The information supplied in this article is based on the pediatrician’s own opinions and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. Those who need a licensed healthcare provider should contact a qualified professional directly.
Welcome to The Save, where we ask interesting people what they order when they’re in a pinch.
You might know Krupa Playforth, M.D., as @thepediatricianmom on Instagram. IRL she’s also a busy mom of three in the thick of opening her own pediatrician practice — and a serious lover of cookies.
“The Pediatrician Mom was inspired by the families I have cared for as a physician, and has been a passion project aimed at providing what we all deserve,” she says. That’s “nuanced, compassionate advice paired with medical expertise to help you become a more confident, empowered parent.” Dr. Playforth knows more than anyone that busy moms need good snacks and delicious treats — both for kiddos and themselves.
Read on for Dr. Playforth’s faves for when…
…you’ve just had a long day doctoring and momming?
“A glass of wine, probably Cabernet Sauvignon. My husband makes great cocktails; he might mix me an aperol spritz.”
…you are caring for a sick kid at home?
“Coffee — I got an espresso machine at the start of the pandemic, and it’s one of my favorite things in my house. I love Counter Culture coffee beans. I experiment with flavors like chocolate and eggnog to make it feel like a treat.”
…you need a healthy snack to get you through a long afternoon?
“Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt because of the high protein content. Cheese sticks or cheese squares are also great.”
…your kids are asking for new snacks nonstop?
“We explore Trader Joe’s to see what new snacks they have. My kids are really into seaweed snacks these days.”
…you’re in a dinner rut?
“Breakfast for dinner with eggs or French toast. Pasta is always a hit, too. My kids don’t like sauce, so we have a lot of butter pasta with cheese.”
…you want to treat yourself?
“Crumbl Cookies is amazing. I love their Molten S’mores cookies.”
…you need a gift for a kid's birthday party?
“A book of some sort, something one of my kids has loved. I also bring a bottle of wine for parents for one-year birthday parties. It’s really a celebration that the parents have survived! For older kids, I’ll give something in the STEM family: Legos, a puzzle game called Canoodle, or a board game to keep them out of their parents' hair.”
…your friends are coming over for dinner?
“My favorite easy, quick thing that is always a hit is coconut milk lentil curry with cilantro rice. I make a big batch. It’s so creamy and delicious, and even kids like it. I’ll adjust the spice or take away the cilantro based on preference.”
…you need to restock your bar cart with your house faves?
“Aperol spritz supplies! And my husband really likes to make bourbon-based drinks — he’s from Kentucky. We’ve recently been enjoying Italian red wines, and Sauvignon Blanc for hotter days.”
…you need to restock your pantry with everyday essentials?
“I’m a vegetarian, so we do a lot of pasta, rice, and baked beans. My kids would implode if we didn’t have bread.”
Want more? Check out what Dr. Playforth keeps stocked in her medicine cabinet.
PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Dr. Krupa Playforth
