Paramount Pediatrics
312-15336 31 Avenue V3Z 0X2 Surrey, BC, Canada

Play /// Limitless Yes, there are limits, they usually involve safety and boundaries, but beyond that play can open the door for children of all ages to explore, create and learn. To navigate what they see, hear and feel and at its core do the things they love most. How can you set up a child for endless possibility in play?... * Let them play with WHAT they enjoy * Be flexible with HOW play looks * If you are joining - follow THEIR lead in the beginning * Be open to materials they are drawn to --play can take on all forms * Keep the theme simple to start and rich with cause and effect to draw children in A big thanks to our Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock, for today’s post on play.

Happy Holidays from your team at Paramount Pediatrics

Last weeks Ugly Christmas Sweater Day at the clinic

Covid fatigue is a real thing for all of us. More than ever, it’s important we keep our vigilance. We want to keep our doors open so we can continue to serve the community. Please help us by continuing to wear masks, wash hands often and maintain social distance whenever possible. We’re in this together and we want to thank you for helping keep our children, families and team safe.

A very special day for us at Paramount Pediatrics

Homework Tips Homework can often be a time that you and your child avoid. It brings with it increased stress, behavioural outbursts and overall avoidance to do. Why? A few considerations may include; overall fatigue (both mental and physical from the day), the level of difficulty the task brings and overall perception your child has to the task. Here are a few tips to help decrease stress and increase success:... * Timing avoid hitting the books right after school and instead allow for some downtime and mental rest. Avoid doing it too late in the evening as well that sweet spot before dinner can often be a great time * Make yourself available while your child may not start off by asking for help, by setting up homework in a shared space your child may be more likely to seek you support * Space ensure the space for homework is void of distraction (TV, loud music, hustle and bustle of others) * Predictability Consistency keep the homework routine predictable in where and when it happens * Establish a Homework Plan /Checklist/Schedule list the tasks/steps with your child and materials needed - do they have it all? * Breaks sitting for long periods of time may be too hard, building in breaks with movement in the schedule * Motivation pair a desired activity to follow the completion of the homework tasks * Pick and choose what needs to get done It’s ok if it doesn’t all get done! Our 3rd tip by Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock! Thanks Michele!

Why Is Play So Important? Play is considered to be an integral and necessary part of every child’s development. In play children and learning and building skills around social and emotional abilities, cognition, language and communication, among other skills. While we may know this all to be true, carving out time each day to engage in play with and for your child can at times be a daunting task. A couple of considerations one might make around play: > play can be alone or... with others > the impact of play, especially an adults role in it does not require much 5-10 minutes even daily of uninterrupted play with a child can have significant and positive impact to the connection children have to those around them. > giving time daily for play is a necessary part of every child’s development. Some added benefits to play: > allows children to explore through all their senses > enables them to develop coordination and dexterity > gives a space for creativity, imagination and pretend play to grow > allows for exploration of cause and effect across materials and themes > builds attention to task > gives a space for connection and interaction with others > offers opportunity for problem solving, negotiating and conflict resolution Remember: > play doesn’t have to be structured, sometimes the best play happens when we give children to explore materials how they wish vs. how we envision > play doesn’t require expensive and fancy toys, play can happen with household objects you have around already and even props from nature > play may involve you modelling and supporting exploration > look to set up play opportunities around interests your child might already have, allowing them to explore their interests is key > keep things novel by rotating play props every 1-2 weeks > the best toys are often the ones that don’t play for us but require children to use and manipulate them for play to happen * Sourced from the American Academy of Pediatircs and various other research articles Another great post by Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock

After school /// Challenging Moments Have you ever experienced that moment when you great your child after school/daycare and then within a few minutes the frustration and even for some anger sets in, before your eyes they simply fall apart. Being a learner; listening, following rules, engaging with others and socializing can be exhausting for them. They are working hard all day while away from you and then when they see you (their stron...gly attached / connected to person) they may let loose all the big emotions of their day. What can you do to support your child during this time: * If your child is feeling those emotions remember to acknowledge them. * Avoid questions - questions mean more demands and they simply are not all that ready for them * Give space for them to relax (music, art/craft, chill with a cozy blanket, etc..) * Give space to play and engage alone or with you if they want * Have a snack for them * Keep calm yourself Things to avoid right after school * homework * after school activity Remember we all can struggle emotionally when we bottle up all the stressors in our day. For children who’s emotions and regulation are still developing they are going to lean into those they connect with the most. Post from our Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock. Thanks for the great tips!

Does you child know how to wash their hands properly? Click on the link below for the CDC’s step-by-step hand washing instructions. https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html

Back to school time. Whether you are sending your child to school, hoping for a hybrid model or choosing to keep them home full-time, there is going to be some adjustment. With the worries of COVID still amongst us all there is an added element of stress for both children and parents. Routines are changing again and so too are the expectations. Here are just a few tips that can help in easing the transition back to school:... * Routines look to establish them where you can during the week. Even if just with waking up and getting ready and time for bed. Bring predictability and consistency back where it might not have been for the last few months. * Create space - space for learning / homework that is carved out for that purpose and that has limited distractions * Screens - if you haven’t already consider scaling back on your child’s access to screen time during the day/evening (outside of school). * Talking - start talking about transitions and changes, front load your child with expectations where you can * Carve out time - to be present and available to engage with your child outside of the demands of their school and work. This might be reading together at night, doing a puzzle, a fun game, a walk, just really anything your child enjoys and that you can be part of.

Another helpful tip from our sleep consultant, Jenn Leckie! Darkness: Melatonin plays a key role in keeping our babies asleep and a dark sleep environment leads to more of this amazing hormone. Any light coming into the room through the window or put there by us, can actually inhibit the production of melatonin, leading to more wake ups. It doesnt have to be pretty (think tin foil or garbage bags) but those windows need to be covered.

How much is TOO much screen time? Head to our website by clicking on the link below to learn about managing screen use in school-aged children and adolescents! https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/digital-media

Are you struggling to keep your in toddler in their bed? If so, head to the link in our bio for helpful tips from Jenn Leckie, our sleep consultant! https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/tips-for-keeping-a-todd

Good news! There are still spaces available for our virtual August prenatal classes! August 17th & 24th from 6-8pm. The Prenatal Bundle covers all the need-to-know info about labour and bringing baby home. The dates are just around the corner, make you sure to call the office and book! Click on the link for all the details. https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/prenatal-classes

Today is the end of World Breastfeeding Week 2020! If you or someone you know is in need of lactation support look no further! Here at Paramount Pediatrics we have a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Leslie Parker. Click on the link to learn more about Leslie or call our clinic (604-560-8709) to set up an appointment. https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/leslie-parker

Are you making sure your young athlete is getting the proper nutrition for growth and optimal performance? Click on the link below for all you need to know on sports nutrition! https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/sports-nutrition-for-yo

Keep cool on these hot summer days with this easy to make outdoor painting activity targeting 0-3 years of age. Another great idea brought to you by our Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock. ICE PAINTING All you need is: 1. Water... 2. Ice Cube tray 3. Food colouring or paint 4. Popsicle sticks Pick colouring agent with water and then freeze. Before frozen solid add popsicle sticks for a handle. Some developmental goals may include: - Fine motor coordination - Colour matching - Requesting for colours - Identifying colours - Development of expression and creativity See more

Is your child up-to-date on their childhood immunizations? Here at Paramount Pediatrics we are pleased to offer immunizations to children 0-18 years of age. Immunization clinics are held Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Call 604-560-8709 to inquire about availability!

Looking for a fun activity to try out on this hot day? Courtesy of our Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock! ICE BLOCK WATER TABLE A keep cool activity that involves keeping the exploration high and the direction low. 0-5 years All you need is: - Water... - Ice Cube tray - Props to freeze - Wood hammer - Cups / ladles for scooping and pouring Some developmental goals may include: - Hand-eye coordination - Turn taking with props - Cause Effect - Adult direction can be medium to low See more

Looking for the low down on sunscreen?! Head to the link below and learn why lotion sunscreen offers more protection than spray. https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/skin-care

Its not too late to register for our virtual July prenatal class! Part 1: July 23, 2020: 6pm-8pm Part 2: July 30, 2020: 6pm-8pm Call 604-560-8709 to register now.

Happy Canada Day!

Do you find yourself struggling with mealtime battles? Is your child a picky eater? If so head to the link below for Brigitte McRaes must read book alert! Brigitte is one our two dietitians at Paramount Pediatrics who is here to help if youre ever feeling stuck, worried about your childs intake, or just cant handle meal time battles anymore! https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/division-of-responsibil

Do you ever wonder what the ideal temperature is for your childs room? Especially in these warmer months! Jenn Leckie, our registered nurse and sleep consultant recommends keeping the room on the cooler side. 19-22 degrees celsius is ideal for sleeping.

Lets catch up on any immunizations postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Our Pediatric Nurse is hosting two immunization clinics next month! *June 8th & 29th* Make sure to call (604-560-8709) as soon as possible as we have limited times available due to our new precautions. No referral required

Today at Paramount Pediatrics we are wearing our jeans to help sick and injured kids get out of their hospital gowns and back into their own jeans. #jeanup

Paramount Pediatrics wants to thank nurses today and everyday for all they do to keep us safe, healthy and comfortable in some of the most stressful times. A special shoutout to the nurses that work with us at Paramount: Lindsey Harmer, Jenn Leckie and Leslie Parker. Our team appreciates you! THANK YOU

Wondering what type of night light to use that wont disrupt your little ones sleep? Thanks to our Mama Coach, Jenn Leckie we have the answer! For night time feeds, I suggest a soft yellow lamp on the lowest setting - salt lamps are a great option. We also want to avoid continuous nightlights, aquariums, and / or star projectors around the crib - these should be moved to the change table area, and switched off whenever baby is expected to sleep. They are just too exciting.... Dont forget Jenn is still offering virtual Mama Coaching and prenatal classes! Call the clinic (604-560-8709) or check out our website for more details!

World Immunization Week 2020! Check out the link below to see why the World Health Organization is urging the importance of vaccinations. We will now be offering 2 immunization clinics in May! Please call the clinic (604-560-8709) to book your childs scheduled immunizations May 5th or 26th. Make sure to call as soon as possible as we have limited times available due to Covid-19 precautions.... https://www.who.int//default-/world-immunization-week-2020

Our Behaviour Analyst, Michele Shilvock, is here to help get you through these challenging times with a few parenting tips! Dont forget she is still available virtually! Please feel free to reach out (604-560-8709) if you are looking for support.

Paramount Pediatrics wants to wish you a happy Earth Day! Check out the link below to find out ways you can support our planet! We can all do our part for a cleaner Earth https://www.earthday.org/

Paramount Pediatrics wants to thank nurses, midwives and all healthcare workers for their hard work and dedication especially in this difficult time #worldhealthday https://www.who.int//world-health-day/world-health-day-2020

Today we are happy to celebrate our 1st year anniversary in our new clinic! It is our pleasure to serve our community, thank you for trusting our team of healthcare professionals with your most valuable gifts, your children. If you would like to show us your appreciation, please like us on Facebook or send a testimonial to [email protected]. Include a photo of your little one and well be happy to share it on our website.

The following information is from The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada website. If you are breastfeeding your baby and you develop symptoms of COVID-19 or have been confirmed to have COVID-19 you can continue to breastfeed your baby and do skin-to-skin care. You must wash your hands before and after breastfeeding and doing any baby care and you must wear a mask. There has been no evidence of vertical transmission (mother to infant) in any cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) or COVID-19. Analyses of amniotic fluid, serum, placenta and breastmilk from women who are confirmed to have SARS or COVID-19 infection have found no detectable viral DNA. If you require further support please contact us to book a virtual appointment with Leslie, our Lactation Consultant.

We recognize that during this time, stress is likely heightened for many families and there may be increased behaviour challenges in the home. We wanted to let you know that with the move to telehealth for families, our behaviour consultant, Michele Shilvock, is also available should families be looking for support around addressing challenges at home, increase positive interactions in the day and/or how to build in curricular activities/strategies. Please feel free to reach out (604-560-8709) if you are looking for support.

We are (still) here to serve our families. To reduce the risk of disease spread by keeping people at home and out of doctors offices, and to enable patients to receive the necessary services, the BC government and Doctors of BC have agreed to billing changes that allow for freedom in the use of telehealth. Where appropriate, our health care team will now be able to serve our families virtually by telephone and video. Please call our Front Desk team to find out how.

To all the families we care for here at Paramount Pediatrics, we want you to know that we are taking extra measures to keep you safe during your visit. Those visiting our clinic will be screened with a few preemptive questions. Weve also put away our toys and books for the time being but will be available upon request. Stay healthy and we look forward to caring for you soon!

Are you planning a trip this spring break? Make sure you get the right advice before you go! https://www.canada.ca//20/latest-travel-health-advice.html

Meet the newest member of our team, Shauna Halcrow. Shauna is a registered clinical counsellor who has been helping individuals, couples and families for over 15 years. She is also a mother to two young beautiful children, a wife, an avid animal lover and an outdoor enthusiast. https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/bio-shauna-halcrow

On February 26, 2020 we encourage everyone to practice kindness and wear the color pink to symbolize that you do NOT tolerate bullying. https://keltymentalhealth.ca//pink-shirt-day-lets-lift-eac

Our Nutrition Workshop is just around the corner! Make sure to call the clinic to secure your spot!

Excited to announce our March dates for Not your Average Prenatal Class! Part 1: March 02, 2020 6pm-8pm Part 2: March 09, 2020 6pm-8pm

Paramount Pediatrics teamed up with Jason McIvor, Chief Alignment Officer at P3Expansion Jason delivered an exciting workshop with our team asking: How is better possible? We expanded on the goodness of ourselves, the team and of Paramount Pediatrics as a whole. Once we were firmly rooted in this goodness, we were better able to see where better was possible and how more goodness is possible. Very inspiring for all of us. Great session, Jason! If you are interested in a workshop/coaching for your team, check them out https://www.p3expansion.com

Paramount Pediatrics invites you to our Nutrition Educational Workshop!!

This months drop-in lactation classes start tomorrow! Tomorrows topic is latch. These classes are hosted by Paramount Pediatrics very own certified lactation consultant, Leslie Parker. https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/lactation-classes Click on the link for more details.

Paramount Pediatrics is here to help today and everyday! If your child or a child you know is struggling call our office or check out our website for information on the counselling services we offer. https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/bio-richard-tatomir

Does your family experience meal time stress? Are you at a loss for what to feed your child? Do you constantly worry that your child is not getting enough, or perhaps getting too much to eat? If yes, then join Brigitte McRae, Registered Dietitian, on February 27th as she leads an exciting and thought provoking workshop that will allow you to start your journey towards raising a conscious and confident eater. For more details check out our website https://www.paramountpediatrics.com/nutrition-workshop