Shoreline Pediatrics provides high-quality, personalized care for infants, children & teens in Muskegon MI.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the cells that give skin its color. While it is less common in children, early detection is important.

Regular skin checks can help parents notice changes over time. Keeping an eye on moles and new spots during routine care like bath time or getting dressed can make it easier to recognize anything unusual.

A few signs to watch for include moles that are changing in size, shape, or color, spots that look different from others, or any area that bleeds, crusts, or does not heal.

Trust your instincts if something looks unusual.

Sun protection also plays a key role in prevention. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting peak sun exposure can help protect your child’s skin over time.

If you notice any concerning skin changes, contact Shoreline Pediatrics to have it evaluated.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children, especially during growth spurts. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated from repetitive stress, often from running and jumping in sports.

Children may complain of pain at the back or bottom of the heel, especially after activity. Some children may limp or avoid putting full weight on the affected foot.

Treatment usually focuses on reducing stress on the heel.

Rest from high-impact activities, wearing supportive shoes, stretching the calf muscles, and using ice after activity can help relieve symptoms. Most children improve as the growth plate matures.

If heel pain continues, causes limping, or interferes with normal activity, schedule a visit with one of our pediatric providers so the symptoms can be evaluated.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that children may make without meaning to.

They can include movements such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, or facial grimacing, and sounds like throat clearing, sniffing, or humming.

Tics are fairly common in school-age children and often appear during times of stress, excitement, fatigue, or illness. In many cases, they are temporary and improve over time.

It may be helpful to have your child evaluated if tics are frequent, last longer than several months, cause distress, or begin to interfere with school, social interactions, or daily activities.

Tip from Dr. Ramirez: Capture the concerning movement or noise on video and bring it to your child’s next appointment. Seeing the video can help us determine if it is a tic or something else.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Young children explore the world by touching and tasting, which makes poisoning prevention especially important in the toddler years.

Medicines, vitamins, cleaning products, and other household chemicals should always be stored out of reach and ideally locked away. Child-resistant caps can help, but they are not childproof.

Avoid leaving medications on counters or in bags where children can access them, and keep products in their original containers so labels and instructions remain clear.

If a child may have swallowed something harmful, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Earth Day is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and teach children about caring for the environment.

Simple activities like planting seeds, taking a family nature walk, or picking up litter at a local park can help kids feel connected to the world around them.

Time outside also supports children’s health. Outdoor play encourages physical activity, improves mood, and helps support better sleep. Even small steps can help families build healthy habits while caring for the environment.

How does your family celebrate Earth Day? Share your favorite outdoor activity in the comments.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Separation anxiety is common in toddlers, especially during transitions like starting daycare, preschool, or a new routine.

It is normal for children to cry or cling at drop-off as they learn that their caregiver will return.

Short, predictable goodbye routines can help children adjust. A quick hug, a consistent phrase such as “I’ll see you after school,” and leaving without lingering often works better than repeated goodbyes.

Consistency with caregivers and daily routines can also help toddlers feel more secure.

Most children adjust over time as they become familiar with their environment and caregivers.

If separation anxiety continues to worsen, interferes with daily routines, or causes significant distress, it may be helpful to discuss strategies with your child’s doctor at Shoreline Pediatrics.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Heading out with a newborn or infant is easier when you have a few essentials packed and ready to go. A well-stocked diaper bag can help parents feel prepared for feedings, diaper changes, and unexpected messes.

Five helpful items to keep in your baby’s bag include diapers and wipes, a changing pad, an extra set of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles or nursing cover if needed), and a comfort item such as a pacifier or small blanket. A plastic bag or wet bag can also be helpful for storing soiled clothes.

Packing these basics can make outings smoother and help parents feel more confident when leaving the house with their baby.

Dr. DeWitt recommends packing an extra shirt for yourself as well. You never know when you will get pooped, peed, or spit up on.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Roseola is a common viral illness seen in infants and young children, most often between 6 months and 2 years of age. It typically begins with a high fever that lasts for several days, sometimes with mild symptoms like irritability or decreased appetite.

Once the fever resolves, a pink or light red rash often appears on the chest, back, or abdomen and may spread to the neck and arms.

The rash itself usually does not bother the child and often fades within one to two days.

Most children recover quickly and return to normal activities once the fever has resolved.

Call the office if the fever lasts longer than expected, if your child appears very ill, has difficulty staying hydrated, or if you have concerns about the rash or other symptoms.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com

Choosing sunscreen doesn’t have to be confusing!

Look for SPF 30 or higher, apply generously, and reapply every two hours, or sooner if swimming or sweating. Mineral sunscreens are often well tolerated for sensitive skin.

Remember to pair sunscreen with hats, shade, and protective clothing for the best coverage.

For infants younger than 6 months, consult with your provider prior to using any sunscreen products.

Questions about sunscreen or skin sensitivity? Give Shoreline Pediatrics a call so we can help keep your child’s skin safe.