Checkup Newsroom

Being Brigid’s Dad: A Pediatrician’s Perspective on Down Syndrome

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 10:49:33 -0500

Frank McGehee, M.D., a pediatrician at Cook Children’s Pediatrics Magnolia, says he almost missed the best thing that has ever happened to him: becoming stepfather to Brigid Conders, who has Down syndrome. He can’t imagine the past 24 years without watching Brigid and her grandfather as best buddies, enjoying the countless hugs, seeing her strong faith in Jesus, learning all the rules of baseball, grabbing Starbucks pink drinks every Friday and treasuring the many lessons she has taught him.

As a pediatrician at Cook Children’s for 33 years, Dr. McGehee has cared for more than 200 patients with Down syndrome, bringing a parent’s perspective to the families who walk through his office doors.

A Father’s Love and a Team’s Support
Dr. McGehee’s introduction to life with Brigid began with her mother, Pam. Initially hesitant about parenting a child with special needs, Dr. McGehee feels blessed every time he hears Brigid call him “Dad.”

Brigid experienced severe seizures as an infant and toddler. When Dr. McGehee became part of her life, she was sleeping in a big-girl bed, walking and potty training. Her progress came on her own timeline, supported by her pediatrician, Ann Natterer, M.D., who listened closely and spoke directly to Brigid.

Dr. McGehee says Warren Marks, M.D. is one of his heroes. He helped manage Brigid’s seizures and fear of the unknown during her medical journey. When Dr. Marks retired, Brigid spotted him among hundreds of people at his retirement party and gave him a huge hug. For Dr. McGehee, moments like that capture the meaningful relationships that have shaped her life.

A School Founded on Brigid’s Progress and Promise
Brigid’s influence extends beyond Dr. McGehee’s medical practice. In 2014, he and Pam founded Our Mother of Perpetual Help Educational Program in Fort Worth. The program educates students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a one-room schoolhouse equipped with a turf soccer field and pickleball court.

The inspiration came from Brigid’s progress with her homeschool teacher, Natalie Lewis, who began working with her in 2011. Within a few months, Brigid was making strides in reading, speech, math and social skills. The McGehees wanted other students to benefit from the same teaching methods and other teachers to have the opportunity to learn from Lewis’ approach. Brigid still attends the program every day, and Dr. McGehee hopes one day she will become a teacher’s aide there.

Lessons Learned
Dr. McGehee’s practice has come full circle as he frequently cares for patients whose parents were once his pediatric patients. He has learned how much it matters to listen, celebrate progress and give each patient time to be heard. Brigid, who recently turned 30, continues to reinforce those lessons.

“Children with Down syndrome need love and attention like any other child,” Dr. McGehee said. “I always tell parents that no one knows your child like you do. Listening and joint decision-making between the parent and doctor is very important. I have learned to be humble in what I don’t know and to listen to the parents.”

Among those lessons is that children with Down syndrome are typically sensitive to medications, which can affect their mood and anxiety levels. Going slow is key. He also realized that they need more time to process new challenges. When Brigid broke her foot a few months ago, she thought “broken” meant “permanent” and became very upset until she realized the injury was temporary. Taking time to teach in a language makes all the difference, Dr. McGehee noted.

The Biggest Blessing
Dr. McGehee hopes parents realize from the beginning that raising a child with Down syndrome is a blessing. He describes Brigid as hilarious, loving and deeply faithful.

One of the biggest gifts is the relationship between Brigid and Dr. McGehee’s 93-year-old father-in-law.

“They help each other. He is Brigid’s butler and helps her get ready every day. She is very loving with him,” Dr. McGehee said. “I’ll never forget a moment when the two of them locked arms after my father-in-law’s doctor appointment.”

Reflecting on the long waiting list of children with Down syndrome awaiting adoption, Dr. McGehee added, “I had a chance to miss the best thing that happened in my life.”

Cook Children’s Experts Urge Safe Sleep Practices as Infant Deaths Rise

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) is the unexpected death of a baby under a year old. There are three main categories of SUID:

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): a specific cause of death used when a baby dies for unknown reasons, even after an investigation. This means the infant was in a safe sleep environment, and there was no medical reason or external factor for why the infant died.
Accidental Suffocation and Strangulation in Bed (ASSB): often used when the cause of death is related to an unsafe sleep environment, such as having soft items in the crib, becoming wedged between the mattress and a bedframe, or becoming entrapped under another person.
Unknown/Undetermined reasons: instances where the cause of death remains undetermined, even after an investigation.

Sleep is one of the most precious commodities for new parents, but ensuring an infant has a safe sleeping environment is key.

October is National Safe Sleep Awareness Month, an initiative that encourages parents to focus on their child’s sleep safety.

During National Safe Sleep Awareness Month, Cook Children's encourages families to follow safe sleep recommendations after recording 76 infant deaths linked to unsafe sleep environments between 2022 and 2026.

Most of these tragedies are preventable through simple measures, including placing babies on their backs to sleep, keeping cribs free of blankets and toys, and avoiding bed sharing.

Unsafe sleep-related deaths can occur when soft items are left in the crib or when an infant shares a bed with another person, also known as bedsharing. An infant can become wedged between the mattress and a bed frame or become entrapped under another person.

“Nationwide, we lose enough infants each week to fill three kindergarten classrooms,” said Sharon Evans, trauma injury prevention manager at Cook Children’s Health Care System. “That’s 3,700 lives lost per year.”

It’s a tragedy that is preventable.

Evans explained that studies have found that bedsharing is the most common cause of deaths in babies, particularly those 3 months old and younger.

In the emergency room at Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth, Rodrigo Interiano, M.D., trauma medical director, has delivered this devastating news to families. He said the experience is heartbreaking. As a father of three, Dr. Interiano understands the overwhelming reality of parental sleep deprivation.

“There’s no parent who can tell you that they have slept six consecutive hours the first few months of a newborn’s life,” said Dr. Interiano.

He recalled how challenging navigating residency was as a first-time parent. He and his wife worked as a team or relied on family help so they could rest. Sometimes, it also meant allowing their baby to learn to self-soothe.

“As a parent, that's incredibly difficult because there's nothing more heart-wrenching than knowing that you could make them stop crying if you held them,” said Dr. Interiano. “But we have to understand, that every time we allow our newborn to sleep in the bed next to us, we are putting them at risk of a sleep-related infant death, asphyxiation or even brain death.”

According to the Cook Children’s Community Health Needs Assessment, nearly 2 in 5 infants (about 10,800) in the health care system’s eight-county service area, do not always sleep alone in their own crib or bed. Additionally, 1 in 4 (about 6,500) infants are not consistently placed on their back to sleep.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages families to room-share with their infants for at least their first six months, but never share a bed. The AAP recommends that infants sleep on their backs on a flat, firm surface free of pillows, bumpers or soft toys. Instead of blankets, babies should wear a sleep sack to keep warmth.

Dr. Interiano adds that while there may be items that offer parents peace of mind, they may not be accurate.

“Cardiorespiratory type monitors, unfortunately, have not shown to decrease the risk of either sudden infant death syndrome or sleep related infant deaths,” explained Dr. Interiano. “We can’t rely on those to keep a baby safe.”

Dr. Interiano recognizes families don't intend to create an unsafe sleeping environment.

“Unfortunately, it becomes a perfect storm,” said Dr. Interiano. “All of a sudden, you fall into a deep sleep, and you have no concept that you've rolled over, or that there's a pillow that has fallen onto the baby.”

Delivering this news takes a heavy emotional toll on health care workers, many of whom are parents themselves.

“Knowing that this was a preventable death in many situations, that if we could have educated our families and parents on the importance of providing a safe sleeping environment, maybe the outcome would be different,” said Interiano.

Remember the ABCs of Zzzs:

Alone: The sleep space should be clear of any soft items, such as blankets, stuffed animals, pillows, and bumper pads, leaving only a mattress with a tight-fitted sheet.
Back: Babies should always be placed flat on their back for every nap and every night.
Crib: A crib, bassinet, or portable play yard with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet is the safest sleep surface.

Reducing the Risk

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends these tips to reduce the risk of SUID:

Offer a pacifier with every sleep.
Breastmilk (whether breastfeeding or by bottle-feeding).
Avoid smoke and nicotine exposure.
Avoid overheating.

Halloween Safety Tips Every Caregiver Should Know with Laura Romano, D.O.

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 09:06:56 -0500

Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for children, but it also comes with unique safety concerns. From costumes and traffic safety to candy inspections and teen independence, there’s a lot for families to consider before heading out the door. In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Laura Romano, D.O., shares practical Halloween safety tips to help children have fun while staying safe.

Q: What's the most important costume safety check before leaving the house?

Dr. Romano: Check the length of the costume. Children should be able to walk, run and climb stairs without tripping. A costume that's too long can quickly become a hazard. Also check that:

Props are securely attached
Accessories aren't sharp
Masks don't obstruct vision
Children can easily move and see where they're going

Q: Is candy really the biggest danger on Halloween?

Dr. Romano: Surprisingly, no. The biggest risk is the actual trick-or-treating process, especially around vehicles and crossing streets. Children should:

Cross at corners
Look both ways before crossing
Avoid darting between parked cars
Watch for uneven sidewalks and steps
Stay aware of their surroundings

Q: What should drivers keep in mind on Halloween?

Dr. Romano: Slow down. There are children walking in neighborhoods after dark, often wearing costumes that reduce visibility. Drivers should:

Reduce speed in neighborhoods
Take extra time at stop signs
Watch carefully for children crossing unexpectedly
Stay alert for groups of trick-or-treaters

Q: How common is tampered Halloween candy?

Dr. Romano: It’s actually very rare. Still, caregivers should:

Inspect all candy before children eat it
Throw away damaged or opened packages
Encourage children not to eat candy until they get home

Q: What newer candy concern should caregivers know about?

Dr. Romano: THC-containing products. Some THC-infused snacks and gummies closely resemble popular candy and snack brands. Caregivers should carefully review unfamiliar packaging and inspect treats before allowing children to eat them.

Q: How can caregivers reduce Halloween stress?

Dr. Romano: Preparation is key. Talk through expectations before the big night:

Where children will be going
Who they'll be with
How long they'll be out
How much candy they'll be allowed to eat

Children generally do better when they know what to expect ahead of time.

Q: What do you recommend for managing all the Halloween candy?

Dr. Romano: Create a communal candy bucket. Instead of each child keeping separate stashes, combine candy into one shared collection. This helps caregivers monitor candy consumption and avoid arguments about ownership.

Q: What safety advice would you give caregivers letting teens trick-or-treat independently?

Dr. Romano: Be the uncool parent for one more day. Know:

Who the friends are
Who the other caregivers are
The planned route
The pickup time

She also recommends creating a family code phrase teens can use if they need help leaving an uncomfortable situation without drawing attention from their friends.

Q: Flashlight or glow stick?

Dr. Romano: Glow stick. They’re easy to wear, don't require batteries and help make children more visible during trick-or-treating.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Romano: Halloween should be fun. Prepare in advance, stay aware of your surroundings, inspect candy, and let children enjoy the experience. And if you see older kids trick-or-treating, give them some candy too. They're still enjoying being kids.

Raising Resilient Kids with Ashley Pagenkopf

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 09:23:05 -0500

Every caregiver wants to protect their children from disappointment, failure and heartbreak. But what if some of those difficult experiences are exactly what children need to grow? In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Ashley Pagenkopf, MS, CCLS discusses the importance of resilience, how children develop it, and why allowing kids to work through challenges may be one of the greatest gifts caregivers can give them. Here’s a summary of our conversation with the Child Life Specialist.

Q: What is resilience?

Ashley Pagenkopf: Resilience is the ability to overcome challenges, adversity and difficult circumstances while continuing to move forward and thrive. It's not about avoiding hard things. It's about learning how to work through them.

Q: Why is resilience so important for children?

Pagenkopf: Life will always include challenges, disappointments and circumstances we cannot control. Resilience helps children learn that their emotions are real and important, but they don't have to be controlled by those emotions. Instead, they can learn how to move through difficult situations and eventually come out stronger on the other side.

Q: How do caregivers know when they're helping versus preventing resilience?

Pagenkopf: A helpful guideline is simple: Don't do for children what they can do for themselves.

What that looks like depends on developmental age. A one-year-old who spills milk may need a caregiver to clean it up. A three-year-old can help clean. An older child should be able to handle the task independently. The goal is to provide support and guidance without taking over.

Q: Why is it sometimes hard for caregivers to step back?

Pagenkopf: Because we love our children. Most caregivers instinctively want to fix problems, remove discomfort and make things easier. But when we constantly step in, we may unintentionally take away opportunities for children to develop problem-solving skills and confidence.

Q: Is allowing children to struggle actually beneficial?

Pagenkopf: Absolutely. Disappointment, frustration and failure are often the experiences that teach resilience.

That doesn't mean we leave children alone with those feelings. We support them through those moments while allowing them to experience and process what happened.

Q: How can caregivers model resilience?

Pagenkopf: Children learn by watching us. If caregivers complain, avoid challenges or shut down emotionally, children may follow those patterns. If caregivers acknowledge difficulties, work through them and cope in healthy ways, children learn that challenges are manageable.

Q: Should parents hide their own struggles from children?

Pagenkopf: Not necessarily. It's okay for children to see that adults experience difficult emotions.

Healthy vulnerability teaches children that sadness, grief and frustration are normal parts of life. It also demonstrates that those feelings don't last forever.

Q: How does social media affect resilience?

Pagenkopf: Social media often shows only the finished product, not the difficult journey that came before it. Children can begin comparing their lives to carefully curated versions of someone else's life. That's why real-life connection matters so much. Face-to-face relationships help children understand that everyone experiences challenges, not just them.

Q: What role does connection play in resilience?

Pagenkopf: Connection is one of the strongest predictors of resilience. Research consistently shows that children who have supportive relationships, friendships and community connections are often better equipped to handle adversity.

Q: Is failure a good teacher?

Pagenkopf: Failure is a wonderful teacher. It's painful, but it teaches lessons success often cannot.

Children learn perseverance, adaptability and confidence by working through setbacks, not by avoiding them.

Q: What's one phrase caregivers should stop saying?

Pagenkopf: "It's okay." Sometimes it isn't okay.

Children often need validation more than reassurance. Instead of immediately saying, "It's okay," try:

"You're right. That was hard."
"I wish this had gone differently."
"I'm sorry you're going through this."

Acknowledging reality helps children process difficult emotions.

Q: What's one everyday activity that helps build resilience?

Pagenkopf: Chores. Cooking, cleaning, laundry and household responsibilities teach persistence because mistakes happen naturally. Children learn to try again, solve problems and keep going.

Final Thoughts

Pagenkopf: It's okay for children to struggle. Caregivers don't need to remove every obstacle. Instead, they can walk alongside children through those difficult moments, helping them process, learn and grow. Resilience isn't built by avoiding hardship. It's built by moving through it together.

Safe Sleep for Children, and Their Caregivers, with Dr. Ramon Kinloch

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 09:32:46 -0500

Few topics generate more questions from caregivers than sleep. From bringing home a newborn to navigating toddler bedtime battles, families often wonder if they're doing the right thing and how much sleep everyone should be getting. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Ramon Kinloch, M.D., pediatrician at Cook Children's, discusses safe sleep recommendations, common sleep mistakes, sleep routines and how caregivers can protect both their child's safety and their own well-being during those exhausting early years.

Q: What does a safe sleep environment look like for a newborn?

Dr. Kinloch: Safe sleep should be simple and honestly a little boring. A newborn should sleep:

Alone
On their back
In a crib or bassinet
On a firm mattress with a fitted sheet

That means no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or other loose items in the sleep space.

Q: What about blankets?

Dr. Kinloch: Newborns should not sleep with blankets. Loose bedding can create suffocation and strangulation risks, which is why pediatricians recommend keeping the sleep environment completely clear.

Q: When is it time to stop swaddling?

Dr. Kinloch: As soon as babies start showing signs that they may roll over. If they're beginning to roll during tummy time, it's time to stop swaddling. Once they're actively rolling and pulling up, caregivers should also move them from a bassinet to a crib if there is a risk of falling.

Q: Why is bedsharing discouraged?

Dr. Kinloch: Bedsharing increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths. Several factors can increase risk, including:

Caregiver fatigue
Alcohol use
Certain medications
Prematurity
Tobacco exposure
Sleeping on couches or recliners

In fact, sleeping with an infant on a couch or recliner is among the highest-risk situations.

Q: If babies love sleeping on caregivers, what should families do?

Dr. Kinloch: It's perfectly normal for newborns to want to be held. Caregivers should respond when infants cry, especially during the early weeks and months. Holding, comforting and responding to babies is not creating bad habits. As children grow, families can begin gently encouraging self-soothing while continuing to respond to their needs appropriately.

Q: What should caregivers know about newborn sleep patterns?

Dr. Kinloch: Babies are active sleepers. They grunt, wiggle, move and make noises throughout the night. Not every sound means they need intervention. Sometimes pausing briefly before immediately picking a baby up allows them to settle themselves back into sleep.

Q: How does safe sleep change as children become toddlers?

Dr. Kinloch: The focus shifts. With infants, we're protecting them in the sleep environment.

With toddlers, we're protecting them from themselves. That means:

Lowering crib mattresses
Securing furniture to walls
Covering outlets
Removing cords and hazards
Transitioning to toddler beds when climbing begins

Q: When should families talk to their pediatrician about sleep concerns?

Dr. Kinloch: Anytime sleep is affecting a family's quality of life. Other warning signs include:

Breathing problems while sleeping
Color changes
Persistent unusual movements
Loud snoring
Pauses in breathing
Excessive daytime fatigue
Chronic mouth breathing

If something feels off, it's always appropriate to check with your pediatrician.

Q: What about sleep aids?

Dr. Kinloch: Families should always talk with their pediatrician before starting sleep products or supplements. Not every product has strong evidence behind it, but providers can help families weigh risks and benefits.

Q: What's the best way to build healthy sleep habits?

Dr. Kinloch: Consistency. Whether it's bath, book and bed, dimming lights at the same time every evening or creating a calming bedtime routine, consistency helps children learn what to expect.

It may not work overnight, but routines become powerful over time.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Kinloch: Safe sleep is about more than where a baby sleeps. It's also about making sure caregivers have support when they're exhausted. Ask for help. Give yourself grace. Create safe sleep environments. That's one of the most important families can do.

‘It’s Like Riding a Roller Coaster’: The Journey of Living with Sickle Cell Disease

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Michael Williams has learned to appreciate the days when he can go about his routine without pain. He also recognizes how quickly those days can change.

“Living with sickle cell is like riding a roller coaster,” the 21-year-old said. “Some days, I used to get the benefit of living day-to-day, month-to-month without any pain. Then other days, it was just a painful experience.”

Williams was diagnosed with sickle cell disease as a baby. He spent the first 13 years of his life in Jamaica before moving to the United States. He remembers being hospitalized with pneumonia as a child, an experience that showed him how serious the disease could be.

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month and Williams is sharing what years of unpredictable pain have meant for his life and what he hopes will change after receiving a gene therapy called Casgevy® at Cook Children’s Health Care System in July 2026.

This gene therapy is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for sickle cell disease with recurrent pain crises, and its approval was expanded in July 2026 to include eligible children as young as 2.

Understanding Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is an inherited condition that changes the shape of red blood cells. Instead of moving easily through small blood vessels, the sickle-shaped, or crescent-shaped cells often get stuck, blocking blood flow. They also break down faster than typical red blood cells. The results can be anemia, episodes of severe pain and other complications.

“If you look at me, you can never tell, ‘oh he has sickle cell,’” Williams said. “It’s a thing where you have to have people tell you that you have sickle cell.”

According to Meg Moffer, BSN, RN, CPN, CPHON®, Cellular Immunotherapy Program Coordinator at Cook Children’s, the hospital currently cares for more than 700 patients with this disease.

A person with sickle cell trait inherits one sickle gene and one normal hemoglobin gene. Most people with the trait do not have symptoms, but they can pass the sickle cell gene to their children. A child who inherits two sickle cell genes, one from each parent, has sickle cell disease. Other combinations of inherited hemoglobin genes can also cause forms of the disease.

Plans Interrupted by Pain

Williams wanted to play soccer when he was growing up in Jamaica, but he said he became dehydrated quickly and could not stay active as long as he wanted. Upon arriving in the United States, he also dreamed of serving in the military. Williams applied to three different branches when he reached the proper age, but he was rejected by all of them. Today, fitness is still an important part of his life, but previous pain episodes and other sickle cell symptoms interrupted months of progress.

“I couldn’t walk for two months. I couldn’t do things I wanted to do,” he said, describing what happened after some episodes. “All the progress that I had made with my fitness, it all went back down to zero.”

Moffer cared for Williams before joining the Cellular Immunotherapy Program. She said his sickle cell disease led to multiple hospitalizations a year.

“I knew him well because he was someone who was often hospitalized,” Moffer said. “And as the program coordinator, the day his name came across my desk, I felt this tremendous joy for him to think that he has a chance at a different tomorrow.”

Pain can be hard for others to see, Williams said. Having someone willing to listen and offer support can make a difference for a person with the disease.

A Long Path to Treatment

Sickle cell disease can be cured only when a patient has a compatible sibling donor eligible to participate in a stem cell transplant. However, not all patients with sickle cell disease have an eligible sibling donor who is not a carrier of the sickle cell gene. At Cook Children’s Sickle Cell Program, care can include medicines to reduce complications, blood transfusions, stem cell transplants, and gene therapy. Treatment depends on the patient’s needs and eligibility.

For Williams, the possibility of gene therapy brought hope and fear. He wondered about side effects and what it would take to get through treatment. Given that his younger brother and sister also have sickle cell disease, he said he wanted to be able to share his experience with them.

“I want to be the one to take the fall,” he said. “So, I’m able to tell them this is what helped me.”

The treatment took months of preparation. Williams’ stem cells were collected and sent to a laboratory, where they were edited before being returned to Fort Worth for his treatment. He then received chemotherapy to make room for those cells, followed by the edited cells. Gretchen Eames, M.D., Medical Director of the Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant Program at Cook Children's, said the full process, from assessing eligibility through treatment, generally takes about 12 to 18 months.

“The edited cells are designed to increase production of fetal hemoglobin, a form of hemoglobin that helps reduce sickling and its complications,” Dr. Eames said.

“This gene therapy is not curative for sickle cell,” Dr. Eames said. “It is very transformational as far as changing the clinical course.” Patients are carefully assessed before beginning a treatment that requires stem cell collection and high-dose chemotherapy. She said a matched-donor stem cell transplant remains the only curative option for some patients.

It is still early in Williams’ recovery. Moffer said follow-up visits start frequently after gene therapy and gradually become less frequent if recovery goes as expected. Williams said he feels more energized, but the long-term effect on his health remains to be seen.

Looking Beyond the Hospital

“He has a job. He’s wanting to go back to school. He has so many dreams,” Moffer said.

As his recovery continues, Williams also hopes to start a clothing brand inspired by his experience with sickle cell disease and donate some of its earnings to the hospital. He also plans to volunteer at Cook Children’s to work with children who have leukemia and blood disorders and hopes to encourage young patients.

“The doctors and nurses at Cook Children’s have become like family during these years,” Williams said. Looking ahead to fewer visits brings mixed feelings: He wants a life with less pain, and he knows he will miss seeing the people who helped him through it.

“I just never give up,” Williams said. “Just keep going, keep pushing, keep pursuing what you want to do, and never let anyone tell you that you can’t because of a blood disorder.”

When Is Shyness More Than Shyness? Understanding Social Anxiety in Children with Dr. Kristen Pyrc

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 09:25:31 -0500

Some children are naturally shy. Others are outgoing social butterflies. But how do caregivers know when a child's hesitation around people might be something more? In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Kristen Pyrc, M.D., discusses the difference between introversion and social anxiety, warning signs families should watch for, and practical ways to help children build confidence in social situations. Dr. Pyrc, the Co-Division Chief of Psychiatry at Cook Children's, also shares how caregivers can support anxious children without accidentally reinforcing avoidance behaviors. Here's an edited Q&A version of the conversation.

Q: What's the difference between being shy and having social anxiety?

Dr. Pyrc: Everyone has a different social battery. Some children are naturally introverted or shy, while others thrive in social settings. Social anxiety becomes concerning when it starts interfering with daily life. If a child wants friends, wants to attend activities, or needs to participate in school but anxiety prevents them from doing those things, it may be more than simple shyness.

Q: What are some early signs of social anxiety?

Dr. Pyrc: Younger children often express anxiety physically before they can explain it emotionally.

Signs may include:

Frequent stomachaches
Frequent headaches
Clinginess with caregivers
Avoidance of social situations
Reluctance to attend school, parties or activities

Many children simply say they want to stay home without understanding that anxiety may be driving those feelings.

Q: Has social anxiety become more common?

Dr. Pyrc: Yes. Today's children often have fewer opportunities for unstructured social interaction than previous generations. More screen time, highly scheduled activities and fewer opportunities to independently practice social skills can contribute to increased anxiety. The pandemic also played a significant role by limiting in-person interactions during key developmental periods.

Q: Are some children more likely to develop social anxiety?

Dr. Pyrc: Social anxiety can run in families, and caregiver anxiety may also influence how children view situations. Children often look to trusted adults to determine whether something is safe or dangerous. If caregivers appear highly anxious about social situations, children may begin to interpret those situations as threatening too.

Q: How can caregivers support anxious children without encouraging avoidance?

Dr. Pyrc: One of the most important things caregivers can do is lend confidence. Children benefit from hearing:

"You've got this."
"You can do hard things."
"I'll support you."

When adults consistently rescue children from anxiety-provoking situations, children may interpret that as confirmation that the situation was too scary to face.

Q: What can families practice at home?

Dr. Pyrc: Role-playing can be extremely helpful. For example, if a child is nervous about giving a presentation, families can recreate the situation at home and practice repeatedly. It's also helpful to encourage participation in activities that align with a child's interests. Shared interests create natural opportunities for conversation and friendship.

Q: When should caregivers seek professional help?

Dr. Pyrc: If anxiety is interfering with a child's daily functioning, it's worth seeking support.

Examples include:

Missing significant amounts of school
Frequent anxiety-related physical complaints
Social isolation
Difficulty making or maintaining friendships
Avoiding important activities

Because counseling takes time and waitlists can be long, early intervention is often beneficial.

Q: My child doesn't want to attend birthday parties or school events. Should I push or back off?

Dr. Pyrc: Caregivers should try to understand why the child is reluctant. Ask questions and explore specific concerns. Then work together to create a plan. In many cases, helping children gently face manageable fears builds confidence over time. Avoidance often makes anxiety stronger.

Q: What's one thing caregivers often misunderstand about anxiety?

Dr. Pyrc: Anxiety doesn't always look frantic or emotional. Many anxious children appear withdrawn, shut down or oppositional when they're actually feeling overwhelmed and scared. Connecting with the child before assuming defiance can make a tremendous difference.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Pyrc: Parenting is hard. Give yourself grace. Most caregivers are doing the best they can. Supporting children through anxiety isn't about being perfect. It's about staying connected, offering encouragement and reminding children that they can do hard things.

Care, Collaboration and Community: Celebrating One Year of the Las Vegas Trail Neighborhood Health Center

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 11:01:15 -0500

One year ago, a bold partnership set out to transform health and wellness in Fort Worth's Las Vegas Trail neighborhood. Today, the results speak for themselves.

Since opening its doors on Aug. 5 2025 to July 2026, the Neighborhood Health Center serving the Las Vegas Trail area has welcomed more than 18,000 patient visits between JPS Health Network and Cook Children’s. The center connected thousands more community members with behavioral health visits, nutritious food, workforce training and community resources. In an achievement that cannot be conveyed by numbers alone, the center has also become a gathering place for residents and partners alike.

Partners in Purpose

The center is a first-of-its-kind partnership among JPS Health Network, Cook Children’s Health Care System, the City of Fort Worth and WestAid. More than just a clinic, it serves as a community hub, dedicated to improving health, strengthening family foundations, and providing financial stability.

At the core of the center’s mission is providing health care to people of all ages in the Las Vegas Trail area. The partnership between JPS Health Network and Cook Children’s gives every generation of the household access to access to a medical home with adult and pediatric primary care services. Cook Children’s welcomed nearly 1,500 new patients into our health care network, providing close-to-home pediatric care for the area.

“This partnership was born of our shared vision with Cook Children’s to deliver health care for the whole family that would create a transformational impact in a community with critical health care needs,” said Joy Parker, senior vice president of operations at JPS Health Network, in July of last year.

The clinic took over one year to plan and 18 months for construction.

“We knew the community needed our joint services and we were dedicated to getting it right,” said Chris Pedigo, senior vice president and chief strategy, education and community health officer at Cook Children’s.

The center’s comprehensive approach to health also includes behavioral health and social services. Since the neighborhood health center opened, Cook Children’s has referred 624 patients for behavioral health services and 379 patients for additional social services and community resource needs.

A key piece of the neighborhood center’s mission is community engagement through partnerships. The center provides a variety of programs designed for, and by, the people of Fort Worth. For example, the center partners with Tarrant County College to offer workforce development programming. From September 2025 to July 2026, 25 people enrolled in the program, where they were empowered with the skills, confidence, and professional support needed to begin a rewarding career supporting the health care industry in non-clinical roles.

The center’s partnership with the WestAid pantry helps provide nutritious food, education and support for families facing food insecurity. When construction of the neighborhood health center started, the pantry section of the building was specifically built to fit WestAid’s capacity and vision. The result is an intuitive space where people can easily shop for their groceries. From October 2025 through July 2026, the pantry provided nearly 13,363 shopping trips. Staff also prepared 6,854 sack lunches for people who are unhoused.

When the pantry opened last year, William Pherigo, MRE, then-executive director of West Aid, said the partnership with the neighborhood health center was a natural fit.

“Food is medicine, so it just makes sense with how important food and nutrition are to health that West Aid is located at the center,” Pherigo said. “It just completes the health and wellness circle there.”

The center goes beyond providing food for residents. The Demonstration Kitchen, led by Cook Children’s NHC Dietitian and Nutrition Coordinator Maya Rashad, provides hands-on learning for Las Vegas Trail residents. In its first nine months, the Demonstration Kitchen held 42 cooking classes with 437 attendees. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive: 100% of participants said they learned something new and would recommend it to others.

Nurturing Neighborhoods

About 7,000 Cook Children’s Health Plan members reside in the Las Vegas Trail corridor. When the center opened its doors, Community Health Worker (CHW) Sky Ramos became Cook Children’s first-ever clinic-based CHW. She provides face-to-face support and connects members with resources that help meet their health and social needs. However, Health Plan services are also available to anyone who needs them, including people who need help completing food and health program applications. So far, the neighborhood health center has helped 79 members apply for Medicaid, TANF, SNAP and WIC appointments. The center has participated in 82 events led or hosted by community partners.

Cook Children’s Center for Community Health provided a variety of services and resource for the community at the center, including:

584 dental screenings and $32,236 in dental treatment procedures.
Over 100 summer events
60 tours of the Neighborhood Health Center to introduce community partners and families to available services.

“To further support the community, the Center for Community Health (C4CH) coordinated more than 100 educational summer activities during June and July attracting over 200 children and families,” Pedigo said. Topics ranged from tips on feeding your toddler to child yoga classes and education on micro gardening. The C4CH also checked 46 car seats.

“Our dedication to providing outstanding medical care and education to the children and families of Las Vegas Trail is unwavering,” Pedigo said.

Community groups are able to use the center when needed. IDEA Rise, the Fort Worth ISD, Western Hills-area schools and other community organizations have used the space for meetings and events. The Fort Worth police department also uses the space as a place to take breaks without having to leave their designated coverage area. The Fort Worth police department storefront is home to FWPD’s Crime Free Multi-Housing Program, which works to strengthen security in the area’s many apartment communities.

A Hopeful Future

In just one year, the Neighborhood Health Center has become a trusted resource for thousands of children and families in the Las Vegas Trail Neighborhood. What began as a shared vision among community partners its first year has evolved into a thriving hub for health, wellness, education and connection, laying the foundation for an even greater impact in the years ahead.

“LVT has not only brought residents and community partners together, it has also provided a special opportunity for our Cook Children’s colleagues to actively experience our values of collaboration, generosity and imagination,” said Veronica Tolley, vice president of Primary Care and Specialty Services. “In this first year, employees from all areas of our system have poured their time and energy into LVT by participating as volunteers, mentors and supporters in events like gallery night showcasing local student art, community egg hunt, mock interviews for training center, demo kitchen classes, holiday festivities, and countless other events. Thank you to everyone for embracing togetherness and delivering moments of magic to LVT!”

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: One Special Birthday to Celebrate

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 08:00:00 -0500

No parent can ever truly prepare to hear a cancer diagnosis, especially when their child has been happy and healthy all their life with no indication that such a diagnosis could arrive.

In October 2025, at only 6 years old, Adrienne Avila was diagnosed with Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, a common type of cancer among children that affects white blood cells. Her mother, April Rodriguez, vividly remembers how devastating it was to hear the diagnosis. She was alone with Adrienne in a hospital room at Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth.

For almost a year, Adrienne and her family spent much of their time navigating life with Leukemia. But in July 2026, her family faced another frightening chapter when she became seriously ill and was readmitted to Cook Children’s Health Care System, where she spent weeks in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

“We were in the PICU for 18 days and she was intubated twice during that time,” said April. “The first time she was intubated because she was full of fluid and her heart was working hard. She was good for a day, but shortly after, she went back to how she was and had to be re-intubated.”

As Adrienne’s birthday approached, April worried her daughter would have to celebrate from a hospital bed. Feeling hopeless for a moment, April turned to family and friends through social media, asking them to pray for her daughter, not knowing that her posts would reach people from other states and countries who would begin caring for Adrienne’s health as well.

Through it all, Adrienne held on to her faith and her biggest birthday wish: to be home surrounded by her family with nothing else but love and chicken wings.

"Adrienne has shown resilience and determination far greater than someone her age, while maintaining a sweet and joyful attitude even on the most difficult days," said Kevin Tien, M.D., oncologist at Cook Children’s Hematology and Oncology Center. “Her diagnosis and treatment have been far from typical, but she has faced it in a big way. I have learned a lot about the effects of chemotherapy and the heavy toll it can take on our sweet patients, and at the same time, it reminds me over and over again how resilient they consistently prove to be.”

Just two days before her birthday, Adrienne was discharged from the hospital in time to celebrate her seventh birthday with family at home, just as she wanted.

“We threw something together so fast and ordered chicken wings for her. We got some family together and celebrated with just very close family members because that was the main thing that she wanted,” April stated with tears of joy in her eyes.

A Childhood Cancer Diagnosis Changes Everything

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize children and families affected by cancer, as well as the research and care needed to improve outcomes.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 9,680 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in 2026. Leukemias, brain tumors, and lymphomas are the most common types of cancer in children. The American Childhood Cancer Organization estimates that one in 264 children will be diagnosed before their 20th birthday.

Childhood cancer is relatively uncommon, accounting for less than 1% of all new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States each year, according to the National Cancer Institute. But because childhood cancers are rare and can differ significantly from adult cancers, research and collaboration among pediatric cancer centers are critical.

For children, cancer is more than a medical diagnosis. It can mean missing school, time away from siblings and friends, hospital stays, procedures, and uncertainty about what comes next.

That is why pediatric cancer care requires more than simply treating a smaller body.

“It’s incredibly important that children are treated and cared for as children, not small adults,” said Dr. Tien. “Their biology, physiology, risks, and mental health impacts are incredibly unique and can’t be mitigated by simply reducing a dose.”

More Than Medicine

Dr. Tien said one of the misconceptions about pediatric oncology is that their work is defined by sadness.

“A common misconception is that our job is sad,” Dr. Tien said. “The truth is, for many of us, the job is rewarding, fulfilling, and gratifying in so many ways.”

Pediatric oncology teams work alongside families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

“We get to work hand-in-hand with parents and other providers to take care of children, and it never ceases to amaze me how far we will go to do our best for our patients,” Dr. Tien said.

For families, that support can extend far beyond the hospital room.

“Dr. Tien is a great doctor. Adrienne loves him and her nurses a lot. They’re not just healthcare workers that come in and go; they truly care about her. Having great doctors like him makes the whole thing a lot easier,” said April.

Supporting Children Beyond the Gold Ribbon

Awareness can begin with wearing gold, but Dr. Tien said families need more than symbols of support.

“Donate time, volunteer at your local children’s hospital to read with them,” Dr. Tien said. “Help set up activities in playrooms or atriums that will get them out of their rooms and move their bodies.”

Research remains critical because childhood cancer treatment can have long-term effects.

“I think we definitively need more research into childhood cancer. I know that we live in a smart world, a world full of medicine, but I still feel like there's so much more that we still don't know, especially in pediatric cancer treatments,” April stated.

According to the National Cancer Institute, even when children face these diagnoses, some may experience long-term adverse effects from the disease or its treatment, making research into safer and more effective therapies an ongoing priority.

For Adrienne and her family, the journey is not over simply because she made it home for her birthday. Adrienne’s treatment is expected to conclude by the beginning of 2028.

Although Adrienne still has a road ahead in her treatment plan, April is daily inspired by the strength and unwavering faith of her daughter Adrienne.

“Every journey is different for every child,” April said. “I always tell other parents of children with cancer to never feel guilty for what their children are going through. For a long time, I gave myself a guilt trip, asking what I could have done differently to prevent this from happening. But I had to stop and remind myself there’s nothing I could have done to keep cancer from happening to Adrienne. It’s truly not our fault, or anyone’s fault, that cancer happens.”

Parenting in the Age of Information Overload with Justin Smith, M.D.

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 09:58:06 -0500

Today's caregivers have access to more parenting and health information than ever before. But with endless social media feeds, online searches and conflicting advice, many families are finding themselves overwhelmed instead of informed. In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Justin Smith, M.D., pediatrician at Cook Children’s Pediatrics Trophy Club, aka. The Doc Smitty, discusses common parenting concerns, the pressure of perfectionism and how families can build stronger connections with their children. Here's an edited Q&A version of the conversation.

Q: Why did you begin creating online content for families?

Dr. Smith: Early in my career, I noticed caregivers were looking online for answers but often struggled to find reliable, practical information. Rather than criticizing families for searching online, I felt pediatricians had an opportunity to meet families where they are and provide trustworthy guidance in a way that's approachable and easy to understand.

Q: Have the questions caregivers ask changed over the years?

Dr. Smith: Absolutely. Many families arrive at appointments having already researched symptoms and tried reasonable first steps at home. Because of that, conversations in the office have become more nuanced. Instead of asking what to do first, families are often asking what to do next after those first solutions haven't worked.

Q: What concerns do caregivers commonly bring up that may seem small at first?

Dr. Smith: One common topic is behavior and communication. Families often notice that their child seems different at home than at school. Instead of asking broad questions like "How was your day?" caregivers can ask more specific questions:

What was the best part of your day?
Was anything frustrating today?
Who did you sit with at lunch?

Those thoughtful questions often open the door to deeper conversations.

Q: What is one of the biggest misconceptions about parenting?

Dr. Smith: Many caregivers believe there is a perfect parenting handbook that everyone else somehow received. The reality is that parenting isn't about following an exact set of instructions. Children are constantly growing, changing and developing. Caregivers are learning right alongside them. The goal isn't perfection. It's engagement, flexibility and growth.

Q: Why are so many families feeling anxious today?

Dr. Smith: Information overload. Technology has made parenting resources more accessible, but it has also created an environment where caregivers feel pressure to know everything and get everything right. Social media often shows only the highlights of family life, creating unrealistic expectations and fueling perfectionism.

Q: Are caregivers putting too much pressure on themselves?

Dr. Smith: In many cases, yes. Parents often arrive at checkups wondering if they're doing everything correctly. While it's normal to seek reassurance, unrealistic expectations can lead to unnecessary stress, anxiety and self-doubt. Most families are doing far better than they realize.

Q: What's one symptom families tend to worry about too much?

Dr. Smith: Rashes. While some rashes require medical attention, many are harmless and resolve on their own. Context matters. A child acting normally is usually reassuring, while a child who appears ill should be evaluated.

Q: What's your best advice for busy families?

Dr. Smith: Eat together whenever possible. Shared meals create opportunities for connection, healthy habits and meaningful conversations. Putting away phones and focusing on one another may be one of the most valuable things families can do for their children's long-term physical and mental health.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Smith: You're probably doing better than you think. Children don't need perfect caregivers. They need adults who love them, support them and continue showing up each day.

Cook Children's Hits Milestone 250th Kidney Transplant

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 09:01:28 -0500

As he dealt with severe kidney disease, 17-year-old Dylan Banks faced a choice: Continue with dialysis or try for a kidney transplant.

Dylan had already undergone more than a year of dialysis, a filtering process that removed waste and extra fluids from his blood. Each dialysis treatment took almost four hours, three days every week, which interfered with school. And he missed certain foods he couldn’t eat.

Dialysis was necessary but wasn’t easy. That’s why Dylan decided to pursue a transplant at the recommendation of Cook Children’s nephrologist Randa Razzouk, M.D., M.S., a specialist in kidneys and high blood pressure. In February 2026 he was placed on a national waiting list for a kidney from a deceased donor.

He didn’t wait long. On March 17, 2026, the Cook Children’s Kidney Transplant Program called to say an available kidney was a good match. Later that night Dylan underwent surgery at Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth to receive the new kidney and a new lease on life.

“I feel very good. I can swim, I can eat, I can actually walk fully,” he said. ”Before, I was too weak and too tired. Now I feel energized.”

Dylan named his new kidney “Clover” in the spirit of the transplant occurring on St. Patrick’s Day. Another fun fact? Dylan was the 250^th patient to receive a kidney transplant at Cook Children’s since the program started in 1993.

The kidney transplant team at Cook Children’s involves pediatric surgeons, urologists, nephrologists, infectious disease doctors, pharmacists, therapists, social workers, child life specialists, dietitians and other experts in treating the unique needs of children and teens. Intensive follow-up helps ensure that the transplanted kidney functions properly. Here’s what to know.

Experience and Excellence

Most people have two kidneys, the organ that produces urine. The kidney performs other roles too, helping manage blood pressure and making red blood cells.

“It actually does a lot of different things,” said Robert Gillespie, M.D. MPH, medical director of kidney transplantation at Cook Children’s. “It filters out the blood and removes all the metabolic waste products, sort of like the exhaust from your car. It gets rid of any extra fluid and extra water you don’t need. All that goes out in the urine.”

A child born with abnormalities of the urinary tract might need a kidney transplant, he said. Another factor could be autoimmune disease that leads to scarring of the kidney.

Cook Children’s aims to provide a transplant before advanced renal failure occurs, Dr. Gillespie said. But sometimes renal failure develops too quickly. Once renal failure sets in, the patient will need dialysis at home overnight every night or at a dialysis center three days a week.

“There’s a lot of disruption to their lifestyle, which is especially difficult in childhood when you’re trying to attend school regularly,” he said. “The goal is always to do a preemptive transplant before they need dialysis.”

Julie Rudd, renal transplant coordinator, started working at Cook Children’s in 1992. Julie has met or helped care for all 250 patients who received kidney transplants over the years. She sees a dramatic change in energy level, appetite, cognitive ability and how much better they feel overall.

The Cook Children’s Kidney Transplant Program draws patients from across Texas and nearby states. Ages range from 2-18 years.

Steps in the process include:

Run extensive tests to ensure potential donor kidneys are compatible with the patient's body.
Determine if a suitable living donor is available (often a parent). If not, the patient can be placed on a list for a deceased donor’s kidney.
Perform the transplant, which connects blood vessels from the new kidney to the patient’s vein and artery. The ureter, a tube that carries urine, connects to the patient’s bladder.
Give instructions for taking the medications, called immunosuppressants, needed to help the body accept the new kidney.
Follow up with frequent appointments to monitor the kidney’s function and watch for signs of rejection.

Cook Children’s also helps patients when the time comes to make the transition to adult care for their transplanted kidney.

The program benefits from a comprehensive approach and continuity of care provided by the same specialists before and after transplant. Hitting the 250 mark is an accomplishment, along with the track record of transplant success dating back to 1993.

“Cook Children’s stands out for the volume and length of time we’ve been doing it,” Dr. Gillespie said. “You want a program that does a good number of transplants to develop and maintain that expertise.”

Beyond Dialysis

One day at school in 2022, Dylan complained of a headache and dizziness. The school nurse took his blood pressure – it was alarmingly high – and Dylan was rushed to the Emergency Department at Cook Children’s Medical Center. Tests found protein and blood in his urine and inflammation of his kidneys. A kidney biopsy showed scarring.

Dylan had previously been diagnosed with Henoch-Schonlein purpura, a disease that causes small blood vessels to swell and leak. Dr. Razzouk diagnosed a related condition called IgA nephropathy, an autoimmune disease that causes IgA proteins to get trapped in the kidneys, damaging their blood-filtering vessels.

Under Dr. Razzouk’s care, Dylan received medication to lower blood pressure, diuretics to reduce swelling, and steroids to treat inflammation. Dialysis began in 2024 after a particularly severe episode of high blood pressure on vacation landed him in intensive care at a Houston hospital.

Back home to Fort Worth, Dylan came the Cook Children’s Dialysis Unit on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. He couldn’t eat potatoes, bananas, chocolate and foods high in sodium because of dialysis restrictions. He’d get out of breath just by walking. His kidneys weren’t going to heal.

On several occasions Dr. Razzouk talked to Dylan about pursuing a transplant. He was a good candidate, Dr. Razzouk believed, because he was medically stable and had strong family support. Dylan also understood the long-term responsibility of taking the medication that a transplanted kidney requires.

Trulaina Banks said the decision was entirely up to her son. She’d support him whether he chose to remain on dialysis or seek a transplant. Dylan thought it over and came to the conclusion that dialysis had his life on hold, Trulaina said. He was ready to move forward with transplant.

After extensive evaluation, Dylan’s name went on the wait list for a kidney. A match came up through the donor registry, and Cook Children’s transplant surgeon Tariq Khan, M.D. put the kidney in place. Dylan still has his original kidneys, plus a C-shaped scar at the site of the incision.

Dr. Razzouk said Dylan has no more restrictions on diet or fluid intake. His blood pressure is healthier. Quality of life has improved. For Dylan’s transplant and the 249 transplants that came before it, she gives credit to the collaboration and communication of the entire transplant team.

“We provide excellent care,” she said. “We provide compassionate care.”

Trulaina advised parents to learn the facts, be honest with their child, and support them as partners in the transplant process.

“It’s going to be a tough road, but as long as you keep your faith, we’re going to get there together to where this road is smooth,” she said. “Believe in your team. Dr. Razzouk’s eye will always be on Dylan to make sure he’s good.”

Dylan sets an alarm to remember to take his daily medications. He doesn’t know the name of his donor. But he’s very grateful and wants to do what he can to keep the kidney working. He would urge any teens on dialysis to consider if a transplant might be right for them.

“Your story isn’t over,” he said. “Don’t give up.”

Kidney Transplant Specialty
When your child’s kidneys can no longer meet their body’s needs, the Cook Children’s Kidney Transplant Program is here to help. We work to select the best replacement kidney, and after transplant to protect the new organ and your child’s health. Throughout the process, we support your family and set your child up for success with this life-changing surgery. To schedule an appointment or speak to our team, call 682-885-4260.

Five Cook Children's Specialties Earn National Recognition

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 09:29:32 -0500

Cook Children's Health Care System earned national recognition in five specialties on the 2026-27 U.S. News & World Report Best Children's Hospitals list.

The recognition includes the 19th consecutive year that Cook Children's Neurology & Neurosurgery program has been nationally ranked. Notably, the program has appeared in the rankings every year since U.S. News & World Report introduced pediatric specialty rankings in 2008, reflecting nearly two decades of consistent excellence in caring for children and families.

Cook Children's was recognized in the following specialties:

For Scott Perry, M.D., head of Neurosciences at Cook Children's, the milestone reflects the dedication and expertise of teams across the organization.

"Nineteen consecutive years of national recognition reflects the strength and consistency of our neuroscience program and the exceptional teams who care for children every day," Dr. Perry said. "Maintaining that level of excellence since the rankings began in 2008 speaks to the culture of collaboration, innovation and clinical expertise that defines Cook Children's. While the health of children and their families is our focus, not rankings, it is gratifying to see the quality of care provided by our physicians, nurses, therapists and support teams recognized on a national level.”

The annual rankings evaluate pediatric centers nationwide using measures such as clinical outcomes, patient safety, infection prevention and the availability of specialized care resources.

Matthew Carroll, M.D., MHA, MSHQS, chief quality officer at Cook Children's, said the rankings process is most valuable as a tool for continuous improvement.

"The value of the U.S. News process is that it encourages us to take a close look at how we care for patients and where we can continue to improve," Dr. Carroll said. "Our focus has always been on meaningful improvements that enhance safety, quality and outcomes for children. Recognition is always appreciated, but the true measure of success is the impact our teams make every day on children and families as we deliver on our Promise."

Practical Nutrition Tips for Families with Maya Rashad, MPH, RDN, LD

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 09:10:48 -0500

With nutrition advice flooding social media feeds, many caregivers feel overwhelmed about where to start. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Maya Rashad, MPH, RDN, LD, nutrition coordinator at Cook Children’s, shares practical strategies people can use to build healthy eating habits together as a family. From healthy snacks and picky eaters to grocery budgets and cooking with children, the conversation focuses on simple, sustainable approaches to nutrition and family meals. Here's an edited Q&A version of the discussion.

Q: If families could focus on just one nutrition habit, what would it be?

Rashad: Start by eating together more often. Family meals allow caregivers to model healthy habits and teach children about nutrition in a natural way. When families eat together regularly, children learn what balanced meals look like and are more likely to carry those habits with them outside the home. The specific meal doesn't matter. Choose whichever works best for your family and schedule.

Q: What makes a healthy snack?

Rashad: Snacks aren't bad. They should simply help children meet their nutrition goals.

A good snack includes:

A fruit, vegetable or whole grain
Ideally two food groups
A combination of carbohydrates and protein for staying power

For example, popcorn and nuts can provide both fiber and protein while helping kids feel fuller for longer.

Q: How can families avoid being influenced by unhealthy food marketing?

Rashad: Food companies do an excellent job marketing products to children. Bright packaging and well-loved characters can make certain foods appealing, but caregivers can make healthy foods fun too. Using fruit and vegetable cutters, creating playful presentations and involving children in food preparation can make nutritious options more exciting without relying on packaged snacks. Just because a food is healthy, doesn’t mean it has to be serious.

Q: What if families don't have time to prepare everything from scratch?

Rashad: Don't be afraid of convenience. Healthy eating doesn't require homemade pasta and sauces and scratch-made meals every night. Convenience items can be part of a healthy routine.

Examples include:

Rotisserie chicken
Frozen vegetables
Microwavable whole grains
Prepackaged healthy snacks

The goal is to combine convenience with nutritious additions to create meals that fit real life.

Q: Is healthy eating always more expensive?

Rashad: Not necessarily. Canned and frozen foods are often affordable, nutritious options.

Frozen vegetables are typically harvested at peak freshness and frozen immediately, which can preserve nutrients, oftentimes meaning it has more nutrients than fresh produce. Canned foods can also fit into a healthy eating plan, especially when choosing low-sodium versions or rinsing canned products before use.

Another budget-friendly strategy is incorporating more plant-based foods such as:

Beans
Lentils
Plant proteins

Families can even stretch grocery budgets by combining lentils with ground beef in recipes.

Q: What should families know about food safety?

Rashad: Practice basic food safety without avoiding fruits and vegetables altogether.

Good habits include:

Washing hands before food preparation
Washing hands after using the bathroom
Properly cooking foods when appropriate

Families shouldn't allow concerns about foodborne illness to discourage fruit and vegetable consumption.

Q: Why is it important to involve children in cooking?

Rashad: Kids can begin helping in the kitchen much earlier than many people think.

Even children as young as two years old can participate by:

Rinsing produce
Removing stems from fruits
Assisting with simple food preparation

Cooking builds confidence, teaches life skills and helps children develop a healthier relationship with food.

Q: How many times should a child be exposed to a food before deciding they don't like it?

Rashad: Research shows it can take 10 to 15 exposures. Exposure doesn't mean eating the food every time. Simply seeing it, helping prepare it or having it on their plate counts. Caregivers should:

Remain patient
Stay positive
Ask questions
Avoid pressure

Treat unfamiliar foods with curiosity rather than frustration. If a child doesn’t want to eat something and ask them why and turn it into a conversation.

Q: What's the biggest nutrition myth parents should know?

Rashad: Nutrition isn't supposed to be perfect. Many caregivers focus too much on perfection when consistency matters more. A healthy pattern includes:

Variety
Small sustainable changes
Flexibility
Grace for yourself and your family

Final Thoughts?

Rashad: Nutrition should be a family affair. The more families involve children in meal planning, cooking and conversations about food, the more likely healthy habits will stick for the long term.

Into the Silent Sky: Teddy Bear Transport’s Lifesaving Flight After Sept. 11, 2001

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:48:41 -0500

By Tracey Stephens, RN, former employee and wife of Todd Stephens

Editor's note: Patient-specific details have been removed to protect privacy.

In the dark, uncertain hours following Sept. 11, 2001, the United States was under an unprecedented, total military lockdown. Civilian aviation had vanished. Air traffic control screens were completely blank, commercial tarmacs were dark, and the sky belonged exclusively to heavily armed military fighter jets.

Yet hundreds of miles away, a critically ill infant needed specialized care available at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth. A ground ambulance would take hours, making air transport essential. It was a literal matter of life or death, requiring a miracle just to get off the ground.

While the rest of the nation held its breath, the dispatchers and command at Cook Children’s waged a frantic battle on the phones, coordinating directly with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and military command. Recognizing the stakes, authorities granted the Teddy Bear Transport crew a historic, highly exclusive emergency waiver.

Approximately 48 hours after the nation was attacked, pilots Todd Stephens and Ray Crain stepped into the cockpit of the King Air 200 along with the Neonatal Critical Care Team. When they advanced the throttles and lifted off into the North Texas night, they became one of the only civilian flight crews permitted into United States airspace.

The crew flew into a historical vacuum. Surrounded by eerie, echoing silence on the radio, looking down at completely dark, abandoned commercial runways, and flying with the watchful eyes of NORAD tracking their every move, Todd and Ray pressed onward through the empty sky.

As they neared their destination, the true magnitude of their mission became visually striking. Out of the darkness, two military fighter jets scrambled from a nearby base and dropped into formation, flanking the Teddy Bear Transport plane. Escorted closely by the roaring, heavily armed fighters through a locked-down sky, Todd and Ray piloted the medical aircraft safely to its destination under the protective watch of the United States military.

They flew not out of comfort, but out of a profound duty to a child they had never met. Because of their courage, skill, and willingness to fly when the world was gripped by fear, they safely retrieved that newborn. They delivered the baby to the intensive care unit in Fort Worth and gave a family a lifetime of birthdays.

As we mark the 25th observance of 9/11, we honor the crew of that flight. Todd Stephens, Ray Crain and Cook Children’s stand as a shining reminder that even in humanity’s darkest and quietest moments, heroes will always find a way to bring light, hope and life back into the sky.

Off the Sidelines: Why This Year’s Flu Vaccine Is a Game-Changer for Kids

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 09:01:24 -0500

Written by Marc Mazade, M.D., MPH, medical director of Infection Control and Prevention at Cook Children's

My high school basketball coach insisted that we get a flu vaccine every year. He knew that flu is much more than just a cold.

Flu is like getting hit by a train. He knew that recovery could take a couple of weeks.

Flu vaccines might make you feel bad for a day, but feeling bad is a sign that our immune systems are working. That’s much better than getting knocked out of the game, missing a week of band competition, missing the big trip, or staying in bed while others exchange holiday gifts and treats.

Flu season can run from November to May, so getting the flu vaccine in fall provides the longest protection from flu.

During the last flu season, nearly 6,000 kids came to the emergency department and nearly 600 kids were hospitalized with flu at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth (some would say an average season).

Keeping folks out of the hospital is the main benefit of getting a flu vaccine, but not the only one. Because flu is passed between friends at school then spreads to family members, immunizing kids is key to controlling flu outbreaks.

Closing hard-hit schools worsens hospital staff shortages as working parents must take off work to be with their kids, even when their kids aren’t sick. That can mean longer waiting times for patients and more shifts for exhausted health care workers.

In 2025, the seasonal flu story got more interesting. An escape virus erupted onto the scene like a flash fire!

Scientists found that “Subclade K” is a strain of influenza A (H3N2) that binds better to the membranes in our noses and is less sensitive to some antibodies (stuff that Infectious Diseases doctors love to chat about).¹ Improved viral fitness means that chances are good that this escape virus will keep coming back until it is knocked off by a more fit flu strain.

A big question last year was, “How effective are influenza vaccines going to be against the escape virus?”

Thankfully, vaccine protection against hospitalization was pretty good, even among adults. But something extraordinary happened in kids who took the vaccine. While the vaccine protected adults against mild, moderate and severe flu only 32-39% of the time, kids were protected 70-79% of the time.

It seems that children get more “bang for the buck” from influenza vaccine than adults. Also, for those who were not exposed to flu last year, this year’s influenza vaccines provide better protection against the escape virus.

My coach made sure we got our flu shots because he didn’t want us watching from the sidelines. Years later, the science supports that same advice. Children receive remarkable protection from influenza vaccination, helping them avoid serious illness, stay out of the hospital and remain where they belong: in school, with their friends and families, and in the game.

¹Al-Natour, L.M. 16 June 2026. Emerging Influenza A (H3N2) Subclade K: A narrative review. Natural Resources for Human Health, 6(3s). Pages 678-687. https://nrfhh.com/index.php/journal/article/view/522

Small Incisions, Big Impact: How Robotic Surgery Is Transforming Pediatric Care

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 08:00:00 -0500

The Pediatric Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery program at Cook Children’s Health Care System is expanding access to advanced technology designed to give surgeons greater precision and help children recover faster.

When a parent hears their child needs a robotic-assisted surgery, the word “robotic” may raise questions: Is a machine performing the operation? Is technology replacing the surgeon?

At Cook Children’s, pediatric surgeons say the answer is simple: The robot does not perform surgery on its own. It is a highly advanced tool controlled entirely by the surgeon.

“The robot is just a tool no different than the tools we use with laparoscopy,” said Marty Knott, D.O., Ph.D., pediatric surgeon at Cook Children’s. “We’re just asking the robot to allow for smoother, more detailed and controlled movements and articulation of the instruments in ways that laparoscopy does not allow.”

Robotic-assisted surgery combines a surgeon’s expertise with enhanced visualization, precision and instrument control. Surgeons operate from a console that provides a three-dimensional view of the surgical area while controlling robotic arms attached to specialized instruments. In a traditional laparoscopic procedure, surgeons make small incisions to insert a camera and specialized instruments, which they maneuver directly by hand while viewing the procedure on monitors in the operating room.

For many patients, the added precision that robotic-assisted surgery provides can mean smaller incisions, less pain and faster recovery, depending on the procedure and the child’s individual condition.

For 18-year-old Tahlie Brandt, robotic-assisted surgery helped treat severe acid reflux that affected her daily life as an athlete.

Her mother, Shellie Brandt, said one of her biggest concerns before surgery was how much reflux her daughter experienced. After undergoing a fully robotic-assisted procedure, she noticed the difference during recovery.

“I wasn’t expecting it to be that fast,” said Tahlie. “I was kind of expecting it to be a longer recovery, like my other surgeries.”

Shellie shared that her daughter can now enjoy foods and drinks she used to avoid, and she quickly got back to her normal routine and favorite sports.

“She eats almost anything she wants to eat and can drink lemonade, orange juice, and things like that,” she said.

Expanding Possibilities for Pediatric Patients

Robotic surgery has been used in adult medicine for decades, but pediatric surgeons say one of the biggest changes in recent years has been expanding its use for children.

“The biggest change in pediatric robotic surgery has just been the fact that it exists,” said Ellen Jones, M.D., pediatric surgeon at Cook Children’s. “This equipment has been here for a long time, but really only a small portion of the doctors here were using it and really only in the specialty of urology.”

Over the past few years, more pediatric surgeons have incorporated robotic-assisted techniques into their practices, allowing the technology to be used for a wider variety of procedures.

Dr. Jones said robotic surgery has become increasingly valuable because of the level of detail required for certain operations.

Dr. Mokdad agreed.

“Areas that require a lot of magnification, better quality of the images, a lot of procedures that require suturing — this has been extremely helpful compared to laparoscopic surgery,” said Ali Mokdad, M.D., pediatric surgeon at Cook Children’s.

Surgeons at Cook Children’s have used robotic assistance for procedures including chest and lung operations, biliary, gallbladder and liver surgery, tumor resections, colon resections, appendectomy, pelvic procedures and other complex operations involving delicate structures.

Dr. Knott said some procedures have become significantly more efficient with robotic assistance.

“I’ve been doing surgery for 10 years here, and doing a fundoplication, as an example, which is a procedure that we use to treat reflux disease, is so much smoother, easier, cleaner, and safer, with a better view for us using robotic assistance compared to a laparoscope,” he said.

Training Surgeons for the Future

Before surgeons can independently perform robotic-assisted procedures, they undergo specialized training that includes simulation, observation and supervised surgical experience.

“Surgeons who are learning also do case observations with expert robotic surgeons and then eventually work their way up to performing robotic surgery with a proctor,” Dr. Jones said.

Once surgeons demonstrate they can perform procedures safely and efficiently, they can incorporate robotic techniques into their practice.

As more surgeons receive training, the technology becomes available to more patients.

The Future of Robotic Surgery

While robotic hardware has remained relatively stable, surgeons say software advancements are driving much of the innovation.

Dr. Jones said one of her biggest hopes for the future is making robotic technology accessible for some of the smallest and most vulnerable patients.

“This machine is way too large for many of our tiniest patients,” she said. “I’m hoping there will be more devices on the market, more variability to address those needs so that we can take this technology to a population that hasn’t been able to access it.”

Artificial intelligence may also play a role in the future of surgery, but physicians say it will remain a tool, not a replacement for human expertise.

“AI is super helpful. It’s a great tool,” Dr. Knott said. “But there’s always going to be a practical application and an experience and a relationship that happens between a physician and the patient that AI will not be able to reproduce.”

For families considering robotic-assisted surgery, surgeons say the most important thing to understand is that the technology exists to support their care team.

“We’re not going to use this tool unless it benefits the patient,” said Dr. Knott. “It gives us better views, finer control, and allows us to do things in a more complete, sophisticated and safe way. Surgeons will only select this form of surgery when it is in the best interest of the child, providing the same care we would want for our own children.”

Tahlie’s mother, Shellie, hopes other families feel confident moving forward with new medical technology.

“Don’t be afraid of it,” she said. “Modern technology is being built to benefit us. We are not going backwards on technology. We are only moving forward, and we shouldn’t be afraid of it.”

Screen Time and Healthy Digital Habits with Austin Greenhaw, M.D.

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 09:42:55 -0500

From smartphones and social media to gaming and streaming, screens are woven into everyday life for most families. In the latest episode of For Kids' Sake, Austin Greenhaw, M.D., child and adolescent psychiatrist at Cook Children's, discusses how parents can help children build a healthy relationship with technology, recognize signs of problematic screen use and the quality of digital content and create boundaries that work in the real world. He also challenges a common assumption among parents: just because something is labeled "educational" doesn't automatically mean it deserves a free pass. Here's an edited Q&A version of the conversation.

Q: How much screen time is too much for a child?

Dr. Greenhaw: In a new policy statement, “Digital Ecosystems, Children, and Adolescents”, the American Academy of Pediatrics has moved away from strict time limits because they often create conflict within families. That said, there are still some general guidelines.

For children younger than 18 months, screen use is discouraged except for things like video chatting with family. For toddlers and preschool-aged children, small amounts of high-quality content may be appropriate, but the recommendation is still to keep it fairly limited.

As children get older, screens become harder to avoid entirely, but probably not nearly to the extent most kids use them today. Research shows average screen use increased dramatically after COVID, and many children are spending far more time on screens than recommended.

Q: Why are babies and young children so captivated by screens?

Dr. Greenhaw: It's actually neuroscience.

A baby's job is to learn about the world, and their brains are designed to orient toward things that are new, exciting and stimulating. Screens provide a constant stream of novel stimuli, so they're almost perfectly designed to capture a baby's attention.

The challenge is that babies learn best from real-world experiences and interactions with other people, not from a two-dimensional screen.

Q: Is educational content really different from other types of screen time?

Dr. Greenhaw: Kind of.

Many parents assume educational content is automatically beneficial, but the research is more nuanced. Some studies show that educational content can be helpful in small amounts, but the benefits tend to plateau after about 30 minutes per day.

Beyond that point, children begin experiencing more of the same risks associated with screen use in general.

It's also important to examine how the app or platform is designed. If it's loaded with advertisements, endless scrolling, autoplay features or in-app purchases, it's probably focused more on keeping your child engaged than supporting learning.

Q: What should parents know about "engagement-based design"?

Dr. Greenhaw: Many platforms are intentionally designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible.

Social media platforms, videos that automatically play the next video and apps that constantly encourage purchases all use strategies that keep children coming back.

If an app's primary goal is holding a child's attention rather than supporting development, that's something parents should pay attention to.

Q: What are the biggest concerns associated with excessive screen use?

Dr. Greenhaw: One helpful question for parents is: “What are screens replacing?”

Sleep is probably the biggest concern. When screens interfere with sleep, that can affect learning, mood and overall health.

The effects can also look different depending on a child's age.

For younger children, excessive screen use has been linked to language difficulties and attention problems. For preteens, screens can begin replacing opportunities to learn emotional regulation and face-to-face social skills. For teenagers, excessive use is associated with increased risks for depression, disordered eating and suicidal thoughts.

Q: What about educational screen use for schoolwork?

Dr. Greenhaw: Most of the concerns involve entertainment-based media rather than school-related work.

If a child is genuinely using their device to complete assignments, that's generally not where we're seeing the biggest problems.

What I recommend is having homework happen in a common area of the home where parents can casually supervise how devices are being used.

Q: How can parents tell when screen use is becoming a problem?

Dr. Greenhaw: The framework actually looks a lot like addiction.

Warning signs include:

· Becoming preoccupied with devices

· Constantly thinking about when they'll get screen time again

· Significant meltdowns when screens are removed

· Irritability when they can't use a device

· Giving up other activities they previously enjoyed

· Declining school performance

· Pulling away from friends and family

When screens start getting in the way of everyday life, that's a signal that the relationship may be becoming unhealthy.

Q: Do parents' screen habits really affect their children?

Dr. Greenhaw: Absolutely.

Research consistently shows a direct relationship between parent screen use and child screen use. Some studies suggest that for every additional hour a parent spends on a smartphone, children spend about 20 more minutes on screens as well.

Part of that is modeling. Kids watch what we do.

There's also a relationship component. When parents become absorbed in devices, children naturally seek attention. That can create a cycle where parent stress increases, device use increases and children act out to reconnect.

Q: If screens feel like they've taken over family life, where should parents start?

Dr. Greenhaw: First, give yourself grace.

These platforms are designed to capture our attention. This isn't simply about willpower.

One of the easiest places to start is creating screen-free zones, especially bedrooms. Sleep is one of the biggest things screens interfere with.

I recommend creating a family charging station somewhere outside bedrooms and having everyone, including parents, charge devices there at night. Ideally, devices should be put away at least an hour before bedtime.

Q: What's the American Academy of Pediatrics' approach to reducing screen time?

Dr. Greenhaw: They talk about something called "crowding in."

Instead of focusing only on taking screens away, focus on adding activities that naturally replace screen time. Family dinners, sports, physical activity, board games, time with friends and family interactions all help crowd out unnecessary screen use while supporting healthy development.

Q: Why is the dinner table such an important place to put devices away?

Dr. Greenhaw: Conversation is how children learn to communicate.

Think of a conversation like a volleyball game. One person serves the ball, the other person sends it back, and the interaction continues. When a parent continually looks at a phone during that exchange, it's like letting the volleyball drop.

Screens interrupt opportunities for children to practice communication, social awareness and emotional connection.

Q: What's your advice for parents working from home?

Dr. Greenhaw: Keep work and family time as separate as possible.

Young children may not understand every detail of a parent's job, but they can understand simple, consistent messages like, "Mommy is working right now," and later, "Mommy is done working and available now."

Consistency helps children understand expectations and reduces confusion.

Q: Many parents feel guilty about screen time. What would you say to them?

Dr. Greenhaw: Most families are struggling with this.

The majority of households aren't perfectly meeting screen-time recommendations, and parents should know they're not alone.

The goal isn't perfection. The goal is being intentional about your screen use and being present when you're with your children.

Q: What's the one screen-time rule every family should have?

Dr. Greenhaw: No screens at the dinner table.

Q: True or false: Educational content gets a free pass on screen-time limits?

Dr. Greenhaw: False.

Q: What's the biggest myth about screen time?

Dr. Greenhaw: That the amount of time matters most.

What children are doing on screens and what those screens are replacing often matters more than the number of minutes they're using them.

Q: When should a child get their first phone?

Dr. Greenhaw: This is complicated, and every child is different.

Parents should start talking about digital media literacy early so children understand things like advertising, algorithms and how platforms are designed to keep users engaged.

If you're looking for a general guideline, most children 12 and younger probably don't need a smartphone. A basic phone that allows calls and texts may meet most families' needs without introducing all the risks that come with smartphones and social media.

Final Thoughts?

Dr. Greenhaw: Focus less on the amount of time and more on what the device is getting in the way of. Ask yourself:

· What is my child doing on the device?

· Is it causing problems at home, school or socially?

· What activities is it replacing?

We can all become anxious about screen-time numbers, but those broader questions often matter much more than the clock.

Building for the Future: Behind the Construction at Cook Children’s Fort Worth Campus

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 11:05:36 -0500

If you’ve been near Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth’s campus for the last few months, you know that the pediatric health system is busy building. The lane closures, orange traffic cones and metal cranes stretching above the blue peaks are signs of expansion.

While growth is exciting, Cook Children’s know it brings challenges that can impact team members, visitors, neighbors and our community. Cook Children’s want to share the ‘what and why’ about the work the health care system is doing to continue to serve children and families.

Growing with the Community

Fort Worth, the greater DFW metro area and the surrounding regions that rely on Cook Children’s for specialty pediatric care are growing. Cook Children’s is prepared to grow with them.

“North Texas is expanding rapidly, and we’re here to match that expansion,” said Spencer Seals, senior vice president of Real Estate, Construction, and Facilities Planning for Cook Children's Health Care System. “Through the West Tower and other construction projects, we are building future capacity.”

With population growth comes increased demand for Cook Children’s services. For example, as the largest Level IV NICU in North Texas, Cook Children's cares for critically ill babies from hospitals both nearby and hundreds of miles away.

Cook Children’s also has one of the busiest emergency rooms in the nation, treating broken bones, severely ill children and patients transported by plane, helicopter and ambulance in need of lifesaving care. It’s not uncommon to see 500 to 600 patients in a single day during the peak season, with many requiring admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

As a result, beds in the PICU and NICU are frequently full, and children and families must wait for beds. To make sure Cook Children’s can be here for every child, the health care system created a 10-year plan designed to expand the campus and meet the needs of patients and families for decades to come.

Progress and Milestones

So far this year, Cook Children’s has made progress or completed numerous projects.

Kids’ Place
To make room for the West Tower expansion, the Kids’ Place Child Development Center - a daycare center for Cook Children’s staff - relocated from Southland Avenue to a new facility on Cook Children's Fort Worth campus along 9th Avenue between Cooper and Pruitt streets.

West Tower Infrastructure Takes Shape
Several foundational phases of the West Tower project are now complete.

Phase 1 of excavation, including installation of two tower cranes and construction of the basement structure, has been completed. The former Alliance for Children building has been demolished, and construction of the West Tower Garage is underway.

Meanwhile, crews continue expanding the South Utility Plant, which provides electrical power across the campus. As part of that work, teams excavated a major utility tunnel beneath 7th Avenue.

Building the Foundation

Much of the construction visible today is creating the infrastructure necessary to support the future West Tower.

The 10-story, 760,000-square-foot tower will house a new PICU, an expanded Heart Center and a Transitional Care Unit. It will also create opportunities to expand the NICU and Emergency Department within the existing hospital.

Many of the lane closures along 8th Avenue, Rosedale Street and throughout the Medical District have been necessary to relocate and upgrade utilities that support the future building. This work includes:

Sewer lines
Storm drains
Internet access
Irrigation
Water flow
Fire water

Teams are also relocating gas lines and Oncor power lines.

Cook Children’s hopes to wrap up the 8th road work by November.

After that, all West Tower construction should be contained to the Cook Children’s Fort Worth campus. There will still be construction on Rosedale, but that work is being done by the city on behalf of the entire Medical District.

As construction continues, Cook Children’s construction website is the best place to find up-to-date information of lane, road and sidewalk closures.

Seals explained that his team and their partners have done everything they can to mitigate the impact the construction has on the community, staff, and patients. For example, Cook Children’s avoided road closures on 7^th Avenue, where utility work needed to be done, by having crews tunneling beneath the street.

Still, Seals knows the lane closures and traffic can be a challenge. However, if Cook Children’s is going to grow with the community, the utility work was always a necessary growing pain.

“In order to meet the needs of the Cook Children’s system, we had to do this infrastructure work with or without the West Tower,” Seals explained. “And in order to expand the NICU, PICU and the Heart Center, we needed to add the tower. There is literally not enough room to do that without the West Tower addition.”

What to Expect Next

Before utilities can be connected to the West Tower, crews must lower portions of Terrell Avenue and 7th Avenue. This work will create the proper grade needed to manage stormwater around the future building. Terrell Avenue is expected to reopen to both pedestrian and vehicle traffic by summer 2027.

Over the next six months, Cook Children's expects to reach several additional milestones, including:

Completion of utility work along 8th Avenue
Continued construction of new parking garages
Installation of three additional tower cranes
Completion of the first of five major phases of West Tower construction
Advancement of the second phase of basement construction

Looking Ahead

By late 2030, Cook Children’s will have added more than 200 beds in the West Tower, renovated parts of the hospital and built in extra space to prepare for future growth.

The West Tower reflects Cook Children’s growth - from 56 private rooms in the PICU to a state-of-the-art Heart Center, with everything a patient needs from surgery to discharge in contiguous space to more beds and spaces for families to heal.

With the space vacated in the existing hospital, Cook Children’s is undertaking a 155,000 square-foot renovation, including more cancer services, highly specialized interventional radiology and the addition of 37 NICU beds to bring the total to nearly 150 beds.

For more than a century, Cook Children’s has risen to meet the needs of the moment - the health care system has expanded its campus, evolved its technology and added services to improve the health and well-being of all children in its care. This expansion is a continuation of the system’s Promise, “Everything for the child.”

Cook Children’s appreciates your patience. You can read more about the expansion in this story, which is updated with the latest construction impacts.

What Families Should Know about RSV

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 09:53:34 -0500

Resources and tips for finding immunizations for children:

Navigating vaccines can feel overwhelming. Talk to your pediatrician.

Schedule an appointment through Cook Children's.
Find your nearest Texas Department of State Health service clinic for information on clinics.
Call 211 for help.
Call Tarrant County Public Health at 817-248-6299 to make an appointment or to find a walk-in clinic.
Check with your local school district for vaccine events.

Raising a child brings up endless questions, especially when it comes to their health and well-being. As back-to-school season approaches, immunizations may be top of mind for families, and searching for clear, honest answers about what goes into their child's body and why. With so much conflicting information online, sorting facts from fear can feel overwhelming. Cook Children’s Health Care System helps parents and caregivers cut through the noise with trusted guidance from medical experts who are parents themselves.

Among the recommended immunizations, the RSV medication often raises questions.

Hospitalist Laura Romano, D.O., explains the key facts about RSV and the medication that prevents it.

What is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a highly contagious virus that causes upper and lower respiratory symptoms in people of all ages. Symptoms range from a stuffy nose to difficulty breathing. While most cases are mild, severe infections can cause bacterial pneumonia or require hospitalization for oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids. Premature infants and babies with underlying heart or lung conditions face the highest risk.

Can RSV be prevented?

Yes! Pregnant women can receive an RSV vaccine to protect their babies, or infants can receive a preventive immunization during the winter. Some children qualify for more than one immunization so ask your pediatrician if your child needs a second dose. Thanks to maternal vaccines and infant immunizations, hospitals - including Cook Children’s - are seeing a drop in RSV hospitalizations.

What would you like families to know about RSV and its immunization?

RSV while mild for many can be fatal for some. RSV can affect everyone from young babies to our grandparents and can be fatal in both cases.

RSV is mild for most people but it can be fatal for some. RSV affects individuals of all ages - from infants to older adults - and can be deadly for high-risk populations across both groups.

Sports Injury Prevention with Jeffrey Bass

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 09:39:23 -0500

As young athletes head back to practices, games and competitions, many parents are looking for ways to help their children stay healthy and avoid injuries. In the latest episode of For Kids' Sake, Jeffrey Bass, MS, ATC, LAT, OPE-C, athletic trainer with Cook Children's Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, shares practical advice on injury prevention, concussion awareness, hydration, recovery and sports safety.

Here's an edited Q&A from the conversation.

Q: What's one of the biggest misconceptions parents have about sports injury prevention?

Bass: Many parents focus on game day. They focus on when the whistle blows or when the competition starts. What often gets overlooked is everything that happens before that. Preparation, practice habits, warmups, conditioning and recovery all play an important role in helping reduce injury risk and improve performance.

Q: What does a good injury prevention routine look like before practice or a game?

Bass: It starts with a proper warmup. We want to warm up before we stretch, not stretch before we warm up. The goal is to create blood flow, get muscles and joints ready to perform, and make warmups a consistent part of every practice routine.

Sports are all about routines, and creating healthy routines can help reduce injury frequency.

Q: Does playing one sport year-round increase injury risk?

Bass: Research suggests that sports specialization can contribute to higher injury rates and burnout. Younger athletes should be encouraged to participate in multiple sports.

As young athletes grow and mature, their interests usually become clearer. In many cases, specialization happens naturally over time rather than needing to happen at a very young age.

The goal should be helping kids enjoy sports while developing a variety of skills.

Q: What are some signs that an athlete may be pushing too hard?

Bass: Parents and coaches should pay attention to changes in performance, soreness, swelling, stiffness and limping.

Athletes are often pleasers. They don't want to disappoint coaches, teammates or parents, and sometimes they don't immediately report that something is hurting.

That's why communication is so important. The earlier we identify a problem, the more options we have to help the athlete recover and continue participating safely.

Q: Why is it important for athletes to be honest about injuries?

Bass: Many athletes worry that reporting an injury will immediately take them out of competition. What I want them to understand is that athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals are advocates for the athlete.

Our goal is not to keep them from participating. Our goal is to help them recover, perform at their best and stay healthy over the long term.

Building trust helps athletes feel more comfortable speaking up when something doesn't feel right.

Q: What should parents know about concussions?

Bass: Concussions are medically classified as traumatic brain injuries, and they deserve serious attention.

One of the most important things parents need to know is that no two concussions are exactly alike. A concussion may look very different from athlete to athlete. Some athletes may experience headaches. Others may become sensitive to light or sound. Some may struggle with sleep, concentration or mood changes.

If symptoms develop after a collision, fall or impact, it's important to have the athlete evaluated by a medical professional.

Q: Can athletes drink too much water?

Bass: Parents ask that question quite a bit.

While it is technically possible to overhydrate under certain circumstances, most young athletes are much more likely to be under-hydrated than over-hydrated.

Hydration should be consistent throughout the day. Athletes should not wait until they feel thirsty to start drinking fluids, especially during practices and competitions in hot weather.

Q: Is heat illness preventable?

Bass: Heat illness is one of the most preventable sports injuries we see.

Proper hydration, acclimatization to heat, regular breaks and recognizing warning signs early can make a tremendous difference.

Parents should pay attention to symptoms like headaches, cramping, fatigue, dizziness and unusual behavior changes during or after physical activity in the heat.

When athletes begin experiencing heat-related symptoms, it's important to cool them down, rehydrate and seek medical attention when necessary.

Q: What's one thing every athlete should do before practice?

Bass: Say thank you.

Thank the parents, caregivers, coaches, teammates and everyone else who helps make it possible for you to participate.

Playing sports is a privilege, and gratitude is something every athlete can carry with them onto the field, court or track.

The Bottom Line

Preventing sports injuries isn't about one single technique or piece of equipment. It starts with consistent habits: proper warmups, good nutrition, hydration, recovery and honest communication when something doesn't feel right.

By helping young athletes build healthy routines and recognize warning signs early, parents can play an important role in keeping kids healthy, safe and in the game.

Immunizations, Questions and Trust with Alice Phillips, M.D.

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 09:43:07 -0500

It may feel confusing right now to be a caregiver with so much information out there about immunizations. There's certainly no shortage of information online right at our fingertips. But how do parents know what's trustworthy?

Parents are navigating conflicting opinions, social media discussions and misinformation. In the latest episode of For Kids' Sake, Alice Phillips, M.D., pediatrician and medical director for Ambulatory Quality at Cook Children's, discusses how families can find trustworthy information, understand immunization recommendations and feel confident asking questions and learn about the Cook Children’s Comfort Menu, a program designed to reduce fear and discomfort during vaccines and medical procedures.

Here's an edited Q&A version of the conversation.

Q: How should parents navigate all the information they're seeing about immunizations?

Dr. Phillips: First, please take a deep breath and pause and think, “who are my trusted sources?” and identify those. If something you read online sounds questionable, trust your instincts and bring those questions to your pediatrician. Parents don't have to sort through everything alone. We’ve been with you through sleepless newborn nights, potty training and maybe even scares at the hospital.

We’re here to help guide you through all of this information overload that we’re experiencing right now.

Q: Has anything changed about childhood immunization access?

Dr. Phillips: No. Families still have access to the same vaccines and should continue routine well-child visits. If your child is preparing for daycare, preschool or kindergarten, it's important to stay on track with those appointments and immunizations.

Q: What about delaying or spreading out immunizations?

Dr. Phillips: Parents have always had that option, but research has not shown delayed schedules to be safer. Delaying immunizations can create additional visits, increased costs and more stress for both children and families. If we did every shot separately, that is getting close to 30 or more visits for that child. That equals more time off work for families, trying to manage busy schedules, and a

Possibility that your child becomes scared of going to the doctor because they associate every visit with a shot.

Q: What is the Comfort Menu, and how can it help children who may struggle with shots or medical procedures?

Dr. Phillips: The Comfort Menu is a program developed by Cook Children's that helps children experience as little physical and emotional discomfort as possible during procedures like immunizations. We know shots can be scary, and we want to make the experience easier for both children and parents.

The Comfort Menu includes distraction techniques, toys, comfort positioning, parent involvement and tools that can help reduce discomfort. Sometimes parents naturally do some of these things themselves, like playing a child's favorite video during a shot. We also have other resources available, including numbing sprays and specialized comfort tools.

The program isn't limited to immunizations. It can also be used for IV starts, procedures and other situations where a child may feel anxious or afraid. For children who need additional support, we may involve Child Life specialists and other team members to help create a more positive experience.

The goal is simple: helping children feel as comfortable, supported and safe as possible during medical care.

Q: How are vaccines tested before they're approved?

Dr. Phillips: Vaccines go through extensive testing, including animal studies and three phases of human trials that evaluate safety and effectiveness. After FDA review, Cook Children's takes one step further and also conducts its own internal review process before adopting new vaccines. It's not a rubber stamp, we analyze all the evidence and research and a vaccine goes through these multiple steps before it’s ever introduced.

Q: You've shared that immunization is personal for you. Why?

Dr. Phillips: I’m very passionate about the pneumococcal vaccine because I’ve had two patients pass away from pneumococcal disease. Once it happens, it happens fast and it’s a hard bug to stop and it’s very powerful.

When the pneumococcal vaccine was first introduced, my own daughter was nine months old and received the very first dose given in my clinic. That's how strongly I believed then, and continue to believe today, in the protection vaccines provide.

I was willing to give my baby the first dose because it is an amazing thing, that we have these to save our kids. We aren’t just doctors, nurses or staff. We are moms too and in the end, we all want our kids to grow up happy and healthy and we have to focus on that.

*Additional information about the pneumococcal vaccine:
It protects against bacteria that can cause ear infections, pneumonia and other serious illnesses. The vaccine helps your immune system recognize and fight these germs before they can make you sick.

Q: Is it okay for parents to have questions?

Dr. Phillips: Absolutely! 100%. You ask questions about diapers, why wouldn’t you ask questions about vaccines?

Immunization science is complicated. Parents should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns with their pediatrician. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Q: Is delaying immunization safer?

Dr. Phillips: No. Some diseases pose their highest risk during the first 12 months of life. Delaying immunization may leave children unprotected during their most vulnerable period.

Q: What's one of the biggest immunization myths?

Dr. Phillips: That vaccines are more dangerous than the diseases they prevent. Many vaccine-preventable illnesses can cause serious complications, and some can become life-threatening very quickly.

Q: Where should parents go for trustworthy information?

Dr. Phillips: Start with your pediatrician and evidence-based resources. If you see something online and aren't sure about it, bring it to your doctor and discuss it together.

Q: What would you say to a nervous parent?

Dr. Phillips: Every time I hear or read something new, I think, “Man. Parents must not just be nervous, they must be scared too.”

You're doing good work. You want what's best for your child. Keep asking questions and when you’re hearing something strange, lean on trusted medical professionals who can help you navigate those decisions.

Q: What is one thing parents should never feel embarrassed to ask?

Dr. Phillips: Anything. There are no bad questions.

And also flipping that on its head, parents should not be afraid to hear questions from us. When a family comes to me and they are worried about vaccines and don’t know what to do, I try to ask lots of questions about their worries and fears.

That is how we solve these problems and get to a solution that we’re all happy with.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Phillips: These are difficult times for many families. We understand that. Pediatricians and parents share the same goal: helping children grow up healthy and protected. We want families to know we're here to help.

What Families Should Know about Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:57:16 -0500

Back-to-School Vaccine Breakdown: Protecting Your Child’s Health with the pertussis vaccine, which is part of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis) immunization.

Resources and tips for finding immunizations for children:

Navigating vaccines can feel overwhelming. Talk to your pediatrician.

Schedule an appointment through Cook Children's.
Find your nearest Texas Department of State Health service clinic for information on clinics.
Call 211 for help.
Call Tarrant County Public Health at 817-248-6299 to make an appointment or to find a walk-in clinic.
Check with your local school district for vaccine events.

Among the recommended shots, the pertussis vaccine often raises questions.

Hospitalist Laura Romano, D.O., explains the key facts about pertussis (whooping cough) and the vaccine that prevents it.

What is pertussis?

Pertussis, a highly contagious bacterial infection, causes a severe, long-lasting cough which can sometimes end in a "whooping" sound when a child breathes in. The illness is also known as whooping cough or the “100-day cough.”

In older children and adults, pertussis typically causes only a low-grade fever and a prolonged cough. However, the disease can be fatal in infants. In babies, pertussis can cause difficulty breathing, apnea (when a baby stops breathing) due to coughing and respiratory failure. The infection can be fatal even when treated with antibiotics.

How can the disease be prevented?

Pertussis is very contagious. Vaccinating newborns is the best way to protect them. New parents, grandparents, or aunts and uncles should also receive a Tdap vaccine before welcoming a new baby home.

What would you like families to know about Pertussis or its vaccine?

As a medical community, we have watched pertussis vaccination rates steadily decline in recent years, leading to outbreaks in states like Kentucky. In that outbreak, three babies died from respiratory failure. Pertussis has proven to be fatal to at-risk infants and unvaccinated children.

'Liquid Gold' & Life-Saving Care: NICU’s New Milestone

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Marking a major milestone at Cook Children’s Medical Center Prosper come as its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) celebrates one year of providing critical care, highlighted by a groundbreaking partnership with the Mothers' Milk Bank of North Texas.

As the first pediatric hospital north of U.S. Highway 380 to serve as an official milk drop-off site, the medical center in Prosper has bridged a crucial gap for local families during National Breastfeeding Month. The partnership offers donor mothers a convenient local depot to donate excess milk, often referred to as "liquid gold”, which is tested, pasteurized, and provided to fragile newborns.

It is a full-circle moment for the medical center.

“Some time ago, a member of our community arrived in our lobby with a sizeable donation,” said Carly Lewis, clinical nutrition manager at the medical center in Prosper. “At that time, we didn’t have this partnership in place. Fortunately, we were able to help that family identify a suitable drop-off site.”

Prosper’s nutrition lab focuses on the storage, handling, and preparation of breast milk and formula, for families while they are in the NICU.

“It provides parents with peace of mind knowing that their ‘liquid gold’ is safe and ready for use when needed,” said Tiffany Pullum, nurse manager at Prosper’s NICU.

A 'Village' of Care in the NICU

Breastfeeding supplies optimal nutrition, immunological protection and dynamic biological benefits tailored to infant development and distinct long-term health benefits for mothers.

“We support breastfeeding moms by standing in as a village,” said Pullom.

That village includes a multidisciplinary team in the NICU, including lactation consultants, dietary staff, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), social workers, and clinical therapists, who support mothers through every step of their feeding journey.

To make that journey as comfortable as possible, each NICU patient has a private room equipped with an individual bathroom, a hospital-grade breast pump, a refrigerator for breast milk storage, milk warmers and essential pumping supplies to help moms improve and maintain adequate breast milk production.

“Breastfeeding takes a lot of practice in the beginning as you are learning to position your baby and latch them correctly,” said Kimberly Guthrie, lactation consultant. “Sometimes parents feel overwhelmed during this time, but we encourage them to keep practicing and ask for help if needed.”

Lactation consultants provide hands-on assessments, education, support, and resources related to technique and to moms' needs. While at the medical center the dietary staff supports moms’ nutrition by providing meals, beverages, and snacks.

“Breastfeeding can be hard, but the help is out there,” said Yueyang Yang, a lactation consultant. “New parents do not have to be alone on their breastfeeding journey.”

Most insurance plans cover up to six outpatient lactation appointments.

Recognizing the connection between emotional well-being and physical health, clinical therapy, social work, and case management teams help ease the stress that often accompanies an inpatient hospital stay.

“We know that stress mitigation is an important factor in breast milk production,” Pullom said. “That’s why each NICU room is equipped to provide some of the comforts of home.”

The NICU team also celebrated mothers during National Breastfeeding Month with interactive activities, ranging from a timed contest to assemble a breast pump to guessing the correct flange size.

Ongoing support

When concerns arise about a baby’s ability to latch or safely feed, an SLP consults with the patient to assess anatomy or swallowing function. The SLP works alongside the NICU team to develop a plan to ensure the child receives appropriate nutrition.

Pullom explained that the radiology department may also conduct a video swallow study to gain a clearer picture of what occurs during feedings. Meanwhile, clinical dietitians partner with neonatology providers to ensure infants receive sufficient calories to support ongoing growth and development.

“For NICU babies, I have seen the impact of being provided breast milk, even for a couple of days or weeks, on their growth, development, and overall trajectory during hospitalization and beyond,” said Megan Almond, an SLP.

Because breastfeeding can be a complex process, individualized goals and care are essential.

“Every feeding journey must adapt to the unique clinical, physical, and emotional realities of breastfeeding,” said Leekelli Kennedy, a clinical dietician, “The primary goal is to provide safe and adequate nutrition that supports infant growth and family well-being.”

Distracted or ADHD? Akemi Watkins, M.D., Guide for Parents

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 08:09:31 -0500

It can be hard to know the difference between typical childhood behavior and signs that a child may need additional support. In the latest episode of For Kids' Sake, Akemi Watkins, M.D., a child psychiatrist at Cook Children's, discusses ADHD, early intervention, school accommodations and how families can advocate for their children while tuning out the noise and focusing on what matters most. Here's an edited Q&A version of the conversation.

Q: How can parents tell the difference between a child who is occasionally distracted and one who may have ADHD?

Dr. Watkins: The biggest difference is consistency across multiple settings. Children with ADHD often struggle not just at home, but also at school, during extracurricular activities and in other environments.

Parents and teachers may notice difficulties staying seated, following directions, waiting their turn, staying organized or completing tasks. Teachers often report that these children require more redirection to stay focused and on task.

Q: What are some common signs of ADHD that caregivers and teachers may notice?

Dr. Watkins: ADHD symptoms generally fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Signs may include:

Frequent daydreaming
Becoming distracted easily
Needing repeated reminders to stay on task
Excessive fidgeting
Difficulty remaining seated
Trouble standing in line or waiting their turn
Blurting out answers
Interrupting conversations or activities
Difficulty organizing schoolwork or belongings

These behaviors occur more frequently and persistently than what would typically be expected for a child's age.

Q: At what age can ADHD be diagnosed?

Dr. Watkins: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, ADHD can typically be diagnosed starting around age 4. Before that age, many behaviors associated with ADHD, such as impulsivity, high energy and short attention spans, are also normal parts of early childhood development.

Most children in the United States are diagnosed between ages 6 and 7, often after concerns are raised by teachers.

Q: If parents are concerned about ADHD, where should they start?

Dr. Watkins: Start by gathering information from the people who spend the most time with your child. Teachers are often the first to notice patterns because they work with many children and can compare developmental behaviors across age groups.

Parents know their children best, though, and their observations matter too. Coaches, dance instructors, childcare providers and other trusted adults can also provide valuable insight.

Once concerns are identified across multiple settings, families should talk with their pediatrician or primary care provider about an evaluation.

Q: What if a child is homeschooled?

Dr. Watkins: It can be more challenging because there are fewer opportunities for comparison. However, parents can still look for patterns.

Is your child taking significantly longer to complete assignments than siblings or peers? Are they becoming distracted more frequently during lessons? If they participate in homeschool co-ops, sports, church activities or other group settings, do they require more redirection than other children their age?

Looking at behavior across different environments remains important.

Q: What is a 504 Plan?

Dr. Watkins: A 504 Plan provides accommodations that help students access learning more successfully in the classroom.

Examples may include:

Preferential seating near the teacher
Modified assignments
Frequent check-ins for understanding
Small-group testing
Additional support with organization

Creating a 504 Plan typically involves collaboration among parents, teachers, school staff and the child's healthcare provider.

Q: How is an Individualized Education Program (IEP) different from a 504 Plan?

Dr. Watkins: An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, falls under special education services and is intended for students who require more comprehensive support.

While a 504 Plan focuses on accommodations, an IEP provides specialized educational services and goals tailored to a student's needs. The process is more involved and often includes formal evaluations from educational specialists, school psychologists or speech-language pathologists.

Because of those evaluations and planning requirements, IEP implementation typically takes longer.

Q: What is the Child Find program, and how can it help families?

Dr. Watkins: Child Find is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and requires public schools and charter schools to identify and evaluate children who may need special education services.

The program serves children from birth through age 21. Younger children may qualify for early intervention services, while school-aged children can receive evaluations and support through the public school system.

Parents who have concerns can discuss them with their child's pediatrician or teacher to begin the process.

Q: Are children being overdiagnosed with ADHD?

Dr. Watkins: Parents are exposed to an overwhelming amount of information, and much of it can be contradictory.

Rather than focusing on debates about overdiagnosis, it's important to focus on the child in front of you. If a child is struggling academically, socially or emotionally, an evaluation can provide answers and guidance.

On the other hand, not every energetic, daydreaming or quirky child has a disorder. Every child has unique traits and develops differently.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about ADHD?

Dr. Watkins: One of the biggest misconceptions is that children with ADHD are behaving badly on purpose.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Many of the behaviors associated with it stem from impulsivity and difficulty regulating attention, not deliberate defiance. These children are not trying to be disruptive. Their brains simply process information differently.

Q: Is it better to wait and see or ask questions early?

Dr. Watkins: Both.

If you're concerned, ask questions early. Gathering information helps you understand what to watch for and what may be developmentally appropriate. Then you can continue observing your child with better context and guidance.

There's no harm in learning more.

Q: Should parents worry if their child learns differently than other children?

Dr. Watkins: No. Every child learns differently.

Differences in learning styles do not automatically signal a problem. The key question is whether the child is thriving and progressing or struggling significantly compared to expectations for their age and environment.

Q: What's one thing you wish every child could hear from the adults in their life?

Dr. Watkins: “You're doing a good job.”

It's easy for adults to focus on correcting behaviors, improving grades and helping children meet expectations. But being a kid is hard. Children need encouragement, reassurance and reminders that they're loved and valued for who they are, not just for what they accomplish.

Q: What's your message to parents who worry they're not doing enough?

Dr. Watkins: If you're concerned about your child, showing up, asking questions and looking for ways to support them, you're doing enough.

Parents often put tremendous pressure on themselves, but perfection isn't the goal. Being a caring, engaged and "good enough" parent matters far more than having all the answers.

Final Thoughts?

Dr. Watkins: In today's world, it's easy to assume every challenge means something is wrong with your child. But sometimes kids are simply kids. They may be energetic, distracted, imaginative or a little wiggly, and that's perfectly normal.

Pay attention to patterns, trust your instincts and seek guidance when concerns arise. Most importantly, remember that every child develops in their own way and deserves support, understanding and encouragement along the way.

What Families Should Know about Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 15:19:34 -0500

Resources and tips for finding immunizations for children:

Navigating vaccines can feel overwhelming. Talk to your pediatrician.

Schedule an appointment through Cook Children's.
Find your nearest Texas Department of State Health service clinic for information on clinics.
Call 211 for help.
Call Tarrant County Public Health at 817-248-6299 to make an appointment or to find a walk-in clinic.
Check with your local school district for vaccine events.

Among the recommended shots, the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine often raises questions.

Hospitalist Laura Romano, D.O., explains the key facts about HPV and the vaccine that prevents it.

What is HPV?

HPV is a viral infection that causes flesh-colored warts on certain mucous membranes, most commonly affecting the mouth, throat and genitals.

HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer in women, as well as head-and-neck and anal cancers in both men and women

Most people with HPV have no symptoms and don't realize they carry the virus, yet they can still pass it to others.

How can the disease be prevented?

Vaccinating older children and teenagers can provide lifelong protection against HPV and helps prevent several types of cancer as well.

What would you like families to know about the virus or the vaccine?

Vaccinating boys and girls offers lifelong protection against a virus that can cause warts but also against deadly cancers. The vaccine protects your child now and helps safeguard their future partners down the road.

Last year, for the first time, the United Kingdom announced zero deaths from cervical cancer among women under age 30. Australia and New Zealand have seen similar results alongside increased vaccination rates.

Other countries have also reported declines in cervical cancer among women, as well as head and neck cancer among men.