The PedsDocTalk Podcast: Child Health, Development & Parenting—From a Pediatrician Mom

In this The Follow-Up episode with the incredible team behind @biglittlefeelings, we're diving deeper into the everyday power struggles parents face — food throwing, hitting, biting, meltdowns, and more. I'm joined by Kristin and Deena to break down practical, compassionate scripts for managing these challenging behaviors without yelling, shaming, or losing your cool. You’ll learn: What to actually say when your toddler throws food How to respond calmly and effectively to hitting and biting Why trying to teach in the middle of a meltdown doesn’t work The difference between setting a boundary and escalating a situation How validating emotions can prevent anxiety and support long-term emotional health Whether you're parenting a 1-year-old or a 5-year-old, these tools are grounded in developmental psychology, trauma-informed care, and real-world parenting experience. If you’ve ever wondered why your child isn’t “listening” or felt stuck in a cycle of frustration, this episode is for you. Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it really mean to parent with data—and how do you do it without losing your mind?  Let’s unpack the power and pitfalls of data-driven parenting in a world full of misinformation and clickbait. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by studies, headlines, or trying to “do it right,” this episode will bring clarity, nuance, and a whole lot of reassurance. Today, I’m joined by Emily Oster, an economist and NYT best-selling author, to discuss: How data can guide parenting decisions—without demanding perfection or causing overwhelm. Ways to navigate conflicting research, misinformation, and fear-based headlines in today’s media landscape. Practical tips for building data literacy, knowing when to seek evidence, and trusting your instincts as a parent. To connect with Emily Oster follow her on Instagram @profemilyoster and check out all her resources at parentdata.org  00:00 – Introduction to Emily Oster 02:49 – How Emily Got Started in Parenting Data 04:16 – The Promise and Limits of Data-Driven Parenting 07:02 – Sleep, Solids, and the Complexity of Parenting Choices 08:08 – Honesty About Data Limitations 09:02 – When the Data Doesn’t Exist 10:09 – Media Panic & Screen Time Headlines 11:27 – Building Data Literacy as a Parent 13:32 – The Rise of Pseudoscience & Misinformation 14:55 – How to Tell If a Study Is Legitimate 16:28 – Parasite Cleanses & Misused Studies 19:03 – Competing With Clickbait 22:27 – Vaccine Conversations & Honest Health Communication 24:25 – The Hope for a Nuanced Future 27:01 – How to Stay Informed Without Overwhelm 29:00 – Parenting as a Process of Figuring It Out 30:08 – What Really Feels Overwhelming 33:08 – Trusting Lived Experience Over Data Alone 34:12 – The Search for Certainty vs. Embracing the Mess 35:48 – You’re Not Going to Mess Up Your Kid 37:59 – Closing & Where to Find Emily 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. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is America REALLY less healthy than it used to be? Or is that just a myth?  Lately, the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement has been romanticizing the past—but was it really a "healthier" time? 🤔 Higher infant mortality, shorter life expectancy, and limited medical advancements suggest otherwise. Today, I’m joined by Nini Munoz, Science & Risk Communicator, and Dr. Jessica Knurick, Dietitian & Nutrition Scientist, to break down: The myth of the 'healthier past'—why public health was worse, not better. Misinformation & fear-based narratives—how MAHA spreads harmful myths about vaccines, food, and disease. The real problem with food policy—why fixating on seed oils & food dyes distracts from real issues like ultra-processed food and food deserts. The wellness industry’s role—how influencers profit off fear with detoxes, supplements, and misinformation via predatory wellness. What actually improves health—real solutions like healthcare access, school lunch reform, and food subsidies. It’s time to stop falling for misguided nostalgia and start focusing on evidence-based solutions that actually improve public health.  Tune in now! To connect with Jessica Knurick follow her on Instagram @drjessicaknurick and check out all her resources at https://linktr.ee/drjessicaknurick  To connect with Nini Munoz follow her on Instagram @niniandthebrain and join her on Substack: https://techingitapart.substack.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! 00:00 — Misleading Comparisons: Japan, Fluoride, and Health Outcomes 00:00:52 — Welcome to the Show: What MAHA Gets Wrong 00:01:39 — Fear-Based Distractions vs. Real Public Health Solutions 00:02:53 — Meet the Experts: Dr. Jessica and Nini Munoz 00:03:23 — Are Americans Less Healthy Now? Breaking Down the Data 00:07:01 — Why Living Longer Means Facing Chronic Disease 00:09:51 — Screening, Diagnostics, and Better Detection—Not a Health Decline 00:11:13 — The Missing Conversation: America’s Broken Food Environment 00:14:15 — Red Dye 40 & Skittles: Why This Isn't Solving Chronic Disease 00:17:39 — Targeted Marketing & Food Access: A System Built Against Low-Income Families 00:22:00 — Poverty, Policy, and Public Health Failures 00:27:01 — Lessons From Colombia: How Classism and Privatization Worsen Health Outcomes 00:31:31 — Vaccines, Autism, and Recycling Disproven Theories 00:37:08 — Why Some Pediatricians Push Alternative Schedules 00:39:10 — Predatory Wellness: The Business of Fear and False Solutions 00:43:13 — The Wellness Industry Formula: Scare, Distract, Sell 00:46:30 — When Wellness Fails: Who Do We Turn To? 00:49:10 — Healthcare Reform & Public Trust: Fixing the Root Problems 00:51:12 — Final Thoughts: Real Solutions for a Healthier America Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every child deserves to feel understood and included! Teaching kids about neurodiversity early fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and helps them embrace differences. By normalizing accommodations and shifting perspectives, we create a more accepting world where everyone can thrive.  Today, I’m joined by Laura Petix, a Neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, to discuss how we can build a future of true inclusion starting with ourselves and our kids. We discuss:  How neurodivergent individuals, including children, experience the world differently due to variations in brain wiring.  That teaching kids about neurodiversity from a young age helps normalize differences, reduce stigma, and foster empathy. True inclusivity means creating environments where accommodations are normalized rather than seen as special exceptions. To connect with Laura Petix follow her on Instagram @theotbutterfly and check out all her resources on https://theotbutterfly.com/ and purchase her new book A Kids Book About Neurodiversity We’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 – Intro: Why Every Parent Needs to Understand Neurodiversity 01:26 – Meet Laura Petix & Her Powerful New Book 03:13 – The Dinner Table Example & Why Neurodiversity Matters 05:32 – Shifting the Narrative: Teaching Neurotypical Kids Compassion 08:06 – Kids Are Ready: Why Early Conversations Matter 09:40 – Busting Myths: Common Misconceptions About Neurodivergent Kids 13:43 – The Cost of Misunderstanding: Impact on Mental Health & Self-Esteem 19:02 – Rethinking Classrooms & Playgrounds: Creating Comfortable Spaces 24:42 – Labels, Language & Empowerment: How Parents Can Do Better 36:22 – Laura’s Hope for the Future: Inclusion Without Conditions Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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 Block 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. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 00:00:00 The Emotional Impact of Natural Disasters on Kids 00:01:05 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 Resilience 00:26:22 Teaching Kids About Environmental Stewardship 00:33:55 Final Thoughts: Creating Connection Through Loss 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 podcastchoices.com/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 Matters 02:00 Meet Dr. Anita Patel 04:10 Common Reasons for Pediatric ICU Admissions 10:46 What Happens Inside the PICU? 14:23 Navigating the ICU Experience as a Parent 20:27 Key Questions Parents Should Ask the Care Team 24:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents & Doctors 31:14 Balancing Medical Knowledge with Parenting Anxiety 35:16 Final Thoughts & Words of Encouragement 37:59 Where to Follow Dr. Anita Patel & Closing Remarks 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. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/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 Battles We’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 Dentistry 04:00 The Role of Genetics in Oral Health 06:29 Can Cavities Be Contagious? Parent-Child Transmission 09:36 Diet, Nutrition, and Their Effect on Teeth 10:57 Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Bottle Use 14:45 Mouth Breathing: Myths, Facts, and Health Concerns 22:01 The Importance of Early Dental Hygiene Habits 25:44 Fluoride & Other Key Takeaways for Parents 27:49 Closing Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/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 Steam 00:02:29 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 & Takeaways 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. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/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. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/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. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices