Pediatric Services
Your child’s healthcare is our specialty. Pediatricians specialize in the care of children and teens from birth through college.
Your child’s healthcare is our specialty. Pediatricians specialize in the care of children and teens from birth through college.
At Saugatuck Pediatrics, we specialize in the care of children and adolescents from birth through early adulthood. From preventative care to acute sick visits to management of chronic conditions such as asthma and ADHD, we provide parents with support and advice to foster a lifetime of good health.
We understand that children can become ill quickly and unexpectedly, which is why we see patients every day of the year. We always schedule same-day appointments for urgent sick visits (in office or telehealth), including weekends and holidays, when needed.
Well child visits are a vital part of your child’s health care. Learn more about the exam schedule, and find helpful age-related information and resources.
At Saugatuck Pediatrics, we treat many chronic conditions such as asthma, eczema, constipation, and more. All providers engage in regular learning from a variety of sources, including consultations with specialists, continuing medical education, conferences, and more.
We believe in educating our patients as well, so that they can play an active role in managing their chronic conditions efficiently and effectively.
If your child requires more advanced care, we maintain strong relationships with many pediatric sub-specialists, including dermatologists, gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, and more. We work with them—and work with you—as a team to seamlessly manage any challenge your child might face.
Our physicians are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of many psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, tics, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
In order to spend as much time as possible on mental health care, we utilize a questionnaire service titled CHADIS, which helps us gather a large amount of important information prior to mental health visits. We also encourage you to read through our large catalogue of informational articles and references on the Saugatuck Pediatrics website, both leading up to and after your child’s visit.
Finally, we partner with a number of trusted psychologists and psychiatrists for directed referrals as needed.
Well child visits are a vital part of your child’s health care. During a well visit we evaluate growth, development, vision, speech and hearing. These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss child safety, nutrition, accident prevention and anticipated changes in behavior and development. During some visits your child will receive immunizations and screening tests of blood and urine.
Your child should have a well child visit at the intervals listed here. We recommend that you set up these visits well in advance to ensure you can see your pediatrician at the times that best suit you.
Prior to your well child visit, select your child’s age in the list below. There you will see what screenings, bloodwork and immunizations are due for that visit. You will also find any handouts associated with the visit, along with developmental guidance and possibly an instructional video.
2-5 Days
Congratulations! Newborns are wonderful, but can be exhausting… Having friends or family around to provide extra help and support can be very helpful, but avoid having young children around for now. Make sure all visitors are up to date on their Tdap (pertussis), Flu and Covid vaccines. No-one should visit if they have any signs of illness, and all should wash hands well prior to handling the baby. Your baby’s first visit to our office takes place during his or her first week of life, usually 1-2 days after you are discharged from the hospital.
At this visit we:
Immunizations: HepB, if not given in hospital | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: bilirubin level (if jaundiced)
Helpful Info: Newborn Welcome Packet
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
2 Weeks
Babies usually lose weight right after birth. By 2 weeks of age, your baby will likely have regained his or her birth weight. Please remember that it is important to always put your baby to sleep on his or her back in a flat, firm and separate sleep space to reduce the risk of SIDS. As always, we are here to answer questions and offer anticipatory guidance.
At this visit we:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Postpartum Depression Assessment
Helpful Info: Tummy Time
Please Complete Before Yor Visit:
1 Month
Feeding, sleeping and bowel habits are sometimes a concern. At this visit we will track your baby’s growth and development and answer any questions. Your baby may be starting to smile now which is so gratifying ☺
Immunizations: HepB #2 of 3 | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Post Partum Depression Assessment
Helpful Info: Tummy Time
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
2 Months
Many babies seem more fussy or colicky at this age. Be patient. Colicky babies eventually outgrow their crying phase. Keeping your baby safe is the most important thing you can do. Even if you feel frustrated, handle your baby gently and reach out for help to friends, relatives or your pediatrician if the crying is getting to be too much. If you need a break and noone is available to help you, place your baby on his/her back gently in a safe space such as a crib or bassinet and take a few minutes to calm down.
At this visit we:
Immunizations: Pentacel (combo of DTaP, HIB, IPV), Vaxneuvance (PCV15), Rotavirus | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Post Partum Depression Assessment, Ages and Stages Developmental Assessment (ASQ)
Helpful Info: Colic, Sleep Training
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
4 Months
Your baby is becoming more active and verbal. Be careful not to leave your baby unattended, especially on a bed, couch, or counter. They move faster than you think! Babies need only breast milk or iron fortified formula for the first 4-6 months of life. We will talk at this appointment about the appropriate time to introduce solid foods and what foods to introduce first.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: Pentacel (combo of DTaP, HIB, IPV), Vaxneuvance (PCV15), Rotavirus | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Post Partum Depression Assessment, Ages and Stages Developmental Assessment (ASQ)
Helpful Info: Colic, Sleep Training, Starting Solids
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
6 Months
Your baby will begin to move more and will be able to sit up independently for short periods of time. Now is the time to start baby-proofing your house if you haven’t already done so. You should move the mattress in your baby’s crib down to the lowest level.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: Pentacel (combo of DTaP, HIB, IPV), Vaxneuvance (PCV15), Rotavirus, Influenza (during flu season) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Post Partum Depression Assessment, Oral Health Surveillance, Fluoride Varnish if needed
Helpful Info: Starting Solids
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
9 Months
Your baby may be starting to crawl, pulling to a stand, and cruising on furniture. Babies will want to touch everything; this is how they learn. This is a messy time! Have fun and be patient. Keeping your baby in a sleep sack as they start to pull up also helps keep them from trying to climb out of the crib.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: HepB #3 of 3 | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments:Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Oral Health Surveillance, Fluoride Varnish if needed, Hemoglobin & Lead Test (done with a tiny toe prick)
Helpful Info: Toddler Tableware
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
12 Months
Happy Birthday! At this age, your baby can transition from breast milk or formula to cow’s milk, however it is healthy to continue breast milk if that is what you prefer for your baby. Most babies need 3 meals, 2-3 snacks, and no more than 16-20 ounces of whole cow’s milk per day. Your baby will be able to eat many of the foods you eat, but be careful to avoid small, hard foods that can cause choking. It is time to wean your child from the bottle and offer all liquids in a straw or sippy cup. It is much easier to wean your child now than if you wait until they are older – avoid cavities and additional tears and make the change now!
Your baby may be outgrowing the infant carrier car seat. You can switch to a toddler seat but continue to have your baby in a rear facing until age 2 AND at least 30 pounds.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: HepA, MMR, VAR | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: ASQ, Oral Health Surveillance, Fluoride Varnish, Vision Photoscreen, Hearing Evaluation
Helpful Info: Toddler Tableware
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
15 Months
Your child may be able to climb and run, so be sure to safety proof your home. Poison control is available 24 hours a day: 1-800-222-1222 – keep this number handy in your cell phone and on your refrigerator.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: Vaxneuvance (PCV15), Pentacel (one shot combo of DTaP, HIB, IPV) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Fluoride Varnish if needed
Helpful Info: Speech and Language Development In Toddlers
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
18 Months
At 18 months, your child understands much more than he or she can say in words. Use words to describe your child’s feelings and gestures. Read and sing to your child often. When reading, use simple words to talk about the pictures.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: HepA #2 | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Ages and Stages Questionnaire, MCHAT Questionnaire, Oral Health Surveillance, Fluoride Varnish if needed
Helpful Info: Speech and Language Development In Toddlers
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
2 Years
At this age, your 2 year old may go from trying to be independent to clinging to you; this is normal. It is better for toddlers to play than to watch TV. Even having television playing in the background interrupts healthy toddler play – background music is a better choice. Being a picky eater is common in toddlers. Don’t get into the habit of making them food that is different than the rest of the family is eating. It’s your job to put healthy food on the table/plate, and the child’s job to decide what/how much they are eating.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: Influenza (during flu season) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Ages and Stages Questionnaire, MCHAT Questionnaire, Oral Health Surveillance, Fluoride Varnish if needed
Helpful Info: Speech and Language Development In Toddlers
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
2.5 Years
Your baby is not really a baby anymore. They are firmly in the toddler years. One moment they seem so big and the next still very small. This is the “do-it-myself time.”
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Ages & Stages Developmental Screening, Oral Health Surveillance, Fluoride Varnish
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
3 Years
Your child will likely be moving into a world of make believe that they create with their imagination. Toys for dress up and make believe are important at this age. Read books, sing songs and play rhyming games with your child each day.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
4 Years
Four year olds often like to sing, dance and act. They like to tell “tall tales” and make up stories. Enjoy these fun moments with your little one! Parents should continue to help with brushing teeth even though your child will want to do it all by themselves.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: MMRV, Kinrix (which is a combination of DTaP & IPV) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Hemoglobin and Lipid Profile (done through a finger prick), Oral Health Surveillance, Vision Testing, Hearing Testing, Fluoride Varnish (if not done at the dentist)
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
5 Years
At this age, your child needs more independence. However, you need to set clear limits. A regular bedtime and consistent bedtime routine are important. Be a great role model. Show an interest in what they are learning. There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
6 Years
Encourage good learning by helping your child organize a distraction-free time to do homework and ensuring 10-12 hours of sleep each night. Teach your child what to do if there is a fire and have practice fire drills. There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
7 Years
Continue to encourage good nutrition and exercise for your child. This is the time he or she is building good health habits for a lifetime! There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
8 Years
Ensure that your child ALWAYS wears a helmet when bicycling, skateboarding, scooter riding and skating. There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
9 Years
Your child be is becoming more responsible and will be able to take on more tasks such as taking care of his/her own room. He or she may also start reading independently for pleasure.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
10 Years
our ten year old still requires adult supervision when you are away. Watching TV with your child allows you to discuss any controversial topics that may come up.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
11 Years
Your child may be transitioning to middle school at this age. He or she may be participating in more group activities. Expand your conversations about healthy living practices to include tobacco, drug and alcohol avoidance.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: MCV, HPV, TdaP | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision testing, Hearing testing, Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Profile (finger prick)
Helpful Info: Teen Health
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
12 Years
Your child will be in middle school at this age. Continue your conversations about healthy living practices to include tobacco, drug and alcohol avoidance. Your child should be able to assume more responsibility for personal hygiene and chores.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: MCV (meningitis), HPV (Gardasil), TdaP | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Hearing testing and Vision testing, Hemoglobin in menstruating females (no finger prick!)
Helpful Info: Teen Health
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
13 Years
Even though friends are becoming more important at this age, having a caring adult to provide a listening ear and from which to obtain accurate health information is equally important. Foster open communication with your child.
During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: HPV (if 2 shot series has not been completed) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Hearing Testing, Vision Testing, Hemoglobin in menstruating females (no finger prick!)
Helpful Info: Teen Health, Teen Physicals
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
14 Years
Your child may be showing an increasing interest in extracurricular activities. Have conversations about risk taking behaviors, driving, alcohol, drug use, family rules and expectations. Discuss media and internet safety. Make certain that they have an adult they can confide in if they are unable to communicate with you. There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: None
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Hearing Testing, Vision Testing, Hemoglobin in menstruating females (no finger prick!), Adolescent Depression Screening
Helpful Info: Teen Physicals
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
15 Years
Your child may be adjusting to the transition to high school. Development of family relationships continues to be important, but it is also normal for teens to place more and more emphasis on their peer relationships. There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: HPV (if 2 shot series has not been completed) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Hearing Testing, Vision Testing, Hemoglobin in menstruating females (no finger prick!)
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
16 Years
You are solidly in the teen years! It is exciting to see the wonderful person your child is becoming. Possible conflict can arise at this time as your teen assesses your family values versus those of culture and peers.
During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: MCV #2 (meningitis vaccine) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing, Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Panel (done with a finger prick), Urine Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Screen (required by insurance regardless of sexual activity)
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
17 Years
Your child is getting closer to finishing high school and entering the adult world. Making mistakes are a normal part of growing up. Continue to provide emotional support and guidance for them during this time. There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: Men B if entering college (two shot series) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Vision Testing, Hearing Testing, Urine Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Screen, Hemoglobin in menstruating females (no finger prick!)
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
18 Years and Older
Your child is now transitioning to adult life! They will still look to you for support and guidance but will be more on their own when it comes to decision making.
During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room, now that they are 18+ they are entitled to full privacy for the entirety of their visit if desired. You are also no longer privy to their medical records.
At this visit we will:
Immunizations: Men B if entering college (two shot series) | vaccine information
Tests/Screens/Assessments: Hearing Testing, Vision Testing, Urine Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Screen , Hemoglobin in menstruating females (no finger prick!)
Forms: At 18 we have patients sign their own Privacy Agreement and an 18+ Information Sharing document that may allow you limited access to their care.
Helpful Info: College Kit
Please Complete Before Your Visit:
If you are expecting a child, we encourage you to make an appointment to meet one of our doctors before your child is born. Please call for a free virtual appointment 6-8 weeks before your baby is due, so that you can get to know your pediatrician, and ask any questions you might have. If you would like to tour our office, we can also arrange for an in-person visit.
New babies are hard, we know! The biweekly Saugatuck Pediatrics New Baby Club is designed for parents of babies 0-6 months looking to bond with each other and normalize the fun, wild and trying experience of bringing a new baby home. Whether your 1st or your 3rd, you’ll find connection and support in this facilitated “nothing off the table” conversation that will cover topics such as sleep, feeding, siblings, relationships, back to work transitions, and a range of other topics the group brings to discuss. Led by Margot Simmons, registered nurse, lactation consultant, doula, sleep specialist and mom to three.
Check our list of meeting times.
We know that breastfeeding can often be challenging—and made all the more difficult by sleepless nights, screaming infants, and stigma from all sides. First, and most importantly, you’re doing great: we always say, “fed is best.” Second, if you would like support on your breastfeeding journey, please call our office to set up an appointment with our wonderful in-house lactation consultants.
Adolescence is an important transition from childhood to adulthood, and at Saugatuck, we pay special attention to the personal needs, confidentiality and privacy of our adolescent patients, including through their late teen and college years. That’s why, during this time, we offer and encourage our patients to spend a portion of their visit alone with their provider so that we can discuss issues such as alcohol, smoking, substance use, and sexual activity with candor. After age 18, patients are legally considered adults and need to give their written permission for us to speak with their parents.
We also know that adolescence can be a challenging period for parents. As a young adult moves towards independence, it is normal for them to start distancing themselves from their parents and relying on peer relationships. If you have concerns about family relationships, please feel free to schedule time to discuss any issues with us.
Dr Jenn is hands down the best pediatrician around. She has cared for our three daughters since birth and has been so amazing. Our older daughter was born with a very rare genetic disorder and Dr Jenn has been our rock. She acts as our quarterback speaking with all of her specialists and really helping us navigate this journey. She does this in a calm and caring fashion. She never rushes us through appointments and will spend time answering every question simple or complex with ease till we fully understand the answer.
–K.S.
191 Post Road West, Suite 201
Westport, CT 06880
We are located in the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center building, off the street and behind Schulhof Animal Hospital.
Phone
203-793-4747
Email
office@saugpeds.com
Fax
877-809-0848
Billing
978-208-5361 | biller@saugpeds.com
Non-urgent medical or administrative messages can be sent through our patient portal. We will respond within 2-3 business days.
Sick visit requests may also be made through the portal on weekdays only.
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Weekends/Holidays
We offer urgent visits in the mornings only. Please call the office by 10 am for an appointment.
If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, please call 911.
For urgent after hours concerns, call our office. Our clinicians are on call 24/7.
Poison Control Hotline
800-222-1222