How can parents create an emotionally safe space for their child when their home is no longer secure? Environmental crises like the LA fires have displaced families, leaving parents navigating uncertainty while trying to comfort their children.Today, I’m joined by fellow pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, who experienced the loss of his own home, to discuss how we can support children in processing trauma and building resilience after life-altering events.We discuss:  How parents can support children through difficult experiences by acknowledging their emotions, using age-appropriate language, and allowing them to express their fears and grief in a safe environment. That acknowledging emotions and using age-appropriate language can help children express fears and grief in a safe environment How to help them regain a sense of control and security after traumatic events To connect with Dr. Harvey follow him on Instagram @happiest_baby and check out all his resources on https://www.happiestbaby.com and purchase his best-selling book The Happiest Baby on the BlockWe’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.00:00:00 The Emotional Impact of Natural Disasters on Kids00:01:05 Understanding the Grief of Losing a Home 00:03:06 Navigating Loss as a Pediatrician, Parent, and Community Member 00:05:46 What Helps (and Hurts) When Supporting Someone After a Disaster 00:09:27 Talking to Kids About Natural Disasters Without Creating Fear 00:12:05 The Power of Emotional Validation in Parenting 00:17:19 Helping Kids Cope with the Aftermath of Trauma 00:22:51 Encouraging Kids to Be Helpers and Build Resilience00:26:22 Teaching Kids About Environmental Stewardship 00:33:55 Final Thoughts: Creating Connection Through LossWe love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No parent ever wants to end up in the Pediatric ICU; but we know it happens and we want you to be informed and know what to expect. I invited my social media friend and Pediatric Critical Care Doctor, Dr. Anita Patel on the show to chat about the Pediatric ICU and what to expect. We discuss:  The common reasons children end up in the Pediatric ICU and what to expect  The questions to ask your care team in the ICU How we manage health anxiety as a pediatric ICU doctor and general pediatrician  To connect with Dr. Anita Patel follow her on Instagram @anitakpatelmd and check out all her resources on https://linktr.ee/anitakpatelmd.00:00 Introduction & Why This Conversation Matters02:00 Meet Dr. Anita Patel04:10 Common Reasons for Pediatric ICU Admissions10:46 What Happens Inside the PICU?14:23 Navigating the ICU Experience as a Parent20:27 Key Questions Parents Should Ask the Care Team24:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents & Doctors31:14 Balancing Medical Knowledge with Parenting Anxiety35:16 Final Thoughts & Words of Encouragement37:59 Where to Follow Dr. Anita Patel & Closing RemarksWe’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is dental health genetic, or can I help prevent issues? Can I pass cavity-causing bacteria to my child? When should my child stop using a pacifier or bottle? Does mouth breathing affect dental health?This week, I welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a board-certified pediatric dentist, to answer all these dental questions and more. Throughout our discussion she encourages a balanced, judgement-free approach focusing on progress over perfection.She joins me to discuss: The importance of early oral care and developing good habits How genetic factors and parents’ dental health affects children Tips on brushing, flossing, prolonged bottle use and limiting sugar. To connect with Dr. Ashley Lerman follow her on Instagram @pediatric.dentist.mom and check out all her resources on https://yourfirstgrin.com/.Ask Doctor Mona: Toddler Tooth-brushing BattlesWe’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Culprits of Cavities 02:03 Meet Dr. Ashley Lerman: A Passion for Pediatric Dentistry04:00 The Role of Genetics in Oral Health06:29 Can Cavities Be Contagious? Parent-Child Transmission 09:36 Diet, Nutrition, and Their Effect on Teeth10:57 Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Bottle Use14:45 Mouth Breathing: Myths, Facts, and Health Concerns 22:01 The Importance of Early Dental Hygiene Habits25:44 Fluoride & Other Key Takeaways for Parents27:49 Closing Thoughts: Progress Over PerfectionOur podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cold and flu season can be especially tough on parents, with sleepless nights, restless children, and the constant challenge of managing symptoms like congestion and cough. A humidifier, paired with soothing steam, can be a game-changer in making those difficult nights more manageable.This week, I welcome Stacey Ishman, a pediatric otolaryngologist, to discuss the benefits of humidification and Vicks products like VapoSteam and humidifiers for improving sleep, especially during cold and allergy seasons. She joins me to discuss: The benefits of using a humidifier during illness How soothing ingredients like camphor and menthol help create a calming bedtime routine for your family That your child can breathe easier and sleep better with Vicks To connect with Vicks on Instagram @vicks_usa and check out their products VapoSteam Core, VapoSteam Lavender, and Cool Relief Humidifier.00:00:00 Introduction & Importance of Sleep During Colds 00:01:10 The Science Behind Vicks Vapor Steam00:02:29 Meet Dr. Stacy Ashman: Pediatric Sleep Expert 00:06:40 Why Coughs Get Worse at Night 00:08:11 Is Vapor Steam Safe for All Kids? 00:14:03 How to Incorporate Vapor Steam into a Bedtime Routine 00:18:55 The Role of Humidification in Cold & Allergy Season 00:21:32 Final Thoughts & TakeawaysWe’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking to kids about the news requires honesty while maintaining a sense of security. Open conversations help build trust, allowing kids to ask questions and process difficult topics in a supportive environment. This week, I welcome Rebecca Jarvis, contributing anchor at Good Morning America, to discuss how parents can provide age-appropriate explanations for real-world concerns while ensuring their kids feel safe.She joins me to discuss: The importance of honesty, security, and age-appropriate conversations about the news. How she navigates being present with her kids while managing a demanding career. How small positive actions can help us find purpose in uncertain times. To connect with Rebecca Jarvis follow her on Instagram @rebeccajarvis and watch her on Good Morning America on ABC.We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unresolved childhood wounds can influence your reactions and relationships with your children. By breaking generational cycles and cultivating self-awareness, parents can create more empathetic, connected and supportive environments for their families.This week, I welcome back Bryana Kappadakunnel, author of the book Parent Yourself First, to discuss how to combine self-compassion, accountability and intentional parenting to nurture both the child within and the child in front of you.She joins me to discuss: How addressing personal past wounds allows you to be a more present and empathetic parent The need to stop unhealthy family patterns and break generational cycles Practical strategies to nurture emotional connection and raise self-aware children To connect with Bryana Kappadakunnel follow her on Instagram @consciousmommy, check out all her resources at https://www.consciousmommy.com/, and purchase her book Parent Yourself First.We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My daughter struggled with diaper rash after diaper rash until I switched her to Coterie diapers. Diapers are on our babies’ sensitive skin 24/7 and finding a product that is high-quality, clean and safe will ensure their skin health.This week, I welcome Jess Jacobs, the CEO of Coterie, to discuss a healthy skin care routine for your baby and how Coterie’s innovative brand challenges industry norms by consistently exceeding expectations in product safety and performance. She joins me to discuss: Coterie’s commitment to offering high-quality, clean and safe products designed to alleviate worries for parents Her personal experiences as a mother including her kids’ sensitive skin issues That it is important for brands to set a high standard for their products and to empower parents with clear and straightforward education about skin health To connect with Coterie on Instagram follow them at @coterie and check out their products at https://www.coterie.com/ We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There has been a growing shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics, driven by feelings of alienation from progressive narratives that often overlook and dismiss their struggles. The right has capitalized on this by promoting hyper-masculine ideals that resonate with this demographic.This week, I welcome back Ruth Whippman, author of the book Boy Mom, to discuss how to foster emotional connections, have open dialogue and reimagine boyhood to help boys develop healthier and more inclusive identities.She joins me to discuss: The noticeable shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics How the left has struggled to effectively communicate a positive and inclusive narrative for boys and men That messages celebrating hyper-masculinity have resonated with young men, filling in a gap left by progressive movements  To connect with Ruth Whippman follow her on Instagram @ruthwhippman, check out all her resources at http://www.ruthwhippman.com/, join her Substack: I Blame Society and purchase her book Boy Mom.We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neha Ruch, founder of Mother Untitled and author of "The Power Pause," discusses the journey of balancing ambitious careers with family life. She emphasizes redefining personal identity during career pauses and the vital role of support systems. The conversation dives into evolving gender roles in caregiving, challenging societal views on motherhood, and the importance of self-compassion. Neha encourages listeners to embrace career breaks as a powerful step toward personal growth and fulfillment.

Discover the secrets to raising resilient children by teaching them to cope with challenges and embrace their emotions. Learn practical strategies that encourage independence and problem-solving while emphasizing the importance of modeling healthy coping skills. Dive into the significance of fostering emotional awareness to help kids tackle life's ups and downs with confidence. The discussion highlights how parental guidance can empower children to navigate difficulties bravely, setting them up for success.