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

Small habits, strong hearts.

Heart health starts early. Daily active play, limiting sugary drinks, choosing fruits and veggies, and keeping homes smoke-free all support growing hearts. These habits add up over time.

Dr. Hubbard says caregivers play such a vital role in teaching their children healthy habits such as a well rounded diet and daily exercise. Instilling these important things in our children at a young age can ensure the healthy habits follow them into adulthood.

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We know how stressful it can be when your little one gets sick, and we do our best to see all sick kids on the same day.

If you do call after 3 PM, we may need to schedule your child for the following morning, but don’t worry because our after-hours line is always available if you need guidance or assistance overnight.

Planning ahead and calling early in the day helps us make sure everyone gets the care they need as quickly as possible, but we understand that you cannot control when your child gets sick.

Did you know we also offer walk-in appointment slots? Walk-in hours can change so call our office to inquire.

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If your teen’s thumb scrolls faster than your morning coffee pours, it might be time for a social media reset.

While smartphones and social apps are part of modern life, too much time online can interfere with sleep, schoolwork, friendships, and mental health. Experts recommend creating clear limits for screen time, such as turning off devices during homework, setting “no phone” windows before bed, and designating phone-free zones like the dinner table or bedroom.

For younger children, the AAP suggests limiting non-school screen use, but for teens, it’s about establishing balanced digital habits and ensuring screens don’t replace sleep, activity, and face-to-face time.

Not sure if your teens` social media or screen habits are appropriate? Call our office today to schedule an appointment to speak to one of our providers.

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Fresh air isn’t just for summer. Winter outdoor play can be fun too.

Outdoor play in the winter has huge benefits for kids. Cold-weather play encourages creativity, builds problem-solving skills, supports emotional regulation, and promotes physical activity.

Time outside also reduces stress and helps kids sleep better at night. As long as children are dressed appropriately with warm layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots then it’s safe and healthy to enjoy outdoor time even on chilly days.

Kids can keep learning outdoors with fun activities like a nature treasure hunt, where they search for pinecones, unique leaves, or animal tracks.

What is your family’s favorite outdoor winter activity? Share in the comments below.

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Is screen time bad?

Screens are part of modern life, but toddlers still learn best through hands-on play, movement, and interaction with caregivers.

The AAP recommends no more than 1 hour of high-quality screen time per day for children 2–5, and ideally with a parent watching to help them understand what they’re seeing.

Try to avoid screens during meals, 1.5 hours before bedtime, or when your child is upset because these habits can make sleep and emotional regulation harder.

If you’re unsure whether your child’s screen habits are impacting sleep, behavior, or speech, call our office. We`re happy to help create a plan that works for your family.

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Is your baby bundled too much? Or not enough?

During winter, infants should typically sleep in one more layer than an adult would wear to be comfortable in the same room. A breathable onesie plus a sleep sack is usually perfect.

Avoid hats, blankets, and loose bedding in the crib to prevent overheating and reduce SIDS risk. If your baby’s chest feels warm and dry, they’re dressed appropriately. Remember, cold hands and feet are normal.

Not sure if your baby is dressed appropriately for sleep? Give us a call, we’re here to help you keep them safe and cozy.

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RSV can cause serious illness in infants, especially those under 6 months. This season, families have extra protection available with the RSV immunization.

Babies can receive the RSV monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab), which helps reduce the risk of severe disease. Pregnant mothers may also receive a maternal RSV vaccine, which protects the baby after birth.

These RSV antibodies work much like the natural antibodies a mother passes to her baby during pregnancy offering protection before your baby’s own immune system is mature enough to fight infections on its own.

If you have questions about eligibility or scheduling RSV protection for your newborn or for you if you are expecting, call our office and we’ll walk you through the guidelines.

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shorelinepeds.com

Red cheeks? It could be Fifth disease.

Fifth disease usually begins with a bright red “slapped-cheek” rash followed later by a lacy rash on the arms and body.

It’s caused by parvovirus B19 and spreads through respiratory droplets so kids typically catch it the same way they catch a cold.

Most people only get Fifth disease once in their lifetime because they develop immunity afterward. One important note: children are usually contagious 2–3 weeks before the rash appears, which means by the time you see the rash, they’re no longer spreading the virus.

If your child develops the rash, notify any pregnant person they may have been around during the contagious period, since additional precautions may be advised. Fifth disease can be harmful to the unborn fetus in a mom who is not immune to Fifth disease.

Call our office if your child has a fever lasting more than a few days or if you have questions about exposure during pregnancy.

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shorelinepeds.com

Winter blues?

Shorter winter days can affect kids’ (and adults’) mood and energy levels, and a little grumpiness or lower motivation this time of year is normal. But parents should watch for red flags like withdrawal, sudden school struggles, big changes in sleep or appetite, or any mention of hopelessness.

If something feels “off,” trust your instincts.

Reach out to us because we’re here to help support your child’s emotional health.

231-777-2732
shorelinepeds.com