Celebrating July 4th at PAN

The Fourth of July is all about family, fun, and making memories. Before you head out for parades, cookouts, and fireworks, here are a few tips to help keep your holiday safe and enjoyable.

Child in red sunglasses and patriotic headband, holding small U.S. flags.

☀️ Beat the Heat Summer temperatures can rise quickly. Encourage children to drink plenty of water throughout the day, wear lightweight clothing, and take breaks in the shade. Don't forget sunscreen! Apply SPF 30 or higher before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours.


💧Water Safety Whether at the pool, lake, or beach, always supervise children closely near water. Make sure young swimmers use life jackets and never leave kids unattended. Remember, “touch supervision” is key — keep little ones within arm’s reach at all times.


🎆Fireworks Safety Fireworks are a holiday favorite, but safety comes first. Sparklers can reach temperatures hot enough to cause serious burns. Consider glow sticks, light-up wands, or patriotic accessories as safer alternatives for little hands, and enjoy community fireworks displays from a safe distance.


🔥Grill Awareness Grills, hot foods, and busy gatherings can create unexpected hazards. Keep children at least three feet away from the grill area and be mindful of foods that may pose choking risks. Cutting food into age-appropriate pieces can help keep everyone safe.


🎧Protect Little Ears Fireworks can be exciting but also very loud. Babies, toddlers, and children with sensory sensitivities may be more comfortable with noise-reducing headphones during celebrations.


PAN OFFICE HOURS FOR THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND


Please note: As part of the Independence Day holiday weekend, Pediatric Associates at Northwoods will not have in-person office hours on Friday, July 3, Saturday, July 4. On Sunday, July 5, Dr. Sinha will be the on-call provider for our pediatric group and they will be providing coverage. Her office, Mill River Pediatrics, will be available to see urgent care visits as needed. Their phone number is (508) 884-5600.


A provider will remain on call throughout the weekend to assist with any urgent medical concerns.  If you need to reach the on-call provider, please call our office at (508) 880-7858 and our answering service will connect you.


We will re-open for our regular hours on Monday, July 6, 2026.


❤️🤍💙 From all of us at PAN, we wish our families a star-spangled Fourth of July filled with laughter, sunshine, backyard fun, and unforgettable memories!

Vitamin K: The Best Birthday Gift Your Baby Needs on Day One

June 22, 2026
Congratulations — you're welcoming (or about to welcome!) a new baby into the world. With so much to think about, it's completely natural to have questions about the care your little one will receive in those first hours of life. One question we hear a lot from families is: "Does my baby really need the vitamin K shot?" The short answer? Yes — and here's why.
Smiling woman in a white sweater standing indoors with framed artwork in the background

Welcome Dr. Lauren Santos!

May 21, 2026
Meet Dr. Lauren Santos, our new pediatrician! She focuses on preventive care & fun visits. Schedule your appointment at PA at Northwoods starting May 4, 2026!

The AAP Vaccine Schedule

January 22, 2026
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recently updated its vaccine schedule, and we want to let you know that our practice will be following their guidance. These updates are based on the latest research and a strong commitment to maintaining children’s health. You can read more on the AAP's parent-focused website: HealthyChildren.org .

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr at PAN

January 15, 2026
At Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we are committed to fostering values of respect, compassion, and fairness in the children and families we serve. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. King—a visionary leader whose work continues to inspire hope, unity, and positive change. His dedication to justice and equality serves as a meaningful reminder of the role we all play in creating a more inclusive and caring world for future generations.

A Message from Dr Frank & Beth Tomase

January 4, 2026
After 36 wonderful years of caring for families in our community, Beth and Dr. Frank Tomase have announced their plans to retire in 2026. Beth will be retiring in the spring and Dr. Tomase in August. While they are excited for the next chapter, they will truly miss the many families they’ve had the privilege to serve.
A baby is wearing a santa hat and a red shirt.

2025 Holiday Hours at PAN

December 14, 2025
The holiday season is here, and we know it’s a busy time for families! At Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we want to help you plan ahead for your child’s care. While we hope you're enjoying time with family and friends, we know that kids' illnesses and accidents don’t always follow the holiday schedule. To allow our team to enjoy the holidays, we’ll be operating under special hours.
A baby is laying on a bed with an oxygen tube in his nose.

Two Effective Ways of Protecting Babies from RSV

December 5, 2025
As the colder months approach, so does the return of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Let’s explore some key measures to keep our little ones healthy and safe!
A little girl is eating a roasted chicken with a fork

Happy Thanksgiving!

November 19, 2025
Our office hours for the holiday: Wednesday, November 26: Closing early at 2:00 PM. Thursday-Friday, November 27-28: An on-call physician will be available for emergency issues. Closed for office hours to allow our staff to spend time with their families. A Thanksgiving Celebration of Gratitude: What Our Kids and Families Are Thankful For As Thanksgiving approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on the things that matter most. We asked our young patients and their families to share what they’re grateful for this year. Here’s a glimpse of their heartwarming responses .

What to do with ALL THAT CANDY?

October 19, 2025
🎃 Halloween is full of excitement—costumes, friends, and candy galore! But come November 1st, parents face the real challenge: what should you do with ALL THAT CANDY ? Let kids go free rein… or pace their candy spree?

Honoring Indigenous Peoples Day

November 3, 2025
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a time to honor the enduring presence, wisdom, and cultural contributions of Indigenous communities. It reminds us to recognize their deep connections to the land and the traditions that have been preserved and shared across generations, often in the face of great challenges. This day is not only about celebration, but also about reflection. It calls us to acknowledge the history of colonization, displacement, and inequities faced by Indigenous peoples, while also recognizing their strength, resilience, and continued influence on our shared story. As we observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day, let us take the opportunity to learn more about the diverse languages, customs, and knowledge that shape Indigenous cultures. By listening, learning, and supporting Indigenous communities, we can help amplify their voices and contribute to a future rooted in respect, inclusion, and equity. Today, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and commit to building a more just and inclusive tomorrow—together with Indigenous peoples. Here at PAN, we are also reminded of the privilege it is to care for all children and families in our community. We are truly grateful for the trust you place in us and for the opportunity to play a role in your children’s health and well-being. Ways to celebrate: 2025 Indigenous Peoples Day Events Massachusetts Center for Native American Awareness