What Is In A Name: The List For 2009

Choosing a name for your new baby is a daunting task.  Names go in and out of fashion faster than last year's shoes.  If you choose the name Katie, is your daughter bound to be Katie Str #2 in her first grade class???  If you choose the name Grapefruit is she bound to be teased forever on the playground??  These are the names that are currently the most popular in 2009.  Is one of your favorites on this list??  

Top 10 Boys Names:

1.  Aiden/Aidan

2.  Ethan

3.  Noah

4.  Caden/Kaden

5.  Caleb/Kaleb

6.  Jacob

7.  Landon

8.  Liam

9.  Brayden

10  Lucas/Lukas

Top 10 Girl's Names:

1.  Ava/Eva

2.  Isabella

3.  Madeline

4.  Emma

5.  Abigail

7.  Olivia

8.  Sophia

9.  Chloe

10. Ella

Dr. Thomson Wins A Major Award!

Dr. Thomson is officially mother of the year!  Congratulations Dr. Vicki!  You truly are the best mother in the world.  

Check out the story here.

Happy Mothers Day to all the Mamas of Edina Pedatrics!  

Swine Flu Confirmed In Minnesota

As of Today (April 30, 2009) Minnesota has confirmed that a single case of swine flu has been diagnosed.  We suspect that the number of cases will only grow within the next few days and weeks.  Symptoms of the swine flu are similar, if not almost identical to any influenza virus.  If you or your child experience a fever over 101 degrees, professional medical treatment should be sought immediately.  In addition to the flu-like symptoms associated with swine flu, some patients have also experienced nausea and vomiting.  If you suspect that you or your loved ones may have contracted the swine flu virus, seek a doctor's care immediately.

Tips To Avoid The Flu:

*  Remind your children to thoroughly wash their hands several times throughout the day.  This is really important at meal time! Don't forget to do so when eating out, too!  Also, try to keep your child's fingers out of his or her mouth... A great time to kick that nail biting habit!

** Good hand washing skills are something every child (and adult) should practice.  Wash   Your hands with the warmest water you can comfortably stand. Use soap and vigorously scrub your hands together for 30 seconds to one minute.  Rinse hands thoroughly under the warmest water you can stand.  Thoroughly dry your hands with a disposable towel if  possible.  Remember to try use a paper towel to turn off the water if you are in a public bathroom.  Don't forget to wash your baby's hands, too!

 

*  If your infant attends daycare, pack separate teething toys for both morning and afternoon.  Wash all toys with hot soapy water each night, and don't forget to label them with your child's name to avoid a mix-up while you are not there to identify "your" things.

*  If your infant is under six months of age, avoid prolonged public outings.  This is not the time to take your precious newborn to his/her first Twins game.  Limit contact with large groups of people, including extended family or anyone who is considered to be high risk for exposure.

High Risk Individuals:

1.  Anyone who has recently traveled to Mexico

2.  School aged children

3.  Airline employees

4.  Taxi Drivers

5.  Patrons of public transportation

*  Pack an extra water bottle for soccer practice.  Somebody on the team is bound to forget his or her water bottle.  This way your child can continue to practice great sharing skills without sharing the germs with the entire team.

*  If your infant is being cared for at a daycare that has both school aged children as well as infants in their care, you may want to seek other childcare options, if the outbreak becomes widespread.  

*  DO NOT PANIC!!  Be aware of the symptoms and seek medical treatment immediately.  With proper care, the severity of the virus can be managed with efficiency.  

*  If your child has asthma or allergies, it is especially important to monitor their condition.  Having a compromised lung function makes the virus far more dangerous than those who are not afflicted by such conditions.  We need to be proactive on their health care.  Keep your eyes open to subtle changes.  Early treatment and consistent monitoring of any flu viruses can increase the success and expediency of recovery.

*  Pack a bottle of hand sanitizer for your child to take to school, daycare, sports practices, piano lessons, etc... Taking preventative action is the best line of defense. 

*  Make sure that everyone gets enough rest.  Sleeping schedules should be strictly followed to allow small bodies the chance to recover from their activity filled days.  It also helps out mom and dad... giving them the chance to relax and unwind sans small fry.  

*  Plan outdoor activities if possible.  Germs are less likely to be transmitted in the great outdoors.  A crowded movie theater is a breeding ground for germs.  The local park is a good old fashioned way to burn off some energy, soak up a little sunshine, and avoid the confinement of the indoors.  After all, this is Minnesota, and we should not take our warm weather for granted.  Just don't forget to put on some 30 spf sunscreen!

Remember that overall it is important to continue to live your lives as "normal".  While there is reason to be concerned, upsetting your entire schedule will inevitably cause more undue stress and harm to you and your child.  We at Edina Pediatrics believe that while this is definitely something to watch out for, and to take precautionary measures to avoid becoming ill, there is no need to panic.  Instead, please be cognizant of your role in prevention.  And, in the instance that you do become ill... We are here for you!  

This Little Piggy Came To The United States...

We have received several calls regarding the "swine flu".  Like you, we are just learning about the total ramifications regarding the epidemic.  As information is released by the CDC and WHO, we will update this blog.  Here is some good news for worried parents... As of today, there are no known cases in Minnesota.  It has currently spread into 10 states, with New York having over half the documented cases known.  A great resource for up to the minute information is the CDC's website.  

Remember to use your best hand washing skills, and to cover your mouth when you cough.  These are the best ways to prevent infection.  Swine Flu does not appear to be more dangerous than the typical Influenza viruses that we see each and every flu season.  The problem is, that there is no vaccination.  However, swine flu does seem to respond to the medication that is commonly prescribed for all flu diagnoses.  Is this something to worry about?  Yes.  Is it something to panic over?  No. 

 

If you have further questions regarding the swine flu, please leave a comment on this blog.  We will sort through the questions, and get back to you as quickly as possible.  Note:  If you don't have a blogger account, please leave your email address along with your question.  

What Is This? A Kindergarten Physical Exam Giveaway!

Preparing your little pumpkin for his or her kindergarten check-up is a daunting task.  Anxiety about the dreaded shots and finger pokes rank at an all time high; bordering on a code red experience.  It is best to be upfront with your littles regarding what they should expect.  We understand that getting your son or daughter excited for a date with the doctor is a futile but necessary event in your parenting career.  Perhaps we can help to sweeten the deal for you. 

Edina Pediatrics will be holding a special raffle for our beloved five year old patients who have their physical exams completed between May 1, 2009 and June 1, 2009!  That's right!  Your child could win a fantastic "kiderific" prize for completing their kindergarten well child exam before the summer rush ensues.  

We have purchased 2 fantastic prizes!

Girly-Girl Prize Includes:

*  "Fancy Nancy" hardcover book

*  Child-friendly make-up kit

*  A special handmade Fancy Nancy tutu and Kindergarten Rocks Tee

*  Bubbles

*  Flower handled jump rope

*  Sandcastle bucket and Shovel

*  Sunscreen

*  Crayola color crayons

*  Sidewalk chalk bucket

*  Activity Book

*  Lollipop

*  Backpack

*  Stuffed toy

Macho Man Prize Includes:

*  "No, David" hardcover book

*  Whiffle ball and bat set

*  Kindergarten Rocks T-Shirt

*  Bubbles

*  Swimming pool torpedo and swim goggles

*  Sandcastle bucket and shovel

*  Sunscreen

*  Crayola color crayons

*  Sidewalk chalk bucket

*  Activity book

*  Lollipop

*  Backpack

*  Bug net

The actual value of these prizes are $160.oo each.  Make sure to fill out the raffle form with your child after your visit.  The winners will be announced on the Edina Apple on June 2, 2009.  I will post pictures of the prizes next week. Call and schedule your appointment today!  Best of luck!  

April Is For Autism: Autism Can Be Beautiful!

April is national autism awareness month.  Autism affects nearly one in every 150 children.  The evidence shows that diagnoses of ASD are on the rise.  Questions have been raised regarding the plausible causes for autism spectrum disorder.  The truth is, the causes are unknown.  In fact, about the only thing we do know with certainty, is that it is not corollary to vaccines.  And unfortunately, there is no known cure.  Isn't that what we all want?  A cure.  A quick fix.  An answer to the problem. 

We want our patients and their families to become aware of the warning signs.  Go ahead, "Google" them!  We won't hold it against you!  We google!  We even found this article from the Mayo Clinic.  We thought it was informative enough to share!  Remember, early diagnosis increases every child's chances for a successful outcome.  Isn't that the end goal?  Success for our kids.  We think so! 

 

Did you know that some of the brightest individuals throughout history have been suspected to be autistic.  Albert Einstein is one of them.  So is Vincent Van Gogh.  What would our world be like without the contributions that Vincent or Einstein?  Without them, we wouldn't have heartbreakingly beautiful paintings, saturated in color and texture.  We wouldn't have the theory of relativity or quantum physics.  We would simply be less as a society.  

Edina Pediatrics wants to spotlight the achievements of those who have been diagnosed with autism. Perhaps, a family field trip to the science museum or the Minneapolis Institute of Arts could be an inspiring way to begin acknowledging their beautiful and brilliant contributions.   Join us in celebrating their successes.  At the very least, it provides for a stimulating family activity.  More importantly, perhaps, it poses an introduction for interesting conversation. Consider it a  jumping off point to understanding and tolerance.  

Please send us some pictures of your family enjoying the science museum or MIA.  We will post them (with your permission, of course) on this blog.  Throughout April, we will continue to highlight the many different aspects that a diagnosis of autism entails.  Knowledge is power!  To kick things off, we are celebrating the gifts that are revealed through heartache.  A little celebrity spotlight to bring awareness to the issue.  We think you should do the same.  Aren't we all trying to be a little more tolerant and aware these days?  Go and enjoy the museums!  Note:  The mummy is on the first floor at the MIA... don't miss it!  It is sure to be a hit with all kids!

Ladies And Gentlemen, Meet Dakota!

Dakota is Dr. Vicki Thomson's favorite labrador.  Dakota enjoys long walks, fishing at the cabin, belly rubs, and going to work at Edina Pediatrics.  Dakota is our office mascot, and therapy dog.  When Dakota is not at Edina Pediatrics, he can be found lounging at Dr. Vicki's house.  He has over 20 "doggie friends", and has many "kiddo friends", too!  What can I say, he is a popular guy!  Dakota is not a fan of shots, loud noises, or diets.  He loves squirrels, swimming in the pool, and of course, working at Edina Pediatrics.  His favorite staff member (after Dr. Thomson and K.K.) is of course, Lindsey.  He thinks that Lindsey is a "sucker".  He can always con her into giving him a belly rub or milk bone.  Dakota knows he is very good looking, and relishes in the attention that his lovable mug brings him.  Go ahead, scratch behind his ears.  He will melt your heart.  Dakota can't wait to see you at your next visit to Edina Pediatrics.  He requests that you bring him a milk bone or frosty paw on your next trip to the clinic!  He also wishes that you would wear your seat belt, bike helmet, and help control the pet population... always have your pets spayed or neutered.  Safety first!