Growing Together with Pediatric Partners

Raising Capable Kids: How to Build Independence and Resilience

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 13:00:26 GMT

If your family visits Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead this summer, be sure to look for the Pediatric Partners bench swing near the cow pen. We donated this swing as a place for families to rest, connect, and enjoy a few moments together while exploring one of our community's favorite destinations.

We've loved seeing photos of children and families sharing laughs and making memories on the swing already! If you stop by, we'd love to see your pictures too—tag Pediatric Partners on social media so we can celebrate your visit.

As you enjoy all the adventures summer has to offer, this month's newsletter focuses on another important part of growing up: helping children build the independence and resilience they'll need to thrive both now and in the future.

June 18, 2026

Swing by and Say Hi at Deanna Rose! ��

NEW benefit for Kansans!

Kansans can now find immunization records in the Kansas vaccine portal from WebIZ !

Have you heard about the free lactation support group?

Pediatric Partners is partnering with Infant and Toddler Services to offer a free monthly lactation support group for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Join us in a welcoming and supportive environment to connect with other families, learn practical breastfeeding tips, ask questions, and receive encouragement from experienced professionals.

Whether you are new to breastfeeding or looking for ongoing support, all breastfeeding mothers are welcome — you do not need to be a Pediatric Partners patient to attend, so share this with a friend in need.

If you missed the announcement, listen to Dr Khaleghi's quick video about the relatively new lactation support groups.

As parents, it's natural to want to protect our children from disappointment, frustration, and failure. We want to help when they're struggling, solve problems when they're stuck, and make life easier when we can. But one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is not a life free of challenges—it's the confidence and skills to handle those challenges themselves.

Independence and resilience don't develop overnight. They grow gradually through everyday experiences, opportunities to practice, and the support of caring adults who believe in a child's ability to learn and grow.

What Are Independence and Resilience?

Independence is the ability to manage responsibilities, make decisions, and complete tasks without excessive reliance on others.

Resilience is the ability to recover from setbacks, adapt to challenges, and keep moving forward when things don't go as planned.

These skills work together. Independent children gain confidence through experience. Resilient children learn that they can survive mistakes and disappointments. Together, these traits help children thrive at home, in school, and eventually in adulthood.

Why These Skills Matter

Children who develop independence and resilience tend to:

Have greater confidence in their abilities
Show better problem-solving skills
Cope more effectively with stress and change
Develop stronger executive functioning skills
Take responsibility for their actions
Become more prepared for future academic, social, and workplace challenges

Research consistently shows that children benefit more from learning how to overcome obstacles than from having obstacles removed for them.

Start with a Growth Mindset

Children often believe that abilities are fixed—you are either good at something or you're not. A growth mindset teaches that skills improve with effort, practice, and persistence.

Try replacing:

"You're so smart!" with "You worked really hard on that."
"I knew you'd get it right." with "You kept trying even when it was difficult."
"Don't worry, I'll do it for you." with "Let's figure out how you can do it."

When children understand that mistakes are part of learning, they become less afraid of challenges and more willing to try new things.

Let Them Do What They Can Do

One of the most common barriers to independence is that adults often do things for children that children could learn to do themselves.

This might include:

Packing school bags
Keeping track of assignments
Ordering food at restaurants
Managing personal belongings
Resolving minor conflicts with friends
Communicating with teachers or coaches

While stepping in may save time in the moment, it also removes opportunities for learning.

Ask yourself:

"Is this something my child can do independently, with support, or with practice?"

If the answer is yes, consider stepping back.

Allow Developmental-Appropriate Responsibility

Children develop confidence by contributing and being trusted with meaningful responsibilities.

Young children can:

Put away toys
Feed pets
Help set the table
Sweep
Put clothes in the laundry hamper

School-age children can:

Make simple meals
Pack lunches
Help with household chores
Tell a server what menu item they want

Teens can:

Manage their schedules
Make appointments with guidance
Handle transportation planning
Learn to manage personal finances - dividing money earned into how much to spend, save, and give to charity
Take increasing responsibility for school and extracurricular commitments

The goal isn't perfection. The goal is practice.

If your child is not able to do what others their age can, offer more supports, such as written checklists, using pictures for children who are not strong readers. Put these in a highly visible area and celebrate when they check things off their list. If your child continues to struggle, schedule a visit with our behavioral health clinician to explore why.

Don't Forget the Lost Skill of Phone Communication

One important life skill that many children and teens are getting fewer opportunities to practice today is talking on the phone.

Texting, messaging apps, online scheduling, and social media have made communication easier in many ways, but they have also reduced the number of situations where young people need to speak directly with someone they don't know. As a result, many teens and young adults feel significant anxiety when faced with making a phone call.

The good news is that phone communication is a skill, and like any skill, it improves with practice.

Start Small

Young children can begin by making simple phone calls to grandparents, cousins, or family friends. These conversations help them learn basic skills such as:

Greeting someone politely
Starting and maintaining a conversation
Asking and answering questions
Ending a conversation appropriately

At first, they may need coaching or a parent nearby, but over time they become more comfortable speaking independently.

Gradually Increase Responsibility

As children get older, look for opportunities to let them handle real-world phone calls.

For example, middle school students might:

Call a friend to coordinate plans
Contact a coach with a question
Leave a voicemail message

High school students can begin taking on more adult responsibilities, such as:

Calling to ask about volunteer opportunities
Contacting an employer about a job application
Scheduling a haircut, oil change, or dental or medical appointments when appropriate
Contacting a pharmacy about prescription refill procedures

Coach, Don't Rescue

Many parents find it tempting to make the call themselves because it is faster and easier. However, every call a parent makes on a teen's behalf is one less opportunity for the teen to build confidence.

Instead of taking over, help your child prepare:

Discuss what they need to say.
Write down key points beforehand.
Practice through role-playing.
Help them think about possible questions they may be asked.

Then encourage them to make the call themselves.

Building Confidence for Adulthood

Many young adults arrive at college or their first job having never independently scheduled an appointment, called customer service, or spoken with a professional on the phone. These tasks can feel overwhelming if they haven't had opportunities to practice.

Each phone call helps children develop:

Communication skills
Self-advocacy
Problem-solving abilities
Confidence interacting with unfamiliar adults
Independence in managing everyday responsibilities

The goal isn't to eliminate technology—online scheduling and texting are useful tools. The goal is to ensure that children and teens also develop the communication skills they'll need when a phone call is the best or only option.

A simple progression from calling grandparents as a child to scheduling an oil change, medical appointment, or job interview as a teen can help prepare them for the many situations they'll encounter as independent adults.

Resist the Urge to Rescue

Watching children struggle can be uncomfortable. Yet productive struggle is often where the most learning occurs.

If you do the thing for them, you're implying that they can't do it . That's what they learn, even if it's not your intent.

When your child encounters a problem, instead of immediately providing the answer, try asking:

"What have you tried so far?"
"What do you think might work?"
"What are your options?"
"Who could help you with this?"
"What can you learn from what happened?"

These questions encourage problem-solving and help children discover that they are capable of finding solutions.

Let Natural Consequences Teach

Natural consequences can be powerful teachers.

If a child refuses to wear their coat, they will feel cold.
If a child doesn't eat their meal, they will feel hungry.
If a child leaves their bike outside, it may get stolen or suffer from weather-related damage.
If a teen spends money on an impulse buy, they will be farther away from having enough to buy the thing they were saving for.

Of course, parents should intervene when safety, health, or significant consequences are involved. But many everyday mistakes provide valuable learning opportunities.

Children often learn more from experiencing consequences than from repeated reminders. Resist the urge to say "I told you so." That turns the experience into a head-butting contest rather than a learning opportunity. Kids are smart. They'll figure it out without you harping on it.

Normalize Failure and Setbacks

Many children today feel intense pressure to succeed. They may avoid challenges because they're afraid of making mistakes.

Help your child understand that setbacks are normal.

Share stories about:

Times you made mistakes
Challenges you faced growing up
Skills that took practice to develop
Goals that required persistence

When children see that successful adults also struggle, they learn that failure is not a sign of inadequacy—it's part of growth.

Teach Emotional Resilience

Building resilience doesn't mean ignoring emotions. It means learning to manage them.

When your child is upset:

Validate their feelings
Listen before solving
Help them identify emotions
Encourage healthy coping strategies

Try saying:

"That sounds really disappointing."
"I can see why you're frustrated."
"It's okay to feel upset."
"Let's think about what you can do next."

Children who learn to tolerate uncomfortable emotions are better equipped to handle future challenges.

Encourage Healthy Risk-Taking

Children build confidence when they try new things and discover they can handle uncertainty.

Risky play in early childhood — such as climbing, rough-and-tumble, or using adult tools — is essential for childhood development. It allows children to test their limits, which builds self-confidence, emotional regulation, and critical risk-assessment skills. This type of play actually helps prevent future anxiety and leads to lifelong benefits.

Healthy risks for older children and teens might include:

Joining a new club
Trying out for a team
Speaking in front of a group
Applying for a job
Learning a new skill
Making new friends

Success builds confidence, but so does surviving disappointment and realizing life goes on.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Perfectionism can undermine both independence and resilience. Children who fear mistakes often avoid challenges altogether.

Celebrate effort, persistence, and improvement, not the success itself.

Notice when your child:

Tries something difficult
Keeps going after setbacks
Takes responsibility
Solves a problem independently
Learns from mistakes

Progress may be slow, but every small step matters.

Independence Looks Different for Every Child

Some children naturally seek independence, while others need more support. Children with ADHD, anxiety, learning differences, or other challenges may require additional scaffolding and practice. If your child seems delayed in learning these skills compared to their peers, schedule a visit with our behavioral health clinician to explore why.

The goal is not to expect children to do everything on their own. The goal is to provide enough support for success while gradually transferring responsibility over time.

Think of yourself as a coach rather than a manager. Coaches provide guidance, encouragement, and feedback—but they don't play the game for their athletes.

Final Thoughts

Building independence and resilience requires patience. It can be tempting to step in, fix problems, and smooth the path ahead. Yet children become capable adults by facing challenges, making mistakes, and learning that they can handle hard things.

Every time you allow your child to solve a problem, recover from a setback, or take responsibility for a task, you send a powerful message:

"I believe in you. You are capable. You can figure this out."

That confidence—both yours and theirs—becomes the foundation for lifelong resilience and independence.

If you need more help, check out the Behavior Checker 's section on Independence or call to schedule a visit to talk about why your child is struggling with independence.

Our newsletter, Growing Together With Pediatric Partners , will be published twice a month. By signing up, you'll be the first to know about our latest office updates, exciting news, and healthy tips for families.

Sign Up To Stay In Touch!

To reduce your wait time we are transitioning from a traditional walk-in model to a scheduled spot-in-line system, starting with our Saturday Quick Care Clinic.

How It Works:

Reserve your place in line through our patient portal
Arrive at your assigned time
Be seen more efficiently

Important to know

Urgent medical concerns (like breathing difficulty) always come first and may impact your waiting time.
For active patients only (those who are up to date with their well visits).
Quick Care is for illnesses and concerns that have developed in the past week (including concerns associated with a chronic condition like asthma) and minor injuries.
Schedule with your usual provider for symptoms or conditions persisting longer than a week and behavior or mental health concerns. All routine follow up visits of a chronic condition (such as asthma, ADHD, anxiety) should be done with the person you usually see for that condition.

The following conditions are beyond our scope of care:

Anaphylaxis - severe allergic reaction with severe difficulty breathing, hives, and sometimes vomiting - call 911 . Use an Epinephrine autoinjector if available. We can see minor allergic reactions.
Unconsciousness - go to an Emergency Room, preferably one for children.
Broken bones that have broken the skin or with obvious deformity - go to an Emergency Room, preferably one for children.
Ingestions of poisons - call Poison Control 800-222-1222 .
Suspected child abuse - see the " What to do if you suspect abuse" tab on this page if you want to learn more .
Suspected rape - go to an Emergency Room, preferably one for children.
Trauma to the eye that might involve a puncture to the eye, change in vision, or broken bones of the face (we can see possible scratches to the eye, which are most common) - go to an Emergency Room, preferably one for children.
Burns of a large area of the body - call 911 and/or go to an Emergency Room, preferably one for children.
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases - Limited testing is available in our office so call to see where the best location for your situation is.
Anything that appears life threatening: call 911 .

If there is here is a true medical emergency or life threatening condition, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

At your child’s well check, we love hearing how they’re growing, thriving, and changing. And if you bring up a new concern—an ear that’s been hurting, a rash that popped up, a medication issue—we’re always happy to help.

But here’s the part many families don’t realize:

When a new concern is addressed or a chronic condition is managed during a well visit, insurance requires us to bill an additional “sick visit” for that same day. This may lead to a copay or deductible.

⭐️ This is an insurance billing rule, not a Pediatric Partners policy.

Some concerns can be handled quickly during the well visit. Others—especially chronic, complex, or time‑intensive issues—need their own appointment so we can give your child the focused care they deserve.

If you’ve been holding onto a concern for months, please don’t wait for the annual check-up. Call us anytime to schedule a separate visit so we can address it sooner and more thoroughly.

We’re here to support your child’s health every step of the way.

Our offices will be closed on Saturday, July 4th, in honor of Independence Day. We will have normal business hours the Friday before and the Monday following the holiday.

As always, there is a person on call to answer the questions you cannot answer from the vast resources on this website.

What patient families say on Google Reviews

Dr. Khaleghi is truly amazing.

Every staff member my husband and I have encountered has been kind, patient, and attentive with my child, always taking the time to listen and make sure we feel comfortable and understood. As a parent, that means everything to me. You can genuinely feel how much they care, and it brings such peace of mind knowing my child is in such good hands.

I’m so grateful we found them. Highly recommend!

GINA SINHA RAY

tiffany burton

Nurse Shelby is our hero! My 10-year-old is terrified of needles and was stressed the morning of her appointment. Shelby was so patient, calm, and reassuring that my daughter got through both her finger poke and shot like a champ… no tears, no kicking, no screaming. By the end of the visit, she was even asking for Shelby again when we scheduled our next appointment.

I’m so grateful for the kindness and patience Shelby demonstrated. Experiences like this truly help build a child’s confidence and create a more positive attitude toward doctor visits and vaccinations in the future.

BEATA PESZAK

Dr Mellick always answers all our questions and has great approach to kids.

Pediatric Partners website has great additional resource for common questions and medication doses. I appreciate all treatment and recommendations are always based on most current medical knowledge.

Mrs. Loren was very helpful with taking test samples and showed lots of patience.

I strongly recommend this practice.

Summer Survival Guide

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:00:01 GMT

Screen Time, “I’m Bored!”, and Sleep

June 4, 2026

Summer brings longer days, fewer routines, and a lot more opportunities to hear:

“Can I have my tablet?”
“I’m not tired.”
“I’m boooored.”

The good news? Kids do not need a perfectly scheduled summer to thrive. In fact, some boredom, downtime, and unstructured play are healthy for developing creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills.

Here are a few practical ways to make summer smoother for everyone.

Screen Time: Aim for Balance, Not Perfection

Screens are part of modern life. The goal is not eliminating them — it is helping children use them in healthy ways.

Helpful Summer Screen Strategies

Create predictable screen times instead of all-day access
Keep devices out of bedrooms overnight
Encourage screen-free meals and family time
Prioritize movement, outdoor play, reading, creativity, and social interaction before recreational screen use
Use parental controls as support, not punishment
Model healthy screen habits yourself when possible

Try the “First, Then” Approach

Instead of constant negotiations:

“First outside time, then screens.”
“First reading, then gaming.”
“First chores, then YouTube.”

Clear expectations reduce arguments and decision fatigue.

Watch for Signs of Too Much Screen Time

Some children become more irritable, anxious, emotionally reactive, or have more difficulty sleeping after extended screen use.

If you notice major mood or behavior changes, consider scaling back gradually and increasing other activities.

If you're concerned about your child's emotional well-being or need help managing screen-related behavior, call the office to see if scheduling with our Behavioral Health Clinician, Sean , is right for your family.

What to Do About “I’m Bored!”

Boredom is not an emergency. Children often discover creativity, problem-solving, and independence after working through the discomfort of being bored.

Instead of immediately fixing boredom, try responding with:

“What are three things you could do?”
“Would you like an active idea or a creative idea?”
“This sounds like a good chance to use your imagination.”

Create a “Boredom List”

Before summer gets busy, work together to make a list of ideas children can choose from independently. Ideas might include:

Water play
Sidewalk chalk
Building forts
Reading
Cooking or baking
Craft kits
Obstacle courses
Bike rides
Library visits
Puzzles
Board games
Journaling
Music playlists
Volunteering
Neighborhood scavenger hunts

Younger children often do best with visual choice boards or jars filled with activity ideas.

Summer Bedtimes Still Matter

Even without school, children and teens still need sleep for mood regulation, attention, learning, growth, and mental health.

Summer does not require a rigid school-year bedtime, but completely abandoning routines can make the transition back to school difficult.

Tips for Healthier Summer Sleep

Keep wake times within about 1 hour of the school-year schedule when possible
Maintain a calming bedtime routine
Limit screens 1–2 hours before bed
Encourage daylight exposure and physical activity during the day
Avoid caffeine – especially energy drinks

How Much Sleep Do Kids Need?

Preschoolers: 10–13 hours
School-age children: 9–12 hours
Teens: 8–10 hours

Many teens naturally shift later in the summer, but extremely late schedules can worsen mood, anxiety, and daytime functioning.

To learn more about helping kids sleep, see our Insomnia Tips .

A Few Final Reminders

Summer does not need to look perfect on social media to be meaningful.

Children benefit most from:

Feeling connected
Having opportunities for play
Spending time outside
Getting enough sleep
Having supportive relationships
Learning how to manage downtime and boredom

Some days will feel balanced and productive. Other days may involve popsicles, pajamas, and more screen time than planned. That is normal.

Wishing your family a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer from all of us at Pediatric Partners!

Testimonials

1 week ago

TB

Nurse Shelby is our hero! My 10-year-old is terrified of needles and was stressed the morning of her appointment. Shelby was so patient, calm, and reassuring that my daughter got through both her finger poke and shot like a champ… no tears, no kicking, no screaming. By the end of the visit, she was even asking for Shelby again when we scheduled our next appointment.

I’m so g rateful for the kindness and patience Shelby demonstrated. Experiences like this truly help build a child’s confidence and create a more positive attitude toward doctor visits and vaccinations in the future.

KS

I love Pediatric Partners and the care they give my children. Dr. Tina Khaleghi is an exceptional physician. She is incredibly thorough and clearly very knowledgeable, and I truly appreciate that she bases her decisions on evidence-based care. She is kind, patient, and always takes the time to explain things in a way that’s easy to understand, which makes a big difference as a parent. I also want to recognize her nurse, Ashley D, who is wonderful—kind, professional, and always helpful. Together, they make every visit feel supportive and reassuring. I feel confident knowing my children are in such great care. Highly recommend.

4 months ago

4 weeks ago

BP

Dr Mellick always answers all our questions and has great approach to kids. Pediatric Partners website has great additional resource for common questions and medication doses. I appreciate all treatment and recommendations are always based on most current medical knowledge. Mrs. Loren was very helpful with taking test samples and showed lots of patience. I strongly recommend this practice.

Welcome to Summer

Thu, 21 May 2026 12:00:00 GMT

May 21, 2026

Wishing you a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend !

As we head into the unofficial start of summer, we hope you enjoy time with family, sunshine, and a little extra rest. We also pause to honor and remember the service members who gave their lives for our country.

Our office will be closed on Monday in observance of the holiday . We’ll reopen on Tuesday, ready to care for your families. As always, our triage line is open for your urgent needs that cannot be found within our website's helpful resources .

Have a safe, relaxing holiday and a wonderful summer kick‑off.

School's out — which means more time outdoors, travel, and adventure for your family. At Pediatric Partners, we want every child in our practice — from your newest newborn to your college-bound teen — to have a safe and healthy season. Here are our top tips to make this summer the best one yet.

☀ Sun, Water & Heat Safety

Sunscreen & Sun Protection

• Use SPF 30 or higher broad-spectrum sunscreen on all exposed skin — reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.

• Babies under 6 months: keep them out of direct sun entirely. If unavoidable, minimal SPF 30 mineral sunscreen on small exposed areas is acceptable.

• Dress kids in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats whenever possible.

• Seek shade during peak UV hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Water & Pool Safety

• Never leave a child unattended near water — not even for a moment.

• Designate a "water watcher" at every pool or beach gathering — one adult whose only job is watching the water.

• Life jackets (Coast Guard-approved) for boats and open water. Arm floaties are not safety devices.

• Swimming lessons are one of the most important safety investments you can make, even for toddlers.

• Hot tubs: children under 5 should avoid them entirely; older kids should limit time due to overheating risk.

Heat & Hydration

• Never leave a child in a parked car — temperatures can become dangerous within minutes, even with windows cracked.

• Encourage frequent water breaks — kids may not feel thirsty until they're already dehydrated.

• Signs of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, cool/pale/clammy skin, fast weak pulse, nausea, muscle cramps. Move to a cool area and hydrate immediately.

• Signs of heat stroke (a medical emergency): high body temp (103°F+), hot/red/dry skin, rapid strong pulse, possible unconsciousness. Call 911.

For more tips on keeping your family protected, visit our Safety resources page.

�� Age-by-Age Summer Guide

Summer fun looks different at every stage. Here's what to keep in mind for your child:

Newborns & Infants (0–12 months)

• Keep babies out of direct sunlight — shade, hats, and light clothing are your best tools.

• Heat regulation is immature in newborns; watch for signs of overheating (flushed skin, rapid breathing, no tears when crying).

• Breastfed babies don't need water supplements in the heat — breast milk or formula is sufficient hydration.

• Travel internationally? Schedule a pre-travel visit with us — even infants may need vaccines depending on destination.

Toddlers & Preschoolers (1–5 years)

• Water tables, sprinklers, and small pools are wonderful — but constant adult supervision is non-negotiable.

• Sunscreen should be part of the morning routine before any outdoor play.

• Carry water everywhere and offer it frequently — toddlers get distracted and forget to drink.

• Bug spray: DEET is safe in children over 2 months (up to 30%). Apply to clothing and exposed skin, avoiding hands, eyes, and mouth.

• Playground equipment in direct sun can cause burns — check metal slides and surfaces before your child uses them.

School-Age Children (6–12 years)

• Now is a great time for swim lessons if they haven't had them — and a great time for kids to learn basic water safety rules.

• Helmet use for bikes, scooters, and skateboards — every single time, no exceptions.

• Encourage at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, but watch for signs of overheating during vigorous play.

• Screen time naturally increases in summer — build in outdoor time and family activities to maintain balance.

• Sports physicals: if your child needs a sports physical for fall activities, schedule now before the back-to-school rush.

Tweens & Teens (13–18 years)

• Teens often resist sunscreen — remind them that UV damage accumulates and that even one blistering sunburn in youth significantly increases lifetime skin cancer risk.

• Driving safety: if your teen is a new driver, reinforce no phone use while driving, and be especially cautious in summer when pedestrian and bicycle traffic increases.

• Peer pressure around swimming and alcohol at summer parties is real — keep communication open.

• Energy drinks are not appropriate hydration for sports or outdoor activity — water and electrolyte drinks are better choices.

• Remind teens that heat affects athletic performance and that training in high heat requires extra caution.

Young Adults (18+)

• Heading abroad for a study program, service trip, or gap year travel? Schedule a travel medicine consultation 4–6 weeks before departure.

• Make sure routine vaccines (meningitis, HPV series, Tdap) are current.

• Sunscreen matters just as much at 19 as it did at 9.

• Mental health check-ins matter — summer transitions can be a stressful time for young adults.

We will continue to see you until you wish to transfer, turn 23 years old, or finish your undergraduate program, whichever comes first. When you're ready to find an adult care provider, please request that we transfer your records by completing this form and sending it to office@pediatricpartnerskc.com.

✈ Traveling INTERNATIONALLY? Plan Ahead!

⏰ Schedule your pre-travel visit 4–6 weeks before departure

Some vaccines require multiple doses or time to take full effect — the earlier you call, the better protected your child will be.

Traveling internationally with kids is an amazing experience — and a little preparation goes a long way. Depending on your destination, your child may need vaccines or medications not part of their routine schedule, including:

• Hepatitis A and Typhoid — recommended for most travel to developing countries

• Malaria prevention medication — recommended for many regions in Africa, Asia, and Central/South America

• Yellow Fever vaccine — required for entry into certain countries but only available at certified travel clinics

• Traveler's diarrhea guidance — what to pack, what to do if it happens

Where to research your destination's requirements:

• CDC.gov/travel - CDC's travel site searchable by destination

• Travel Health Pro ( travelhealthpro.org.uk ) — UK's national travel health resource, highly regarded and publicly accessible

Call our office to schedule a pre-travel consultation and we'll review your itinerary, your child's vaccine history, and any medications or health items to pack.

�� A Few Reminders

• When are visits recommended?

Well-child visits: Annual well visits or physicals are recommended once a year after 3 years of age and more often prior to that. Summer is a great time to schedule annual checkups but spots fill quickly. Schedule through your portal or call the office to schedule soon.
Sports and camp physicals can be done at your annual well child visit as long as they are completed during the timeframe required on the form. If your child has already had a well visit outside the timeframe and is not eligible for another well visit, call to schedule a sports physical. Learn more about well vs sports physicals .
Anxiety and depression that are managed medically require frequent follow-up visits with the prescriber until symptoms are stable. After that, follow-up with the prescribing clinician is usually recommended every 3–6 months. Some visits may be appropriate for telehealth. Therapy is recommended along with medication for the best treatment outcomes. Medications should not be stopped without a plan from the prescriber, and follow-up after stopping medication is important to monitor for returning symptoms. Working with a mental health professional for therapy is also recommended. We have a clinical social worker who is available. Learn more about our integrated mental and behavioral health services.
Asthma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing monitoring. Anyone using medication to control wheezing or breathing symptoms should be seen at least every 6 months while well to update their Asthma Action Plan and adjust or refill medications as needed.
ADHD requires regular follow-up to ensure adequate symptom control, whether a patient is taking medication or managing symptoms without medication. Patients taking stimulant medications should be seen at least every 3 months for monitoring and prescription management, in accordance with federal controlled substance regulations. Patients taking non-stimulant medications are generally seen every 3–6 months, depending on symptom control. Some ADHD follow-ups may be appropriate for telehealth.
When a child is sick or injured , a visit is needed to evaluate symptoms, make a diagnosis, and create a treatment plan. Phone calls and portal messages alone are not enough to safely manage most illnesses or injuries. We offer walk-in hours, scheduled visits, and telehealth when appropriate. Our staff can help determine the best type of visit for your situation.

• Health forms: Need health forms completed for summer camp or sports? Call ahead — we need at least 5 business days and a visit may be needed if your child's last annual well visit was outside the date range needed for the form. We require that the parent/student sections are completed before we will sign any form. Please complete your sections before sending us the form.

Wishing your family a safe, healthy, and joy-filled summer!

Welcome to "Growing Together with Pediatric Partners"

Sun, 10 May 2026 01:58:16 GMT

Our first edition marks the conclusion of the school year and the arrival of summer, featuring valuable tips on preventing summer brain drain and managing stressful transition periods for your family. We're also excited to invite you to a free online parenting summit happening this week. Over 35 parenting experts will provide insights and resources—Dr. Stuppy is just one of them, and she encourages you to explore all of the guest speakers.

To all of you who are mothers:

Wishing you a day filled with love, laughter, and all the little joys you deserve. Happy Mother’s Day! ��

A Quick Reminder: Schedule your Summer well visits asap!

For many, summer is also a time to come in for an annual well visit and to get forms for sports, camps, and school completed. If you haven't yet scheduled an annual physical, log into your portal with the button above or call the office to schedule it today! Summer spots fill quickly. Remember that these are times to check growth and development, do routine screenings, update immunizations if needed, and fill out needed school and camp forms. This is not the time to delve into things that are concerning you. A dedicated visit to address problems or concerns is best.

May 10, 2026

Welcome to the first edition of Growing Together with Pediatric Partners , our new bi-monthly newsletter!

Inside each edition you’ll find practice updates, practical parenting advice, a look at what’s going around town and tips for handling things at home — plus how to know when it’s best to bring your child in.

Congratulations to Dr. Mellick and Dr. Khaleghi!

We are also so proud to celebrate Dr. Khaleghi for being honored with the Rising Star Award from the Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics!

This award recognizes early-career pediatricians who are making meaningful, lasting impacts on children’s health and physician well-being through their work in practice, community, and beyond—and Dr. Khaleghi is a perfect example of that mission in action.

Her dedication to supporting families in our community has been incredible. From launching breastfeeding support groups in partnership with Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County (ITSJC), to securing grants to sustain the program, to personally spreading the word in newborn nurseries, libraries, and online—her passion and commitment truly stand out.

We are proud to partner with ITSJC to offer free monthly lactation support groups, open to all breastfeeding families—not just our patients. You can learn more on our website's lactation (breastfeeding) page under Services on the menu.

We are thrilled to share that Dr. Jennifer Mellick has been awarded the Dennis M. Cooley Advocacy Award , a national honor recognizing pediatricians who make a meaningful impact on state and federal policy to improve children’s health.

For those who know Dr. Mellick, this recognition comes as no surprise. Her calm leadership, thoughtful advocacy, and unwavering commitment to kids and families shine far beyond the exam room.

We are also incredibly fortunate to have her as our Managing Partner . Dr. Mellick’s dedication to making Pediatric Partners a high‑quality, patient‑centered practice — and her commitment to supporting our staff — is the reason we’re able to do what we do every day. Her vision and steady guidance shape the culture we’re so proud of.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Mellick on this well‑deserved honor. We’re proud to have her leading our team and grateful for the work she does to make Kansas — and the country — a healthier place for children.

Need parenting support?

Parenting a child with ADHD comes with unique challenges — but you don’t have to navigate it alone! ��

Dr. Stuppy is thrilled to invite you to the Parenting Your ADHD Kid Summit , where 35+ top experts will share invaluable strategies to help you create a more peaceful, connected, and thriving home.

If you’re ready to stop feeling overwhelmed and start parenting with more confidence and ease, then you won’t want to miss the Parenting Your ADHD Kid Summit! Ov er 35 experts in ADHD, parenting, and child development for this complimentary summit on:

✔️ Build sensory-smart routines for your ADHD child

✔️ Make informed decisions about ADHD medication

✔️ Use diet and nutrition to support focus and behavior

✔️ Understand how ADHD shows up differently in girls

✔️ Discipline with connection—not yelling, shame, or punishment

… and so much more!

The event is LIVE May 11th-May 17th - don't miss signing up today.

As the final weeks of the semester approach, the excitement for summer often leads to a dip in focus. However, finishing the academic year with intention is crucial for a child's confidence and long-term academic success. We see many families struggle with the "end-of-year slump."

To keep your child engaged, start by conducting a "final sprint" organization check. Help them clean out their backpacks, organize remaining assignments, and visualize the finish line. When kids see exactly what is left on their plate, the overwhelming feeling of the year's end becomes manageable. Maintaining a standard bedtime and morning routine until the very last day is also essential. While it is tempting to let things slide, the brain thrives on predictability during transitions.

Encourage your child to reflect on their successes this year. Ask questions like, "What was your favorite project?" or "What are you most proud of learning?" This positive reinforcement anchors their hard work and makes the transition into summer feel like a reward for a job well done, rather than just an escape from work.

If you notice significant gaps in your child's progress, school avoidance, or other concerning behaviors, check out our ADHD and Mental Health pages for resources to support your child.

What is summer brain drain and how do you prevent it?

Summer brain drain, often called "summer slide," refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge that occurs when school is not in session. Research suggests that students can lose up to two months of mathematical skills and significant reading proficiency over the summer months. Preventing this doesn't mean recreating an eight-hour school day at home; it means integrating learning into everyday life.

Preventing skill loss is about consistency over intensity. You can keep your child's mind sharp by following these simple strategies:

The 20-Minute Reading Rule : Ensure your child reads for at least 20 minutes a day. Whether it's a graphic novel, a sports magazine, or a fantasy series, keeping the habit of daily reading is vital.
Real-World Math : Use grocery shopping or cooking to practice fractions, addition, and percentages. Asking a child to calculate how much to measure when doubling a recipe or finding the total price of three items keeps those math "muscles" active.
Educational Travel : A trip to a local museum or park can be a learning opportunity. Build upon the experience at home with age-appropriate projects related to what you learn. Go to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art building on the Johnson County Community College campus and then make art at home. Visit the Museum at Prairiefire then go to the library to find books about dinosaurs.
Writing for Fun : Encourage journaling about summer adventures or writing postcards to grandparents. This maintains fine motor skills and sentence structure - and grandparents or other friends and family will love to get the updates!
Gamified Learning : Use reputable educational apps or board games that require strategy and logic. Ask your child's teacher for suggestions before school is out or check out the list on Commonsense Media .

By framing these activities as "summer fun" rather than "school work," you reduce resistance and help your child view learning as a lifelong pursuit.

How to reduce family stress during transitions?

Transitioning into summer shouldn't be a source of constant conflict. Reducing family stress starts with setting realistic expectations. The first week of summer is often a "decompression week." Expect some irritability or boredom as your child’s brain adjusts to the change in pace. Instead of filling every hour with activities, allow for some downtime while keeping the basic structure of meals and sleep intact.

Effective communication is also key. Sit down as a family and create a "Summer Bucket List." This gives everyone a sense of agency and something to look forward to. When kids feel they have a say in their schedule, they are more likely to cooperate with the non-negotiable parts of the day, like chores or reading time.

If the transition feels particularly difficult, our Integrated Behavioral Health team is here to support you. We can help develop strategies tailored to your child's temperament and your family's needs. Remember, the goal of summer is to recharge. By balancing fun with a small amount of academic maintenance, you ensure your child returns to school in August feeling confident and ready to learn.

Key Takeaways for a Strong Summer:

Maintain Routines : Stick to consistent bedtimes and morning habits through the end of the school year.
Combat Brain Drain : Incorporate 20 minutes of daily reading and real-world math to keep skills sharp.
Prioritize Well-being : Balance structured activities with necessary downtime to reduce family stress.
Stay Active : Encourage at least 60 minutes of active play each day. Visit parks, pools, and trails. Play sports with a team or friends and family near your home.

Another local free resource:

We are also fortunate to have an incredible local resource: ADHDKC , our local CHADD Chapter. They offer monthly free events to learn about managing ADHD and related conditions for adults, middle and high schoolers, and parents.

These meetings are a fantastic way to learn from experts and peers right here in the Kansas City area. Connecting with other families who "get it" can be the most effective way to reduce the isolation that sometimes comes with neurodiversity.

Dr. Stuppy leads the online group for 10-18 year olds, ADHDKCTeen and interviews the upcoming parent group speakers for ADHDKC Conversations , and would love to see your family learn with ADHDKC!

How can parents help kids end the school year strong?

Testimonials

Pediatric Partners has been a blessing for my family. Their convenience location, pristine offices, friendly staff, and wonderful providers make this practice the perfect fit for our family. We never have issues making an appointment. Providers are very responsive through portal messaging. I love the walk in hours. Overall, could not be happier with the care my kids receive.

Jennifer Pestinger

Everyone here was friendly and knowledgeable. They made the experience of changing pediatricians a little less stressful for me as a mom, and my son was instantly more comfortable with the pediatrician in particular. He never really warmed up to the one's we saw in Colorado.

K elley Self

Jacqueline Rutherford

Growing Together with Pediatric Partners

Fri, 01 May 2026 12:03:35 GMT

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