Etowah Pediatrics

Etowah Pediatrics Etowah Pediatrics, The Leader in Caring for Kids! We pride ourselves in being a personal choice for
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At Etowah Pediatrics, our goal is to keep your child happy and healthy. Our board certified pediatricians provide a superior level of care in a friendly, loving environment. Rely on us as your pediatric health care providers from birth to late teen years. Ben Hester, MD, FAAP
Julia Pena, MD, FAAP
Becky Strunk, CRNP
Denise Adcock, CRNP

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes among teen drivers. Even looking at a phone for a few seconds...
07/29/2026

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes among teen drivers. Even looking at a phone for a few seconds can take a driver’s eyes off the road long enough to miss traffic changes, pedestrians, or sudden stops.

According to the CDC, thousands of people are injured or killed each year in crashes involving distracted driving, and teen drivers are at especially high risk because they are still gaining experience behind the wheel.

Distractions can include texting, changing music, eating, using GPS, taking photos, or interacting with passengers. Safe driving starts with creating habits early, including putting phones away before the car starts moving.

Parents also play an important role by modeling safe driving behaviors and having clear conversations about phone use, passengers, and expectations before teens begin driving independently.

What driving rule is non-negotiable in your family? Share below.

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As children get older, car safety continues to be extremely important. Many school-age children still need a booster sea...
07/27/2026

As children get older, car safety continues to be extremely important. Many school-age children still need a booster seat to help the seat belt fit correctly and provide proper protection during a crash.

A properly fitted seat belt should rest across the upper thighs—not the stomach—and the shoulder belt should lie across the chest and shoulder, not under the arm or behind the back. Children should also continue riding in the back seat as long as possible, since it is the safest place for kids under 13 years old.

Common mistakes include moving out of a booster seat too early, allowing children to sit in the front seat before they are ready, or using seat belts incorrectly for comfort.

If you are unsure whether your child still needs a booster seat or if the seat belt fits properly, contact Etowah Pediatrics or schedule a certified car seat safety check for guidance.

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Vaccine records are commonly needed for school registration, sports, daycare, camps, college, and other activities throu...
07/24/2026

Vaccine records are commonly needed for school registration, sports, daycare, camps, college, and other activities throughout the year.

Families may be able to request records through the patient portal, by phone, or directly through our office depending on office procedures.

Some forms may require provider review, updated visits, or additional processing time before they are ready for pickup or submission.

Requesting records early before school or activity deadlines can help avoid last-minute stress and delays.

Keeping copies of your child’s vaccine records at home can also be helpful for future needs.

If you need vaccine records, school forms, or immunization documentation, check out our website or send us a portal message today.

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In-toeing, sometimes called being “pigeon-toed,” is common in toddlers and young children. It happens when the feet poin...
07/22/2026

In-toeing, sometimes called being “pigeon-toed,” is common in toddlers and young children. It happens when the feet point inward while walking or running and is often part of normal development.

Common causes include the way the feet, legs, or hips naturally developed before birth. Many children improve gradually as they grow, become stronger, and develop better coordination over time.

Most cases of in-toeing do not cause pain and do not require special shoes, braces, or treatment.

However, evaluation may be recommended if in-toeing is severe, worsening, causing frequent falls, associated with pain, affecting one side much more than the other, or interfering with normal activities.

If you are concerned about your child’s walking pattern, balance, or leg alignment, contact Etowah Pediatrics to schedule an evaluation and discuss whether further assessment is needed.

Provider tip: Dr. Hester recommends recording a video of the walking concern to bring to the visit just in case your toddler does not replicate the concern while at the visit.

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etowahpediatrics.com

Around 2 years old, many toddlers are becoming more independent, active, and communicative. Children develop at differen...
07/20/2026

Around 2 years old, many toddlers are becoming more independent, active, and communicative.

Children develop at different rates, but there are several common milestones families may notice during this stage.

Common 2-year milestones may include:
- Using short phrases or combining 2–4 words together
- Following simple two-step directions
- Running, climbing, kicking a ball, and exploring more confidently
- Showing interest in pretend play or copying everyday activities
- Beginning to play alongside or interact more with other children
- Pointing to body parts, naming familiar objects, and expressing more emotions and preferences

Some children may reach milestones earlier or later than others, and development can vary widely.

Have you scheduled your child’s wellness visit yet? Call today to schedule so a provider can assess your child’s development and answer any questions you may have.

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etowahpediatrics.com

*CLOSING AT NOON TODAY* Another 4 yr clinic is in the books and what a time we had! And because we had such a big time, ...
07/17/2026

*CLOSING AT NOON TODAY* Another 4 yr clinic is in the books and what a time we had! And because we had such a big time, we’re closing today at noon to rest and restore. Call early if you need to be seen.

Flying with an infant can feel overwhelming, but a little preparation can make travel smoother for both parents and babi...
07/17/2026

Flying with an infant can feel overwhelming, but a little preparation can make travel smoother for both parents and babies.

Feeding during takeoff and landing, whether breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or using a pacifier, may help reduce ear pressure changes during the flight.

Pack more diapers, wipes, clothing changes, and feeding supplies than you think you will need in case of delays. Keeping a small bag with easy-to-access essentials can also make diaper changes and feedings less stressful while traveling.

It is also helpful to keep sleep expectations realistic. Travel days and new environments can temporarily disrupt routines, and many babies need time to adjust after travel.

During travel, continue following safe sleep recommendations whenever possible. Babies should sleep on a flat, firm surface without loose blankets, pillows, or soft items.

What is your best travel tip for flying with a baby? Share below to help other parents preparing for trips.

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etowahpediatrics.com

It’s our favorite time of the year! We love our 4 (and sometimes 5) year olds! We also love the cotton candy 🍭 and popco...
07/16/2026

It’s our favorite time of the year! We love our 4 (and sometimes 5) year olds! We also love the cotton candy 🍭 and popcorn 🍿. It’s our annual Under the Sea 4 year old clinic. 🐟🐠🎣🦈🪼🐙

Pityriasis alba is a very common and usually harmless skin condition seen in children and teens. It often appears as lig...
07/15/2026

Pityriasis alba is a very common and usually harmless skin condition seen in children and teens. It often appears as lighter patches of skin, most commonly on the face, cheeks, arms, or upper body. The areas may look slightly dry or flaky and often become more noticeable during the summer when surrounding skin tans.

The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is commonly associated with dry or sensitive skin and mild eczema. It is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene.

Treatment typically focuses on moisturizing the skin and protecting it from sun exposure with sunscreen, since tanning can make the lighter areas stand out more. In some cases, providers may recommend mild medicated creams if irritation is present.

While pityriasis alba is usually harmless, persistent rashes, itching, spreading, or uncertainty about the diagnosis should be evaluated.

Have concerns with your child’s skin? Call today to schedule an appointment or send us a portal message.

256-413-1467
etowahpediatrics.com

🎉 It’s Dr. Hester's birthday!We're prescribing him extra cake, smiles, and celebration today 🧁💊Join us in wishing them a...
07/14/2026

🎉 It’s Dr. Hester's birthday!
We're prescribing him extra cake, smiles, and celebration today 🧁💊
Join us in wishing them a wonderful year ahead!

Address

Rainbow City, AL
35906

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+12564131467

Website

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