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Author: Charish Barry, MD

The Importance of Sports Physicals for Children: A Guide for Parents

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

This summary is based on an article by Dr. Chris Koutures posted on HealthyChildren.org.

When sports season approaches, the requirement for sports physicals often sneaks up on parents. To simplify this process, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests scheduling a sports physical during your child’s routine well-child visit.

Why Every Child Benefits from a Sports Physical

Every child, from the high school soccer player to the junior high performer, can benefit from a sports physical. Even those engaged in non-organized physical activities like snowboarding, jogging, or hiking should receive one. The Preparticipation Physical Evaluation (PPE) form, developed by the AAP and other medical groups, aims to ensure the best and safest sports participation for all children.child at the doctors office.

Comprehensive Health Check

The PPE includes an in-depth health history form, which should be completed before your child’s visit. This helps in discussing any potential issues during the exam. If your child’s sport requires a medical eligibility form, bring it to the appointment.

Why Choose a Pediatrician

Pediatricians have the training to identify and treat common medical and bone/joint issues in children who play sports. They ensure your child’s medical records are up-to-date, address immunization needs, and discuss any concerns confidentially. The AAP advises making appointments at least 6-8 weeks before the sports season starts.

Specialized Evaluations

A thorough sports physical includes assessments of heart health, mental health, unique concerns of female and disabled athletes, and checks for concussions and head injuries. Pediatricians ask specific questions to uncover any potential issues and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions.

For more detailed information, you can read the original article by Dr. Chris Koutures on HealthyChildren.org here.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby: Tips and Remedies for Parents

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Just when you thought your bundle of joy was getting into the routine of sleeping all night, suddenly they are waking up fussy and irritable. They could be sick, but if they are approaching 6 months old, it is more likely it’s their first tooth coming in causing their discomfort. Let’s learn as much as possible about how to soothe a teething baby: tips and remedies for parents.

Continue reading “How to Soothe a Teething Baby: Tips and Remedies for Parents” →

Pediatric Mental Health: Identifying Signs of Stress and Anxiety

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Many young couples today have made the decision not to have any children. If you ask them their reasons, they will tell you they don’t want to bring children into a world with turmoil, hate, and uncertainty about their future. After years of living through COVID, now there is war and economic stress which certainly filters down to the kids. Unless you cut your children off from all social media and news, it is going to affect them. Now is the right time for promoting pediatric mental health and learning how to identify signs of stress and anxiety.

Continue reading “Pediatric Mental Health: Identifying Signs of Stress and Anxiety” →

Offering Mental Health for Children and Families: Stacy Peterson, LCSW

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Beginning in 2024, Petite Pediatrics will begin offering a new, vanguard program we are ecstatic about. Through our social and emotional service line, we will be able to offer psychotherapy and supportive service for our patients. Recognizing the state of the times, and the surge of mental health needs for children and families in the past three years, we want to offer a holistic approach to medicine and expand our practice in this exciting integrative way.

We know navigating care for children with social and emotional needs is an investment of your time, your own mental energy, and impacts the whole family. We are here to help!child in counseling.

Our program will include:

  • perinatal services for new and expectant mothers
  • parent education
  • family therapy
  • counseling for children
  • help with care coordination.

Stacy Peterson, LCSW, will begin leading this program and will have limited slots open to meet with our patients.

Are you interested?

Sign up fast so you can secure your spot with this amazing expert leader, specialized in perinatal mental health, family wellness, and advocacy for children in our community. Members can secure their access to this service by contacting our office. We expect volume and demand to grow, and trust that with Stacy at the lead we will be able to expand this program as needed to meet your needs.

Another exciting update!

Petite Pediatrics will also partner a local nonprofit, Daisy Drake, to offer scholarship care to community members who can’t afford the costs of the direct patient care model. We are invested in equity and making an impact.

How to Help Children Eat Well and Be Healthy

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Many parents worry about their child’s eating habits. Maybe they only want mac and cheese for every meal, or they refuse to even touch vegetables. What can you do? One way to help your child eat well and help you worry less is to understand your job and your child’s job when it comes to food. Learn more about this concept and how to help your child eat well and be healthy.

family eating healthy fruits on the beach.

Request an Appointment With Dr. Barry!

Dr. Charish Barry is a board-certified pediatrician dedicated to providing exceptional care to children throughout Santa Barabra. If you have questions concerning your child’s nutritional needs, request an appointment at our pediatric office today! We also offer pediatric vitamins to ensure your child is getting essential nutrients.

 (805) 845-1221

Asthma and your child

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Asthma affects children in different ways. Some children have only occasional asthma attacks. Others have many asthma attacks that send them to the doctor often. If your child has asthma, the first thing to know is that treatment can control it. And, as a parent, you can do a lot to help your child learn to live a healthy and active life. Start by understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of asthma. Then find out what you can do to prevent your child’s asthma attacks. Here’s more information about asthma in children.

Request an Asthma Consultation

If your child is showing symptoms of asthma, call (805) 845-1221 to request an appointment at our pediatric office in Santa Barbara today.

 (805) 845-1221

child with asthma.

 

 

Parents’ Guide to Navigating the 2025-26 Flu Season

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Here at Dr. Charish Barry ,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 Dr. Charish Barry have extensive experience diagnosing and treating children experiencing flu-like symptoms.  Call (805) 845-1221 to schedule an appointment at our pediatric clinic in Santa Barbara, CA

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 Dr. Charish Barry 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  Dr. Charish Barry office in Santa Barbara, CA, 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 Santa Barbara, CA

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 Dr. Charish Barry.

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

Request a Sick Child Appointment

If your child is showing symptoms or you are interested in learning more about flu prevention, call (805) 845-1221 to request an appointment at our pediatric office in Santa Barbara today.

 (805) 845-1221

sick child being cared for my mother

What To Expect During Your Child’s Well-Child Visit

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Just as adults need to see their physician at least once a year for a wellness visit, so do children. You wouldn’t hesitate to take them if they are sick, but it’s just as beneficial to take them when they are not. It’s a way to be sure your child is developing according to certain benchmarks and that there are no medical or developmental issues. If this is news to you, here is what to expect during your child’s well-child visit.

Continue reading “What To Expect During Your Child’s Well-Child Visit” →

Pod Care Program

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

The mission of Petite Pediatrics has always been to optimize medical care and provide services that parents desire and children deserve. With this in mind, I am excited to introduce the Pod Care Program at Petite Pediatrics. The Pod Care Program encompasses home visits, virtual care, and our Pod Care site, which is a secure outdoor care space with a Basecamp Airstream Trailer and adjacent pergola. As patients of Petite Pediatrics, your Peapod Membership provides direct access to the Pod Care Program.

Petite Pediatrics has long offered conveniences such as telehealth and virtual care through the Peapod Membership Program. These features have been our standard-of-care, distinguishing us from a general pediatric office. By establishing the Pod Care Program at Petite Pediatrics, we are able to further distinguish our care services for children and offer more choices for families who desire secure, safe and convenient delivery of medical care.

With safety as a top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic, launching our home visit service for children with a telehealth and virtual care platform has been an essential way for us to continue to care for our patients. Additionally, our enhanced office safety features, environment controls and outdoor care site provide more security for families and staff during the necessary in-person experiences at the office. I am pleased to be able to extend the Pod Care Program to patients at Petite Pediatrics as we adapt to the changing needs of our community.

The Pod Care Program will have complete physician oversight with direct care provided by Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and requires a signed Home Visit Financial Policy/Agreement (provided below). A pediatrician house call visit may be arranged separately (terms and fees are confidential and available upon request). Please contact us for more information about the Pod Care Program or for scheduling future visits.

On behalf of the providers and staff at Petite Pediatrics, thank you for trusting your child’s care with us.

 

Sincerest Regards,

Charish L. Barry, MD, FAAP

Summer 2020 Update

Posted on by Charish Barry, MD in

Summer 2020

During these difficult times, I would like to personally update patients and families at Petite
Pediatrics and our greater community about our “Practice Commitment” and the modifications
we are making to ensure the safe delivery of care for children.
– Charish L. Barry, MD, FAAP

Practice Commitment

Petite Pediatrics remains committed to providing personalized care for children in an
environment that is inclusive, safe and nurturing.
Environment of Inclusivity
We treasure the uniqueness of each child and we support and celebrate all aspects of the
diversity of each child and family. As a medical home for children providing wellness and acute
care, fostering an environment of non-discrimination is paramount. As such, at Petite Pediatrics,
we believe patients and parents/guardians have the right to be treated considerately and
respectfully regardless of the patient and/or family’s race, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
gender identity/expression, cultural background, economic status, education or illness.
Environment of Health & Safety
We are dedicated to ensuring that our office meets the highest standards of safety to help
decrease the spread of the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. Our Pueblo Street location has
expanded on-site services to provide separate locations for well and sick visits by utilizing both
indoor and outdoor space. Additionally, we will continue to care for children via telemedicine
and provide home visits. Updates of our practice modifications are provided below.

Practice Updates

The in-office hours have been modified for the summer months.

SUMMER SCHEDULE:
Hours:
M/F: 9 am – Noon (Dr. Barry)
T/Th: 9 am – 2 pm (Dr. Barry) / 2 pm – 4 pm (Catherine Cordero, PNP – Telehealth)
W: 9 am – 4 pm (Erin Baird, PNP – Home Visits) / 9 am – 4 pm (Dr. Iris Office Location – Acute Visits)

CARE SITES:
Patient care will be provided either indoor, outdoor, virtually or by home visit.
A. Indoor:
The main office is reserved for all well-child visits, vaccines, behavioral or non-infectious
acute care with Covid19 guidelines:
(1) Pre-visit Covid19 symptom screen
(2) On-site temperature check for parent/guardian
(3) One parent/guardian with patient per visit
(4) Use protective facial coverings (face masks) unless under 3 years of age,
developmental or behavioral limitations, or any safety concerns.
(5) Practice social distancing (as able) by use of outdoor space
B. Outdoor:
During the COVID19 health crisis, our parking lot will serve as our Acute Care Site. This
secure and private outdoor space provides a safe perimeter for children and has
adequate social distancing capability for adults and providers. The handicap parking
space and will remain accessible, however, general patient parking will be unavailable.

  • Petite Pediatrics Acute Care Pod: An Airstream Basecamp trailer has been set-up as our Acute Care Unit for
    children.
  • Petite Pediatrics Car Visit: A select parking space has been designated for drive-up testing / car visits.

C. Virtual:
Telehealth to continue via Spruce and arranged as clinically indicated or requested.
(Services are covered by and billed to insurance.)
D. Home:
Currently available on Wednesday to minimize exposure risk for patients with health
issues or concerns that prohibit ability to come to the medical office site.
(Home visit services incur a separate fee that is not covered by insurance.)

PATIENT PORTAL:
Passport is our new patient portal for direct access to your child(ren)’s immunization records,
lab results, patient visit summaries and informational handouts. Passport does not replace
Spruce for secure messaging, but will increase access to your child(ren)’s health profile.
Stay posted for your invitation to Passport!

BILLING SERVICE:
As of June 1, 2020, Petite Pediatrics has partnered with Accuquik, a local medial billing
company for all of our patient insurance billing needs. Sheryl Hopkins is the liaison for Accuquik
and will be able to directly assist with any insurance billing needs. Katie Welch will continue to
assist with billing needs for services rendered prior to June 1, 2020.

STAYING CONNECTED:
• website: www.petitepediatrics.com
• social media links:
– Instagram: @petitepediatricssb
– Facebook: PetitePediatrics
– Twitter: drbarry@petitepeds

SUPPORTING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM AND BODY:
To help boost our immune response, we are offering Springboard pediatric supplements,
vitamins for kids.

  • Shoots & Vines Product Page

    Springboard Supplements & Vitamins (Shoots & Vines) online purchase/onsite pickup members-only.
    Excellent for overall immune support include: D-Hist and D-Hist Jr, Buffered Vitamin C,
    Reacted Zinc, Probiotics (Flora Bites and FloraBoost), Imu-Max, Natranix immune
    support for respiratory health, Kid-D liquid and Vitamin K/Vitamin D and Wholemune,
    an immunity supplement for older kids, teens and adults. These are available on our
    website or directly at the office via curbside pickup.

MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS:
Petite Pediatrics’ goal is to offset the burden on Emergency Departments by offering acute
care and telemedicine services for our patients. Additionally, visiting family or friends this
summer can access care through our Virtual Peapod memberships. Overview of plans:

  • Virtual Peapod Membership: Patients can have regular telemedicine services, which
    are billed to insurance and may include acute care visits, vaccine planning, behavioral,
    growth and developmental visits. Ideal for short-term residence in Santa Barbara area.
  • Virtual Visits: Telemedicine Virtual Visits for patients who may need a single visit or
    brief follow-up concern. If you have family or friends who are in need of assistance with
    their child’s care, please direct them to our website to learn how to join.
  • Annual Peapod Membership: This will continue for existing members as is. However,
    we are aware of the significant impact the COVID19 pandemic has had upon our
    economy. If there is a financial concern directly affecting a family’s ability to continue
    the PMP service, please reach out to our office directly to discuss possible options. Any
    inquiries are completely confidential and will be treated with the upmost respect and
    understanding.

    Charish L. Barry, MD, FAAP Petite Pediatrics

Schedule an Appointment at Petite Pediatrics

Dr. Charish Barry offers concierge-style care that is designed to provide highly personalized care to infants, children, and teens throughout the Santa Barbara area. She and her team of highly trained nurse practitioners will take the time to answer any questions you may have. Schedule a well-child visit at Petite Pediatrics today! Call our Santa Barbara office at (805) 845-1221.

(805) 845-1221

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