The Joy of Pediatrics: The Magic in the Room
August 28, 2024
In this week's episode of Pediatric Meltdown, The Magic in the Room, we explore the unparalleled joy and wonder that pediatrics brings. Four years into this incredible journey of podcasting, I reflect on the memorable guests and enlightening conversations we've shared. This episode is dedicated to rediscovering that sense of magic and connection that makes pediatrics such a rewarding field.
Creating Space for Magic
As pediatricians and healthcare professionals, we often rush through our days, buried under electronic health records and administrative tasks. This episode urges you to take a moment to look away from the screen and truly see your patients and their families. By making time and holding space sacred, we allow those magical moments to happen. Sitting down and being present in the moment lets us connect deeply, providing not just medical care, but emotional and relational support.
Top Tip:?
During those critical moments, turn the screen away, look at your patients, and create the environment where magic can happen. Jot down notes if you need to, but prioritize human connection.
Spreading Joy and Building Relationships
Our profession is demanding, but the joy of seeing a child laugh or a family relieved by a diagnosis is irreplaceable. These moments keep us motivated to work weekends, nights, and stay up late finishing charts. Surround yourself with people who share your passions and values. At the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) meetings or your local chapter gatherings, you’ll find kindred spirits committed to making children's lives better. Every connection helps build a community focused on the magic of pediatrics.
Finding Your People
Professional organizations such as the AAP offer invaluable opportunities for networking and shared learning. Getting involved in your state chapter or joining a committee can bring fresh perspectives and support. Invest time in connecting with peers who share your commitment to children’s well-being.
Association Tip:?
Check out aap.org and explore the diverse committee councils and sections that align with your passions. There's a community out there for everyone.
Investing in Relational Health and Positive Parenting
Teaching families about positive parenting and relational health is crucial. These strategies not only enhance our relationships with patients but also strengthen family dynamics. By spreading this knowledge, we contribute to a healthier, happier future.
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Final Thoughts
At the heart of pediatrics is the magic of kids—their laughter, their resilience, and their joy. Let this magic be your guiding star, the reason you rise each morning ready to make an impact. I've truly enjoyed sharing this space with you today, and I encourage you to find those magical moments in your practice. Stay connected, share the joy, and cherish the privilege of being a pediatric clinician.
With you in this important work,
Dr. Lia
P.S. If you found this newsletter helpful, please feel free to share it with your network. Together, we can make a positive impact on pediatric mental health!
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About Dr. Lia Gaggino
Dr. Lia Gaggino is a retired primary care pediatrician with a passion for children's mental health. She currently sits on the board of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is the host of the highly acclaimed Pediatric Meltdown podcast, offering insightful conversations with experts and practical strategies for healthcare professionals. With a mission to break down complex mental health issues affecting children, Dr. Lia aims to make a positive impact on the pediatric community. Dr. Lia is available for Speaking engagements as well as private consultations.
Be sure to check out Building Better Workflows; a limited audio series dedicated to optimizing your medical workspace for providing comprehensive mental health assessment, management, and processes to support both you and your patients. Each episode is a brief how-to designed to improve mental health workflows. Episodes include up-to-date information on suicide prevention, coding and billing, and even an episode dedicated to your well-being. A companion workbook is also available on the Pediatric Meltdown website.
Connect with her on Instagram at @pediatricmeltdown, and on Facebook and LinkedIn at Dr. Lia Gaggino.
Continual improvement seeker with old school belief that better healthcare outcomes come from strengthening trusted relationships.
5 个月Amen.. https://www.dhirubhai.net/feed/update/urn:li:ugcPost:7213854963318280192/
--Humanitarian, innovator, committed to healthcare equity.
5 个月Here’s a novel twist, Dr.Lia. How about leaving the laptop out of the exam room, and fully paying attention to what’s going on in the room? Watch mother or dad or grandparent or guardian interacting with the child. Ask open ended questions: “ Tell me about a typical day?” Or, “ What sort of person is you child?” Or,” How can we cultivate your child’gifts?” In a time when pediatric trainees spend less than 15% of their time at the bedside, it is barely possible to share the joy of Pediatrics without properly paying attention to the Joy of Pediatrics.
School Health Consultant, MSEd., BSN, RN, NYS Certified School Nurse Teacher, NYS Certified M/WBE
6 个月Thank you Lia Gaggino, MD, FAAP for sharing this reminder of the jmportance of connection. Many parents are separated from extended family members (which in my day provided the network for guidance and support).This makes the pediatrician’s role more important than ever. Love the title Pediatric Meltdown!