Newsletter Newsletter
A Letter from the Editor
Dear Readers,
As the year comes to a close, we are proud to share the final issue of Longwood Pediatrics’ first-ever quarterly newsletter!
2024 has been an incredible year for our practice, filled with growth, collaboration, and a shared commitment to providing the best pediatric care for our community. It is a privilege to serve so many families in the Greater Boston area, and we look forward to continuing to accept new patients in 2025
We would like to extend our gratitude to Boston Children’s Primary Care Alliance and all the community organizations we’ve partnered with this year. And as always, we thank you for trusting us with your care and for being a part of the Longwood Pediatrics family.
From all of us at Longwood Pediatrics, we wish you a joyful and healthy holiday season and a bright start to 2025!
Sincerely,
Angelee Gonzalez Community Outreach Coordinator
Seasonal Reminders
Schedule your child’s next well visit!
Snow Patrol
Keep your little ones safe from the elements by ensuring the following: Dress kids in several thin layers to stay warm and dry
Play safely: Supervise outdoor play and ensure kids wear helmets for winter sports.
Be mindful of the sun: Apply sunscreen even on cloudy days! Visit HealthyChildren org for more winter safety advice and FAQ.
A Dose of Sunshine
Shorter days and less sunlight during winter months can lead to lower Vitamin D levels for teens and young adults. A daily multivitamin can help ensure your child gets the nutrients they need during the colder season. If you have any concerns about vitamin deficiency or multivitamin dosage, send your pediatrician a MyChart message!
End-of-Year Emotions
Navigating Stress and Anxiety During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is finally here! There are so many things we look forward to during this time of year winter break, vacations, festive celebrations, and the chance to reconnect with friends and loved ones. It’s the perfect time for families to create cherished memories together.
That said, this time of year can also be stressful. Kids and teens face burnout from end-of-year school exams, while parents often juggle work responsibilities, planning for holiday trips or activities, and keeping everyone in the family on track. Financial pressures and the challenge of ensuring everyone in the household feels included can add to the tension. For some, the holidays might even bring feelings of loneliness or isolation, depending on personal circumstances
Slowing down and staying present can make a world of difference As a parent, focusing on small moments of joy and setting a calm, positive tone can help your family navigate the season with less stress. Whether it’s taking a break from the rush to enjoy a quiet evening with your kids or encouraging them to reflect on what they’re grateful for, these small acts can truly influence how your family anticipates the holidays over the years We also want to encourage families to look to their communities for inspiration and support during the holidays. Many local events cater to families and provide wonderful opportunities to bond and have fun.
If you’re searching for new ideas on how to make the season special or ways to get involved, our Holiday Resources video shares excellent suggestions! Community-based organizations can also be a great way to find meaningful activities that resonate with your family.
Embracing what matters most lies at the heart of keeping your family’s spirits lifted. Remember, the most valuable gift you can give your children is the example of finding joy and balance On behalf of the Behavioral Health team at Longwood Pediatrics, we wish everyone an amazing new year!
Rachel Budhi, LICSW
Practice News
YouTube Webinar Series
The
Our newest webinar considers a timeless topic for parents of infants and toddlers sleep! Featuring Kristie Koppenheffer, MD, Stephanie Joe, NP, and Rachel Budhi, LICSW, frequently asked questions about sleep training and disruptions are considered across three different clinical approaches
Click the button below to watch the video on YouTube, and be sure to subscribe to our channel Stay tuned for more webinars in future!
Watch Video
Scoop on Sleep Network Changes
If your child needs to see a doctor on a holiday, please call our office first thing in the morning.
For Tufts Health Direct Members
Effective January 1, 2025, hospitals and providers in the Boston Children’s Hospital network will no longer be available to Health Connector members enrolled in Tufts Health Direct Health Connector Open Enrollment runs through January 23, 2025, and current members have the ability during this time to switch to a new plan. For members who want to change plans in time for January 1 coverage, the deadline is December 23, 2024. All Longwood Pediatrics patients enrolled in Tufts Health Direct plans have already been notified of upcoming plan changes via mail and MyChart message. If you have any questions about changes to your plan, please contact Tufts Health Direct or our billing team
Community Events
The Greater Boston area is bustling with exciting events and activities this winter, offering fun for everyone from little kids to teens and the entire family! We curated this list to help you make the most of the snowy season All listings are free unless otherwise specified Tickets may be required Click on any event below to learn more and sign up!
WINTER FESTIVAL
Until Sun, Dec 22
10AM-9PM (7PM ON SUN)
530 HARRISON AVE, BOSTON SoWa
HOLIDAY MARKET AT SNOWPORT
Until Sun, Dec 29
11AM-8PM (9PM ON FRI & SAT)
100 SEAPORT BLVD, BOSTON
Boston Landing
HOLIDAY BASH Sun, Dec 22 11AM-3PM ROADRUNNER, BRIGHTON
Dec
Dates TBD FEBRUARY 2025
MARKET & CENTRAL, LOWELL, MA
60 AUSTIN STREET, NEWTONVILLE, MA Sat, Jan 25 5PM-6:30PM RSM West Newton
