Keeping your family healthy is always our top priority—and we’re happy to share that COVID-19 vaccines are now in stock for all age groups. Immunization appointments are open and available, and we are offering the vaccine to everyone who wants it, not just high-risk patients.
Why Vaccination Matters
COVID-19 continues to circulate in our communities, and vaccination remains one of the best ways to protect children and families. Vaccines help reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and missed school or activities due to infection.
Open Appointments for All Ages
Whether you’re scheduling for a young child, teen, or yourself, our team is ready to help. Our providers make the process easy, comfortable, and tailored to pediatric needs.
How to Schedule
Appointments are available now. Simply contact our office to choose a time that works for your family.
Keeping your child healthy starts with prevention. Schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment today by calling 847-295-1220.
Thank you for your trust in Lake Forest Pediatrics 💙
Introducing Dr. Katie Hidaka – Your Go-To Guru on the Magical Motherhood Adventure!
Pregnancy is like embarking on a grand, beautiful voyage, and at Lake Forest Pediatrics, Dr. Katie Hidaka is your trusty guide, making sure every soon-to-be mom feels knowledgeable, supported, and like a superhero from day one.
With a treasure chest full of prenatal wisdom and breastfeeding wizardry, Dr. Hidaka is all about blending her medical smarts with a kindness that makes you feel like you’re chatting with a good friend. Her prenatal visits? They’re like cozy pow-wows where you can fire away all your questions, get the low-down on newborn care, and start building a bond before the little one makes their grand entrance.
Exciting News Alert!
Mark your calendars for a FREE Prenatal & Breastfeeding Class with Dr. Hidaka on Wednesday, December 3rd at 6:30 PM in our Lake Bluff conference room. This cozy, one-hour shindig is packed with expert tips, practical advice, and a chance to ask every burning question you’ve got about your bundle of joy’s arrival.
Seats are Going Fast!
Use the QR Code below to snag your spot before the class is all booked up.
Craving a one-on-one Adventure?
Book a prenatal visit with Dr. Hidaka at Lake Forest Pediatrics – where the fantastic journey begins way before your little star is born.
Here at Lake Forest Pediatric Associates we understand that flu season can be a source of concern for many families. Each year, our pediatricians focus on providing guidance and support to help you and your child stay healthy during this time. We’re here to ensure you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your child’s and family’s health.
Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. Caused by influenza viruses, it is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
The board-certified pediatricians at Lake Forest Pediatric Associates have extensive experience diagnosing and treating children experiencing flu-like symptoms. Call (847) 295-1220 to schedule an appointment at our pediatric clinic
Flu Season Updates for 2025–2026
Flu season is just around the corner, and getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
For the 2025–2026 flu season, the CDC suggests using single-dose flu vaccines that do not contain thimerosal (a preservative). These are especially recommended for children, pregnant women, and adults.
On March 13, 2025, the FDA shared its guidance on which flu virus strains should be included in this season’s vaccines.
A few important updates for this year:
In September 2024, the FDA approved FluMist, a nasal spray flu vaccine, for self-administration or for use by a caregiver.
In March 2025, the FDA expanded approval for Flublok, a recombinant flu vaccine, so it can now be given to people 9 years and older (it was previously approved for ages 18 and up).
There are several safe and effective flu vaccines available this season. If you’re not sure which one is right for you or your family, talk with your healthcare provider — they can help you choose the best option for your age and health needs.
Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?
The flu can be especially tough on children, which is why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older gets vaccinated each flu season. Each year, the influenza virus changes, making it crucial for your family to get the vaccine annually during the fall. By getting the flu shot, you’re not just helping to shield your child; you’re also playing a vital role in keeping your community healthy. As flu season approaches, understanding the timing and importance of immunization becomes even more essential.
Flu Season and Immunization
Flu season can start as early as October and last until May, with most cases occurring between December and February. Stay informed about local flu outbreaks by calling Lake Forest Pediatric Associates to find out when the peak flu season is in your area.
Be sure to schedule an appointment for your child’s flu shot as soon as it becomes available. You can get the flu vaccine at Lake Forest Pediatric Associates office in Lake Bluff, Lindenhurst, and Vernon Hills,IL as well as at most pharmacies and school health centers.
Flu vaccines for this 2024-25 season protect against three strains of influenza viruses: two A and one B. Even if vaccinated, it’s still possible to contract the flu, but getting the flu shot remains the best preventive measure.
What Are Flu Symptoms in Children?
Flu symptoms in children can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes respiratory congestion. Some children may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. While these symptoms can resemble those of a common cold, the flu can become severe and lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable populations like young children and those with weakened immune systems.
Influenza spreads easily, especially in the first few days of illness. It is common in preschool and school-aged children, as well as in college students and teenagers during outbreaks, typically in winter.
How Can I Protect My Family From the Flu?
To help prevent the flu, the CDC recommends several measures for you and your child:
Avoid close contact. Keep your distance from sick individuals, and if you’re unwell, try to limit contact with others.
Stay home when sick. This helps prevent the spread of germs and ensures you get the rest you need.
Cover your mouth and nose. Use a tissue or your elbow when sneezing or coughing to prevent virus spread.
Keep hands clean. Wash hands frequently, especially after being in public or after sneezing and coughing.
Avoid touching your face. Viruses can enter your body through your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Practice good health habits. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, ensure adequate sleep, eat nutritious foods, and stay hydrated.
Teach these habits to your child so they can help prevent flu transmission when you’re not around.
Flu Treatment in Lake Bluff, Lindenhurst, and Vernon Hills, IL
Most flu cases can be treated at home with plenty of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications. Your body usually fights off the infection on its own.
If diagnosed with the flu, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medications. For questions about over-the-counter medications to relieve flu symptoms, contact Lake Forest Pediatric Associates
When Is the Flu an Emergency in Children?
Seek immediate medical care if your child with the flu exhibits any of the following symptoms:
Trouble breathing or abnormal rapid breathing
Bluish face or lips
Ribs pulling in with each breath
Chest pain
Severe muscle pain
Signs of dehydration (no urination for 8 hours, dry mouth, crying without tears)
Unresponsiveness or not alert when awake
Seizures
Fever above 104°F, or any fever in infants under 12 weeks
Worsening fever/cough symptoms that seem to improve and then return
Worsening chronic medical conditions, such as asthma
There are some discrepancies about exactly when a child’s eyes should be screened or examined. The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests eye screenings for newborns, again for babies between 6 months and one year, babies between one year and 3 years, and again for children between 3 years and age 5. These screenings are usually performed by your child’s pediatrician and their purpose is to look for any abnormalities. They are different from eye exams. So when should your child have their first eye exam?
What Are the Purpose of Early Screenings?
The American Optometric Associationrecommends that children who are 3 to 5 years old should have a in-person optometric eye exam. These screening can indicate if your child has any problems with their ocular alignment or the light reflex of their pupils.
In addition they are useful if someone in the family has an eye disease or eye problem like crossed eyes (strabismus) or lazy eyes (amblyopia). This can give the a head start at looking at a possible problem.
Eye Exams Are More Comprehensive
If any red flags are noticed by you or your pediatrician, an eye exam might be the next step. This could happen before starting school or even earlier.
Red flags could be:
Sitting too close to the television
Holding a book close to their eyes
Noticing their eyes are not straight together or one is moving outward or inward
If they don’t make eye contact
You might notice your child does not follow a moving object with his eyes or head.
What Tests Are Performed?
The following skills will be tested:
Visual acuity is discovering how well your child can see. During this part of the test your child will be reading letters from a chart.
Other tests will evaluate depth perception, recognition of color, eye muscles and how they are working together, and peripheral vision.
There will be a refraction to determine if there is any nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. A series of lenses are placed in front of each eye.
Your doctor will let you know if your child’s eyes will be dilated.
It is important to explain to your child ahead of time that none of the tests is painful and how each will work.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
A child doesn’t know if they aren’t seeing properly so they can’t tell you. With regular eye exams Personal Pediatrics can determine if your child has vision difficulties and how to treat them effectively before they interfere with learning.
Whether your child may need glasses for myopia, patching for lazy eye, has issues with strabismus, or any other vision problem, we are here to help.
As kids head back to school and daycare, flu season is just around the corner. While it may seem like a routine illness, influenza can be serious—especially for children with developing immune systems or chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes.
Each year, millions of children get sick with the flu, leading to missed school days, hospitalizations, and unfortunately a risk of death. There’s a safe and effective way to reduce those risks, however: the annual flu vaccine. Continue reading “Flu Shots for Kids: What to Know for the New School Year”→
The phrase “back to school” is met with groans from kids and cheers from parents. Some children are eager to see their friends again, but most would rather hang on to their relaxed summer routines—late nights, sleeping in, and a break from structure. But as fall approaches, it’s time to start preparing for a healthy and successful school year. Use this updated back-to-school health checklist to get your family ready for 2025–2026.
Ease Into a Healthy Sleep Routine
Don’t expect your child to adjust to a new bedtime overnight. Begin easing them into their school-year sleep schedule at least two weeks before the first day. Make gradual changes—if bedtime needs to be 8 PM, start with 9 PM and move it back by 10 minutes each night. Do the same with morning wake-up times.
If they push back, smile and say: “You’ll thank me when school starts.”
Schedule School Physicals and Back-to-School Vaccines
Staying on top of your child’s health is one of the most important back-to-school tasks. Many states require updated immunizations before school begins, and your pediatrician can help ensure your child is fully protected. This includes their annual flu shot and any required back-to-school vaccines.
If your child plays sports, a physical may also be required. Schedule a visit with one of our pediatricians for a complete checkup and peace of mind.
Create Space for Conversations
Let your child know they can come to you with anything—whether they’re nervous about a new grade, changing schools, or facing challenges with friends.
Here are some helpful strategies:
Tour the school together before the year starts, especially if it’s a new environment.
Encourage open communication—let them know they can talk without fear of judgment.
Keep an eye on behavior changes or academic shifts. If your child seems withdrawn or anxious, talk to your pediatrician about support options.
Stick to a Predictable Routine
Routines give kids a sense of stability. Try to:
Keep consistent morning schedules.
Designate a quiet, organized spot for homework.
Make family dinners a time to connect.
Power down electronics 30 minutes before bedtime to promote better sleep.
Need help setting up a homework station? Make it fun! Let your child decorate the space to make it feel personal and inviting.
Review Allergy and Medication Management
If your child has food allergies, asthma, or takes daily medications, make sure their school has an updated action plan and necessary supplies (like EpiPens or inhalers).
Speak with your pediatrician to update forms and prescriptions before the first day.
Encourage Hand Hygiene and Germ Prevention
With cold, flu, RSV, and COVID still circulating, it’s smart to refresh your child’s knowledge on handwashing, coughing into elbows, and not sharing food or drinks.
Consider packing hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes in their backpack for quick use at school.
Don’t Overlook These Essentials
The basics matter—often more than we think.
Provide a nutritious breakfast each morning and enough time to eat it.
Pack healthy lunches and remind your child to stay hydrated.
Ensure they’re getting enough sleep, daily physical activity, and plenty of fresh air.
Healthy habits set the foundation for learning, focus, and emotional well-being.
Stay Engaged in Their Education
When parents show interest, children thrive. Ask about their homework, review their progress, and celebrate their strengths before offering feedback. Showing support sends a strong message: learning is important, and you’re on their team.
Beat the back-to-school rush, schedule a back-to-school physical and vaccination appointment today by calling Lake Forest Pediatrics at (847) 295-1220.
Sources:
Parenting.org – Back to School: 10 Days of Activities
They run you ragged, never stop moving, have more energy than a rabbit, and never want to settle down. Yes, you know we are talking about young children. With the warm weather on the way, parents should be knowledgeable about recognizing and preventing heat exhaustion in children. They won’t recognize it is happening, so it’s up to you to spot the signs.
These days, many children are spending less time outdoors—and more time in front of screens. While it’s easy to let kids stay inside, the long-term benefits of outdoor play for children’s development far outweigh the short-term convenience of indoor activities.
When kids step outside, they’re doing much more than playing—they’re building stronger bodies, developing social skills, and boosting their mental health in ways that indoor activities just can’t match.
Less Time Outdoors, More Screen Time
Over the past decade, screen time has steadily increased for children of all ages. Whether it’s watching videos, gaming, or browsing, many kids are missing out on valuable opportunities to move their bodies, use their imaginations, and connect with others.
It’s understandable that supervising outdoor play can take more effort. But encouraging time outside—even just in the backyard—helps lay the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.
Step Into the Sunshine
The benefits of outdoor play go far beyond physical fitness. It supports kids’ mental well-being, emotional resilience, and cognitive growth. Try making outdoor time part of your child’s daily routine—just like meals, homework, or bedtime.
Physical Benefits of Outdoor Play
Active outdoor play helps children develop strength, coordination, and confidence. Simple games like tag, hopscotch, or hide and seek encourage movement and physical skill-building.
Today, nearly 1 in 3 children in the U.S. is considered overweight or obese. Regular outdoor activity helps children maintain a healthy weight, reduces the likelihood of chronic illnesses, and gets them away from frequent snacking and sedentary habits.
Additional physical benefits include:
Healthier weight and lower risk of conditions like asthma, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease
Natural exposure to vitamin D through sunlight
Reduced risk of nearsightedness due to more distance-focused vision outdoors
Improved energy, mood, and sleep patterns
Mental Benefits of Outdoor Play
Outdoor play doesn’t just build strong bodies—it strengthens growing minds, too. Time outside supports better focus, sharper memory, and more restful sleep.
Children also gain essential social and problem-solving skills by interacting with others in unstructured settings. From taking turns to navigating conflicts, these experiences help build emotional intelligence and cognitive flexibility.
Outdoor environments also spark creativity, encourage curiosity, and provide space for critical thinking that isn’t always available indoors.
Emotional Benefits of Outdoor Play
Outdoor play fosters independence, confidence, and resilience. As kids climb trees, build forts, or try a new sport, they learn to assess risks, push their limits, and bounce back from challenges.
Emotional benefits include:
Reduced stress and anxiety
Increased self-confidence through new experiences
Emotional regulation through physical activity
A sense of freedom and independence not often found indoors
Your Backyard is a Great Place to Start
You don’t need a fancy park or playground to get kids moving. The backyard is a perfect place for exploring, running, digging, or playing games with siblings and friends.
Experts recommend that school-aged children get several hours of physical activity each day, and outdoor play is one of the easiest—and most enjoyable—ways to make that happen.
Questions About Outdoor Play?
If your child is reluctant to go outside or you’re unsure how to encourage active play, we’re here to help. Contact Lake Forest Pediatrics at (847) 295-1220 to talk with a pediatric expert.
Sources:
The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Kids – All Kids Bike
The Benefits of Outdoor Play in Child Development – Miracle Recreation
The Benefits of Outdoor Play: Why It Matters – Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Spring brings blooming flowers—and sometimes, sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. If your child comes home rubbing their eyes or struggling to breathe, you might wonder: Is it asthma or allergies? Understanding the difference between the two is the first step to helping your child feel better.
Let’s break down the symptoms, triggers, and treatments of both conditions so you can recognize what’s going on and take action.
Keeping your family healthy is always our top priority—and we’re happy to share that COVID-19 vaccines are now in stock for all age groups. Immunization appointments are open and available, and we are offering the vaccine to everyone who wants it, not just high-risk patients.
