With over four decades dedicated to pediatrics, Dr. José Luís Fonseca has become an undisputed leader in pediatric medicine in Braga. His approach, marked by humanized care and active listening to families, reflects a clinical practice where science and empathy go hand in hand.

Pediatrician and Neonatologist | Practice in Braga


 Route and experience


Can you tell us a little about your career as a pediatrician and what led you to pursue this specialty?

From a very early age, pediatrics awakened a deep calling in me. The opportunity to monitor children's growth and development, intervene early, and support families during their most difficult moments has always fascinated me. Throughout 41 years of clinical practice in Braga, I dedicated myself to Outpatient Pediatrics and also led this section at the Portuguese Society of Pediatrics for 17 years.

It was in the practice that I developed a passion for helping resolve everyday questions and supporting parents with their concerns. Later, I also dedicated myself to Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care, a field that challenged me on every level and taught me the importance of detail, calm, and teamwork in critical situations. This combination of the human side of the practice and the intensity of Neonatology ultimately shaped my entire approach to medicine. My clinical approach has always been based on scientific evidence and the humanization of care. My experience in Neonatal Intensive Care, particularly as head of the NICU at Guimarães Hospital, further enhanced my clinical practice.


What were the biggest challenges you faced throughout your career?

The greatest challenges arise when science and emotion intersect. Dealing with critical situations in neonatology, supporting parents in moments of uncertainty, and maintaining composure to make complex decisions. Another constant challenge is staying up-to-date in a constantly evolving field, without losing the human connection I consider essential. Initially, the biggest challenge was managing families' anxiety and knowing how to communicate clearly in the outpatient clinic, especially when unexpected questions or concerns arose. Later, in Neonatal Intensive Care, I faced situations of great fragility, where every decision was crucial. In both contexts, I learned that empathy, active listening, and emotional support are as important as technical knowledge.


What has changed most in pediatrics since you started practicing medicine?

Much has changed, from technological and therapeutic advances to the way we communicate with parents. In the outpatient clinic, we see an increasingly close doctor-family relationship and much better-informed parents. In Neonatology, technology has advanced immensely. Today, we can save babies who previously had no chance, and the approach is much more family-centered. Essentially, both in the office and in Intensive Care, there is an increasing focus on humanizing care. Today, there is a greater appreciation for emotional health, prevention, and parental autonomy. Medicine has become more participatory, and this is something I have always encouraged in my practice.


What has changed in pediatrics and what has worsened it most, in your opinion, in recent years?

I would like to see more focus on prevention and close monitoring, as I do in the outpatient clinic, instead of so much medication.


What are the biggest concerns parents raise with you during consultations?

Questions about feeding, sleep, development and, of course, everything that involves newborns, reflect my experience in both areas.


How do you deal with parents' fears in their children's early years?

With great calm, clear information, and, whenever possible, a smile. The important thing is to give parents confidence, whether during a routine appointment or in a critical situation.


What recommendations do you have for parents to maintain a healthy balance between school, extracurricular activities, and rest? 

Balance is key. In the clinic, I often say that each child has their own rhythm. I always recommend respecting this rhythm, balancing activities, and allowing time for play and rest. And this applies from newborns to adolescents. Children need free time, to play, rest, and be with their family. An overload of activities can cause anxiety. I always recommend respecting the child's rhythm and valuing quality time at home.


Health and prevention


What do you consider to be the biggest threats to children's health today?

In the outpatient clinic, I often see that obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and excessive screen time, as well as emotional imbalances, are major threats today. Children's mental health is increasingly vulnerable, and this requires increased attention from professionals and families.


Vaccination remains a top priority in disease prevention? 

Without a doubt! Vaccination is one of the most effective tools in preventative medicine. It's essential to continue raising awareness among parents about its importance, combating misinformation with science and empathy.


What warning signs should parents be aware of in their children's physical and emotional development?

I see increasing concern from parents, but sometimes there's a lack of evidence-based information, something I always try to convey, both in the office and from my hospital experience. Changes in sleep, appetite, social behavior, developmental regressions, or signs of persistent sadness should be addressed. Parents are the first observers and should feel empowered to seek help when something doesn't seem right.






Nutrition and physical activity


What are the main dietary mistakes you encounter in your daily consultations?

In my practice, I see a lot of anxiety about nutrition, especially when introducing solid foods. The most important thing is to respect individual development, something I also learned to value in Neonatology, where adequate nutrition makes all the difference. Excess sugar, the consumption of ultra-processed foods, and a lack of routine mealtimes are common mistakes. Food is often used as a reward or distraction, which can create unhealthy habits.


How to encourage healthy eating habits from an early age? 

Parents' example is essential. Eating as a family, involving children in meal preparation, and avoiding rigid impositions are effective strategies. Mealtime should be a positive and educational experience.


How important is physical activity in child development and how can it be adapted to each age?

Physical activity is vital for motor, emotional, and social development. It should be adapted to the child's age and interests, prioritizing spontaneous movement, play, and contact with nature. Yes, starting from newborn. Encouraging movement is essential for healthy development. Each stage has its own needs, and in my practice, I always help parents adapt activities to their children's age.



 Technology and lifestyle


What is the impact of screen time (cell phones, tablets, television) on children's health?

Excessive screen time can negatively affect children's sleep, attention, mood, and social development. Furthermore, it can reduce the amount of time dedicated to physical activities and family life. Early exposure can impact neurological development, which is especially sensitive in the first months of life. Setting limits early on is crucial. It's crucial to promote balanced and conscious technology use.


How to guide parents in managing technology use at home?

I recommend establishing clear and consistent rules, such as screen-free times, especially during meals and before bed. It's important for parents to set an example and encourage dialogue with their children about the benefits and risks of technology. Creating moments for sharing and playing offline is essential. I emphasize the importance of human contact.


Are there healthy ways to introduce technology into children's daily lives?

Yes, as long as there's balance and pedagogical intent. Interactive apps that promote reasoning, games that encourage creativity, and moments of digital sharing with parents can all be positive. The key is that technology doesn't replace free play, human contact, and physical activity.


What role do parents play in promoting a balanced lifestyle?

Parents are the greatest role models. The way they live, eat, rest, and interact directly influences their children. Promoting a healthy routine, with time to play, rest, eat well, and be with family, is essential for a child's physical and emotional well-being. Movement is essential from birth, and I increasingly see children spending too much time still, both in the doctor's office and during developmental checkups.






Mental and emotional health

  

Have you noticed an increase in anxiety and stress in children in recent years?

Yes, I notice this both in the outpatient clinic and even with babies, where the environment and family stress can have an impact. Close contact and emotional support are essential, something I've always valued in both areas.


What strategies do you recommend to parents and schools to help manage school and emotional pressures?

The basis is always dialogue, active listening and creating a safe and welcoming environment.

  

For parents:


  • Active, nonjudgmental listening - Create a space where children feel safe to talk about their feelings, without fear of criticism or correction. Sometimes, they just need to be heard.
  • Valuing effort, not just results - Reinforce that effort is more important than the final grade. This helps reduce performance anxiety.
  • Balanced routines - Ensure time for rest, play, family meals, and adequate sleep. Too many extracurricular activities can be counterproductive.
  • Model emotional management - Show how to deal with frustrations and stress in a healthy way. Parents are the first example.
  • Avoid comparisons - Every child has their own pace. Comparing them to peers or siblings can lead to insecurity and low self-esteem.


For schools:

 

  • Integrated Emotional Education - Include activities in the curriculum that develop empathy, self-regulation, and emotional awareness. This could be through projects, group dynamics, or moments of reflection.
  • Welcoming school environment - Teachers and staff should be alert to signs of emotional distress and promote a culture of respect and inclusion.
  • Reducing excessive academic pressure - Encourage more diverse assessment methods that are less focused on exams. The focus should be on overall development.
  • Access to psychological support -Have school psychologists available and accessible, with early intervention programs and ongoing monitoring.
  • Promoting playful and physical activities - Movement and play are essential to relieve tension and promote well-being.


Together: 

Parents and schools should communicate regularly, share concerns, and align strategies. A child supported in both environments is much more likely to develop resilience and emotional balance.



Trends and practical advice


Which areas of pediatrics have evolved the most in recent years?

Neonatology, medical genetics, and child mental health are areas that have seen notable advances. The family-centered approach and preventive medicine have also gained prominence, which I consider extremely positive.


What role do pediatricians play today in family health education?

A central role. Pediatricians are often the first point of contact with the healthcare system and should be active in promoting healthy habits, preventing disease, and providing emotional support to families.


What are the most common mistakes parents make because of excessive worry?

Overprotection, excessive medicalization of common and other normal developmental situations, and attempts to control every aspect of a child's life. It's important to trust the growth process and allow children to explore, make mistakes, and learn.


How do you see the future of pediatrics in the next 10 years?

I envision a more integrated, multidisciplinary, and prevention-focused pediatrics. Technology will play a growing role, but human contact will continue to be irreplaceable. Children's mental health and overall well-being will, I hope, be top priorities.


If you could give just one piece of advice to all parents, what would it be?

Love your children with presence. Be there, not just physically, but emotionally. Listen, play, respect their pace. Childhood is brief, but leaves lifelong scars. Enjoy every moment, trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Every child is unique and deserves to be cared for with affection and attention, from the first minute of life.







Final reflection


What motivates you to continue practicing medicine after so many years?

My passion for pediatrics remains alive. Every child I see, every family that trusts me, renews my sense of mission. Watching generations grow and feeling like I'm contributing to their well-being is deeply rewarding.


What message would you like to leave to young doctors who are starting their careers in pediatrics?

Cultivate listening, empathy, and respect. Technique is important, but the human connection is what transforms medical practice. Never stop learning, questioning, and caring wholeheartedly about children's health.




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Office: Praça Conde Agrolongo, 105B, 2º andar, salas 13-15, S. João do Souto, Braga

Contact: 253 276 484

Facebook: facebook.com/jose.l.fonseca.3