February is often called the “Month of Love.” It’s a time when we focus on kindness, connection, and caring for one another. At Augusta Pediatric Associates, we believe love goes far beyond cards and candy. One of the most meaningful gifts parents and caregivers can give is helping children develop the emotional skills they need…

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can affect children of all ages. While it may start out looking like a simple cold, whooping cough can become serious, especially for infants and young babies. Knowing the symptoms and when to contact your pediatrician can make a critical difference. What Is…

When your child isn’t feeling well, it’s natural to want the quickest fix possible. Many parents ask whether an antibiotic will help their child feel better faster, but antibiotics aren’t always the right solution. In fact, using antibiotics when they aren’t needed can actually do more harm than good. So, when are antibiotics called for…

The holidays are a season of joy, surprises, and gift-giving — but they can also bring hidden hazards. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 200,000 toy-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2020. Most of these patients were children 4 years old or younger. In order to enjoy…

A common question we get asked when the temperatures drop each year is “Can my child wear a winter coat in her car seat?” Great question!  The short answer is: Yes, your child can stay warm and safe — but only if the car seat harness fits properly underneath or around that winter layer. Why…

Your baby’s first few months are filled with little moments that mean big things—especially when it comes to hearing and communication. Between one and three months, your baby begins to connect with the world of sound in wonderful new ways. You may notice your baby smiling when they hear your voice, turning toward familiar sounds,…

One of the first noticeable signs that your child is entering puberty might not be a growth spurt—it might be a stronger body odor. Whether it’s after a long day at school, a sports practice, or just sitting in their room, that “tween scent” is perfectly normal and signals that their body is maturing.  Every…

Bullying is a tough subject—but an important one. Whether your child is being bullied or you discover that they are bullying others, it can be difficult to know how to respond. Both situations can feel overwhelming for parents, but open and honest conversations are key to guiding children toward healthier, safer behaviors. If your child…

Halloween is a night full of excitement for many families! Dressing up in costumes, participating in spooky fun, and of course, going trick-or-treating are highlights for many of our children. However, for families managing food allergies, trick-or-treating can feel more stressful than fun. Many popular treats contain common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, milk, soy,…

If your infant seems fussier than usual, you might be wondering whether those first baby teeth are on the way. Teething is a major milestone in your child’s development—and while it can be uncomfortable, understanding the process can help you ease your baby’s discomfort (and get a little relief for yourself, too). When Do Babies…