Meet Dr. Eriel Hayes

Growing up in Denton, TX, most of Dr. Hayes' hobbies were in the arts. Her interests involved community theater, singing and dancing. But in middle school science she found a long-term fascination in medicine. She attended medical school with an open mind and in her third year she went the route of pediatrics because she enjoys getting to help children and their families.

Today she says, "Working with kids requires empathy and being a good listener. I love that I get to watch my patients grow up and help their parents navigate how to keep them healthy and thriving." Not surprisingly, when Dr. Hayes gave birth to her first son (she has two), she grew personally and professionally. "When I became a parent it all changed. I was trained to take care of patients, but there's no substitute for getting up in the middle of the night with a child or going to the store to test sippy cups," she says. "I feel like I can give better advice as well as empathize even more."

Dr. Hayes enjoys running, reading, binge watching shows on Netflix and spending time with family and friends. She especially likes running half marathons, and loves to hike in Colorado. She also likes Sci-Fi/Fantasy - especially Harry Potter, Star Wars and the Marvel super heroes. Another interest is the ocean. "For a while growing up I wanted to be an ichthyologist and study sharks."

"People describe me as dedicated. I work hard for my patient families, am dedicated to my own family and friends, doing whatever it takes to make sure everyone is happy and well."

"I especially love helping new mothers who are going through the wonderfully new and exciting experience of motherhood."

Services

  • Acute illnesses
  • ADHD management
  • Chronic condition management
  • Developmental problems
  • Disease prevention
  • Flu shots
  • Hearing screens
  • Injury treatment
  • Obesity and weight management
  • Vision screens
  • Patient and parent education
  • School and sports physicals
  • Vaccines and immunizations
  • Well checks​​

Reviews

Average rating:

4.9
Questions were addressed
4.9
4.9 (42)
Provider explained things clearly
4.9
4.9 (43)
Likelihood of recommending this provider
4.8
4.8 (43)
Trust/confidence in physicians
4.9
4.9 (43)

What our families say

  • November 26, 2025

    Dr Hayes was amazing as always. She is so great at being warm and friendly and answering all questions. The wait time was almost nothing. The nurse who roomed us was nice and thorough.

  • August 26, 2025

    We got in quickly and were seen quickly. The nurses and doctor involved in our visit were helpful and efficient

  • July 27, 2025

    Dr. Hayes took her time with us and answered all of my daughter's questions and concerns. We appreciated her thoughtful guidance.

  • July 17, 2025

    Dr. Hayes is so personable and gives great recommendations to see that our baby grows and thrives. We are so thankful for her.

  • July 17, 2025

    The staff at Cook Children's Forest Park have always gone above and beyond. My family is so incredibly grateful for everyone there, especially Dr. Hayes

  • July 17, 2025

    Dr. Hayes is absolutely the best. We will be transferring out of state soon and will greatly miss her as well as all of the staff at Cook Children's Forest Park.

  • July 08, 2025

    We love Dr. Hayes. She is so attentive to our needs, and feels like she spends time trying to address all of our questions.

  • June 17, 2025

    Great! Always focused on my girls!

  • June 12, 2025

    She's the best

  • April 30, 2025

    Dr. Hayes has taken care of my two sons, since they were born, my older son is 6! She is compassionate, gentle, and patient. I never feel rushed during an appointment. Dr. Hayes helps my boys feel comfortable and they actually enjoy their visits! We couldn't ask for a better pediatrician. How special that she has been with us during our parenting journey from the beginning.

  • April 21, 2025

    Dr. Hayes is absolutely wonderful and has made us feel safe with the care of our child. She always listens to our concerns without judgement and makes sure to look at all of them. Her nurse is also wonderful. This past appointment she provided legos for our 18 month old so that he would relax a little bit. That made me feel very cared for and I am extremely thankful for it.

  • April 07, 2025

    Dr. Eriel Hayes was phenomenal as always. :)

  • March 14, 2025

    We love Dr. Hayes! She is excellent with all three of our children.

  • March 13, 2025

    Dr Hayes did an excellent job discussing the measles outbreak and coming up with a plan for our family.

  • March 08, 2025

    Dr. Hayes - She is patient and thoroughly answers all of our questions at each visit.

  • February 04, 2025

    The PA in training was very good and per usual Dr. Hayes was great

  • February 04, 2025

    Dr. Hayes was amazing as always and made my kiddos feel heard and safe!

  • January 30, 2025

    Eriel Hayes is great

  • January 28, 2025

    We love Dr Hayes! She is absolutely wonderful!!! Also, her sweet PA student [...] she was also just precious and so kind!

  • January 22, 2025

    Dr. Hayes is wonderful and she had a new PA with her that day that was also wonderful.

Education

  • Medical school:
  • University of Texas Medical Branch,Galveston,TX
  • Residency:
  • UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
  • Board certifications:
  • American Board of Pediatrics

Affiliations

  • Cook Children's Physician Network

Recognitions

  • Mom-Approved Doctor (2025)

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