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Newsletter
August 2026
We put our heart in everything we do.
Back to School
A Change in Routine
As backpacks are packed and school buses hit the road, we’re reminded that the back to school season is about more than new supplies and fresh routines. It’s about giving every child the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Back to School Wellness
Remember to stay hydrated, take short breaks throughout the day, and enjoy some fresh air when you can! As temperature's rise, so do UV levels, even on cloudy days. Protect yourself by applying broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wearing sunglasses and a hat, and reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours when spending the day outdoors. The return to school also means the return of seasonal germs. As children spend more time together viruses like the common cold, flu, and RSV spread more easily. Make sure to practice frequent handwashing, disinfecting high touch areas and proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
PPECC UPDATE
We are excited to say that our new PPECCs in The Colony as well as in Hurst have started taking patients. We are hiring and accepting new patients. Please spread the word about our amazing PPECC facilities!
PPECCs (Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers) provide skilled nursing care in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally supportive setting during the day. These new centers reflect our continued commitment to expanding access to high-quality pediatric care while giving families more options closer to home.
We can’t wait to welcome new families, build strong care teams, and create spaces where children can receive the medical care they need while still getting to be kids.
Highlights & Happenings
Dallas Mayor's Back to School Fair
August 7th 8:00am-2:00pm
3809 Grand Avenue. Dallas, TX 75210
Every year, thousands of Dallas families and community volunteers gather at Fair Park to provide school supplies, health screenings, hair cuts and more.
Sensory Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese
1st Sunday of every month
Once a month, Chuck E. Cheese hosts sensory Sundays where they dim the lights and reduce the noise to welcome children with higher sensory sensitivities.
For dates, times, and locations, go to Chuck E. Cheese's website:
Arline Initiative Back to School Bash- Austin, TX
August 15th 4:00pm- 7:00pm
1701 E 12th Street. Austin, TX 78702
Free backpacks with school supplies, pizza, face painting, kids' activities, and raffles for free haircuts.
Fort Worth Back to School Bash
August 9th 10:00am- 4:00pm
6201 Beaty Street. Fort Worth, TX 76112
Back to school drive to at Handley Meadowbrook CC to help distribute school supplies to the community. Which will also include free hair cuts and hair braiding.
Spotlight on PPECC
Big Things Happening in The Colony
We had a blast in The Colony, TX introducing ourselves to the community. We had a family fun day that allowed families to tour out new PPECC.
National Summer Sun Safety Month
Keeping our Little Ones Safe Under the Sun
Summer is a wonderful time for outdoor adventures, vacations, and making lasting memories. Whether your child enjoys playing in the backyard, visiting the park, or participating in outdoor therapy activities, spending time outside offers many physical and emotional benefits. During Summer Sun Safety Month, we encourage all families to take a few simple steps to protect children from the harmful effects of the sun.
Why Sun Safety Matters
Children's skin is more sensitive to UV rays than adults, making them more susceptible to sunburn and heat related illness. Below you will find a few easy ways to keep them protected in the Summer sun.
Simple Sun Safety Tips For Families
- Apply Daily Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on children older than 6 months. Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, or more often after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Dress For Protection: Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves provides excellent protection from the sun. Wide-brimmed hats help shield the face, ears, and neck, while UV-protective sunglasses help protect children's eyes from harmful rays.
- Stay Hydrated: Encourage children to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they don't feel thirsty. Proper hydration is especially important during hot Texas summers. Families should also follow any fluid recommendations provided by their child's healthcare team.
- Never Leave Children in a Parked Vehicle: Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly, even with the windows cracked. Always check the back seat before locking your vehicle and never leave a child unattended.
- Special considerations: Some medications and medical conditions can increase sensitivity to heat and sunlight. If your child has a tracheostomy, uses oxygen, has feeding equipment, or requires mobility devices, extra planning may be needed during outdoor activities. Your child's healthcare provider or nursing team can offer personalized guidance to help keep them comfortable and safe.
Resources
VIVA Pediatrics Resources
In an effort to help our families, we constantly strive to provide them with relevant and helpful resources and information.
Texas Star Kids
The Texas’ Star Kids mandate threatens the lives of our weakest and most vulnerable little citizens. Join us in standing up for those who have no voice.
The Parker Lee Project
The Parker Lee Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families of children with medical needs obtain the necessary supplies & equipment, education, and support they need. While most supplies are covered by insurance, some are not, or not enough supplies are provided.
Thrive Magazine
Need Resources for your child with special needs? Thrive Magazine shares resources and stories of other families in the DFW area who are living and thriving with special needs.
"Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the things you can think up if only you try!"
-Dr. Suess
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