Lauren Pambianchi, CPNP
Lauren Pambianchi, is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Summer Pediatrics in Stamford. She is also a mom of two. She is passionate about partnering with families from the very beginning, supporting parents as they navigate each stage of their child’s growth and development. We talked to her about her message to parents looking for a pediatrician, three things parents can do to keep their children healthy year-round and the one thing parents should keep in the medicine cabinet.
How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have two kids, ages 4 years old and 1 year old.
What are your favorite family activities?
Our favorite family activities change with the seasons—skiing in the winter, swimming and being outside as much as possible in the summer, and plenty of walks with our dog, Henry, all year round. We also love spending time with friends and family whenever we can.
What led you to a career as a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner?
I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I truly fell in love with nursing during my undergraduate studies at Boston College. My pediatric rotations quickly became my favorite experience, and they inspired me to pursue advanced training in pediatrics. That passion led me to earn my master’s degree at Columbia University to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. From the beginning of my training, I felt drawn to caring for children and supporting families through every stage of growth and development.
What is your message to parents who are looking for a pediatrician?
As both a mom and a pediatric practitioner, I know how important it is to find a provider who truly aligns with your family. Choosing a pediatrician is about more than medical care—it’s about finding someone who listens, supports your concerns, and partners with you through every stage of your child’s development. I believe a strong pediatric relationship should feel like an extension of your family, offering guidance not only for medical needs but also for the broader social and emotional aspects of raising children.
What makes Summer Pediatrics special?
Summer Pediatrics is special because we take the time to truly know your family. We believe excellent medical care goes hand in hand with meaningful relationships, and we feel privileged to be part of your child’s journey. Beyond treating illness, we want to understand your children—their personalities, their milestones, and what makes them unique—so we can support them as they grow, thrive, and flourish alongside your family.
What do you wish more parents knew about pediatric health?
What I wish more parents knew about pediatric health is that most of what feels urgent in the moment is actually part of normal childhood development and common illness patterns. Fevers, viral rashes, appetite changes, and sleep disruptions are often the body’s way of working through routine infections and growth phases. My goal is always to help parents feel confident in what to monitor at home, when to come in, and when to simply give things time. You know your child best, and trusting that intuition—alongside good guidance—is one of the most powerful tools in parenting.
What are 3 simple things parents can do to keep their children healthy year-round?
Three simple things parents can do to help keep their children healthy year-round are focusing on nutrition, prioritizing sleep, and encouraging active play. I recommend offering balanced meals that include protein, fruits and vegetables, and healthy carbohydrates. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine helps ensure children get the sleep they need to grow, learn, and thrive. Finally, making time to get outdoors and play whenever possible—fresh air, movement, and unstructured play are great for both physical and emotional health.
What is your biggest “don’t panic” message for parents when it comes to children’s health?
My biggest “don’t panic” message for parents is that there is no such thing as a perfect parent. As both a pediatric provider and a mom, I know how easy it is to second-guess yourself. Children don’t need perfection; they need love, consistency, and caregivers who are doing their best. Give yourself grace, trust your instincts, and remember that we’re here to help whenever you need guidance.
What’s one thing parents should always have in the medicine cabinet?
As both a pediatric provider and a mom of a child with food allergies, I always recommend keeping Children’s Zyrtec on hand. It can be helpful for mild allergic reactions, hives, seasonal allergies, and other itchy rashes. Having it readily available can provide quick symptom relief while you determine the cause of a reaction. For children with known food allergies, families should also have an emergency action plan and carry prescribed epinephrine if recommended by their allergist or pediatrician.
How do you juggle work and mommyhood?
I juggle my career and motherhood with the help of a strong family support system. I am fortunate to have wonderful childcare and family members who live in the same town and help make the day-to-day balancing act possible. On the days I’m not working, I make it a priority to plan a special activity with my children, so we all have something fun to look forward to and dedicated time together. Becoming a parent has given me an even greater appreciation for the joys and challenges families experience, and it helps me connect with the parents I care for in the practice.