Uncategorized

Extrinsic rewarding is giving prizes for behaviors, children become motivated to do a task because of the future prize.

Intrinsic motivation is when a child does the task because of its inherently rewarding behaviors (such as self-achievement, fun, empowerment) instead of looking for an outside reward. When kids are looking forward to and waiting for that treat at the end the task actually takes longer, it’s harder, and it’s done half way… sound familiar?

Studies show rewards and punishments are counterproductive and undermine “intrinsic motivation”. Extrinsic motivation negatively correlated with academic outcomes. Intrinsic motivation is associated with higher academic performance and many other positive future outcomes.

So how do you stop giving your kids rewards for everything?

1. First is breaking the practice and offer explanations. Now instead of saying “Go clean your room so you can earn TV, sticker, treat” consider why they need to do what you want them to do and say that instead. “It’s been awhile since the clothes and toys have been picked up in your room and it’s hard to find things, today is a great day to get organized!”. Then follow suggestions below:
2. Redirection- describe the emotions you feel when things are completed like organized toys (joy, freedom, happy when you can find a toy faster or your shoe in the morning), dancing around a clean room and not tripping, having fun while doing the task (we play songs and dance in between). When the focus is on the task and not on the candy at the end the task it is more enjoyable and is completed faster.
3. Success Follows Success– When kids are winning they work harder. Break down tasks in small manageable pieces. Kids (and humans) need gratification and  feeling of accomplishment to stay motivated. “You pick up the red blocks and I pick the yellow and blue, wow you worked hard picking it up”. “You think next time you could get ALL the blocks? (New goal)”.
4. Find them doing things right– “Thank you for being patient while I finish up what I’m doing, I can’t wait to play with you” “ Wow, you are stacking those blocks well” “ Thank you for sharing with your sister, she is so happy.” “Thanks for turning off the TV and coming to eat”. Be specific on what they did.
5. Give Greater Hope– Understand their dreams and aspirations and help them work toward them. (Possible Selves Theory)
6. Growth Mindset– Read the book Bubble Gum Brain with kids (learn about having a growth mindset, that you can develop talents through hard work and talents aren’t something you lack or have. Helps with willingness to try challenging tasks)

Use extrinsic motivation for intrinsic motivation!! What is this? Reward your child if they show growth and self-motivation but not a known prize they will get automatically. Like if they worked hard at making their bed in the morning you can leave a toy or treat for them at breakfast or in their bed recognizing how proud you are of them.

Think about how you were motivated as a kid. Are the tasks you were extrinsically motivated to do harder to do now? Or less likely for you to do? It’s never too late to change!

For more help and questions schedule an appointment today with Dr. Gonzalez!

Schedule a meet and greet to learn more about the practice: bluemonarchpediatrics.com

Throughout your whole pregnancy, you are supported by your care team which may include your OB/GYN physician, midwife, doula and/or other supportive coaches. Before your first baby visit you will have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Gonzalez for a prenatal visit to address any questions from lactation to how to put on a diaper.  Once your baby is born you will text Dr. Gonzalez directly to let her know about the birth of your baby (photos are appreciated!)

When your little bundle of joy reaches at least a week old, they are due for their very first visit with their pediatrician. A pediatrician is a doctor that specializes in the overall well-being of children. Dr. Gonzalez is a board certified pediatrician and certified integrative medicine physician. If you are a first-time parent – you might be wondering about the things to expect during your baby’s first trip to the pediatrician?

Bringing the Baby Necessities

Your baby’s first visit to the pediatrician is a milestone for your growing family. To make it a smooth, hassle-free one, preparation is key. Pack up all your essential items for the visit which includes extra diapers, pacifiers and bottles if baby is using them, extra change of clothing,  wipes, and extra milk if needed. Bring your nursing pillow and pump. Dr. Gonzalez likes to see how your baby latches and teach proper technique on the breast and bottle (if using  a bottle at this time).

Bundle Up Your Baby in Comfortable Clothing

As your newborn is still adjusting to their new environment – transitioning from the comforts of their mother’s uterus to the outside world- it is natural for them to feel extra fuzzy and startled if they feel something new, which may occur during their first visit with their pediatrician. This is why it’s important to let them wear something more comfortable and cozy since the pediatrician will most likely conduct a full-body examination. Also bring a spare!

Prepare All Your Baby’s Personal Information

As it is the first visit with your baby’s doctor, please bring the delivery note from the hospital or from your midwife. Any information from the first day of life until birth is important during this first visit.

The Body Movement Check

Dr. Gonzalez will meet you at the clinic door to congratulate you on your new baby, once inside  expect her to ask lots of questions and give any advice (if necessary) about ways to keep the baby consistently healthy. She will also seek information about the baby’s feeding pattern, and address any questions on breastfeeding or bottle feeding to keep your child growing and healthy.

After which, she will begin conducting certain movement checks to see if there are any underlying issues that can be pre-empted from escalating:

• Head. Your baby’s pediatrician will check for this during the first two years of the visit, where they will be monitoring the soft fontanel in your baby’s skull, which plays an important role in their brain development.
• Neck and Collarbone. This is one of the very first spots that pediatricians look into as they check for any broken bones in the area which may have occurred during childbirth. It’s a common fracture occurrence for some babies, but one that can heal itself in the course of weeks provided that they are positioned accurately, upon the recommendation of the doctor.
• Hips. The is essential for the baby’s mobility and prevention of dysplasia – an abnormal growth in cells that may cause malformation in the long run. Your baby’s pediatrician will check for this for every visit up to the time that your baby can walk.
• Pulse. During this type of check-up, your pediatrician is after any potential signs of an underlying heart condition, which is why this is being conducted for every visit.
• Reflex. The pediatrician is on the lookout for any signs of neurological problems. They check the way the baby grasps and the way they react when startled. This may done during the first four visits.
• Genitalia. The pediatrician will want to ensure that your baby has normal genitalia and will be on the lookout for any problems that may trigger problems such as urinary tract infection (UTI) or need surgical assistance for incorrect formation such as the testicles for male babies specifically.

Have Your Baby’s First Pediatrician Visit at Blue Monarch Pediatrics

If you are residing in Texas, we at Blue Monarch Pediatrics are happy to see you and your little bundle of joy for your very first medical check-up. We believe that this is one of the most crucial moments in your life as parents and for your little ones as well, and we want to make it worth the while to ensure that they start off in the best possible way. Feel free to head to our website and we’d happy to assist you with any inquiries you may have. We look forward to seeing you and your little bundle of joy soon!

A popular Whitney Houston song once said, “I believe the children are our future”;  and we think she couldn’t have been more right. We believe that a child is full of potential, which is why they deserve to get the best healthcare as they grow up. This is where pediatricians jump in. Just like parents, these doctors play an active role in a child’s healthy growth and development.

When to Visit a Pediatrician?

Pediatricians spring into action the moment a child is born into this world and would usually span until they reach 18 years old. A regular visit to your child’s pediatrician for a check-up is highly recommended, especially during their first few weeks.

If you are a first-time parent, it may leave you feeling clueless about how regular or frequent a visit to the pediatrician should be. For instance, should it be on a weekly basis? Monthly? Or yearly? Don’t fret though! It’s normal, and that’s what we’re here for. We care about your child just as much as you do.

A trip to a pediatrician’s clinic may be very frequent especially if your child is very young or has a health complication that needs extra monitoring or attention; as they grow older though, it may be reduced to an annual visit.

To help clear the air for your mind, we have rounded up the most top reasons to visit a pediatrician below.

Newborn Check-Up

Now that your little bundle of joy is out and about, they need all the protection they can get as they work on growing and stabilizing their immune system, which is considered to be extra fragile at such a state. That is why a newborn check-up should be included in your health care checklist for your little one. A pediatrician may take at least an hour to assess your newborn’s well-being. This usually takes place as early as the first week, and from there, the doctor will evaluate your baby’s health and wellness, and determine if there are any health complications that may need an immediate course of action.

Vaccinations and Immunizations

As your baby’s immune system is still developing and strengthening itself, getting a vaccinations can help protect them from various diseases. It begins from as early as childbirth up until they are over a year old. You can discuss with your pediatrician any questions or concerns you have with immunizations during your appointment.

Nutrition and Diet

A pediatrician also checks if your child is getting the right amount of nutrients and will make further recommendations based on their findings if necessary. As your child grows older, they have a tendency to become extra picky of what they eat, and this is where pediatricians can impart their expertise about what to do so you can keep track of your child’s nutritional intake.

Coughs and Colds

While these are very common occurrences in children, it is still important that they see their pediatrician as it may lead to further spread of bacteria and virus. Remember that a child’s immune system is not yet as stabilized as that of an adult’s so they need extra care and monitoring.

Annual Physician’s Check-Up

Annual Check ups focus on so many different factors including emotional and social development, growth, mental health, immune system health and screenings from as young as 1 day old to 18 years. Regardless of their health condition, it’s highly recommendable to visit your pediatrician at least on an annual basis. This will help maintain their health and will help pediatricians spot any potential or underlying health complications from escalating further.

Blue Monarch Pediatrics: Your Child’s Health is Our Top Priority

If you are living in Texas and you find yourself seeking the expertise of a child healthcare profession, we hope you consider us at Blue Monarch Pediatrics as your go-to people! We want to make your child’s visit a helpful, meaningful, and personalized one every step of the way. We offer house calls and even virtual telemedicine where you may consult with us about your child’s health condition within the comfort of your home. For any inquiries please contact us!