Mikail L. W. Kraft, DO

Mikail Kraft, DO, is committed to providing the best care possible to his patients, but he doesn't take himself too seriously.

"I love the fact that I get to work with kids every day and have fun, play and laugh," said Kraft, a Methodist Physicians Clinic pediatrician in Elkhorn. "I get to wear fun socks to work. I get to hear kids talk about their teachers, their friends at school, their sports and activities, and their favorite food. I get all kinds of funny answers."

Dr. Kraft, a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, believes it's important to establish a relationship with his young patients, not just parents and guardians. So he keeps up with TV shows, video games and other pop culture to help children be comfortable. That becomes all the more important if a child needs someone to confide in. Dr. Kraft enjoys helping patients address mental health challenges like ADHD, anxiety and depression.

He has also completed the Comprehensive Clinical Breastfeeding Medicine Course for Physicians and Other Providers. And as a father himself, he often leans on his personal experience to help parents with the challenges that children and newborns can bring.

"The change that happens in that first year of life is truly remarkable, with them going from a newborn to a 1-year-old who's now walking and maybe saying their first words," he said. "Being a parent has taught me so much, and I really enjoy sharing those tips with families."

Outside of work, the Omaha native can be found spending time with his family and cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs. He also believes in the importance of nutrition and exercise, and he enjoys hiking, biking and CrossFit.

"If I'm telling kids that they need to eat vegetables every day and try to find time to do some form of exercise, I need to be doing those same things," he said.