About My Two Hats

Thoughts on child health from pediatrician/mom, Dr. Heidi Kloster.

Letting Kids Set the Pace

Posted on December 9, 2012 by My Two Hats

One great joy of life with a toddler is that they still enjoy holding your hand while walking together. On a recent day off I was walking with my son in the park near our house. Suddenly I realized that I was sort of pulling him along behind me. Years of training and busy clinic days have turned me into a fast walker and have taught me to live life at a somewhat frenetic pace. But, on this day we really had no place to be. I made a conscious effort to allow him to lead. It felt slow as molasses at first, but gradually I adapted. My fast, purposeful walk turned into his slow, meandering pace. Continue reading →

Prevention and Treatment of Diaper Rash in Infants

Posted on November 28, 2012 by My Two Hats

Diaper rash is extremely common during the first year or so of life. There are a few simple things you can do to try to decrease the frequency of diaper rash in your baby. There are also a few safe, effective home remedies for the most common type of diaper rash. But, not all diaper rashes are created equal. This post will review the three most common types of diaper rash, give general recommendations for prevention and initial care, and describe when to seek treatment from your child’s health care provider. Continue reading →

Instead of Black Friday, I’m going to Block Friday

Posted on November 21, 2012 by My Two Hats

I have to admit I’ve never been much of a Black Friday shopper. Standing in lines, getting up early. . . it’s just never appealed to me. But, neither have I been very mindful of how I spend this day. Perhaps this is due in part to the fact that I’ve often been on call over the Thanksgiving weekend.

This year that’s going to change. I have Friday off. Instead of heading out to the malls, I’m going to start a new tradition. I’m going to Block Friday. Continue reading →

My Newborn Has a Rash. Should I Worry?

Posted on November 19, 2012 by My Two Hats

Newborn babies very commonly develop a number of skin conditions, most of which are quite benign, but nonetheless can be worrisome for new parents. Here are a few of the most common. Continue reading →

Sometimes the Best Medicine Is None At All

Posted on November 12, 2012 by My Two Hats

When I’m working in pediatric urgent care parents often bring their children in for acute illnesses hoping that I can “do something”. Worried, weary of illness, and sleep-deprived, they just want it all to be over. Sometimes, they relate a past episode during which the first doctor they saw “did nothing”, and, frustrated, they sought a second opinion where they were given antibiotics. See, they say, my child really was sick.

As a parent, I understand the misery of a sick child and the desire to do something. Even a common cold can be the cause of a pretty unpleasant week. As a pediatrician, I certainly don’t want my patients walking away from a visit feeling that their time was wasted. But, as I often explain to parents, it may be that the first doctor above was actually providing better care for their child.

Why? Continue reading →

Fighting Hunger in Our Neighborhoods

Posted on November 5, 2012 by My Two Hats

I have previously written about hunger, and it continues to be a significant problem for many, many children in our country. Sometimes problems of this scale feel a bit overwhelming and it is difficult to know how to begin tackling them. Dr. Lisa Chamberlain, assistant professor of pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine, and pediatric residents at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital have not let the scope of the problem daunt them. They have partnered with community organizations to fight food insecurity and hunger in an area neighborhood. Today I’d like to highlight their amazing work. They are true child health advocates in action. Continue reading →

A Prescription to Vote

Posted on October 11, 2012 by My Two Hats

As the November election draw near, some (especially those in swing states) may be starting to feel election fatigue. Tiring of the back and forth barbs, the never ending media coverage, and the ads as the candidates vie for your vote. Despite being a bit of a political junkie I rarely bring up politics via social media and never share my opinions in clinic. But, I do feel compelled to bring it up here now. Continue reading →

Caring for Patients: Dreaming Of A Better Way

Posted on October 2, 2012 by My Two Hats

I recently took call on the pediatric ward. Our team was caring for a young patient facing a new diagnosis of a chronic illness. In addition to stabilizing her symptoms, coordinating care with her new specialist, and managing her medications, I also see it as our job to make sure she and her family start to understand what is going on and what this diagnosis means for her. Continue reading →

The Leukemia Slayer

Posted on September 27, 2012 by My Two Hats

It is an honor to have Jacob, aka The Leukemia Slayer, as a very special guest this week at My Two Hats. Jacob was diagnosed with leukemia in 2010 and he and his family have since done incredible work advocating for children with cancer. As part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, I interviewed Jacob about his experiences. Jacob’s words are insightful, moving, and important. Please read on and then do what you can to get involved and spread awareness. Continue reading →

My Two Hats

Thoughts on health and wellness from pediatrician/mom, Dr. Heidi Roman

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