Head2Toe Pediatrics Measles Safety Protocol

Winter brings cozy moments — and plenty of germs. At Head2Toe Pediatrics, Dr. Lastra reminds families that staying healthy isn’t about avoiding every illness, but about building a strong foundation that helps kids recover faster and thrive long-term.

A pediatrician mom answers parents’ questions about Florida’s plan to remove school vaccine mandates, what it means for families, and how our practice supports parents through these decisions.

Feeding your baby in the first few months is beautiful, exhausting, and often harder than anyone tells you. If you’re struggling with milk supply, you are not alone, I’ve been there too, even as a pediatrician who thought I was “supposed to know.” In this guide, I walk through the normal ups and downs of the first 3 months, practical steps that can help boost supply (like hydration, nutrition, and support from an IBCLC), medical conditions that can play a role, and evidence behind supplements and medications. But above all, I want you to hear this: every way of feeding your baby, breast, formula, pumping, donor milk, or a mix, is a valid and loving choice.

What the New Vaccine Committee Means for Your Family: A clear, trustworthy breakdown of what’s changing, what’s not, and how Head2Toe Pediatrics keeps your child’s health front and center—no matter who’s on the panel.

Fluoride is being removed from Florida’s water starting July 1st. Pediatrician Dr. Rosana Lastra and pediatric dentist Dr. Rebecca Pikos teamed up to share what this means for your family—and how to keep your child’s teeth healthy with or without fluoride.

Get your child ready for back-to-school with this pediatrician-approved guide. From physical checklists and sports forms to easing first-day jitters and managing anxiety, Dr. Rosana Lastra shares practical tips for every age—plus gentle reminders for parents navigating the transition too.

Worried about keeping your child safe in the Florida heat? This guide covers pediatrician-approved tips for preventing heat-related issues in babies and young kids during summer. Learn how to avoid common mistakes—like covering strollers or forgetting to check car seats—and get simple, effective strategies to keep your child cool, hydrated, and protected all summer long.

Traveling with a toddler who refuses to poop? You’re not alone. In this post, Dr. Rosana Lastra shares three simple, pediatrician-approved strategies to help your toddler go—based on her own experience during a family trip to Disney.

Drowning is fast, silent—and preventable. Whether you're heading to a beach, pool, or vacation rental, this guide breaks down what drowning really looks like (hint: it’s not like the movies) and offers clear, practical steps to help keep kids of all ages safe around water.

Traveling with kids? This stress-free guide makes babyproofing (and kid-proofing) your hotel or Airbnb simple and lightweight. From outlet covers to pool safety, you’ll learn how to create a safer space for babies, toddlers, and curious big kids—without breaking rental rules or overpacking. Minimal gear, maximum peace of mind.

Wondering if fireworks are too loud for your little one? You’re not alone. As a pediatrician and a mom, I get the struggle—most babies won’t wear earmuffs, and we’re not staying home forever. This guide breaks down what “too loud” really means, how to protect tiny ears during noisy events like the 4th of July, and how to strike a balance between fun and safety. Whether it’s fireworks, concerts, or parades, a few simple steps can help protect your child’s hearing without missing the magic. 💥👶🇺🇸

Pregnant on vacation? Whether the trip is for you or your family, this guide from Dr. Lastra shares practical, feel-good tips to help you stay cool, comfortable, and cared for. From smart hydration and safe snacks to what to pack, what to skip, and how to manage emotions (and older kids!), this post covers the self-care no one talks about—but every pregnant person deserves.

At Head2Toe Pediatrics, we know the postpartum journey is just as important as birth itself. That’s why we created the 4th Trimester Package—a complete support plan for families in the first 12 weeks after birth, because every parent deserves more than a quick weight check and rushed visit. From newborn care and lactation support to mental health, pelvic floor therapy, and parent coaching, we bring together a full team of local experts to guide you through healing, bonding, and thriving.

Summer outings with little ones can be magical—or meltdown central. This guide helps you pack the perfect diaper bag for kids ages 0 to 5, with real-life, parent-tested essentials that keep things smooth, cool, and fun.

Before your kids jump in the pool this summer, there’s one thing you have to check— the drain. As a pediatrician and mom, I walk the pool before every swim to look for broken drain covers, hidden hazards, and signs of unsafe suction. This post breaks down what to look for, how to test it (yes, even with a toy), and what those jetting water outlets actually are. A 30-second check could prevent a serious accident—here’s what every parent should know.

Getting sunscreen on kids doesn’t have to be a battle—well, not a big one. In this post, Dr. Lastra shares 3 clever, parent-approved tricks to help you apply SPF with fewer struggles. From sticks to brushes to UV-protective clothing, these hacks make sun safety easier (and a little more fun). ☀️👶

Planning summer travel in 2025? With measles cases rising across the U.S.—including major outbreaks linked to concerts, airports, and low-vaccination communities—it’s important to add MMR vaccination planning to your travel checklist. In this post, we break down updated CDC recommendations for early MMR doses, who may need an accelerated schedule before travel, and why now is the time to connect with your pediatrician. Because your summer should be fun, safe, and worry-free. 🛫🛡️🌞

Head2Toe lets you text Dr. Lastra 24/7, so most hiccups never reach the ER—but if they do, this post breaks down simple moves that save you serious cash. Quick teaser: ping Dr. Lastra before you walk in, and let Goodbill battle the bill while your HSA stays untouched. Dive into the post for all the details.

World Health Day 2025 focuses on "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures," emphasizing improved maternal and newborn health. Head2Toe Pediatrics supports this initiative through comprehensive concierge pediatric care that extends from newborns to maternal postpartum support. Our services include personalized care strategies, early intervention screenings, and educational programs to ensure both immediate and long-term health benefits for families.

Welcoming a newborn is a joyful yet challenging journey filled with new experiences and emotions. This guide provides practical advice to help you navigate the early days with confidence, offering support for understanding your baby's needs and fostering their growth and well-being. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and cherish these fleeting moments—your love and care are exactly what your baby needs most.

With multiple viruses circulating this season, many families are navigating flu, RSV, norovirus, and even COVID-19. Some children may even experience overlapping infections, which can lead to more severe symptoms and longer recovery times. Here’s what you need to know about each virus, how simultaneous illnesses may present, and what you can do to support your child’s recovery.

I want to share some of the safety rules we follow in our home to keep our little ones safe. From avoiding choking hazards to being mindful of hidden dangers like button batteries and water beads, these simple precautions help protect our kids from preventable injuries. While we can't fully childproof the world, these tips have helped me feel more at ease in our safe space, and I hope you find them helpful as you prioritize your family's health and safety.

This month's blog post offers strategies to help children emotionally heal from the aftermath of a hurricane. It highlights the significance of maintaining open communication, keeping consistent routines, and involving kids in therapeutic activities to nurture their recovery.

October marks Fall Wellness Month at Head2Toe, where we focus on personalized healthcare with biannual checks tailored for seasonal readiness and overall health, including nutrition, sleep, and bowel habits. Our latest blog post offers a glimpse into our distinctive approach, sharing practical tips to seamlessly incorporate health into daily family life, aiming for consistency and long-term well-being.

Watching your kids battle coughs and runny noses is never easy, and the mood swings and sleepless nights that follow are incredibly draining. As a pediatrician and a parent right in the thick of it, I’ve picked up a few helpful tips to make this season of parenting easier for both our kids and us.

Ensuring our children have nutritious meals is crucial for their ability to concentrate, learn, and stay active, and as a parent, I know firsthand how daunting this task can be. Balancing convenience with nutrition while keeping meals exciting and appealing is a constant challenge. That's why I'm here to share some tips!

With our move to a new home and the non-stop energy of a 9-month-old and a 2.5-year-old, I've been focused on baby-proofing more than ever. It’s easy to overlook until a scare prompts us to reassess our home’s safety, but I’m a big advocate for being proactive rather than reactive. ‍In this post, I'll walk you through each room, providing useful tips and pointing out areas that might easily be missed.

I’ve rounded up the top 5 reasons pediatricians get those frantic summer calls. As a parent, getting a heads-up on these will arm you with the know-how to spot trouble early, along with my pro tips for preventative measures that’ll keep those summer bummers at bay. But wait, there’s more! I’ve also packed this toolkit with my absolute must-haves for your summer bag. These essentials are game-changers, ensuring your kids stay healthy and happy, while you maintain your cool through the summer saga.

Instead of waiting for "the right time" to focus on myself—a time that rarely came because I was too exhausted and just wanted to grab whatever sleep I could—I began to weave little moments for myself into our everyday life. Yes, motherhood is incredibly demanding, and naturally, our children often take priority, but we shouldn't overlook our own needs.

Navigating the challenges of spring allergies in children can be daunting, especially when trying to distinguish between symptoms of allergies and signs of illness. Understanding these differences is crucial for providing the appropriate care, whether it involves allergy management or treating an infection.

The recent news about a measles outbreak at a Broward County elementary school has naturally raised some concerns among our community, especially considering how quickly this virus can spread. As a pediatrician, I'm dedicated to ensuring families are well-informed and equipped to tackle health issues such as measles.

With Christmas having come and gone, and a bounty of gifts now part of our homes, it's an opportune time to sort through them, particularly from a safety perspective. As both a pediatrician and a parent, I recognize the challenge in navigating gift choices, especially when they're given with love. However, prioritizing the safety and well-being of our children is crucial.

I'm eager to pass on a beloved tradition from our home to yours. It may seem a little predictable, but it's a cornerstone of our holiday joy. When the holidays roll around, it's elf time at our house, and it's a total giggle fest! Every morning, we're on the lookout for what funny stuff our elf has done next. So if you want to join in on the elf game and need ideas, I've got five to share. They're fun, easy, and the kids will love them. Let's make some merry elf magic!

Cheers to the beginning of the holiday season! Families are getting ready for a flurry of festive events, joyful get-togethers, and cherished moments. However, this period can also bring changes in routines, weather, and heightened social interactions that may affect children's well-being. As a pediatrician, we're here to offer advice on managing these challenges to ensure your family enjoys a healthy and joyful holiday season. We cover topics such as adjusting to daylight saving time, smoothly transitioning through the holiday season, and maintaining your child's health during this time.

Navigating the complexities of breastfeeding while pregnant, this post delves into the personal journey of Dr. Lastra as a soon to be mother of two. A heartfelt account for National Breastfeeding Month, it's a testament to the unique paths every mother treads, regardless of how they choose to feed their child.

Allow me to shed some light on why, as a pediatrician, I decided to take the expressway to the ER with my daughters injury, bypassing the exits for an urgent care center or a regular pediatric check-up. I’m also going to tell you what we did to prepare for our outing to the ER and how I handled this as a mommy!

Traveling with children can be an exhilarating adventure. As both a pediatrician and a mother, I've compiled a list of essential tips to help make your travel experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Head2Toe Pediatrics provides personalized care with 24/7 physician access, unlimited appointments, and individualized pediatric care. Families pay a monthly flat fee on top of their insurance coverage for these specialized services. Our proactive care and timely interventions save families money and reduce healthcare stress, with the added convenience of at-home care.

Pediatric house calls for kids in Tampa Bay by Board-Certified Pediatricians at Head2Toe Pediatrics! We're all about personalized, top-notch care that's tailored to meet your family’s needs. So say goodbye to busy waiting rooms and hello to the doctor knocking on your door! 

Introducing your new pediatrician, Head2Toe Pediatrics! With our amazing personalized care, flexible scheduling, and 24/7 access to the doctor, you won't be able to resist our services. Once you try us, you won't want pediatric care any other way!

As a parent, it can be challenging to find snacks that your toddler will love and that are also packed with nutrients. That's why I've rounded up three easy and nutritious snack ideas that your little ones are sure to enjoy!

At Head2Toe Pediatrics, we understand that the safety and comfort of your child is your top priority, and it's ours too. That's why we offer families in the Tampa Bay area medical-grade ear piercing services from a trusted provider with extensive experience, ensuring the highest level of safety and care for our patients.

It’s hard to navigate the never-ending products for baby. Dr. Lastra narrows it down for you.