Mindful Pediatrics Blog

Winter brings a familiar wave of sniffles, coughs, fevers, and fatigue — and if you’re a parent, it can feel like your child is catching something new every week. In early 2026, we’re seeing the same seasonal illness  patterns we expect, but with a few notable shifts based on national respiratory virus forecasts. According to the CDC, the 2025–2026 respiratory season is expected to have similar levels of combined COVID‑19, flu, and RSV activity  compared to last year. The flu

What Kids Really Need in January After weeks of travel, treats, late nights, and disrupted routines, it’s completely normal for kids to feel a little “off” in January. Many families notice more bloating, irregular digestion, or picky eating — and it’s not a sign that anything is wrong. It’s simply the gut recalibrating after a season of sugar, processed foods, and unpredictable schedules. The good news? Kids’ microbiomes are incredibly resilient. With a few gentle habits, mos

The start of a new year is a wonderful opportunity to encourage children to set healthy, achievable goals. Goal setting teaches kids about progress, perseverance, and self-reflection. It helps them build confidence as they see their efforts lead to positive change. Encourage your child to choose one small, meaningful habit to focus on for 2026. This could be drinking more water, getting outside daily, or practicing gratitude. The key is to keep goals realistic and celebrate p

Even joyful seasons can bring stress for children and families. Teaching kids simple, effective stress relief techniques can help them manage overwhelming feelings and stay calm. One fun and easy exercise is the "smell the cocoa, blow out the candles" breathing technique. This encourages deep, mindful breaths that soothe the nervous system and promote relaxation. Incorporate stress relief into your family routine by practicing together. When children see parents modeling calm

Family traditions are the heartbeats of joyful, connected childhoods. They create a sense of belonging, continuity, and shared identity that children carry with them throughout life. Whether it’s baking holiday cookies, volunteering together, or reading a special story each year, these rituals build memories that last a lifetime and foster emotional security. Incorporating family traditions during the busy holiday season can be a grounding practice that brings everyone togeth

Immunizations are a crucial part of keeping your child healthy and protected against serious diseases. As we enter the new year, it’s important to stay on top of your child’s vaccination schedule to ensure they receive timely protection. Vaccines work by training the immune system to recognize and fight harmful germs, preventing illnesses that can cause severe complications. Why Immunizations Matter Protect your child:  Vaccines shield children from dangerous diseases like me