Actress and singer Mandy Moore discusses her son's croup illness with Emily Oster, exploring the link between croup and childhood asthma. They also share tips on transitioning from crib to toddler bed and the emotional journey of letting go of baby items.
Croup primarily affects children under six with peak occurrence between six months and three years, often requiring nebulizer treatments or hospital visits.
Transitioning from crib to toddler bed signifies a child's independence, requiring consistent response and clear communication during the adjustment period.
Deep dives
Understanding Croup and Its Relationship to Asthma
Croup is a symptomatic cough that primarily affects kids under six, with peak occurrence between six months and three years. It often leads to breathing difficulties and may require nebulizer treatments or hospital visits. While nearly half of pediatric ER visits for croup involve kids under two, the condition typically resolves by the age of six. However, some children, like Mandy Moore's son Gus, may experience recurrent bouts of croup, raising concerns about a potential link to asthma. Despite an increased risk, many kids with croup do not develop asthma, highlighting the complexity of interpreting symptoms and risks.
Transitioning to a Toddler Bed and Sleep Training
Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed can be a significant milestone, signaling a child's growing independence. Consistency in response is crucial during this phase, emphasizing that the child must stay in bed. Mandy Moore shares her concerns about her son adjusting to the toddler bed after being accustomed to the crib. Stories of children reacting differently to new sleep arrangements, like Mandy Moore's daughter misunderstanding bed rules, underscore the importance of clear communication and boundaries during this transition period.