, and advice to empower parents in making informed decisions about their children's health and well-being.

With years of experience in pediatric medicine and a dedication to promoting child wellness, we are here to guide you through every stage of your child's development.

Please check out our Resources section for more information or contact us with any questions!

The Penguin Post

Back-to-School Safety Tips

A Healthy Start to the New School Year

�� Backpack Safety

�� Getting to School Safely

�� Sleep: The Secret Superpower

�� Fuel Up With Good Nutrition

�� Stay Active

�� Screen Time Check

�� Emotional Wellness

�� Immunizations: Are They Up to Date?

☀️ A Few More Quick Tips

Is Your Child's Diarrhea Lasting Too Long? It Could Be Cyclospora.

Cyclospora in Children: Symptoms, Causes & When to Call Your Pediatrician

What is Cyclospora?

What are the symptoms?

How do children get infected?

When should parents suspect Cyclospora?

How is it diagnosed?

Is there treatment?

When should I call my pediatrician?

Can Cyclospora be prevented?

The Bottom Line

When Should You See a Lactation Consultant? PCPeds

Breastfeeding support, pumping guidance, and expert lactation counseling for families throughout North Kansas City, Liberty, Parkville, and the Kansas City Northland.

What Is an IBCLC?

When Should I See a Lactation Consultant?

Is It Too Late to Meet with a Lactation Consultant?

What Happens During a Lactation Visit?

Lactation Support at Priority Care Pediatrics

Every Child Deserves to Belong: Why Pride Month Matters for Children and Teens

Why Pride Month Matters for Children and Teens

The Health Impact of Acceptance

What Children Need Most

Pride Month and Pediatric Care

How Parents Can Help

A Message for Pride Month

A New Chapter in Care: Priority Care Pediatrics & Children’s Mercy

Stronger Together

What This Means for Our Families

What Will Stay the Same

Insurance & Coverage Questions

Looking Ahead

Where Should I Go When My Child Is Sick?

Pediatrician vs Urgent Care vs Emergency Room

�� Start with Your Pediatrician (Most of the Time)

�� When Urgent Care Makes Sense

�� When to Go to the Emergency Room (or Call 911)

�� When in Doubt, Call Us First

Measles is Making a Comeback: What Parents Should Know

Measles in Children: Symptoms, Risks, and How to Protect Your Family

What Is Measles?

Early Symptoms of Measles

Why Measles Can Be Dangerous

The Best Protection: The MMR Vaccine

Protecting Your Family and Community

When Should Parents Call the Doctor?

The Bottom Line

From Our Pediatric Team

Exciting New Service!

Online Scheduling is Here!

Why Online Scheduling Is a Game-Changer for Families

⏰ 1. Schedule Anytime — No Waiting on the Phone

�� 2. See Your Options Instantly

�� 3. Faster Care for Sick Kids

�� 4. Fewer Errors, Smoother Visits

��‍��‍�� 5. Designed for Busy Families

�� 6. Perfect for Well Visits and Follow-Ups

�� The Bottom Line

Ready to try it?

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Welcome To Our Practice News

Hello, parents, caregivers, and all those invested in the well-being of our little ones!

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