October is ADHD awareness month and I invited Lori Long and Katie Severson founders of The Childhood Collective an online resource to help parents of children with ADHD. Whether you or your child has ADHD or not; we discuss some very important parenting strategies that you may find useful even if your child does not have ADHD.  We discuss:  What to remember about the ADHD brain and how to better approach your child with ADHD Why some parenting discipline strategies like gentle parenting may not work with children with ADHD and what they may need instead   How to approach ADHD parenting with prevention versus consequences To connect with Dr. Mallory Yee and Dr. Lori Long follow them on Instagram @thechildhoodcollective, check out all their resources at https://www.thechildhoodcollective.com/ and download their free guide: 6 Keys to Parenting a Happy and Independent Child with ADHD. 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

What does your Pediatrician ACTUALLY know? It seems on social media this is the narrative: “They have no education on lactation!” “They make money if they vaccinate our kids!” “They know nothing about nutrition.” “They know nothing about child safety!” “And why do they keep asking how my child is sleeping??!” I welcome Dr. Krupa Playforth, fellow pediatrician and mom and owner of her own practice to hash out all of these things and separate fact from fiction.  We discuss: What pediatricians really know from our training about lactation, car seat education, sleep, and nutrition Why your pediatrician cares about your child’s sleep Misconceptions about pediatricians especially on social media (*ahem* We don’t get paid by big pharma to push vaccines) To connect with Dr. Krupa Playforth follow her on Instagram @thepediatricianmom, check out all her resources at https://www.thepediatricianmom.com/ and purchase her book Eyes, Nose, Belly, Toes. 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

As parents in the modern age; we want to undo a lot of the things that didn’t serve us as children and sometimes in our attempts to do better we can swing completely in the other direction and over-validate our children and enable undesired behaviors rather than encourage positive ones. I welcome Zack Kasabo who is a certified school counselor and parent coach.  We discuss:  What enabling of behaviors actually means  Why children are learning “learned helplessness”  What corrective validation is and how to use it To connect with Zack Kasabo follow him on Instagram @mybehaviorguide and check out all his resources at https://coachkasabo.info/. 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 is a lot of division and polarizing views when it comes to sleep and things like sleep-training. Sleep training is not a necessity; but many families want to approach it and want to know what the evidence does or doesn’t show. I welcome Sujay Kansagra who is a pediatric neurologist and sleep medicine physician at Duke who has dedicated his life to helping kids (and their parents) sleep better. He knows sleep and the importance of it.  He joins me to discuss:  Terminology and what sleep-training is or isn’t  What data and resources we do have surrounding sleep-training and various methods Misconceptions surrounding sleep-training Resources: Review on Sleep Training Data Controlled Cortisol and Sleep Training Research Study “Sleeping Through the Night” Article Wide Range of Normal Sleep Article PedsDocTalk Podcast Cry Babies: Cortisol Research and Secure Attachment To connect with Dr. Sujay Kansagra follow him on Instagram @thatsleepdoc and check out all his resources at https://linktr.ee/thatsleepdoc. 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

We are constantly going through life transitions and as a new parent it can feel like it’s a CONSTANT. As your child develops, you are constantly going through major transitions as well. Becoming a new mom (or caregiver), maybe going back to work, your child starting school, health issues, etc. Change is constant in our lives but it can sometimes FEEL so hard. I welcome Dr. Krista Klein who has a PhD in interdisciplinary education, scholar, and mother dedicated to supporting other women who are navigating major transitions in their personal and professional lives. She joins me to discuss:  Why change is hard and how we can take control of change The “SNAP to Impact” framework for change and why it’s helpful  Why processing stress, burnout, and trauma is important in managing major life transitions  To connect with Krista Klein follow her on Instagram @drkristaklein and head to https://www.drkristaklein.com/ for more resources. 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

Early and open conversations with children about sex are important and especially key to start from a young age. Using proper anatomical terms avoid shame and foster safety. I welcome moms Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson from Birds & Bees, who are helping parents stop feeling nervous about these conversations and instead find empowerment through their guidance and practice. We discuss:  That open and continuous dialogue about sex and bodily autonomy helps normalize these topics How age-appropriate small discussions and explanations are better than having a single, potentially overwhelming conversation like “The Talk” later on.  The importance of teaching children boundaries like “no means no” in all contexts, including sexual situations To connect with Megan and Mary Flo follow them on Instagram @birds_bees and purchase The Birds & Bees Online Course - use code PEDSDOCTALK20 to get 20% off. 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

If you have ever had to triple feed OR if someone ever recommends 'triple feeding,' you need to listen to this episode. Triple feeding is when a mom nurses, pumps, and supplements breast milk or formula, and IT IS EXHAUSTING and not sustainable. I welcome Victoria Facelli, a fellow IBCLC-lactation consultant and author of Feed the Baby, who is changing how we talk about feeding babies. We discuss:  What triple feeding is and why it’s not sustainable  The problem with lactation education and how we got to triple feeding as an option in the first place  How someone can balance milk production, feeding the baby, and sleep To connect with Victoria Facelli follow her on Instagram @victoria.facelli.ibclc and purchase her book “Feed the Baby”. Follow me @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for entry information to this week's giveaway. 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

The model-minority myth is harmful to our mental health, particularly within immigrant communities. The myth promotes an idealized image of Asian Americans as universally successful, hardworking, and problem-free, which sets unrealistic standards and pressures individuals to conform to a narrow definition of success. I welcome Prachi Gupta to talk about the model-minority narrative and the impact it has on all of us and on the changes needed for future generations.  We discuss: How her personal family dynamics led her to investigate the impact of the model-minority myth The mental health struggles that come with pressure from parents Why we need to provide acceptance and love rather than pressure and perfectionism To connect with Prachi Gupta follow her on Instagram @prachigu. For more resources visit the Prachi.co or purchase her debut memoir “They Called Us Exceptional” on Bookshop.org. Hardcover copies are available now or paperback is available for pre-order and out in stores Aug 20. 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

#PhilipsPartner Sharing the responsibilities during the fourth trimester is crucial, especially when balancing motherhood and a career. Prioritizing self-care while leaning on baby’s care team helps you find joy in everyday moments.   In this episode, I chat with Robin Arzón, a Peloton instructor and mother of two, to discuss:  The importance of maintaining physical and emotional well-being through movement, breath work, and self-care practices  The critical role of a support network in balancing the demands of motherhood with her career  How using Philips Avent bottles allowed Robin the flexibility to switch between breastfeeding and bottle feeding  And so much more!  Connect with Robin on Instagram @robinnyc. To learn more about Philips Avent and their suite of baby products that allow you to share the care, visit avent.com #ShareTheCare Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Red Light, Green Light food labeling system has been around to categorize foods as good and bad and was initially created to support weight loss in children with obesity. However, there are many flaws to this system that can backfire when it comes to child health. I welcome Dr. Taylor Arnold, a PhD, registered dietician, and founder of Growing Intuitive Eaters. She is on a mission to foster a healthy relationship with food and teach adults how to talk to kids about food in a positive way. She joins me to discuss:  Why labeling systems for food is not conducive to creating a healthy relationship with food  Why “talking less and showing more” can be a helpful strategy to encourage balanced eating Phrases to avoid when talking about foods with kids Connect with Dr. Taylor Arnold on Instagram @growing.intuitive.eaters and visit growingintuitiveeaters.com for more resources.  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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some children jump right into new situations, and some are slow to warm. But when is it shyness? And when is it something more? I welcome Dr. Melissa Giglio, a child clinical psychologist, author, and director of a private practice in Hong Kong. We discuss: How are shy kids misunderstood The difference between shyness and anxiety Strategies to support our slow-to-warm or anxious children in new situations Connect with Dr. Melissa Giglio on Instagram @braverygrows and visit bravemightyminds.com for more resources. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this show, I welcome guests to chat about parenting and parental health, especially maternal physical and mental health. Taking care of ourselves is just as important as caring for our children. On this episode, I welcome sisters Amy Kiefer and Krystle Howald, founders and creators of Expecting and Empowered. They join me to discuss:   Why strength training is important in various stages of our life Mindset shifts and reframing to approaching strength training and working out during pregnancy and postpartum How to build strength training into our busy lives Connect with Amy and Krystle on Instagram @expectingandempowered. For more resources, visit expectingandempowered.com. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#PhilipsPartner The fourth trimester is hard for many reasons, and feeding difficulties can impact a parent’s mental well-being. But how so, and why do feeding difficulties play a role in our mental state?     On this episode, I’ll discuss:  How challenges in newborn feeding can impact maternal mental well-being. Why we need to utilize our support system and #ShareTheCare postpartum. How to protect our mental well-being AND focus on our postpartum feeding goals.    To learn more about Philips Avent and their suite of baby products that allow you to share the care, visit avent.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mirror neurons are one of the keys to child development. Our babies and kids are watching and observing us and how we interact with them, others, and ourselves. On this episode, I welcome Chris Lake, a young childhood development expert and educator, and founder of Behavior Booster, to discuss: The science behind mirror neurons How we as parents can use mirror neurons to our benefit in child development and parenting Why modeling for our kids is so important Connect with Chris on Instagram @behaviorbooster. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a board-certified pediatrician in the U.S., the recommendations are usually independent sleep for a baby. But I know firsthand that many families do co-sleep and, at some point, want to transition their baby out of co-sleeping. I welcome Ashley Olson, a certified pediatric sleep consultant and founder of @heavensentsleep. We discuss:  The biggest mistake parents make when going from co-sleeping to independent sleep  What “habit-stacking” is and how to implement  What parents may struggle with when transitioning to an independent sleep space and how to approach Connect with Ashley on Instagram @heavensentsleep, and check out her website for more resources. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I created this podcast because I believe we can learn so much through community and hearing people’s stories, whether we are experiencing something similar or not. I connected with Moshe Popack, a real estate entrepreneur, the co-founder of a national community gardens non-profit that serves to enrich and empower children, and the father of 11 kids.  He joins me to discuss: The importance of “chief adaptability” as a parent Non-negotiables to his family and relationship with self and his partner What he hopes all parents would let go of as a father of 11 children himself Connect with Moshe on Instagram @mpopack and listen to the Common Denominator Podcast. Check out the non-profit organization Neighborhood Farms USA. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does ‘playing’ with your kids stress you out? Are you overthinking what play should look like, or if you have enough time for play? Playing with your kids does not have to be stressful, and we’re here to take the stress out of it and normalize a few things when it comes to play. I welcome Tammy Schamuhn, a child psychologist and co-founder of the Institute of Child Psychology and co-author of the new book, THE PARENTING HANDBOOK: Your Guide to Raising Resilient Children.  We discuss:  What play can show us about a child Why being bored and under-scheduled is important for kids  How and why play can look different in boys and girls  Connect with Tammy on Instagram @instituteofchildpsych. Check out the new book, and for more resources, visit the Institute of Child Psychology website. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you consider yourself an optimist? Although some people may be more optimistic than others, you can learn to foster an optimistic mindset – a key tool for parents to build resiliency and navigate the unexpected. I welcome Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist, cognitive behavioral therapist, and author of the new book, Practical Optimism: The Art, Science and Practice of Exceptional Wellbeing. We discuss:  What is practical optimism, and how it differs from toxic positivity and pessimism   If there is a genetic component of optimism or if it can be learned  How some people survive, even thrive, despite profound challenges The 8 Pillars of optimism and the 3Ps of pessimism How optimism can help with dealing with the unexpected, especially as parents Connect with Dr. Varma on Instagram @drsuevarma. Remember to check out her book and visit her website for more resources. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May is Food Allergy Awareness Month, and part of that is recognizing that even if you or a family member may not have a food allergy, someone you know may have food allergies. I welcome Ina Chung, a food allergy mom, educator, and author of A Kids Book about Food Allergies, who is passionate about food allergy inclusivity.  She joins me to discuss:  Why food allergy inclusivity is important  Top 3 misconceptions people who don’t have food allergies have about food allergies  A four-step framework to safely include children with allergies in events such as parties Connect with Ina on Instagram @theasianallergymom. Remember to check out her book, and for more resources, visit her website! 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I am continuing this series on ways to take care of our mental health so we can better care for ourselves and our children. It’s common to experience some postpartum blues and adjustment as you navigate having a new baby. But when is it something more? On this episode, I welcome Chelsea & Caitlin, founders of Mama Psychologists. They are best friends, authors, Registered Psychologists, and moms to discuss: The line between normal postpartum adjustment and PPD and PPA Postpartum blues  Signs of postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression  When to know you need more help and how to get that help You can connect with Chelsea & Caitlin on Instagram @mamapsychologists. Check out their book, Not Your Mother's Postpartum Book and for more resources, visit the Mama Psychologists website. If you are dealing with postpartum mental health concerns and need help, visit Postpartum Support International. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in honor of my advocacy for more open conversation surrounding Mental health, I will be featuring episodes on ways to take care of our mental health so we can better care for ourselves and our children. Therapy is highly beneficial, and various modalities are used. EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is an evidence-based approach that has been shown to help in processing traumatic events and changing negative patterns and helping people with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and OCD. I personally started EMDR earlier this year, and in honor of Maternal Mental Health Month, I invited Dr. Cassidy Freitas, who is a licensed marriage and family therapist who also does EMDR.  We discuss:  What EMDR is and the steps of EMDR Who would be a good candidate  Examples of how EMDR helped me and Dr. Cassidy  For more resources on EMDR: EMDR Institute, Psychologytoday.com, and EMDRIA. You can connect with Dr. Cassidy on Instagram @drcassidy, and for more resources, check out Dr. Cassidy's website. If you are dealing with postpartum mental health concerns and need help, visit Postpartum Support International 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you know the cultural differences that can exist being immigrant parents and the mental health issues that are unique? Whether you come from an immigrant household or not, this episode is a must to really dive into the cultural stereotypes that exist surrounding mental health and, subsequently, how we show up for our children. I welcome Sahaj Kaur Kohli who is the founder of Brown Girl Therapy (@browngirltherapy), the first and largest mental health and wellness community organization for adult children of immigrants, a licensed therapist, and author of the Book, But What Will People Say: Navigating mental health, identity, love, and family between cultures.  She joins me to discuss: The difference between collectivist and individualistic cultures and why the distinction is important Why diversity in mental health and parenting resources is important What struggles immigrant parents have that may be unique 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and just as much as we need to focus on maternal mental health, we also need to recognize that dads and non-birthing partners also can struggle postpartum as well. 7% and 9% of new fathers develop postpartum depression. I invited my husband back on the show to chat about postpartum mental health and mental health concerns in general in men.  We discuss   Why men and women can struggle with their mental health postpartum  Why men don’t talk about their mental health struggles or seek help as much as women may The cultural barriers that exist that normalize seeking mental health help How we’re raising our kids to undo this cycle of mental health stigma  How consistent therapy has helped my husband and myself  For more on postpartum mental health for all caregivers, visit this resource. If you are dealing with postpartum mental health concerns and need help, visit Postpartum Support International. 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

India is home to over 1.4 BILLION people and over 470 million children. There are more children in India than our entire population in the U.S. so I needed to have a pediatrician to chat with from India! I reached out to Dr. Imran Patel, a Pediatrician in India, and one the most followed and loved Pediatricians in the world with over 4.6 million followers on Instagram and 1.5 million followers on YouTube. We discuss:  If vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaccine sentiment exist in India The cultural differences in approach to sleep and kids How he wishes more families would approach feeding solid foods  What motivates us as colleagues a world apart doing similar work Connect with Dr. Imran Patel on Instagram @drimranpatelofficial 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you felt yourself drift from your friends pre-motherhood? Or have you found making new and meaningful friendships hard after becoming a mom? I welcome Danielle Bayard Jackson, a relational health educator who has made a career out of studying what the research has to say about creating quality platonic relationships. She also has a new book coming out called, Fighting for Our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships. She joins me to discuss:  The three reasons why friendships after motherhood are so hard to make and maintain Why having meaningful and strong female connections is important for our mental health  How to handle “passive” friendships Practical ways to find meaningful connections with peers amidst the mental load and business of our lives Connect with Danielle on Instagram @daniellebayardjackson. Check out her book! 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The “Default parent” seems like modern parenting terminology, but it’s a real role. It can sometimes be associated with feelings of resentment and overwhelm if it’s not communicated. I welcome Erica Djossa, the CEO and founder of Momwell and the author of Releasing the Mother Load: How to Carry Less and Enjoy Motherhood More. We discuss:  What the default parent is, and how someone knows they’re the default parent  Why, in heterosexual relationships, have mothers taken on this role? How couples can communicate better to share the mental load and roles Connect with Erica on Instagram @momwell. Check out her new book! 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 Sponsors page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel you’re overdoing or overthinking parenting? Dr. Aliza Pressman, developmental psychologist, co-founder of the Mount Sinai Parenting Center, host of the podcast Raising Good Humans, and author of the newly released New York Times bestseller The 5 Principles of Parenting, joins me to reflect on parenting and discuss her new book. We discuss:  How parents overdo it and how to keep it simple The five principles of parenting that can be applied to many different situations Why parents shouldn’t always focus on “getting it right” Connect with Dr. Aliza Pressman on Instagram @raisingoodhumanspodcast and check out The 5 Principles of Parenting Book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggling with boundary setting?  Wanting to foster secure attachment with your child?  Want a relationship with your child as they get older? Issues in school, with peers, etc., and trying to find out why? You’re going to want to listen to this episode. I dive deep into three things children need in relationships with their grown up. Whether it's a parent, teacher, or other caregiver; our children want to feel safe, respected, and connected. I dive deep into how this shows up in parenting and offer insight and stories as well. I discuss:  How kids can feel unsafe in their home and how it’s not just physical safety Why one-way respect parenting is outdated and why we have to respect our kids for them to respect us How to build secure attachment and why it’s needed Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a completely impromptu episode I had to release because it shares my love for all children (and, of course, my kiddos) with all of you! My son, Ryaan, is four years old and loves playing with my podcast mic. So, the other day after preschool, I had him join me for a conversation. We talk about normal four-year-old things!   Car washes Favorite foods and vegetables  What makes us feel better when we’re sad  And, of course, we sing a song from Frozen  This episode is kid-friendly, and I encourage you to listen to it with your toddlers or preschoolers! Disclaimer: the word penis is said because we teach our son anatomic body parts, and it came up in this impromptu conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The goal of parenting should be to foster the growth and development of the child in front of us, and part of this is guiding them through experiences and things that may make them more anxious. I welcome Dr. Melissa Giglio, a child clinical psychologist, author, and director of a private practice in Hong Kong. We discuss: How we can nurture bravery and confidence in our children Strategies to “push’ our child in healthy ways  Ways to validate their experience as they grow through new situations For more about Dr. Melissa Giglio, check out her website Bravemightyminds.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We live in a digital age, and at some point, our children will have access to phones, but it is our responsibility as parents to balance the benefits and risks of phone use. I welcome Bill Brady, who is the CEO and Co-founder of Troomi Wireless, a mobile phone platform designed to improve kids’ mental health through a safe and balanced relationship with technology. We discuss: The benefits and risks of allowing our child to have a phone for use Is there a magical age at which they should be allowed a phone? How to create healthy boundaries with access to a phone and safety and other activities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sleep apnea and ADHD can greatly impact sleep, but are often not discussed when discussing a sleep quality evaluation. On this episode, I welcome back Dr. Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist who is board-certified and specializes in behavioral sleep medicine. We discuss:  How sleep apnea and ADHD affect your child’s sleep and behavior  When to be concerned about your child’s sleep  Is it parenting or something more? Connect on Instagram @sleepdocshelby Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Finding Joy” episodes on this podcast tackle more than just parenting topics, but real-life mindfulness topics to be the best version of ourselves so we can better show up for ourselves and the people in our life. In this episode, I discuss connection.  What exactly is connection? Why is connection with self so important? How to incorporate meaningful connections in our busy lives. How to know if you’re feeling disconnected with yourself.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jennifer Gates Nassar is the eldest daughter of Bill and Melinda French Gates. She has grown up with privilege but is paving her own path as a medical student and soon-to-be doctor and mother. For this Finding Joy episode, I welcome her on to discuss: How her parents instilled work ethic and grit in her despite growing up with privilege The single most important thing her parents did in raising her that she’s grateful for How she’s found her own identity and calling What she hopes her daughter sees in her as she grows up Follow Jenn on Instagram @jenngatesnassar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Solid Starts was founded in 2020 to revolutionize the way we feed our babies and toddlers. Their FREE first food database provides nutrition information and preparation information for the foods we eat and how we can make it accessible and safe for babies to eat from the time they start solids. I welcome the founder of Solid Starts, Jenny Best, to talk about Solid Starts and feeding babies and toddlers. We discuss: How we as parents and our parenting style can impact feeding Why feeding is an incredibly important milestone Why self-feeding is important for babies Check out all the Solid Starts resources: Free First Foods Database, Solid Starts App, Starting Solids Bundle Connect on Instagram @solidstarts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Childhood trauma has unfortunately become a buzzword across social media where sometimes things are labeled as “trauma” that may not exactly be. Or maybe a parent is inadvertently doing something that can lead to trauma. On this episode I welcome Kobe Campbell, a licensed trauma therapist and author, to discuss :  What is the definition of childhood trauma  How not all crying is trauma How to ask yourself if something you’re doing is traumatizing your child  Holding your child for vaccines, giving meds, brushing teeth. Is this trauma? Sleep-training-Is this trauma?   Check out Kobe's website at kobecampbell.com or connect on Instagram @kobecampbell_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the biggest ways to get to the ups and downs of life and parenting is to learn to laugh at ourselves more and add humor to our life. I welcome Caitlin Murray, a mother of three including a cancer survivor, content creator @BigTimeAdulting, and host of the Big Time Adulting podcast  We discuss:  How humor has helped her cope during difficult times as a mother  Why we need more humor in our lives as parents How she turned grief into a thriving platform—Big Time Adulting Find out more about Big Time Adulting at Bigtimeadulting.co or connect on Instagram @bigtimeadulting

Sweet and treats are part of our lives. Even if we may not eat a lot of them in our home; our children will be exposed to these foods in school and at parties and it’s important we don’t put sweets and treats on a pedestal. I invite Jennifer Anderson, a registered dietitian and founder of Kids Eat in Color.  We discuss: How we put food on pedestals  What it means to have a healthy relationship with food  Why labeling of foods as “good” or “bad” can backfire Find out more about Kids Eat in Color at kidseatincolor.com or connect on Instagram @kids.eat.in.color

It’s 2024: And the goal of this year for my community and listeners is learning to “let it go” for the things that are not serving us or blocking our joy.  I discuss:  Why controlling tendencies can occur especially in motherhood Why motherhood is the ultimate struggle for those of us who grew up loving control  How control looks like in motherhood Ten steps to learn to let go of control

In this final episode of 2023, I welcome my husband, Gaurav, to chat about how we as a generation are making parenting harder on ourselves. He has joined me for two episodes already about Marriage and Parenting and Re-Parenting ourselves as we parent our children and on this episode we discuss: How we can tap back into our intuition as parents How we have created a skewed view of success as parents How we can simplify parenting again

Traveling with kids can feel overwhelming, but it does provide many benefits to kids and your family. I welcome Preethi Harbuck who is a mom of six, avid traveler, and creator of @localpassportfamily a blog and social media platform to support families as they travel to discuss:  How travel changes our kid’s world for the better  What they learn by travel (both locally and internationally) The one thing not to forget when traveling with kids 

Time-Outs get a bad rap on social media, however when done correctly they can be effective for some children. On this episode, I welcome Dr Jenicka Engler, developmental neuropsychologist, clinical scientist, and mom to discuss: Why Time-outs get a bad rap When time-outs can be effective When NOT to use time-outs  How parents misuse time outs   Find Dr. Jenicka on Instagram @drjenicka

Keeping your home clutter free and “tidy” doesn’t have to be a scary task and you can utilize your children in developmentally appropriate ways to do it. I welcome Tyler Moore known as @tidydad on Instagram, who is a teacher, father of three, and writer who helps families find a rhythm, system, and routine to complement the current state of life that they’re in.  We discuss:  How to incorporate our kids into household routines  Why chores don’t need to be rewarded  Tips for things like getting out of the house or tidying up toys Find out more about Tyler Moore at thetidydad.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest @tidydad

I have spoken about weight and percentile anxiety many times both on my social media channels and on this podcast and now I am experiencing it. On this episode; I get candid about percentile anxiety and how it impacted my postpartum.  I discuss:  How my percentile anxiety negatively impacted me postpartum  How anxiety over my daughter’s weight led to her having temporary feeding aversions  How to manage percentile and weight anxiety What it means to look at the big picture when it comes to weight gain

#PhilipsPartner  Today on the podcast, we're joined by artist Brooke Ring, in collaboration with Philips Avent's Parent's Path Art Collection. We'll explore how art aided her postpartum journey and the positive effects of creative outlets on mental health. The Philips Avent's Parent's Path Art Collection features custom artwork by mom artists, highlighting their motherhood experiences with self-expression, self-care, and a community support for new parents. #ParentYourWay To enter the Philips Avent giveaway, offering you the chance to win $500 of Philips Avent products, follow @PhilipsAvent on Instagram, and then share a picture of your personal parenting path using hashtag #AParentsPath before November 15th for a chance to win. Terms and Conditions apply and can be found at Philips Avent's link in bio on their Instagram page.

Independent sleep? Co-sleeping? Parental assistance with sleep? There are a lot of opinions all over the place. On this episode, I welcome Dr Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist who is board certified and specializing in behavioral sleep medicine to discuss if there is an age where a child needs to be taught independent sleep if they haven’t learned it on their own. We discuss:  The age or signs that independent sleep skills need to be taught  Common concerns for an older child who isn’t able to fall asleep or connect sleep cycles on their own Where to begin with approaching independent sleep skills with a child who hasn’t Find out more about Dr. Shelby Harris and her book “The Women’s Guide to Overcoming Insomnia” at drshelbyharris.com or connect on Instagram or TikTok @SleepDocShelby

On this show, you will find guidance on all things parenting, health, and development for our kids AND important conversations surrounding parental mental health and communication. Part of this conversation is around resentment that may happen with partners after having children.     On this episode, I welcome Ashurina Ream - a licensed clinical psychologist, mom, and founder of Psyched Mommy. She joins me to discuss:   Why partner resentment can happen How to communicate with your partner to avoid the snowball effect of resentment  Why handling resentment is important for the entire family Learn more about Dr Ashurina Ream and Psyched Mommy at psychedmommy.com or connect on Instagram @psychedmommy

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is still a relatively unknown specialty and yet it is incredibly important. On this podcast, we discuss parenting and child health and development, but also health and mental health for caregivers. And pelvic floor health is part of that! I welcome Dr. Sara Reardon, a pelvic floor physical therapist who was recently featured in TIME magazine, and founder of @the.vagina.whisperer She joins me to discuss:   Why pelvic floor PT may be beneficial to you  How pregnancy (and not just delivery) impact the pelvic floor  How to find a pelvic floor PT Tips on pooping and peeing during pregnancy and postpartum that can save your pelvic floor Learn more about Dr. Sarah and how to take care of your pelvic floor at TheVagWhisperer.com or follow on Instagram @the.vagina.whisperer

What is the science on rewards and threats to the brain, especially to the child brain? On this episode I welcome Dr. Loretta Breuning, an author and Founder of the Inner Mammal Institute to discuss :  How rewards and threats shape the young brain How to build healthy reward pathways in your kids Why yelling, pleading, and bribes can create reward systems and why we want to limit these things  Silverette Join me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order! Find out what The Inner Mammal Institute has to offer at InnerMammalInstitute.org and see Videos, podcasts, books, blogs, multimedia, a training program, and a free five-day happy-chemical jumpstart.

Sleep deprivation postpartum (and in general) has a deep impact on our mental health. On this episode, I welcome Dr. Harvey Karp who is a world renowned pediatrician and child development expert. He is the co-founder and CEO of Happiest Baby and the creator of SNOO Smart Sleeper. He is also the author of the best-selling parenting guides The Happiest Baby on the Block and The Happiest Toddler on the Block.  We discuss: How sleep and mental health go hand in hand especially for new parentsWhy the fourth trimester can be difficult for new parentsWhat parents really need in that fourth trimester to feel and do their bestSilveretteJoin me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order!Find out more about Harvey and the SNOO Smart Sleeper at happiestbaby.com or connect on Instagram @happiest_baby

We’ve all been there. TANTRUMS. But, there is a way to de-escalate a tantrum and it involves us to be ready to do it. On this episode I welcome Chris Lake, a young childhood development expert and educator and founder of Behavior Booster to discuss: The L.A.K.E Method of de-escalating tantrumsWhy you play a huge role in behavior modificationWhat not to do during a tantrum SilveretteJoin me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order!Find out more about Chris Lake and Community for a Cause at communityforacause.org or connect on Instagram @community_for_a_cause. Read Chris Lake's Book: Help Your Toddler Meet Their Milestones: 101 Behavior Hacks

Picky eating is a very common phase children go through, but what happens when it goes past what’s “normal” and persists past toodlerhood? I welcome Jennifer Friedman, Registered Pediatric Dietician and picky eating expert, and founder of @feedingpickyeaters to discuss:How our mindset impacts if a picky eater will try new food How to use child-based play to introduce new foods How to bridge preferences with new food exposure SilveretteJoin me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order!Little SpoonLittle Spoon is a one stop shop for healthy, easy mealtime and snacktime for your baby, toddler and big kid, delivered right to your door. Get the BRAND NEW Lunchers - healthy meals with build it yourself lunches your kid will love, like Easy Cheesy Pizza, Chicken Dunkers or Chicken Nacho Dips. Go to littlespoon.com/pedsdoctalk and enter our code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout to get 30% OFF your first Little Spoon order.Learn more about Jennifer Friedman and Feeding Picky Eaters at jennyfriedmannutrition.com, Instagram and Pinterest @feedingpickyeaters

Breastfeeding is not always as straightforward as some may say. And part of this is managing expectations on what to expect at the hospital in terms of breastfeeding education. On this episode I welcome Kelly Kendall, a nurse, IBCLC, a founder of the @balancedboob to discuss structural limitations of breastfeeding education in hospitals. We discuss: Why we can’t rely on learning everything we need to know about breastfeeding in a hospitalTop tips for setting yourself up for success in early days of breastfeeding in the hospital How to best prepare if you want to breastfeed your newbornSilveretteJoin me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order! Little Spoon Little Spoon is a one stop shop for healthy, easy mealtime and snacktime for your baby, toddler and big kid, delivered right to your door. Get the BRAND NEW Lunchers - healthy meals with build it yourself lunches your kid will love, like Easy Cheesy Pizza, Chicken Dunkers or Chicken Nacho Dips. Go to littlespoon.com/pedsdoctalk and enter our code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout to get 30% OFF your first Little Spoon order.Sign up to Kelly's breastfeeding course Boob School and more on her website thebalancedboob.com or connect on Instagram @thebalancedboob 

Mindfulness seems to be the IT word lately, but why does it feel so daunting and overwhelming? I welcome Helene Kussman who is a mom, yoga teacher, reiki healer, with a masters in education to discuss how to be a mindful mama and why it helps us in a chaotic world.We discuss: Misconceptions about mindfulnessBuilding mindfulness into your life Mindfulness tips with newborns and beyondCozy EarthGet ready for the ultimate upgrade in comfort and luxury with CozyEarth's bedding, loungewear and pajama collections! From cooling bamboo viscose sheets and indulgent silk pillows to cozy and stylish loungewear, Cozy Earth brings comfort to busy moms.Right now, get up to 35% off site-wide using the code PEDSDOCTALK and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort at CozyEarth.comHelene KusmanDo Helene's 5 day Meditation Challenge, find out more at helenekusman.com or connect on Instagram @helenekusman

Did you know newborn hearing screens are routine tests done in the hospital before your baby goes home? Sometimes, parents don’t realize it happens because they’re sleep-deprived but it does and it’s so important. I welcome Kelsey Kerkhove, a pediatric audiologist, to discuss: What happens during a newborn hearing screen and why it’s importantWhat happens if a baby doesn’t pass the screenRisk factors for congenital hearing lossSigns of childhood hearing loss later in childhood TabeezeNo more squeezing that onesie over your baby’s delicate head or twisting their little arms in and out of sleeves. With Tabeeze you simply unsnap the shoulder snaps and you're instantly ready to breastfeed or snuggle + it's made of 100% GOTS Certified Organic cotton! Visit Tabeeze.com and get 20% OFF your first order today by entering the promo code PDT20 at checkout. Little SpoonLITTLE SPOON is a one stop shop for healthy, easy mealtime and snacktime for your baby, toddler and big kid, delivered right to your door. Think: hidden veggie mac + cheese, chicken nuggets and adventurous eats like potstickers, gnocchi and more! Go to Littlespoon.com/pedsdoctalk and enter our code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout to get 30% OFF your first order.Kelsey KerkhoveFind out more about Kelsey at kelseykerkhoveaud.com or connect on Instagram @kelseykerkhove_aud

Meal planning, shopping, prepping, and feeding our families can be met with a lot of stress. And it’s important to find ways to REMOVE the stress from the equation and bring joy back to meal-times.    On this episode, I welcome Amy Palanjian. She is a mom, founder of Yummy Toddler Food, and author of the new book Dinnertime S.O.S. She joins me to discuss:  How to streamline meal prep for your familyHow to reduce cost and waste when shoppingHow to bring joy back to meal times (and less stress) Cozy EarthGet ready for the ultimate upgrade in comfort and luxury with CozyEarth's bedding, loungewear and pajama collections! From cooling bamboo viscose sheets and indulgent silk pillows to cozy and stylish loungewear, Cozy Earth brings comfort to busy moms.Right now, get up to 35% off site-wide using the code PEDSDOCTALK and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort at CozyEarth.comAmy Palanjian Learn more about Amy and Yummy Toddler Food for tips and recipes at yummytoddlerfood.com or connect on Instagram @yummytoddlerfoodGet Amy's Book: Dinnertime SOS:100 Sanity-Saving Meals Parents and Kids of All Ages Will Actually Want to Eat

The United States has the lowest breastfeeding rates of most developed countries. And this is a fault of the systemic issues at play. I invited Amanda Gorman, founder and chief clinical officer at Nest Collaborative and Pediatric NP, to discuss: Why our rates of breastfeeding are so low in the U.S.How the lack of paid family leave impacts these ratesHow we can advocate for breastfeeding families TabeezeNo more squeezing that onesie over your baby’s delicate head or twisting their little arms in and out of sleeves. With Tabeeze you simply unsnap the shoulder snaps and you're instantly ready to breastfeed or snuggle + it's made of 100% GOTS Certified Organic cotton! Get 20% off your first order today by entering the promo code PDT20 at checkout >>> Tabeeze.comAmanda GormanFind out more about Amanda and Nest Collaborative at nestcollaborative.com , listen to Amanda's Podcast Breastfeeding unplugged  or connect on Instagram @nestcollaborative 

We need to discuss some things about postpartum so we can normalize experiences. On this episode, I welcome Chelsea & Caitlin, founders of Mama Psychologists. They are best friends, authors, Registered Psychologists, and moms to discuss:The things people don’t always talk about in postpartumWhy it’s important to discuss these things How feeling less alone helps us as moms Cozy EarthGet ready for the ultimate upgrade in comfort and luxury with CozyEarth's bedding, loungewear and pajama collections! From cooling bamboo viscose sheets and indulgent silk pillows to cozy and stylish loungewear, Cozy Earth brings comfort to busy moms.Right now, get up to 35% off site-wide using the code PEDSDOCTALK and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort at CozyEarth.com Chelsea & CaitlinGet the book: Not Your Mother’s Postpartum BookFind out more about Mama Psychologist at mamapsychologists.ca or connect on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest or Twitter @mamapsychologists

There is a misconception that breastfeeding comes easy to everyone who wants to do it. As an IBCLC, I know this is not the truth. I welcome Kaia Lacy, a certified lactation counselor, partner of The Low Milk Supply Foundation, and mother of two to normalize low milk supply in breastfeeding.We discuss:The difference between primary and secondary low milk supplyMisconceptions about breastfeeding that can negatively impact a feeding journeyHow combo-feeding can be helpful to many JunobieIf you're a breastfeeding mom, you know how vital it is to store your liquid gold safely and efficiently. Junobie's reusable silicone bags are BPA-free, leak-proof, and freezer safe – designed with you and your baby in mind - it's easy to pump on the go without worrying about spills or wasted milk. Visit junobie.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK10 for 10% off your first order.Kaia LacyBook a private consultations for feeding support and prenatal planning with Kaia at lowsupplymom.com/bookasession

Parenting requires compassion and self-reflection and on this episode I welcome Kobe Campbell, a licensed trauma therapist and author, to discuss ways positive parenting impacts our kids. We discuss:What positive parenting is How it positively impacts kids and familiesWhy fear-based parenting doesn’t work Why playfulness is so important for kids and parents KicKee PantsGet KicKee Pants award winning sleepwear, infant wear and undergarments, made from the softest hypoallergenic bamboo viscose! Save $15 with your first purchase with code PEDSTALK at Kickeepants.com Kobe CampbellFind out more about Kobe at www.kobecampbell.com or connect with her on Instagram @kobecampbell_

Bilingualism and multilingualism is common in many households, yet there are many misconceptions about it. On this episode I welcome Alisha Gandhi, a bilingual speech language pathologist and clinical assistant professor of Communicative Sciences and Disorders at NYU, to discuss : Misconceptions about bilingualismBenefits of bilingualism and multilingualismHow a parent can approach teaching multiple languages in the homeConnect with Alisha on Instagram @alishabg_slp

Organic food marketing has led to many to believe that it is superior to non-organic foods; but this is not necessarily the case. On this episode, I welcome Dr. Jess Steier and Dr. Andrea Love, hosts of The Unbiased Science Podcast. Dr. Jess has a doctorate in public health with specialization in health policy evaluation and Dr. Andrea has a phD in Immunology and microbiology. They join me to discuss:  Marketing misinformation surrounding organic foodThe Environmental Working Group (EWG) and biases they hold in education (especially surrounding organic foods)Misconceptions about non-organic and organic foods Learn more about Dr Jessica and Dr Andrea and listen to the Unbiased Science Podcast at unbiasedscipod.com. Or follow on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube @unbiasedscipodLucky and Me is a clothing brand styled with kids comfort in mind. So your kiddos can focus on being kids and not uncomfortable in their clothes. Check out lucky and me by visiting Luckyandme.com and use code PEDSDOCTALK15 for 15% off for all new customers.

I welcome Nellie Harden, a speaker and Family Life and Leadership coach to talk about raising a girl and fostering their self-esteem and self-worth. We discuss: Differences between male and female brain through puberty and beyond Five essential human needs and how it applies to raising a girl Keys to maintaining self-worth in a stereotypical and superficial society Find out more about Nellie Harden at nellieharden.com and check out her podcast The 6570 Family Project  or join her Facebook Group Family Architects Club. Ignite Her Joy Workshop : Building Your Daughter’s Mental Wellness During the Tween and Teen YearsSponsorPetit Lem offers sweet and sustainable sleepwear for newborns and toddlers. Discover a collection of the most adorable seasonal prints and palettes, crafted from the softest organically grown cotton. Visit PetitLem.com today and use the checkout code PLNEW15 for 15% off your first purchase.

Traveling with kids can be daunting, especially traveling by plane. I welcome Preethi Harbuck who is a mom of six, avid traveler, and creator of @localpassportfamily a blog and social media platform to support families as they travel to discuss: Why lowering expectations matters in travel Things you should always have on boardReframing when you’re feeling anxious about traveling by plane with kids Learn more about Preethi Harbuck and Local Passport Family at localpassportfamily.com and on Instagram @localpassportfamilyAnd check out the Global Children's Book Club, a free monthly virtual book club highlighting a different country each month.SPONSORiProvenSay goodbye to unreliable and inconvenient temperature measurements. Get your iProven family thermometer DMT-77.  It’s enhanced dual-mode takes forehead and ear measurements quickly and easily, perfect for all ages. With a vibration function and intelligent fever indicator, this is one of the best thermometers for babies. Order now and get a 20% discount at iproven.com/pedsdoctalk. Magic SpoonAre you a cereal lover looking for a delicious cereal with no added sugar? Enter Magic Spoon. I never thought it was possible to find a cereal that tastes DELICIOUS but is high in protein and contains 0g of sugar.Check out their cereals and various flavors like fruity, blueberry muffin, frosted, maple waffle, birthday cake, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and my favorite cocoa — magicspoon.com/pedsdoctalk and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save today! 

On social media, there are many distinct parenting styles noted on various accounts—Positive parenting. Gentle parenting. Attachment parenting. But, is one really superior than the other? I welcome Cara Goodwin (@parentingtranslator) who is a clinical psychologist, mom, and who translates the research on child development and parenting in an easy-to-understand way for parents to chat all about the types of shows our kids watch. We discuss:What we know about popular parenting styles and what we don’t knowWhat does the research say about gentle parenting?What is NOT okay to do in any parenting style you choose?  Find Dr. Cara Goodwin on Instagram @parentingtranslator or visit her website parentingtranslator.orgSPONSORAre you looking to scratch off dinner from your to do list? Try out Prep Dish today and have high quality, healthy and delicious meals planned out for your family. I got you a 2 WEEKS FREE PREP DISH MEMBERSHIP so you can see if they're a good fit for your family. Just go to prepdish.com/pedsdoctalk for a two week free trial - you won't regret it!!

Health is a vital sign. It is an important thing we monitor at well visits, which is why routine check-ups are important. But when is growth a concern? Tune in to hear me talk with Dr. Sarah Hart-Unger, a Pediatric Endocrinologist, about height and kids. We discuss: How percentiles play a role in height Average growth trajectory for kids Workup if height trajectory is a concern including imaging and labs When Growth Hormone is RecommendedYou can find Sarah's Podcasts 'The Best of Both Worlds' and 'Best Laid Plans' and lots more at theshubox.comSPONSORSay goodbye to unreliable and inconvenient temperature measurements. Get your iProven family thermometer DMT-77.  It’s enhanced dual-mode takes forehead and ear measurements quickly and easily, perfect for all ages. With a vibration function and intelligent fever indicator, this is one of the best thermometers for babies. Order now and get a 20% discount at iproven.com/pedsdoctalk. 

Motherhood can be a time of great joy and love; yet it is not uncommon for feelings of irritability and rage to set in either during pregnancy or during those postpartum months and beyond.   On this episode, I welcome Ashurina Ream-a licensed clinical psychologist, mom, and founder of Psyched Mommy. She joins me to discuss:  What is perinatal rage and why can it happenHow to recognize you need supportHow to communicate your needs with loved ones including your partner Learn more about the Dr. Ashurina Ream and Psyched Mommy at psychedmommy.com or follow on Instagram and Facebook @psychedmommyEpisode Links and Resources:Postpartum Support InternationalSPONSORAre you a cereal lover looking for a delicious cereal with no added sugar? Enter Magic Spoon. I never thought it was possible to find a cereal that tastes DELICIOUS but is high in protein and contains 0g of sugar.Check out their cereals and various flavors like fruity, blueberry muffin, frosted, maple waffle, birthday cake, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and my favorite cocoa — magicspoon.com/pedsdoctalk and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save today!  

Picky eating is a very common phase children go through, but there are things we as parents can consider BEFORE we get to these stages. I welcome Jennifer Friedman, Registered Pediatric Dietician and picky eating expert, and founder of @feedingpickyeaters to discuss:3 simple things you can do to approach picky eating before it startsHow to get unstuck when you’re in a menu rut Factors that can increase and decrease the likelihood of picky eatingLearn more about Jennifer Friedman and Feeding Picky Eater at jennyfriedmannutrition.com , Instagram and Pinterest @feedingpickyeatersSPONSORAre you looking to scratch off dinner from your to do list? Try out Prep Dish today and have high quality, healthy and delicious meals planned out for your family. I got you a 2 WEEKS FREE PREP DISH MEMBERSHIP so you can see if they're a good fit for your family. Just go to prepdish.com/pedsdoctalk for a two week free trial - you won't regret it!!

We often focus on the number of words a child says, but oftentimes parents have the question: ”Is HOW my child is saying this developmentally appropriate?”On this episode, I welcome Melissa Minney, Speech Language Pathologist and Founder of Raising Little Talkers to discuss:The difference between speech and languageNormal progression of speech sounds in the toddler/preschool yearsDo parents need to correct every word and how do they do it if they do?When a parent should be concerned about certain speech soundsLearn more about the Raising Little Talkers Course at raisinglittletalkers.com or follow Melissa on Instagram and Facebook @raisinglittletalkersSPONSORAre you a cereal lover looking for a delicious cereal with no added sugar? Enter Magic Spoon. I never thought it was possible to find a cereal that tastes DELICIOUS but is high in protein and contains 0g of sugar.Check out their cereals and various flavors like fruity, blueberry muffin, frosted, maple waffle, birthday cake, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and my favorite cocoa — magicspoon.com/pedsdoctalk and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save today!  

Early Intervention is an incredible service for young children under 5, but accessing it and knowing WHEN to access it can often be confusing. I welcome Amanda Selogie who is a special education lawyer and the Executive Director and Co-founder of the Inclusive Education Project. She joins me to discuss:  What Early Intervention is How can a parent get early intervention services for their child in the U.S.How age matters in regards to these servicesCost, wait times, and access for Early Intervention Learn more about the Inclusive Education Project at inclusiveeducationproject.org or on Instagram @inclusiveeducationprojectEpisode Links and Resources:CDC Early Intervention 

We can’t protect our kids from failure, but we can guide them to how to learn from failure and part of this is having a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset. Join me on this important episode as I discuss: The difference between a growth and fixed mindset5 ways to raise our child with a growth mindset from the toddler years and beyondWhy a growth mindset is beneficial to children  Episode Links and Resources:Study by Schroeder et. al about power of a growth mindset in school-aged children Are you a toddler parent looking for more parenting and tantrum guidance, check out my course Toddlers & Tantrums for more tips to connect and compassionately discipline your toddler child 

Is praising our children okay? Will they end up seeking a life of external validation? On this episode, I welcome Dr Jenicka Engler, developmental neuropsychologist, clinical scientist, and mom to discuss:If praise is really all bad?How to effectively use praiseWhat the research tells us about praise Find Dr. Jenicka on Instagram @drjenicka

Motherhood can feel like a never-ending checklist. On this episode, I speak with Nicole—a mom from the PDT community—about handling the guilt and stress of the never-ending checklist.We discuss:How to get our minds out of “checklist-mode”The importance of communication with partner, support system, and asking for helpWays to free up time when time seems scarce If you are a parent and want to join me on the podcast, join our email list where we send out our guest form for you to fill out.Are you looking to scratch off dinner from your to do list? Try out Prep Dish today and have high quality, healthy and delicious meals planned out for your family. I got you a 2 WEEKS FREE PREP DISH MEMBERSHIP so you can see if they're a good fit for your family. Just go to prepdish.com/pedsdoctalk for a two week free trial - you won't regret it!!

Labor, delivery, and postpartum are filled with a roller coaster of activity and being informed about this process is crucial. I welcome my friend and social media powerhouse, Liesel Teen, who is a labor and delivery nurse and founder of Mommy Labor Nurse to educate you about 5 things she wants you to know about labor, delivery, and postpartum She joins me to discuss:  Fear women have about pooping in the delivery room Tearing during vaginal deliveries C-section misconceptions Just because you want an epidural, timing doesn’t allow itSizing for babies and vaginal deliveries Thank you to our episode sponsor, Philips Avent. Check out Philips Avent products by visiting Philips.com/avent and using promo code ParentYourWay20 for 20% off today!Get the Free Birth Prep Workshop or find out more about Liesel and Mommy Labor Nurse on YouTube, Instagram or TikTok @mommy.labornurse

Potty training does not always go easy breezy! On this episode, I talk with Alexis about her struggles with potty-training her 4 year old who only poops in a pull-up and NOT the toilet. We discuss:Why poop struggles happenHow we as parents can create power struggles in potty trainingStrategies to help with pooping resistance and potty-learning guidance.Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The No-Pressure Potty Training Course is your one-stop shop for all your potty teaching needs.

On the Finding Joy Episodes of this podcast I talk about real-life good and not so good of being a parent, particularly sharing my perspective as a mom and woman. I share ways to navigate feelings of judgement, mom guilt, or that not good enough feeling we may feel as parents.I’ve had my husband come on the show and I’m now excited to welcome another guest, one of my favorite ABC News Television Personalities, and my friend, Erielle Reshef. Erielle is a mother and works as a ABC News National Correspondent covering some of the top stories around the world. She joins me to discuss:  Why she believes “work-life balance” is an elusive goal How she approaches mom guiltHow she reframes her mindset on difficult news days or news cycles Connect with Erielle on Instagram or Twitter @eriellereshef 

Basic episode description: Is your toddler “high energy?” Do they lack impulse control. Tune in as I talk with Janelle from the PDT community about her 3 year old daughter. We discuss:Typical impulse control and attention span of toddlers under 4 Questions a clinician would ask in evaluating a hyper-active toddlerWhat not to do between 1-2 years of age when your child lacks any impulse control If you are a toddler parent, make sure you grab my toddler courses and e-book available MAY 1st, 2023. Join our email list for more informationAre you a cereal lover looking for a delicious cereal with no added sugar? Enter Magic Spoon. I never thought it was possible to find a cereal that tastes DELICIOUS but is high in protein and contains 0g of sugar.Check out their cereals and various flavors like fruity, blueberry muffin, frosted, maple waffle, birthday cake, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and my favorite cocoa — magicspoon.com/pedsdoctalk and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save today!  

Do we as adults cause our child to be anxious and does their anxiety cause us to be anxious? On this episode, I welcome Dr. Helen Egger, a child Psychiatrist to discuss the clyclical effect of anxiety in families. We discuss:If anxiety in a home can be cyclical in nature?How to address a child’s worries and anxieties while simultaneously managing our own worries/fearsHow complete avoidance of fears can negatively impact our childrenWhen a parent should be concerned about their own anxiety Find out more about Little Otter at littleotterhealth.com or follow on Instagram @littleotterhealthLucky and Me is a clothing brand styled with kids comfort in mind. So your kiddos can focus on being kids and not uncomfortable in their clothes. Check out lucky and me by visiting Lukcyandme.com and use code PEDSDOCTALK15 for 15% off for all new customers.

Dropping feeds, sleep, and is your child getting enough calories? So many important questions I discuss with Kate from the PDT Community. We discuss:Feeding schedules and overcoming calorie anxietyWays to eliminate (or wean) overnight bottlesIf self-weaning night feeds is possible in toddler yearsIf you are a toddler parent, make sure you grab my toddler courses and e-book available MAY 1st, 2023. Join our email list for more information

The fourth trimester refers to the first three months when the baby is born. This is an adjustment period both for parents and the baby. Parents are often told that sleep deprivation is the norm in those early months; and although that is somewhat true there are some things that can be done to comfort baby and prolong sleep stretches. On this episode, I welcome Dr. Harvey Karp who is a world renowned pediatrician and child development expert. He is the co-founder and CEO of Happiest Baby and the creator of SNOO Smart Sleeper. He is also the author of the best-selling parenting guides The Happiest Baby on the Block and The Happiest Toddler on the Block.  We discuss: The 5 S’s of Newborn sleep and how Dr. Karp came up with them Why having these tools are important for every familyMisconceptions about the fourth trimester and sleep Want to know more about Dr. Harvey Karp? Check out this New Yorker profile: Harvey Karp Knows How to Make Babies Happy

You may have heard the terminology “strong-willed child“, but how do they differ from just say a typical toddler who also desires independence, control, and wants what they want? And what to do about power struggles and how can we reduce them?In this episode, I discuss:What makes the strong-willed child unique in temperament How you know you’re in a power struggleHow to reduce power struggles before they start and if they do happen  On May 1st, PedsDocTalk is launching toddler courses and resources on tantrums, picky eating, potty training, and other common toddler behaviors and concerns. I also wrote a toddler development guide to help you through your kiddo’s development. To stay informed, sign up for our email list here for all the details including promo pricing.

Kindergarten readiness is on a lot of parent’s mind as they child approaches this big milestone, but the pressure it can place on parents (and kids) can be a lot. On this episode I welcome Susie Allison, who is a former kindergarten teacher and has a Masters in Education, author, blogger, mom and creator of Busy Toddler to discuss : Why kindergarten readiness has become stressful Why these standards have changed and are they developmentally appropriate? What we should be focusing on guiding them instead prior to Kindergarten Find out more about Susie Allison on her website Busytoddler.com or via Instagram @busytoddler

Many times in parenting, there won’t be a course or article that covers every parenting situation or decision you find yourself in. I LOVE getting to chat with parents from the PedsDocTalk community on these nuanced topics. Today. I welcome Allyson who wants to sleep train her 4-month-old, but the infant will eventually room-share with a 3 year old. We discuss:Things to consider when making parenting decisions and choicesThings to consider when sleep-training an infant who may end up room-sharing with a toddlerHow to prep the toddler for this transition If you are a parent and want to join me on the podcast, join our email list where we send out our guest form for you to fill out.

 I invite back Dr. Sarah Mitchell the creator of The Helping Babies Sleep Method to discuss common misconceptions on terminology and sleep training in general. We discuss:Defining what “CIO” isWhat does “sleeping through the night” really meanTwo main reasons babies and toddlers struggle with sleepWhat the term sleeping through the night meansAfter this, tune in to another episode with Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Do babies really need sleep-training or will they learn on their own?Quick simple 6 question sleep quiz with personalized responses: helpingbabiessleep.com/sleep-quizWebsite: helpingbabiessleep.comOnline sleep school: helpingbabiessleepschool.comInstagram: @helpingbabiessleep

There are so many decisions and things we do in parenting that can fill us with guilt. In this episode, I go over 5 things I commonly hear parents feel bad about, but they shouldn’t (Frankly, the list could have been even longer).  On this episode I go over: Looking at your goals and what makes sense to you as a parentFollowing recommendations and remembering that can be just recommendationsCreating balance in our scheduleLooking at the big picture in parenting SPONSORSAre you flying with a newborn or toddler soon? No more worrying about lost or damaged strollers with BABYZEN YOYO. It is the perfect compact and lightweight stroller for travel and everyday life. Use promo code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout for a free cup holder with your stroller purchase.Visit BABYZEN.com with the promo code PEDSDOCTALK

We’ve all been there: feeling judged about our choices as parents. And maybe, you have dished out judgement too. On this episode I go over judgement in parenting:Why judgement blocks our joy as parentsWhy it’s so hurtfulThe judgement cycle and how to break itHow to block out and navigate judgmental people in your life  

I welcome a mom from the PDT community, Susmitha, to chat about guilt and feelings around traveling for work as a mom. We discuss:Why this guilt existsWhat internal work needs to be done before accepting and enjoying travel for workHow to manage the feelings we have about inconveniencing others who care for our childIf you are a toddler parent, make sure you grab my toddler courses and e-book available MAY 1st, 2023. Join our email list for more information

I welcome Psychiatrist, New York Times Contributor, and author Dr. Pooja Lakshmin to discuss what real self-care really is.  Her book REAL SELF-CARE: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) is out today and we discuss:The difference between faux self-care and real self-careWhat the wellness industry forgets when it comes to true wellnessHow to actually do self-care that is transformativeSystemic barriers to self-care Connect with Dr. PoojaBuy Pooja's new book REAL SELF-CARE: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) here. Sign up for Pooja's free Substack email list, Therapy Takeaway, here.Join Pooja's community, Gemma, the physician-built women's mental health platform here. SPONSORSStokke offers baby products designed to empower parents from day one, foster closeness and connection between them and their baby and to support the healthy development of their child. You can use promo code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout for a free cushion with any high chair purchase.Visit Stokke.com  with the promo code PEDSDOCTALKAre you flying with a newborn or toddler soon? No more worrying about lost or damaged strollers with BABYZEN YOYO. It is the perfect compact and lightweight stroller for travel and everyday life. Use promo code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout for a free cup holder with your stroller purchase.Visit BABYZEN.com with the promo code PEDSDOCTALK

Listen up, moms! We don’t have to be Pinterest perfect moms to be a good mom. If this is something that brings you joy, that is INCREDIBLE; but it’s not a checkbox that defines your worth as a mother.  I welcome Anna—a mom from the PedsDocTalk community to chat about that mom guilt created by not being crafty and the elaborate activity planner. We discuss:Where guilt surrounding our actions as moms comes fromWhat our children developmentally need for playHow to reframe when you’re feeling guilty not doing enough for your kiddo If you are a parent and want to join me on the podcast, join our email list where we send out our guest form for you to fill out.SPONSORBitte is an online kids’ boutique where you will find a stunning collection natural gifts and essentials for your little ones. They offer chic organic cotton clothing and accessories, delightful toys, kid-friendly housewares, and so much more -- all made with sustainable materials for a gentler impact on our environment AND amazingly priced so as not to break your budget! Visit bitteshop.com and use code PedsDoc20 to receive 20% off your first order!

Moving past purees can sometimes be trickier and oftentimes it’s the parents who are more nervous about this than the child. I welcome Katie Ferraro, registered dietician specializing in baby led weaning, mom of seven, and founder of Baby Led Wean Team to discuss moving past purees to more textured foods. We discuss:Why parents are sometimes nervous to move past pureesRecognizing gagging versus chokingMisconceptions surrounding BLW and texturesHow to encourage trickier textures in a safe wayGrab a copy of Katie’s 100 FIRST FOODS list on her free weekly BABY-LED WEANING FOR BEGINNERS workshop. You can sign up for this week’s workshop times here: www.babyledweaning.coAre you looking to scratch off dinner from your to do list? Try out Prep Dish today and have high quality, healthy and delicious meals planned out for your family. I got you a 2 WEEKS FREE PREP DISH MEMBERSHIP so you can see if they're a good fit for your family. Just go to prepdish.com/pedsdoctalk for a two week free trial - you won't regret it!!

OOOF. Toddler or child aggression: biting, kicking, hitting.. It can all seem overwhelming to manage, but how much is too much? I welcome Joia, a mom from the PDT community to chat with how much is too much when it comes to aggression. Listen in as we discuss:How to manage aggressionMissteps to avoid When is toddler aggression a concernIf you are a toddler parent, make sure you grab my toddler courses and e-book available MAY 1st, 2023. Join our email list for more information

In modern parenting, TV shows have played a huge role in our children’s lives. We know amount of screen-time matters, but what about the TYPES of shows are children are watching (especially our young toddlers)? I welcome Dr. Cara Goodwin (@parentingtranslator) who is a clinical psychologist, mom, and who translates the research on child development and parenting in an easy to understand way for parents to chat all about the types of shows our kids watch. We discuss:Are certain popular shows like Cocomelon and Ms. Rachel for Littles okay for kids?Based on the research, what are young children learning from television? Are watching sports with children okay? How can a parent balance the research we do (and don’t have) to make screen time decisions for their childrenFind Dr. Cara Goodwin on Instagram @parentingtranslator or visit her website parentingtranslator.org

Percentile anxiety is a real thing. Parents are often concerned their babies or children are too “small” too “big” or worry they’re not doing enough. I welcome Steph-a mom from the PDT community- to chat about her anxiety with percentiles for her child and how it impacts body imageWe discuss:What percentiles are used forWhy percentile anxiety happens Why I want use to avoid obsessions with percentiles If you are a parent and want to join me on the podcast, join our email list where we send out our guest form for you to fill out.

Do you find yourself feeling more irritable since becoming a mother? Have you felt guilty about this or have not known how to approach it? I welcome back Dr. Cassidy who is a licensed marriage and family therapist to talk about overstimulation in parenthood (and especially motherhood). We discuss: Why we may become more irritable after becoming a mom  What irritability in motherhood can really be a sign ofHow to create space when feeling irritable or angryListen to another episode with Dr. Cassidy: Why has motherhood made me feel so overstimulated?Take Dr. Cassidy's QUIZZ to find out What triggers your rage as a parent? More from Dr. Cassidy at drcassidymft.com, on the Holding Space Podcast and Instagram @drcassidy 

We’ve all been there. The feeling of groundhog day that motherhood can bring. In this episode, I answer a question from a mom in the PDT community about how to enjoy the day-to-day grind more as a mom. I discuss:5 tips to getting out of the monotony that can be the day-to-day grindSigns that you may be in a grind How to break out of the grind while still getting things doneTo have your question answered on the show, either call it into 954 526 2641 or join our email newsletter where we send out the form to have parents join me directly on the show. Join the newsletter here: https://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

Many of us as adults are familiar with diet culture. We are familiar with what it means to have an unhealthy relationship of food whether we were raised in it or we have met others who have. I welcome Kate Kiersey, a dietician and founder of Well Fed Family, to discuss how we can create boundaries with snacks and meals (think promoting variety and managing excessive snacking) while simultaneously creating a healthy relationship with food. We discuss:How to talk to our kids about food choices How to approach feeding if there is a medical concern about weight How to manage the child who always seems hungryHandling emotional/boredom eating Find out more about WellFed Family on their website wellfed.family or on Instagram @wellfed.family  Are you looking to scratch off dinner from your to do list? Try out Prep Dish today and have high quality, healthy and delicious meals planned out for your family. I got you a 2 WEEKS FREE PREP DISH MEMBERSHIP so you can see if they're a good fit for your family. Just go to prepdish.com/pedsdoctalk for a two week free trial - you won't regret it!!

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I welcome Lauren to chat about her toddler son who acts out more when she’s home from work. We discuss:Why tantrums are more triggering after a long dayWhy children may act this way after seeing you after a long period awayHow to navigate these moments If you are a parent and want to join me on the podcast, join our email list where we send out our guest form for you to fill out.SponsorLucky & Me has kids underwear, always tag-less with extra comfy soft fabrics that won't itch or irritate your child's skin. Kids clothing that is always tag-less, machine washable and designed for all day play - so your kiddos can focus on being kids and not on their clothes! Check out Lucky & Me by visiting luckyandme.com 

The Finding Joy Series on this podcast is where I talk about finding peace amidst chaos, reframing tough life choices, and navigating difficult times we go through as parents (especially as mothers).On this episode, I talk about my feelings: nerves, excitement, and worry being pregnant with our IVF baby after having a traumatic delivery in 2019. I discuss:The common mix-bag of emotions felt during pregnancyHow I’ve navigated my mental health during this processThe very normal and oftentimes not-talked about feelings being pregnant with a child already and having a careerFor my son's birth story:https://pedsdoctalk.com/ryaans-birth-story/For more on our IVF journey visit my YT channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx2hGbeaOvy8P5m357V3gBw

On this Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona Episode, I welcome Shradha on to discuss that very common feeling of mommy guilt—especially when you want to spend it on yourself and you didn’t spend much time with your child. We discuss:Why this guilt is so commonHow to reframe when you are feeling these guilty feelingsPrioritizing Quality over quantity with your child and how to do this  To have your question answered on the show, either call it into 954 526 2641 or join our email newsletter where we send out the form to have parents join me directly on the show. Join the newsletter here: https://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

A lot of people think they have allergy to medications when they don’t. In this episode, I welcome Allergist and Immunologist Farah Khan to chat about drug allergies and share some misconceptions. We discuss:What a true drug allergy looks likeWhy not all rashes while on antibiotics are a drug allergyAre true drug allergies hereditary?What to do if you truly feel your child has a drug allergyConnect with Farah Khan on Instagram @farah.khan.md

Potty training is not always smooth sailing for most families. In fact, like most things in parenting; it can be difficult for both parents and kids to navigate. I am so excited to welcome Erin, a mom from the PDT community, to chat about potty training resistance in her son. She has twin 2.5 year olds and both had some resistance, but her son, H, had more. We discuss:Why potty-training resistance is so stressful for parentsSome basic tips to deal with school and home consistency and poop refusalWays to reframe when things in parenting don’t go according to planMake sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxietyIf you want to come on the podcast to discuss questions or concerns you have, sign up for my email list where we invites parents to come and joine me. 

Anytime you have told yourself you’re not good enough, you’re not capable of, or you have to be better at something that comes from somewhere in your childhood. On today’s episode, I welcome Mary Beth Fox, a licensed professional councelor and owner of the mental health blog Not Good Enough Stuff to discuss the not good enough stuff carried from childhood. We discuss:What “not good enough stuff is”Why and how these present in relationships and parentingHow we can limit this cycleThanks to today’s sponsor, Bombi and their special offer to all PedsDocTalk podcast listeners! You can get $20 off the BĒBEE LIGHTWEIGHT STROLLER plus accessories with the code PEDSDOC20 only at bombigear.com

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I answer a question called into our show. A mother is wondering about any harm in introducing soy products to her 11 month old child.If you have a question for Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, you can either call it into 952 526 2641 or join our newsletter where we send out a form for parents in the PDT community to join me on the podcastJoin the newsletter here: https://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/Check out my YouTube Video on cow’s milk and plant-based milk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXzItS-6Sb8&t=440s

On one of my most favorite episodes to date, I welcome Bryana Kappadakunnel who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Conscious Mommy to talk about what it means to be a conscious parent and why it’s beneficial to the entire family. We discuss:What Conscious Parenting is How our children are our greatest teachersWhy fear of change hinders our ability to be a more conscious parent Find out more about Conscious Mommy at conciousmommy.com, sign up for online workshops & classes at learning.consciousmommy.com or connect with Bryana on Instagram @consciousmommyIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterThanks to Sposie, the sponsor of todays episode!Get 20% OFF your order of Sposie Dribbles Potty Training Pads by using code POTTYTRAINING20 at Sposie.com

We’ve all been there. Our kids are loud. Whether it is laughter, yelling, screaming of joy, or tantrums. Their volumes seem to be set very high. It’s very natural, but I discuss with Christina-a mom from the PDT community-on how to navigater this. We discuss:Why loudness is so triggeringHow to approach it from a mindset shift as a parent3 Strategies to reduce the volume in your home Make sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxietyIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our Newsletter

Welcome back to the show and another season of The PedsDocTalk Podcast. On this episode of The PedsDocTalk Podcast, I am talking about Gratitude. On the Finding Joy series, I talk about mindset shifts that are important in life and in parenting every month. On this episode, I discuss: What gratitude is and why it’s good for our mental healthHow it benefits parentingHow to apply it Misconceptions about gratitude If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our Newsletter

You’ve heard it over and over, but maybe needed a reminder: Life is too short to fill our mental space with things that don’t serve us. In this episode, I discuss 5 things we need to let go of. Things that do not serve our peace and rob us of our joy. This episode is in honor of Ana “Ani” Estevez who tragically lost her life to gun-violence at 23. She was a beacon of joy and compassion and this episode is in honor of her legacy. To help support her family, consider donating to gofundme.com/f/ana-estevezTo stay up-to-date on big PDT announcements, sign up for our email list here: pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

I love discussing frustration because it is a normal human emotion just like sadness, fear, joy, or happiness. As parents, our role is to teach children what these feelings mean and help them cope. Enter frustration tolerance. Tune in as I discuss managing our child’s frustration when they can’t figure out a task like a new toy and how we can use those opportunities for learning. We discuss: What frustration tolerance is Why moments of frustration can be huge for a child’s cognitive developmentImportant steps to managing the moments of frustration Make sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxietyIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our Newsletter

Our parenting is affected by so much more than how we approach our child during their big feelings. It also requires some introspection on how we approach our big feelings in disagreements with our partners or loved ones. On this episode, I welcome Lesley Adams who is a licensed marriage and family therapist, to talk about why healthy conflict resolutions are important and healthy for children to see. Tune in as we discuss:Communication styles in partnershipsHow to express your needs with your partner How to repair IF discussions get escalated Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Verbalizing with our children when they have big feelings is important, but what is the actual purpose and what should we expect it to achieve?I welcome Amy, a mom from the PDT community, to chat about verbalizing.We discuss:Managing expectations of verbalizing with our childrenThe importance of nonverbal communication during tantrumsHow we can show we’re okay with our child’s feelings besides verbalization  If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterAnd thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

When we become parents, we often get bogged down with all the information and noise that we forget that parenting is a long-game job and sustainability is important. I welcome Grace Bastidas who is the editor in chief of Parents and a mom of two to discuss how to set yourself up for the long game after having a baby.We discuss:What the long game of parenting isWhy taking care of yourself is the biggest gift you can give your childWhy we set such high expectations of ourselves the moment we become a parent and how it can negatively impact usYou can also find Grace on Instagram @brooklynwriter or listen to her Podcast: That New Mom LifeThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Milestone Anxiety is a real thing and often not talked about. I welcome a mom in the PDT community to chat about her 15 month old son who is not walking. We discuss:Why Milestone anxiety can happenHow to approach milestone anxiety to find more peace and progressHow to encourage walkingIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterAnd thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC 

Are children too young to teach financial health?I welcome Carissa and Nikki of Benjamin Talks a platform that is on a mission to make all families financially fit  We discuss:The right age to start discussing the concepts of financial fitnessMisconceptions parents have about teaching financial fitnessHow to foster saving and gratitude when discussing finance Tips to teaching kids about financial health If you are looking to make your family financially fit visit benjamintalks.com Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

On this episode, I welcome a mom from The PedsDocTalk community to chat about her 32 month old son and hitting and throwing behaviors. We discuss not only what to do in these situations, but also ways to build emotional resilience and emotional regulation during calm moments. We discuss:Why avoiding a big rise is important, but why it’s so hardWhat not to do when trying to discipline hitting and throwing behaviorsHow to use positive reinforcement and fill our child’s cupIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterAnd thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Diet culture is still prominent in 2022 and I welcome Diana Rice, a registered Dietician and owner of Tiny Seed Family Nutrition to discuss how we should approach conversations about weight and health for our kids.We discuss:Why “eat less and move more” is problematic adviceWhy dieting is never the answer How we can approach conversations about health with a health mindset versus a weight-goal mindset  To find out more about Diana Rice and Tiny Seed Family Nutrition, visit her website at Tinyseednutrition.com, where you can find 1:1 coaching sessions, monthly text-based coaching memberships and much more.Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

No two humans are completely alike. Even amongst twins, we know that people have various temperaments and traits that make them who they are. On this episode, I welcome a mom from the PDT community to discuss how to approach parenting with two unique children. We discuss:The guilt of feeling your time can’t be devoted to all children equallyUnderstanding the unique needs of your childMindset tips to bring more peace and joy as you navigate parenting multiple kidsIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterAnd thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

On this highly requested Finding Joy episode, I tackle health anxiety. Having had a child with stroke and seizure and dealing with repetitive viral illnesses over the last year, I offer some support and reframe when approaching worries around our child’s health. I discuss:Why health anxiety is common and difficultWhat about our child getting sick makes us worried, frustrated, or gives us guilt and how to reframeThree strategies to be more mindful during illness and around threats to our child’s health Birth Story: https://pedsdoctalk.com/ryaans-birth-story/Podcast about Repetitive illnesses: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/monday-mornings-with-dr-mona-why-is-my-kid-always-sick/id1501057527?i=1000549494964And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I speak with Rychelle about her 3-year-old son who has big feelings and with that can sometimes come some physical tantrums. In this episode we discuss:Respecting differences in temperament of childrenMistakes we make during physical tantrumsWhy pivoting to other discipline interventions is important  I end each episode with three parenting principles. These principles can be used in various parenting situations, but I explain how the three principles I chose apply to navigating physical tantrums If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterThanks to today's sponsor Bobbie. Visit  hibobbie.com and find out more about their fantastic Organic Baby Formula.And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

All human relationships we carry can open up triggers from our past. Parenting is one of those moments where we may realize the good and the not so good we have carrier from our childhood. On this episode, I talk with Patrick Teahan who is a licensed clinical social worker and father about HOW and WHY parenting can open up triggers from childhood.We discuss:The subtle and not so subtle ways parenting opens up childhood triggersWhat “inner-child” work is and why it’s important when you become a parentHow to approach triggers that arise in parenting in a healthy way You can sign up to Patricks Monthly Healing Community at patrickteahantherapy.gumroad.com/l/monthlyhealingcircleThanks to today's sponsor Cozy Earth. Visit  cozyearth.com and get a 35% discount when you check out with the code: PEDSDOCTALKAnd thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Your amazing sleeper becomes a toddler and suddenly needs you all the time at bedtime or during the night. Is something wrong? How do we get them back to independent sleep? I speak with Amna, a mom from the PDT community about her 26 months old daughter and separation anxiety she’s having at bedtime. We discuss:Why daytime connection and boundaries matter for bedtimeHow to approach their disapproval with boundariesStrategies to provide some control for your toddler while you maintain boundariesMake sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxietyIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

In our lives we will at some point have to receive vaccines, a medical procedure, or do something that is out of our comfort zone. For some children, getting a vaccine or medical procedure can be tough. I invited Katie Taylor who is a certified child life specialist, CEO of Child Life on Call, And the host of The Child Life on Call Podcast to discuss how we can approach vaccines and medical procedures with our child.We discuss:How to prepare our children for vaccines and other medical proceduresWhat NOT to say Focusing on development to aid in approach If you'd like to find out more about Katie Taylor and Child Life on Call, visit the website at Childlifeoncall.com, listen to the Podcast or follow her on Instagram @childlifeoncallThanks to today's sponsor Bobbie. Visit  hibobbie.com and find out more about their fantastic Organic Baby Formula.Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Screens have a place in our lives, but it is important to set boundaries with them and be consistent with those boundaries. But what happens when your child is having tantrum after tantrum with wanting to watch the screen?I invited a mom from The PDT community to chat about screen-time related tantrums. We discuss:How to give some power and autonomy during boundary settingWhy children and parents fall into these power strugglesHow to hold your screen-time boundariesMake sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxietyIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our NewsletterThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

On the Finding Joy Series, I I discuss the real-life ups and downs we experience as mothers, parents, and in life, how to be more mindful, and how to change our mindset to cause change. People-pleasing is a common learned behavior and it can have negative impacts. Tune in as I discuss:Characteristics of a people-pleaserHow it negatively impacts motherhoodHow you can be kind, but not be a people-pleaserHow to create healthy boundaries to regain time and mental spaceThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

We’ve all been there or will be there: When you don’t want your child to do something, say “no” and your child keeps doing it. On this episode, I speak with Susmitha about her 22-month-old son who keeps doing activities after she says no. We discuss:How to approach boundaries by allowing more opportunities for “yes”What happens in the toddler brain when we say “No!”How to approach boundaries to actually see long-term changeThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

There is a lot of buzz around “secure attachment” that commonly gets misconstrued in the parenting space and on social media. I speak with Jamie, a registered child psychologist and mom to discuss how we can create connection and attachment without losing ourselves We discuss:Misconceptions about secure attachmentHow to foster secure attachment in our everyday livesWhat emotional responsiveness is Connect with Jamie via her website www.imaginepsychology.com or Instagram @imaginepsychologyThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

I love speaking with expecting moms about to start their motherhood journey. On this episode, I speak with Deepika who is 37 weeks pregnant about filtering out all the noise, opinions, and information out there to find your own voice as a mom. We discuss:Why motherhood and parenting can seem so overwhelmingHow to take all the information you have and apply it Why looking at the big picture and having perspective can be healingMake sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxiety.Thanks to today's sponsor Cozy Earth. Visit  cozyearth.com and get a 35% discount when you check out with the code: PEDSDOCTALKThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

What does improv comedy, soccer referees, and CEOs have to do with communication and parenting? I welcome Ben Swett who is the executive director of Early Engagement to talk about some tips to communicating with your child.We discuss:Why nonverbal communication mattersWhy expectations and boundaries for children are importantHow to keep communication lines openTo find out more, visit: earlyengagement.org Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

The dreaded 4 month sleep regression! Your baby is sleeping longer stretches and now they’re awake. In this episode, I speak with Cait about her now 5-month old regarding this sleep regression.We discuss:Why “sleep regressions” happenWhat to do during a sleep regressionWhat not to do during a sleep regressionMake sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxiety.Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

I invited Jen Novakovich, a cosmetic chemist, science communicator, and founder of The EcoWell to discuss the truth and safety of essential oils. We discuss: Concern with marketing around essential oils Risk for using essential oilsWhat to consider if you do use essential oilsThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCVisit The Eco Well website at theecowell.com or listen to The Eco Well Podcast. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I talk with a mom about how to embrace her shy child. We discuss:The genetics of personality traitsHow to normalize and embrace shyness in childrenWhat society gets wrong about shy individualsHow to redirect other’s comments about your shy childHow to open up your shy child to new situationsThanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

We give disagreements a bad rep, but they actually can be VERY healthy when done correctly. Arguing is often associated with disagreements with yelling and high emotions, but disagreements can provide growth for all those involved. I invited Lynda Cormier-Hanser, a speaker, author, non-profit founder, wife, and mother to discuss:Why disagreements are healthyWhat families can learn from disagreementsHow to “argue” in a fair wayWhat SHOULD be the desired outcomes from “arguments”Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCStay connected with Lynda on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or her website: lyndacormier.com 

Motherhood can oftentimes feel isolating. It can feel more isolating if you don’t have a community (or that village everyone talks about in parenting) to lean on. I welcome Natasha, who is a mother of a 1-year-old and lives in Germany. She lacks that physical support system (friends and relatives) and we discuss:Why not having this support system is so hardHow to reframe when we find ourselves comparing our situation to othersReframing guilt when you want help as a mom Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOCYou might also be interested in:Episode 122: Finding Joy: Marriage and Parenting with my husbandMONDAY MORNINGS WITH DR. MONA: 10 Tips for navigating motherhood when you don't have that proverbial villageBlog Post: Navigating motherhood when you don’t have “a village”If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On the Finding Joy Series, I I discuss the real-life ups and downs we experience as mothers, parents, and in life, how to be more mindful, and how to change our mindset to cause change. I discuss:The difference between happiness and joyHow joy can be self-created and not based on external circumstancesManaging expectations AND still celebrating wins Why we need to stop using the phrase,”I'll be happy when”Make sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxiety

I welcome Hillary, a mom from the PedsDocTalk community to chat about why toddlers are the way they are especially those two-year-olds and three-year olds. We discuss:What’s happening developmentally in the toddler brain Why is it important for a parent to understand toddler development in parentingStrategies to use this development for parenting wins If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

It isn’t hard to raise an emotionally aware child, yet so many find barriers to doing so. I welcome Dr. Sarah Aboudara who is a school psychologist and licensed clinical psychologist to talk about raising an emotional aware child. We discuss:What it means to raise an emotionally aware childWhy parents struggle with this Steps to creating emotional awareness for our infants and beyond

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly complaining as a mom? Do you ever get caught in that cycle of negativity? I talk with Vera about undoing that cycle of negativity and why we may find ourselves complaining so much as mothers.We discuss:Why motherhood may turn us into complainersStrategies to create more space and boundaries in our lives How to effectively reframe negative situationsHow to break the cycle of negativity that leads us to feel like we’re constantly complainingIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

Do babies really need sleep-training or sleep-teaching or will they eventually learn on their own. I invited Dr. Sarah Mitchell the creator of The Helping Babies Sleep Method to discuss:Infant sleep and physiologyWhen a should parent consider help in sleep-teachingWhy sleep is beneficialQuick simple 6 question sleep quiz with personalized responses: helpingbabiessleep.com/sleep-quizWebsite: helpingbabiessleep.comOnline sleep school: helpingbabiessleepschool.comInstagram: @helpingbabiessleep

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I'm talking with Anna about overcoming her fear of advancing solids for her 11.5 due to her fears of choking. This is a common fear and we go over how to mindfully overcome this with tips, tricks, and know-how.We discuss: How to overcome fears of advancing food and chokingHow to prepare food with safety and time In mindHow to handle distracted eating The importance of modeling eating behaviors How to encourage self-regulation with mealsMake sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxietyIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

Have you felt overstimulated as a parent? I think we’ve all been there. I welcome Dr. Cassidy who is a licensed marriage and family therapist to talk about overstimulation in parenthood (and especially motherhood). We discuss: What overstimulation looks like in parenthood The important first step in managing overstimulation Coping mechanisms for overstimulation What not to do when overstimulatedMore from Cassidy at drcassidymft.com, on the Holding Space Podcast and Instagram  @drcassidy 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I speak with Casey about her daughter MJ. We discuss how to set boundaries in the moment of a tantrum aaand try to keep our cool. In this episode we discuss:Why toddlers get upset over the seemingly smallest of thingsHow and when physical connection can helpHow modeling your self regulation is so helpful during these big feelingsIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode of The Finding Joy series, I bring back my husband to discuss a very important aspect of parenting. The importance of re-parenting ourselves as we parent our son. We discuss the cycles we are trying to break with our son as we simultaneously work on ourselves.We discuss the generational trauma of:Body image insecurities Comparison Anger and yelling No space for emotions And pressure to be high-achieving in careers The Finding Joy Series is a series to promote self-growth and self-reflection as we parent our littles. Here are two related episodes to check out:Episode 122: Finding Joy: Marriage and Parenting with my husbandEpisode 107: Finding Joy. Why forgiveness is so powerful in healing and self-growth

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I welcome Christina to talk about her child and their inability to drink from a straw cup. We discuss:How to navigate resistanceImportant phases of straw cup introductionReframing when your child doesn’t do what you expect them to doBalancing patience and persistence when teaching our children new skillsIn this new format of Monday Mornings with Dr Mona that began June 2022, I end each episode with three parenting principles. These principles can be used in various parenting situations, but I explain how the three principles I chose apply to a straw-cup resisting toddler. If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

I welcome Lauren Smith, a former educator and current nationally certified school psychologist to talk about how and why our American school system needs to change. From testing to the lack of resources to mental health — there’s so much to unpack. We discuss:Limitations to American school system educationHow the school system is failing our childrenWhy school systems are overwhelmed How the American school system is fueling anxietyFollow Lauren on Instagram @psychedforschool

I welcome a mom who struggles with resentment towards societal gender roles and expectations of being a mom. We discuss: How to handle unreasonable societal expectations for mothersHow to communicate with loved ones or partner for needsHow to combat resentment in motherhoodYou might also be interested in:E73: Is Mom Brain real? And how can we relax into our new self?If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

So many mothers feel they have to do everything “perfect” as a mom. Where does this come from? Society? Our childhood? Our work-culture? In this episode, I welcome Michelle Kenney who is a former teacher and high school counselor, mother, and a recovering perfectionist and control freak to talk all about how motherhood perfectionism is ruining motherhood and how to combat it.We discuss:Why we get caught up in trying to be a “perfect” parentHow to approach motherhood insteadHow to look at motherhood with a growth-mindset Find out more about The Yelling Cure, Michelle's Podcast or follow her on Facebook and Instagram @peaceandparenting.

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I speak with Blair about her son starting preschool. He is a pandemic baby and has had limited social interaction so she is concerned how he will do and how to best prepare him for this transition:  In this episode we discuss:Normalizing the various types of personalities we all have adjusting to new experiencesWhy our reaction matters so muchHow to prepare yourself and your child  If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

ISR is gaining popularity in the U.S. As a Pediatrician in Florida, I know many families who have signed up for ISR classes for their children. We also started it but had to cancel due to the commute and weather delays. But, there are a lot of misconceptions about ISR. I invited Erika Wilson, ISR instructor and owner of @seastarisr to discuss all things ISR and why it should be a swimming educational resource option for all families.We discuss: What Infant swimming resource (ISR) is and when you can start Misconceptions about ISRThe benefits of ISRHow it differs from traditional swim classes Questions to ask swim school/instructor to ensure survival skills  The risks of puddle jumpers and what to do insteadThings to consider when signing up for an ISR class ISR is not available for all families in terms of time and finances.Water safety with swim classes and supervision are important for all children. For more, listen to Episode 82To read more about ISR and Erika’s company @seastarisr: seastarisr.comTo find an ISR instructor in your area:locator.infantswim.comFor ISR scholarships:thesylasproject.orgjudahbrownproject.orglivelikejake.comisrswimbabies.com/scholarship-partners

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking with Christine about finding balance in our identities as mothers and why it’s so importantWe discuss: Why balancing our identities is so hard as mothers Why our other identities besides being a mother matter How to reframe guilt when creating this balanceIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

Social media is a blessing, but it can also rob you of your joy as a parent if you’re not aware of its negative impacts. On this episode, I discuss why I feel social media can be harmful to parental (especially maternal mental health) and how to create balance to reclaim our joy as we consume or share on social media.Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563216309104

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking with Kaylee about how she feels disrespected when her 3-year old doesn’t listen. We discuss:How to not take our child’s behavior personally How to give a three-year old control when trying to set boundariesThe importance of boundary setting and how to approach themIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

Let’s call a spade a spade here. Your Pediatrician is burnt out. Low insurance reimbursement, low salaries compared to other medical specialties, long hours, and the stress and worry of the job have led a lot of Pediatricians to cut their hours or leave the workforce. I speak with Dr. Elliston, a former colleague of mine and founder of @ellistonpediatrics. He left traditional pediatric medicine to start a large and thriving Concierge Medicine practice in NYC. We discuss:Why doctors are burnt out and why the system is failing us and patientsWhat are the benefits of concierge medicineHow does it work with insurance and for emergencies Find out more about Dr. Andrew Elliston at ellistonpediatrics.com or via Instagram @ellistonpediatrics

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I talk to Jeanna about her 21-month old son who used to be a great sleeper and suddenly is going through a sleep regression.We discuss:Why toddlers have sleep regressionsThe biggest pitfall parents make when approaching regressionsProper boundary setting with sleep to reach your goalsIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

I welcome Penny Merenge, a Nurse Practitioner, a passionate advocate for early childhood education and digital wellness, and founder of @screens_n_kids to discuss how to balance screen-time to protect the mental and physical health of our children. We discuss:The SPOIL method and how it relates to child developmentWhy we don’t love the term “screen-time rules”Some things to consider when choosing to use screensTimes to consider limiting screens  For more, listen to episode 111 and 118Find Penny Merenge online at screensnkids.com and on Instagram @screens_n_kids. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking with Katie about the frustrations and burden of decision-making about risk-reduction as a parent in a pandemic. We discuss:How pandemic parenting is a form of grief Why it feels hard when everybody else seems to be “moving on” in this pandemic Mindfulness tips to navigate pandemic parentingIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

You’ve probably heard routines are very important for toddlers, but do you know why? I welcome Jessica, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and founder of @rootedinroutine to discuss why routines are useful and misconceptions surrounding routines. We discuss:Why routines are helpful for toddlersWhy they are helpful for YOUSome non-negotiables when it comes to routinesMisconceptions about routines Find out more about Jessica on her Instagram @rootedinroutine or her website  rootedinroutine.com 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I talk to Megan about her four-year-old and his picky eating. I like to call it “selective or preferential eating because picky eating gets a bad connotation. So, let’s reframe how we approach this together.We discuss: Why our biases with meals/food matter The power of allowing some control for our childrenWhy pressure backfires If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In today’s episode I am talking to Lynda Cormier-Hanser, a business owner, speaker/trainer, author, non profit founder, wife and proud mother of 2. Of her many accomplishments, she is most proud of achieving work/life balance, and the quality of her relationships with her two adult daughters, husband, ex-husband, extended family and connection to her community. We will talk about:How to find purpose during chaosMisconceptions about positivity How to re-define grief Stay connected with Lynda on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or her website: lyndacormier.com 

In this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking to Kayla who is struggling to find the energy and balance between working and motherhood. We will discuss:Compassion fatigue  How to create more mental space in our busy daysHow to reframe our approach to our daily activities If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In this episode of FINDING JOY I am talking to my husband about marriage and parenting, covering:How we connect in marriage amidst busy schedules and parentingThe importance of emotional check-insThe biggest mindset shifts we made through marriage How we make our differences work for us

In this episode I am talking to Leah, the mom of 18 month old Isla. Leah is struggling to find a way to stop Isla from scratching, hitting, and kicking.In this episode we will be talking about different approaches to make an 18 month old understand not to hurt.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In this episode I am talking to Dr. Carrie Jackson, a licensed child psychologist and coach. She has first hand experience of a life with ADHD and coaches parents how to rebuild their relationship with their kids with ADHD. We will cover:What is ADHDHow to recognise ADHDAge of diagnosisIs ADHD hereditaryYou can find Dr. Carrie Jackson on Instagram @the.parent.therapist or via her website: iparentadhd.com

Today I welcome my first guest for an episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona. Keeley is the mom of a 6 months old baby boy and has trouble with the transition to solid foods. In this episode we are having a chat about her son Ian covering these topics and more:How to know your baby is getting enough solidsWhat to do when they scream in the high chairHow to advance feeding schedulesIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/ 

In this episode I am talking about what to do when the bad news don't seem to end and you are getting tired and frustrated and don’t know how to be optimistic anymore.I also talk about the phrase “everything happens for a reason” and how this phrase is misused. 

On today's episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I’m answering Hannah’s questions. She is the mom of two boys and her younger 1.5 year old son shows jealous and even aggressive behavior when she gives any attention to his older brother.I will be covering:How to normalize temperament and foster change when a toddler shows aggressionHow to deal with and help a toddler with jealousy If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In this episode I am talking to Dr. Jenicka, a Neuropsychologist & Clinical Scientist who made it her mission to help moms with evidence-based mental health and toddler tips. Today we are discussing:Different reward systemsWhy do reward systems have such a bad reputationThe benefits of using reward systemsHow can a reward system work for something like potty trainingFind Dr. Jenicka on Instagram @drjenicka.

Today on Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I had a Mom call asking if learning two languages simultaneously hinder or delay language development. To answer that question I explain:Common misconceptions about bilingual upbringingWhat to watch out for if you speaking to your child in multiple languagesAnd a method I recommend If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In today’s episode I’m talking to Susie Allison, the woman behind Busy Toddler. As a  former teacher and mom of 3 kids, she is an advocate for early childhood education and made it her mission to bring hands-on learning and play back to childhood, support others in their parenting journey, and help everyone make it to nap time. We discussed the following:Why it’s okay not to love playtimeWhy you don’t need to play with kids all day long Not all kids are great at independent play from the startHow to use playtime/awake time to complete choresFind out more about Susie Allison on her website Busytoddler.com or via Instagram @busytoddler

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mom calls in because her 22 months old daughter has started to wake up at night screaming and she is unsure if this is separation anxiety, a nightmare, or a sleep terror. I’ll explain the difference between a common sleep regression, nightmares and night terrors, what causes them to happen to toddlers, and how to support them.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In this episode I am talking to Jenna Helwig, the food director at ‘Real Simple’ magazine, the mom of a 1 one year old and author of 3 fantastic cookbooks. Besides others she wrote the number one bestseller ‘Baby Led Feeding’ and that is the main reason I’m so excited to talk to her about:What is baby-led weaning?The biggest mistakes while baby led weaningHow to make the process more simple and enjoyableHow to simplify food preparationThe difference between meal prepping and meal planning Favorite supermarket shortcuts How to minimize food wasteFind Jenna Helwig online at jennahelwig.com or get her amazing cook books Bare Minimum Dinner and Baby-Led Feeding.

This may be my favorite Finding Joy episode for you: 5 ways (values) we can bring ourselves more joy and peace as a mom.This episode tackles our emotions and values, the way we view ourselves, and the way we view struggle to give ourselves more grace and peace through our parenting journey. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mother of a 2 year old calls in about how to make brushing a toddler's teeth happen without a fight I normalize this common phase in kids and explain ways to approach this with Five Tips to Making Brushing Teeth Fun and not a Fight If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode I welcome Dr. Jessica Steier, a public-health expert, and Dr. Andrea Love, an immunology expert. They are the hosts of Unbiased Science, a podcast devoted to objective, critical appraisal of available evidence on health-related topics relevant to listeners’ daily lives. We discuss the following: What could have been done differently in this pandemicThe difference between misinformation and disinformationWhat’s next in this pandemicWhy debunking information is so difficult as science-educatorsWhat it means when a pandemic becomes endemic Follow them at @unbiasedscipod on Instagram and visit www.unbiasedscipod.com where they offer a searchable database. Listen to the Unbiased Science podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mother of a 1 year old calls in to ask bout the impact her postpartum depression can have on the development of her child. I discuss why maternal (and parental mental) health matters and what we see for the developmental impact for kids.A few resources:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2724169/https://www.rikidscount.org/Portals/0/Uploads/Documents/Issue%20Briefs/3.18%20Maternal%20Depression%20Update.pdfhttps://www.ncsl.org/research/human-services/from-pregnancy-to-postpartum-the-effects-of-maternal-depression-on-mothers-infants-and-toddlers.aspxIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In December 2019, we gave birth to our beautiful son. It was under the most difficult of circumstances where both he and I were in the ICU. Over the last 1.5 years, we thought our story would be different but we realized we had secondary infertility from the delivery and complications. In this episode of The Finding Joy Series, I share our story: How we found out we had secondary infertility, the ups and downs of that process, our decision to start IVF, and how Im navigating this emotionally and physically draining process. If you are struggling with anything that is robbing your joy or causing you guilt as a parent, make sure to call it into the podcast at 954 526 2641 and I may discuss it on a future episode!

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mother of a 2.5 year old calls in to ask if it's normal that her son doesn't want anybody looking at his genitalia during bath time/diaper changes.I discuss how to balance body autonomy with the need for parental monitoring/intervention. I also discuss why body autonomy is important AND why we should be teaching children from a young age about normal anatomical names for genitalia. If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

I'm sharing a parenting principle of mine that has been a game-changer in creating independence, fostering autonomy, building confidence, and also reaffirming to our children that we are there for them when they need us.It's called the Independence/Intervention Principle and it will change the way you approach multiple parenting situations from infancy and beyond!Tune in as I explain this principle, why it matters, and examples from the newborn months to school-age on how it works. 

On today's episode I welcome back Katherine Sellery, a 3x TEDx speaker, who has taught thousands of parents the Conscious Parenting Revolution  to help them raise resilient, considerate, centered and empowered kids who know their inner voice and honor it.Check out my previous episodes with Katherine: Episode 45: How to be a more conscious parent and why it’s important Episode 93: Why it’s okay to raise kids who are self-centered For today's episode, we discuss the following:  The difference between praise and acknowledgment How to create kids who are self-directed How to raise kids with a fire to succeed that is self-directed Examples of acknowledgement Why being mindful as a parent is important for your child’s success To find out more, visit, www.consciousparentingrevolution.com.  This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

On this episode I welcome Dr. Rupa Wong—Pediatric Ophthalmologist, practice owner, mom to three kids, podcaster and YouTuber.  We discuss the following and so much more! The correlation between screen time and visual diagnosisNearsightedness Ages (in relationship to eye development) where screen time should be minimizedGenetic components How parents can balance screen time and eye health Find Dr. Wong online at https://drrupawong.com/. Take her Myopia Management Quiz here: www.drrupawong.com/myopiaquiz and get her additional thoughts on screen time here: www.drrupawong.com/screentime. This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

On this episode of Monday Mornings I tackle the ever-frustrating high chair refusal. It is very common in the toddler years and I offer some tips and suggestions to get you through this phase.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

We've all been there.Those days or weeks where you feel like nothing is going right.You're wondering if everybody has it this hard.In this episode of the Finding Joy series, I discuss some tips on getting yourself out of that negative spiral and those moments/days when negative thoughts and energy seem to consume you. If you are struggling with anything that is robbing your joy or causing you guilt as a parent, make sure to call it into the podcast at 954 526 2641 and I may discuss it on a future episode!

On this episode of Monday I discuss 10 principles to promote language development. If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode I welcome @speechsisters (speech language pathology), @themovementmama (physical therapy) and @mammamia_ot (occupational therapy) for a frank discussion around the new CDC guidelines. We discuss the following: Introductions of specialties: speech language pathology, occupational therapy and physical therapyConcerns and discussions regarding the new CDC milestone guidelines The "wait and see" approachThe parental role in a child's development So much more! Updated milestones:https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-30mo.htmlInformed SLP opinionhttps://www.theinformedslp.com/review/no-sl-ps-were-in-the-room-where-it-happened

On this episode with Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I answer a question about power-struggles with grandparents.Grandparents can have a positive influence on your child's life and vice-versa, but it's also important that you think of your desires and wants as a parent and communicate these with people who take care of your child. Listen in as I discuss some things to consider as you navigate a grandparent taking care of your childIf you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode I welcome Jessica VanderWier, Registered Psychotherapist and creator of the platform Our Mama Village. At Our Mama Village, they share tangible tools to help families with their children’s behavior and help parents develop relationships with their kiddos that will last a lifetime. Today we are discussing generational trauma! In this episode we cover: What generational trauma is and examplesWhy it’s important and why it’s so hard to break Tips for breaking the cycles Follow Jessica on Instagram @ourmamavillage and online at https://ourmamavillage.com/. This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I answer a different kind of question (and one I really loved): How to navigate motherhood when you lack those in-person support structures.I discuss 10 tips to reframe and navigate motherhood when you lack that village.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

The finding joy series is a seres to promote mindset shifts, encourage self-growth, and inspire self-insight for you as parents. I think our biggest barriers as parents is we don't connect with our own feelings, anger, resentment, and past that it prohibits us from showing up for our children as our authentic and true selves.In this epiosde I discuss the power of forgiveness. I discuss why forgiveness is vital in healing from difficult experiences (ex. birth trauma, generational trauma, or relationships). I give examples on how forgiveness can help, how to implement it into your life, and why it will make you a happier parent. If you found this helpful, write a review or leave a rating. If you are struggling with your mindset in an aspect of parenting; make sure to leave a message at 952 526 2641 and I may discuss it on a future episode. 

I love the one-nap life and I do believe parents often feel their toddler is ready to drop their nap too early when in actuality the child is going through a "nap-refusal' phase.Tune in to hear some tips and strategies on nap-refusal in the toddler years.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode I welcome Mallory Whitmore—formula feeding mom of two, certified infant feeding technician, and founder of @theformulamom. We discuss the following:  Why we develop formula-feeding guiltThe lack of formula-feeding education Overcoming formula-feeding guilt Visit Mallory and learn more at www.theformulamom.com.This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

Independent play is something that is important to build into your routine from the time your child is an infant.When interchanged with sessions of interactive play with a caregiver, it provides so much benefit for your infant and toddler.In this episode, I dive into the benefits of independent play, how to make it happen, and how to balance it with interactive play from a young age. If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode I welcome Dr. Shelby Harris, Clinical Psychologist, Board Certified Behavioral Sleep Medicine Doctor and author. Find her on Instagram as @sleepdocshelby. We discuss the following: What motherhood insomnia is and why it happens Tired but wired! Non-medicated ways to combat insomnia Signs it’s time to see a specialist and types of medicationSo much more Visit Dr. Shelby at  www.drshelbyharris.com and purchase her book, The Women’s Guide To Overcoming Insomnia by Dr. Shelby Harris  here. This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

When is screen-time okay and what's the deal with co-viewing.I think screens can be used as medium of play when you are co-viewing with your child.I do ask you avoid screen-time before one year of age to foster normal child development. Listen in on when I think it's reasonable after one year. In this episode I go over:Current screen-time recommendations from the AAPHow to make common sense rules for your family (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zugBuwgLgcc&t=34s)What is co-viewingHow to use the right programmingTips on co-viewing And so much more!Further reading:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23544859/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02768893 If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/ 

The term self-care make me cringe. Especially when its used with a hasthag: #selfcare. In this episode I discuss the fundamental issues with self care and offer a perspective on self-compassion and why this is so much more important for us.Why is self-care sometimes unattainableThe guilt surrounding self-careWhat is self-compassionMy main priorities for self-care and why I believe it's vital. And so much moreIf you are struggling to find joy in motherhood/parenthood; leave a topic request at 954 546 2641 and I will discuss on a future episode. 

One of the most difficult things I see in the newborn and infant stages is GERD. I call GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) a joy-stealer. Having a baby who spits up, is very uncomfortable, and/or is not gaining weight can be very tiring and emotionally draining for a new parent. I have heard many parents feel that their concerns weren't taken seriously because this is something that gets better with time. In this episode, I discuss how to differentiate regular spit up and/or colic from GERD. I also discuss how to advocate for your baby if you feel that your clinician isn't understanding your concerns. YES, GERD needs time, but there are options we can try to help you if it's truly affecting baby's comfort. Listen in for more. My course, The New Mom's Survival Guide has an entire module on "fussy babies" where I discuss colic, reflux, and spit up. I also discuss newborn sleep, feeding, intro to solids, child development, and an intro to parenting. https://pedsdoctalk.com/course/step/the-new-moms-survival-guide/ 

On this episode I welcome Dr. Nadia Merchant, Pediatric Endocrinologist and Geneticist at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. We discuss the following and so much more:The difference between Type 1 and 2 diabetes Presenting symptoms of Type 1 diabetes Common ages to be diagnosedCOVID/diabetes linkFor more information and to give, check out the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Children's National Hospital Foundation.

Tis' the season of virus, virus, virus.And it seems never-ending. I have so many parents DMing me on my Instagram account wondering if their kid is the only one sick "all the time." YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I see kids from all various ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds sick right now (not just COVID). Illnesses happen, especially viral illnesses. I discuss:Why our kids get so many virusesWhy it seems worse during the pandemicWhy back-to-back illnesses happenWhen to be concerned about repetitive illnesses How to reframe when your child is constantly sickBlog on Immune health and supplementshttps://pedsdoctalk.com/does-my-child-need-an-immune-supplement/Fever YouTube Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jgZ1Y7gmu8&t=5sCough YouTube Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za2eU-KoHP4&t=8s

On this episode I welcome Laura Brown, baby wearing expert and postpartum doula on Instagram @mamabirdlosangeles. In this episode we cover: The benefits of baby wearingBaby wearing limitations How to choose the right carrierThe biggest mistakes when baby wearing What to look for in a fit Find Laura at Mamabirdlosangeles.com and learn more at babywearinghelp.org. This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

A mom of a two year old calls in to ask about 4am wakings for her two year old.  Tune in to hear me give some guidance.Make sure to listen to Episode 42 for more toddler sleep tips: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/episode-52-managing-toddler-sleep-concerns/If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.Want an extensive guide on EARLY MORNING WAKINGS along with sleep schedules/wake windows and so much more, check out THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode I welcome Jacqueline Stanko of @lets.talk.tots. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and has worked with children in some capacity over the last 17 years. In this episode we discuss the following: Why we struggle with playtimeWhy we put expectations on ourselves to always engageHow we can foster developmentThe most important components for optimal engagementThis episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

A mom of a toddler is expecting a new baby and is curious how to prep their toddler for baby's arrival.  Tune in to hear me give some guidance. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

Let's call a spade a spade here:Parenting in a pandemic is rough. In this episode, I go over what everyone is feeling; but may not be saying and offer some ways to find joy even in those hardest of days in this pandemic.I also offer some tangible tips to bring back the peace in your mind amidst the chaos that is pandemic parenting.Make sure to follow me @pedsdoctalk and read my post here for more:https://www.instagram.com/p/CYb1aSAF8Df/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

For my last episode of 2021, I am starting a new series on this podcast that will continue into 2022.Each month, I will share a heart-to-heart on finding joy as a mother, parent, Pediatrician, and well----human! I take on topics such as guilt, judgement, making tough decisions, work-life-balance, self-growth, and so much more.My hope is you will feel empowered to find the best in yourself and find joy. In this episode I go over:Why going part-time was the scariest and best professional decision for me in 2022Why I was scared to take the leapA message for all working parents--especially working moms on finding work-life balanceWhy I feel burnout at work has no place in the home and how to move towards finding that joy and balance againIf you have any suggestions for topics or need help navigating a part of mom-life or parent-life, leave a message at 954 526 2641. 

1. A mom of an 11-month old is wondering how to approach head-banging and self-hitting in her child. 2.  A mom and her partner received the COVID vaccine for themselves, but are concerned if there is any worry about long-term effects from the COVID vaccine for their child.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode I welcome Jessica Shepherd MD, MBA, FACOG, a board certified OB-GYN and the Chief Medical Officer for Verywell Health and Theraflu’s Medical Expert Spokesperson. We discuss the following: Why working parents struggle to take sick leave Racial and inequality as it relates to sick time The American productivity culture compared to other cultures How to change the narrative For many families, it’s financially impossible to take even one day of unpaid sick time. Theraflu partnered with Good+Foundation to create the Rest & Recover Fund – a $150,000 microgrant program designed to help offset lost wages from 1,000 unpaid sick days to support parents facing the financial and logistical challenges of taking a day to rest and recover from an unexpected mild illness. To understand societal pressures on this matter, Theraflu also issued the 2021 Temperature Check Report through OnePoll, a survey of 2,000 working Americans, which revealed attitudes, perceptions and racial disparities surrounding sick time. Learn more about how Theraflu is providing support through the Rest & Recover Fund with Good+ at Theraflu.com/RightToRecover.

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer a common question I've gotten asked on my social media account @pedsdoctalk. I discuss toddler constipation:Why it happensThe questions your child's clinician may ask youHow to approach itCommon medicines we use and how they work How I personally approach it with our toddler If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

On this episode I welcome Steve Hodges, Urologist and author of  Bedwetting and Accidents Aren't Your Fault and The M.O.P. Book: A Guide to The Only Proven Way to STOP Bedwetting and Accidents. We discuss the following: What a urologist is and why a child would see oneThe impact of early potty training and bed wettingHow constipation can impact bedwettingHow genetics can impact bedwettingWhen bed wetting is too lateThis episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. Find out more: Bedwettingandaccidents.com, follow on Facebook: bedwettingandaccident and Instagram @drstevevhodges. 

1. A mom of a 13 month old is wondering how to navigate clinginess in her toddler 2.  A mom of a toddler is wondering how to transition her child to milk out of a straw cup.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

1. A mom of an 18 month old is traveling from the East coast to West Coast and wants to know how to adjust to a new time zone 2.  A mom asks when a typical childhood virus needs to be evaluated by a clinician  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode I welcome back Dr. Siggie Cohen, a Child Development Specialist with over 35 years of experience working with children and families. Check out our previous episode, 77: Understanding why our toddlers bite, hit, and throw and how to navigate it. We discuss: Why validation is importantHow to teach children to respect  boundariesThe biggest mistakes parents make when praising kids Internal validation as it relates to listening Use this link to get 15% off Dr. Siggie's “Everything Toddler” course: https://learn.drsiggie.com/toddlercourse?coupon=PEDSDOCTALKFind out more at: https://drsiggie.com/.  

1. A mom of an 11-week old wants to know why babies this age are always congested and when to be concerned 2.  A mom of an 11-month old wants to know--are snacks really needed for toddlers?  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode I welcome Shivani Patel, MD, FAA, Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Pediatric Dermatologist. Find her on Instagram @Pedsdermdoc. We discuss the following and so much more:What exactly a hemangioma is Hemangiomas in childrenGeneral management and when to see a dermatologistManagement options - monitoring vs. therapy When a hemangioma may become medically concerningThis episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

1. A mom of a two year old wants to know how to introduce veggies to a picky toddler 2.  A mom wants to know a Pediatrician's view on using graduated sleep-training  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode I welcome Diana Martins, certified sleep consultant.  Find her on Instagram @weesleep_diana. We discuss: Understanding your “why” with sleep trainingCultural barriers in sleep educationCommunicating with grandparents regarding your sleep choices

1. A mom of a four month old wants to teach her baby how to roll 2.  A mom wants to know how to manage labial adhesions and things to monitor in her daughter's future.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode I welcome back Katherine Sellery of The Conscious Parenting Revolution. Katherine is a 3x TEDx speaker, has taught thousands of parents in a Conscious Parenting Revolution for resilient, considerate, centered and empowered kids who know their inner voice and honor it.If you missed it, be sure to check out my previous chat with Katherine, episode 45: How to Be a More Conscious Parent and Why it’s Important for our Children. In today's episode we discuss the following: Why it’s okay to raise kids who are self-centeredWhat being self-centered can teach our childrenHow we can balance this with thinking of others For more information, visit www.katherinesellery.com and check out her Free eBook, 7 Strategies To Keep Your Relationship With Your Kids From Hitting The Boiling Point. 

1. A mom of a one year old wants to know if her lack of exposure to other kids during a pandemic is detrimental to her immune system.  2.  A mom wants to know how to balance sleep-training and breastfeeding, especially continuing night feedings.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

In honor of Eczema Awareness Month, I welcome Claire Ryan, WaterWipes’ Medical Science Liaison, to talk about the importance of choosing the right skin care products for our children.We discuss:Why choosing the right skin care products are important for babies with eczemaBasic tips for managing eczemaWhy WaterWipes is unique compared to other wipe brands or a washcloth with waterAnd so much moreThis episode is sponsored by WaterWipes, the world’s purest baby wipes. Tune in to learn more and get even more skin care tips from WaterWipes at https://www.waterwipes.com/us/en.

1. A mom of a toddler who wants to know how much she should intervene on the playground. 2.  A mom of a toddler who wants to know the most important things to child-proof in the home.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

Motherhood is one of the most amazing journeys we may go through, but it can sometimes be filled with judgement and uncertainty. I speak with actress, singer, entrepreneur, and mom Ashley Tisdale about her journey through motherhood and how she navigates the ups and downs of motherhood. Here’s what we discuss:Her journey to choosing formula-feeding her baby and why she chose @EnfamilHow she combats judgement as a celebrity momHow she balances her mental health, worries, and anxieties as a new momWhat she loves most about watching her 6-month old, Jupiter, grow and developTips for fostering development in infancyHow to look at the big picture when it comes to motherhood Tune in to hear an amazing conversation from an inspirational mom. This episode is brought to you by @Enfamil. Check out their website for more developmental tips and their line of formula to help support your growing and thriving baby.

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 22 month old who seems to be sick a lot of with viruses and is also a picky eater and mom wants to know about probiotic supplements. 2.  A mom of a two year old who has been in daycare for four months and is still having a difficult time adjusting. Mom is concerned and wants to know how to navigate this. Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

On this episode, I welcome Lola Sanchez Liste, pediatric sleep coach and founder of Rockin Blinks. We discuss the following: How breastfeeding and sleep training can coexistMethods to considerHow to wean baby from feeds How to prevent engorgement and mastitis So much more!Find Lola online at www.rockinblinks.com and on Instagram @rockinblinks.  This episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 3 year old who is wondering how to teach her daughter about ther body and consent2.  A mom of a toddler who was curious when certain behaviors in toddlerhood like preferring things in a certain way become a concern Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

In honor of NICU awareness month, I share the stories of two moms who had premature babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. If you missed it, check out episode 87 to hear stories from two other moms who had term babies in the NICU. On this episode, we discuss: Things NICU moms may be unprepared for  How the medical community can better support NICU parents  What others may not realize about having a NICU experience or being a NICU momHow to advocate for yourself and your babyThis episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 6 month old has questions about iron supplementation and starting solids 2.  A mom of identical twins is curious why one twin seems to be getting more sick than the other!   Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To purchase visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  

In honor of NICU awareness month, I welcome two medical professionals who work hard in taking care of our precious babies in the NICU. I welcome Dr. Kate Rubey (@drkater on Instagram) who is a Neonatologist. We discuss: Interventions that are done in the NICUWhat happens on NICU rounds What she wishes every parent would know about the NICUI also welcome Katie Ross (@bloominglittles on Instagram) who is an Occupational Therapist in the Neonatal ICU. We discuss:Five ways parents can support their baby's development in the NICUHow to participate in care in the NICU This episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 21-month old who has questions about thumb sucking and how to navigate/stop the habit 2.  A mom who has a 3 year old and has a question about meal-times. They don't pressure at meals, but their daughter tends to eat all of her safe or preferred food, doesn't touch the non-preferred foods, and asks for seconds of the preferred foods. She's wondering how to navigate this.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join the waitlist: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  or https://pedsdoctalk.com/ 

In honor of NICU awareness month, I share the stories of two moms who had babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Stay tuned in a few weeks to hear stories from two other moms who had premature babies in the NICU. On this episode, we discuss: Things NICU moms may be unprepared for  How the medical community can better support NICU parents  What others may not realize about having a NICU experience or being a NICU momHow to advocate for yourself and your babyThis episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 16-month old who never sleep-trained and is curious if her toddler will sleep on their own. 2.  A mom who is wondering what the common side effects of vaccines are and when to speak to a Pediatrician  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join the waitlist: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  or https://pedsdoctalk.com/ 

On this episode I welcome Michelle, a  teacher going into her 10th year of teaching family consumer science to grades 7-12 in the Midwest. We discuss the following: Things we wish parents would understandThe problem with being a “lawnmower parent”The importance of sleep in school-age kids The importance of communication with children’s teachers about concernsHow being a pediatrician is similar to being a teacher Systemic problems with education and healthcare This episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide. 

On this episode I welcome back certified lactation counselor Melissa of @pump_momma_pump on Instagram to discuss pumping and going back to work. We discuss the following:  Pumping considerations when going back to workTips for success emotionally and physicallyConsiderations for space to pumpHow to best schedule pumpings Common hurdles and how to overcome them Further reading: Break Time for Nursing Mothers under the FLSA (Fair Labor Standards Act) along with Frequently Asked Questions https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/nursing-mothers#:~:text=for%20Nursing%20Mothers-,Break%20Time%20for%20Nursing%20Mothers,Section%207%20of%20the%20FLASH. This episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.  Better HelpThank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.  

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom who has a baby due in December and wanted to ask if it's okay that her toddler son still goes to daycare. 2.  A mom of a toddler who has questions about her child's meat aversion.  Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join the waitlist: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  or https://pedsdoctalk.com/ 

I welcome Alayne, who is a registered dietician and a medical science liaison for Enfamil to talk about formula ingredients, regulations, and how we can support infant cognitive development early on. We discuss: FDA guidelines on what is required in infant formulaAre European formulas “better” than U.S. FormulasWhat ingredients in formula help support baby’s cognitive development and immune health? How can we support an infant’s development overall?Why is cognitive development an important domain of development? This episode is sponsored by Enfamil Neuropro. For more information and to learn if Enfamil Neuropro is a right fit for your baby, visit Enfamil NeuroPro (https://www.enfamil.com/enfamil-neuropro/?utm_medium=paid_influencer&utm_source=q3_neuropro_con_edelman_website_na_draminpodcast&utm_campaign=q3_neuropro)To learn more about milestone anxiety, check out my article at Enfamil.com. https://www.enfamil.com/articles/milestone-anxiety/?utm_medium=paid_influencer&utm_source=q3_neuropro_org_edelman_website_na_draminpodcastdescription&utm_campaign=q3_neuropro

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 10-month old who has questions about homeopathic medicine 2.  A mom of a three-year old who has a questions about sharing. Tune in to hear me answer these questions.If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join the waitlist: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  or https://pedsdoctalk.com/ 

On this episode I welcome certified lactation counselor Melissa of @pump_momma_pump on Instagram and we discuss common misconceptions when it comes to pumping. This episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.  Better HelpThank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.  

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom who has questions about percentile fluctuations in early infancy. 2.  A mom who asks when is helmeting necessary for flat spots on the head (plagiocephaly) Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.This episode is brought to you by THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join the waitlist: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide  or https://pedsdoctalk.com/ 

On this episode I welcome Nicole Hughes (@nicolehughes8 on IG) who documents on her Instagram her life after loss and, in her words, “choosing to survive the impossible.” We discuss the following: What prompted her to become an advocate for drowning preventionCommon misconceptions and assumptions What she thinks the AAP can change in regards to drowning awareness/education What education/tools she thinks parents should equip themselves or their child with Why puddle jumpers are not ideal for drowning prevention What ISR is and why swim lessons are neededAAP updated recommendations https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/143/5/e20190850https://services.aap.org/en/news-room/campaigns-and-toolkits/drowning-prevention/ISR nonprofits https://www.parentspreventingchildhooddrowning.com/non-profitsLevi’s Legacy website (additional information, links, and resources on drowning prevention)https://www.levislegacy.com/This episode is brought to you by:THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.  Better HelpThank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.  

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. Julie, a mom of a 11-month old, who has questions on what to do when her daughter enjoys gagging herself with her hands 2. Jolene, a mom of a 19-month old, who wants to know if there are certain things she should be doing to start the potty training process or "planting the seed' Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide For potty training books, check our favorite books over at www.amazon.com/shop/pedsdoctalk (affiliate link)

On this episode I welcome Dr. Becky Kennedy, PhD, Clinical Psychology of @drbeckyatgoodinside and the Good Inside Podcast. Find her at goodinside.com.  We discuss the following: How to balance raising confident children while making them feel proud of their successes Examples and phrases to use in real life situationsWhat mistakes parents make that can lead to low self-confidence for kids when praising themSo much more! This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year.  To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.  Better HelpThank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.  

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom who wants to learn more about breath-holding spells and what to do when they happen 2. A mom who has questions about poop changes when introducing solids and a discussion on constipation when introducing solids. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you through baby's first year.  To find out more and to join: visit http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide 

On this episode I welcome Thenedra Roots  on Instagram as @raisingtherootsboys. We discuss the following and so much more! Why she started Raising The Roots BoysWhat it means to her raising Black boys in America todayThe obvious differences she sees in the way her children are treated in societyHer biggest concern for her children's futureHow non-black parents can support her and other Black parents in the parenting world  What she thinks we as parents can do to make our children's future more inclusiveThank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month 

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom who wonders why her baby hiccups all the time and if there is anything to be concerned about 2. A mom of a 17-month who isn't walking yet wonders if there's anything she should be doing differently. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

On this episode I welcome Melissa Minney, speech language pathologist, mother and on Instagram as @raisinglittletalkers.  We discuss the following and so much more! What pre-verbal skills are and why they are important How early we can see these skillsHow parents can work to develop these skills Potential pre-verbal development concerns How to connect gestures with teaching languageSo much more!

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a 6-month old who is concerned about advice she received from her Pediatrician to delay introduction of allergenic foods.For more information about early introduction of allergenic videos, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wruQW8X5G0w&t=9s2. A mom of a baby wondering when she needs to use a snot sucker for her infant. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

On today's episode I welcome Dr. Shivani Patel, Board Certified Pediatric Dermatologist. We discuss the following:  When eczema can happen and how it differs in infancy vs childhoodWhy does it happen?When should a child see a dermatologist versus an allergist Eczema and food allergies explained Favorite skincare regimens for eczema Medicines versus steroidsWhat to do about itching Find and follow Dr. Shivani Patel on Instagram, @pedsdermdoc. Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month 

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom of a one year old who wants to know how to encourage more food for her fruit-lover2. A mom of a 13-month old who drinks milk out of a straw cup at her home, but who's ex-husband prefers using a bottle when the child is at his house. Will this cause issues/confusion for the child? Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

On this episode I welcome Child Development Specialist and Parenting Expert Dr. Siggie Cohen. We discuss the following:  When to intervene with biting, hitting or throwing Rhetorical behavior How to provide alternative expression appropriate for the action The science behind why toddlers don't understand abstract concepts or words So much more! Get 15% off Dr. Siggie’s “Everything Toddler” course with the code PEDSDOCTALK. Buy here. Find Dr. Siggie here https://drsiggie.com/  or on Instagram @dr.siggie. Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month 

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom who is unsure if wake windows are really necessary to follow for her 5 month old. 2. A nanny who has a concern about a child she takes care of an is unsure how to bring it up to the parent. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mom is curious about pre-verbal skills such as waving and pointing and how she can encourage these in her child. 2. A mom is unsure how to navigate dropping milk feedings when solids have been introduced  Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

On this episode I welcome Jordan Glicksman Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon in private practice at Newton Wellesley Hospital and Lecturer part time at Harvard Medical School. We discuss the following: The basics of adenoidsWhen they may need to be removedThe purpose of tonsilsObstructive sleep apneaT&A proceduresRecovery timesOther options besides surgery 

On this episode I welcome Jordan Glicksman, Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon in private practice at Newton Wellesley Hospital and Lecturer part time at Harvard Medical School. We discuss the following: Speech, fluid and recurrent ear infections How many ear infections may warrant tubes Hearing tests  Purpose of ear tubes How long they last Tips to prevent ear infections 

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. Jackie, a mom, wants to know if it's okay to intentionally expose our children to germs to "build" their immune system.2. A mom of a 10-month old wants to know how to handle her 10-month old daughter's sudden aversion to water. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

I welcome Donald Rick, the director of Formulation Development at Coppertone.He joins me to talk about sunscreen ingredients, formulations, the regulatory process of sunscreen and so much more. Here are some of the topics we discuss:What are some considerations when formulating sunscreens for babies? What is the regulatory process for sunscreen?Which is preferred? Mineral or chemical sunscreens?Is oxybenzone a concern?What is the benefit of having naturally sourced zinc oxide in sunscreens?What are the differences in spray vs lotion sunscreen?What is our #1 tip when using sunscreen  Tune in to hear a fascinating conversation about sunscreen development.This episode is sponsored by Coppertone. The #1 Pediatrician Recommended Sunscreen BrandIt is the sunscreen we use for our family and #1 Pediatrician recommended sunscreen brands. Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @coppertoneUSA on Instagram if you have any questions or to learn more about Coppertone Pure & Simple and other Coppertone offerings.   

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. When is picky eating MORE than picky eating. I explain when picky eating should be seen by a feeding therapist and the benefits of seeing one. 2. Preparation tips for a 2.5 year old to attend preschool Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco, clinical psychologist and author of Mom Brain: Proven Strategies to Fight the Anxiety, Guilt, and Overwhelming Emotions of Motherhood—and Relax Into Your New Self. We discuss the following: What “mom brain” isWhat happens to our emotions when we become mothersMaternal anxiety Mom comparison and social media Partner relationships once babies enter the picturePurchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Mom-Brain-Strategies-Overwhelming-Motherhood/dp/1462540260 Follow Dr. Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco on Instagram - @drcbtmom and check out her website here: https://drcbtmom.com/.

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. Lisa, a mother of a toddler, calls in about her daughter who loves to throw things. I discuss throwing in toddlers and how to manage it while balancing normal toddler development. 2. A mother who is curious about the difference between baby eczema and a drool rash and basic tips for both. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.

In this episode, we cover: Why this family chose to be in a vaccine trialWhat being in a vaccine trial looks like The checks and balances of the trialsA message from a 6-year-old about the COVID vaccineMore information: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/basics/test-approve.html

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mother who was wondering my thoughts about sending babies to daycare from a young age. 2. A mother who is curious about teething pain in her 11 month old and the best remedies to get through the teething journey. Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.I may feature your question on a future episode. 

On this episode, I welcome Whitney of Plant-Based Juniors. Whitney is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Personal Trainer and parent to a plant-based babe. We discuss:  Pediatric plant-based nutrition The biggest misconceptions when it comes to a plant-based diet The benefits of a plant-based dietBasic tips to help your kid love veggies Plant-based formula/alternative for cow’s milk The Plant-Based Juniors visual guide to meal planning for parents Nutrients to prioritize and supplement on a plant-based diet Nutrients that may be lacking on a plant-based diet Website: https://plantbasedjuniors.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantbasedjuniors/ Freebies: https://plantbasedjuniors.com/plant-based-juniors-supplement-guide/ The Plant Based Baby and Toddler: https://plantbasedjuniors.com/plant-based-baby-and-toddler/ 

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A mother who has a baby with hives related to a virus. She wanted more information about hives in babies. 2. A mother who is curious if it's okay to travel with a baby who is under two months of age. For more info regarding the second question, watch my YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3_YAP0iydM&t=271sTune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.I may feature your question on a future episode. 

On this episode, I welcome Theresa from Montessori in Real Life and we discuss bringing Montessori philosophies into your home. We also discuss: When to start Montessori at home How to incorporate Montessori into your home The benefits of a Montessori education vs. other methods of early childhood educationThe overall Montessori philosophy of education Follow Theresa on Instagram, @montessoriinreallife, or https://www.instagram.com/montessoriinreallife/ and check out her website https://www.montessoriinreallife.com/. 

On this episode, I welcome Ginny Harmelink. She is the Early Childhood Department Department Head and FT faculty at Pima Community College in Arizona. Ginny has extensive knowledge of ECE curriculum. We discuss popular preschool education philosophies, including the six major styles of education: Montessori curriculumWaldorf curriculumTools of the Mind curriculumHighScope curriculumProject Approach curriculumReggio Emilia approach curriculum

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICEOn this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A 16 month old who drinks a bottle only at night. Parents brush the child's teeth afterwards? Do they need to wean him or is it okay to continue?2. A mother of a child wondering about ear infections, ear tubes, and speech delay. When is it time to see a speech therapist? Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.I may feature your question on a future episode. 

On this episode, I welcome Carla Naumburg, author of How to Stop Losing Your Sh*t With your Kids. In addition to being an author, Carla is a clinical social worker and mother of two girls. We discuss the following (and so much more):Why we lose our cool with our kids The importance of self-care and sleep Fight fright flight freak out Screentime Independent playAttunement Common humanity For more information, please visit https://www.carlanaumburg.com/ or follow Carla on Instagram @carlanaumburg. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. A 15 month old who is energetic and outgoing at home and in other social settings, but is more reserved at daycare. His mother wants to know what is developmentally appropriate and when to be concerned? 2. Rachel, a mother of an infant, wants to know more about blocked tear ducts. Why do they happen? What can be done about them? And when do they need to see a specialist? Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.I may feature your question on a future episode. 

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Tim Schrader, the medical director of the Hip Program at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, to discuss Hip Dysplasia. We discuss the following (and so much more):What hip dysplasia is and how common it is The risk factors Why girls might be a higher risk factor than boys  How to properly swaddle Infant carriers Treatment and management optionsFor more information on swaddling, go to https://www.choa.org/swaddling. 

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.1. Can babies get seasonal allergies? And if so, what can we do for them?2. Does teething cause fever? If it doesn't, why does my kiddo seem to get a fever every time they are teething?Tune in to hear me answer these questions. If you have a question you want answered on the podcast, call 954 526 2641 to leave a message.I may feature your question on a future episode. 

I welcome back Jessica Lahey to discuss her New York Times Bestselling Book, "The Gift of Failure: Learning to Let Go so our children can succeed."We discuss the following (and so much more):Why is society so fixated on points and scores rather than the actual process of learning?What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators and why are they important? What is the difference between autonomy and independence?What other options do you have if you don’t bribe, nag, or impose punishment in order to get kids to do what we want them to do?For more about Jessica Lahey and her work, visit https://www.jessicalahey.com/ or follow her on Instagram @teacherlahey 

On this episode, I welcome New York Times Bestselling Author, Dr. Jessica Lahey to talk about her new book--The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependance. We discuss the following (and so much more):What a "culture of dependance means."When we should start speaking to children about substance use (Hint: It's a lot earlier than you may think).What role do genetics and environment play in addiction?Do school-based prevention programs work?What are some protective factors for substance use in children?Make sure to visit her website https://www.jessicalahey.com/ for more and follow us on Instagram at @pedsdoctalk and @teacherlahey

On this  episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions from two parents.Kat, a mother of a 14-month old who is starting to scream  when he doesn't get we wants. And Grace, a mother who was curious how to navigate sending her child to daycare/school with a runny nose/cough/illness in pandemic times. Tune in to hear me help these parents.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this  episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions from two parents.Jen, a mother of a 5-month old who is dropping percentiles on the growth chart and his mother was concerned what was normal in terms of percentile fluctuations. And a mother of a 19 month old, who had questions about stranger danger as they navigate a post-vaccinated pandemic world. Tune in to hear me help these parents.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, I welcome Dr. Jasmine Johnson (@mrsmommymd on Instagram). a Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellow with a focus on women’s health disparities. Her research looks at the disparities that exist for Black women in pregnancy, labor and delivery.Systemic Racism is a reality and healthcare plays a huge part of this.Racism and bias can play a huge roll in the outcomes of Black mothers. In this episode we discuss:1. Why it's important that we discuss systemic racism as it relates to healthcare.2. Research in racism and pregnancy outcomes. 3. Breastfeeding statistics for Black women compared to non-Black women.4. How  systemic racism put Black women, especially Black pregnant women, at a disadvantage. 5. Why systemic racism effects us all.6. What we can do to cause change. Further reading:https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6834a3.htmhttps://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/racial-disparities-persist-for-breastfeeding-moms-heres-whyhttps://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html

On this first episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions from two parents.A 13 month old who started Baby Led Weaning (BLW) at 6 months and was a great eater who is now going through food refusal. And Rachel, a mother of a 4 month old, who had questions about when her child can go into the pool, ocean, and if floaties were recommended. Tune in to hear me help these parents.If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our email listhttps://pedsdoctalk.com/newsletter/

On this episode of "A Mother's Message," I welcome Lori, who was diagnosed with autism as an adult. We discuss what prompted her to get evaluated for autism, what the diagnosis meant for her, how it helped her to have this diagnosis, and a message to all regarding autism. As a reminder, this is the perspective of only one autistic adult. It's important that in honoring neurodiversity, we remember to open up our minds and conversations about neurodiversity and that includes interacting with various neurodiverse adults and children. 

In honor of Autism Acceptance and acceptance of neurodiversity, I invited Dr Tamar Nazarian Chorbadjian, a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician. We discuss the following:The role of a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician in taking care of neurodiverse childrenThe current statistics of autism and why we think we are seeing higher rates nowKnown risk factors How the diagnosis is made Misinformation regarding autism The importance of establishing services early for a child. Tune in to learn about autism and make sure to follow us @pedsdoctalk and @drtamardbp to continue the conversation

On this episode, I welcome Katie. As part of my "A Mother's Message" series, I welcome moms to discuss things they would like to share with their world. This series is meant to inspire and educate moms through the experiences we go through as mother. Our hope is to also spread acceptance of diversity, especially neurodiversity, in honor of Autism Acceptance Month. Tune in as we talk about when her daughter was diagnosed with autism, the process in getting the diagnosis, how she navigated the process, and a message she has for parents of both neurotypical and neuroatypical children. 

On this episode in honor of Autism Acceptance month, I welcome Andi Putt (@mrsspeechiep on Instagram) . She is a pediatric speech language pathologist who conducts Autism evaluations and is a neurodiversity advocate.I welcome her to discuss the following:What is identity-first versus person-first language?Outdated terminology when discussing our autistic communityBiggest misconceptions regarding autismCommon characteristics with a breakdown of questions that your Pediatrician may ask or screen for during well-visitsTune in to learn more and make sure to follow us on Instagram (@pedsdoctalk and @mrsspeechiep) 

A person's breastfeeding journey can be filled with so many emotions.Choosing to wean your baby from breastfeeding can be filled with excitement, sadness, nerves, and/or guilt. Every woman is different in how she feels when this time of her and her child's life transitions and it's important to recognize these spectrum of feelings as normal and valid.On this episode, I welcome back IBCLC Melissa Mancini (@more_than_milk on Instagram).  We discuss how mothers decide the time is best for them to wean, some tips on how to wean, and we discuss the emotional aspects of weaning that are not always talked about.Make sure to follow us at @pedsdoctalk and @more_than_milk for more! Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month 

One of my favorite things about this podcast is meeting and talking to other experts in the field of pediatrics. There is no better expert than a mom. I started this series: "A mother's message" to invite mothers to share their stories. Our stories can help others and I am so excited to welcome @abbyrosegreen in honor of World Down syndrome Day. We discuss her family's journey when they found out their son has Down syndrome, the misconceptions out there regarding Down syndrome, and some of the invisible struggles that others may not realize. Abby's message is so important for the world to hear and I'm so honored she joined me today for this very important epiosde.Abby co-hosts her own podcast, called HERself sharing stories and motivation for every woman.Make sure to follow her on Instagram @abbyrosegreen and subscribe to her podcast to be inspired! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/herself/id1489878793

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. A day to recognize and spread awareness of those with Down syndrome. THIS EPISODE IS PART 1 OF 2 EPISODES: MAKE SURE TO LISTEN TO EPISODE 58: A MOTHER'S MESSAGE-DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS. In honor of this, I welcome Dr. Sajel Lala (@Lalagenetics on Instagram). We discuss Down syndrome statistics, risk factors, how the diagnosis can be made, what is monitored through the child's life, and some misconceptions about those with Down syndrome.Make sure to listen to Episode 58 for more insight and awareness celebrating World Down syndrome Day. 

It is the year anniversary of this pandemic being declared by the WHO. We have seen many lives lost, many families impacted, and are always being required to stay flexible with changing guidance, research, and data.When it comes to kids, many parents have felt like guidance has been lacking. We know kids are not severely affected with complications as much as older adults, but they are at risk of getting this illness. And some risk is still risk.I invited Jessica Malaty Rivera (@jessicamalatyrivera on Instagram), who is an Infectious Disease Epidemiologist,  Science Communication Lead at The COVID Tracking Project, and mother.  We discuss the pandemic as it stands and what it means for our children and some of the following:What does Jessica do as an infectious disease epidemiologist?When do we foresee kids receiving the vaccines?Is there a chance kids won't need the vaccine?Why is it important to test the vaccine in children?Why is a vaccine important for kids even if they are not as affected by severe disease? What has been the hardest part of being on social media and spreading evidence-based information during this pandemic? How to most recent CDC guidelines (From March 8th) regarding vaccinated adults impacts those with children. Tune in and make sure to follow us @jessicamalatyrivera and @pedsdoctalk for more COVID-related education! Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month 

Am I giving my child a well-rounded diet?How much salt and seasonings is okay?What is the deal with marketing for kid's foods and why is it a problem?How can we balance "convenience" foods and healthy foods?These are all common questions I get asked as a Pediatrician and on my Instagram @pedsdoctalk. I welcome Monica Auslander (@eatlikemonica on Instagram). She is a Registered Dietician and founder of Essence Nutrition.We both discuss food-shopping for our families, how to be a more conscious food shopper, and how to remove the guilt surrounding what we feed our kids.Make sure to follow @eatlikemonica and @pedsdoctalk for more! 

As an OB and Pediatrician, a common assumption of us two doctor moms is that we have it all figured out. Not. Always. I welcome my friend Dr. Marta Perez (on Instragram as @dr.martaperez), who is an OB and new mom. We chat about motherhood and everything that got us here today. We share a heart-to-heart about the assumptions that are made of us as physicians and doctor moms. Did we fear pregnancy, labor, or motherhood?Did we experience anxiety in pregnancy or postpartum even with all we know?Do we experience momma guilt?Did we empathize more with our patients after our experiences being pregnant and becoming a mom?Dr. Marta Perez and I break it all down and also educate about the real deal--the truth behind pregnancy, labor, delivery, and motherhood!Make sure to follow us on Instagram (@pedsdoctalk and @dr.martaperez)

As parents, one of our hopes is to allow our children to live a long and healthy life.Part of this, is creating heart healthy habits for our children.I welcome Dr. Renee Rodriguez (Paro), who is a Pediatric Cardiologist and mom, to talk all about how we promote heart healthy habits for our patients and our own families.We discuss the importance of creating heart-healthy habits and offer simple ways to make this a possibility for your family.What are some ways we can create heart-healthy habits?Why is this important?How can we teach our children the importance of this?What are screening tests done in Pediatrics for heart health?What do Pediatric Cardiologists do as a specialty?Tune in as we discuss heart health for our children in honor of American Heart Month Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @drreneeparo on Instagram for more tips! 

Oh toddler sleep!This can be a struggle for many families. Perhaps you had an infant who was a 'great' sleeper and is now going through a regression OR you want to teach your toddler to fall asleep independently for the first time. Toddler sleep issues can be a struggle. I welcome Victoria from Bella Luna Family, who is a  sleep consultant and mother to a toddler. We discuss toddler sleep including regressions. How can we teach our toddler independent sleep skills?What are toddler sleep regressions and why do they happen?What do we do during these regressions?What is the key to success in helping teach our toddler to sleep?What are some various strategies to consider?Tune in as we discuss all of these questions Make sure to visit https://bellalunafamily.com/ for more help with all things parenting (sleep, behavior, and potty training!) Follow @bellalunafamily and @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for more sleep and parenting tips! 

Pandemic+Winter+Kids= can be a tough combination.That's why I invited Elina, who is a Physical Therapist, mom, and lover of all things movement for kids. She comes on the episode to talk all about how we can keep our kids moving indoors during this pandemic winter.She offers practical ways to encourage movement for our children from her experience as a working-from-home mom in a cold-weather climate. How can we make screen time more physically active?What items can we use around the house to create activities?What are some ways to develop motor skills at home?We discuss this and so much more.Make sure to follow @elinadpt and @pedsdoctalk for more content. 

Child safety can be overwhelming.I find a lot of my families struggle with how to make sense of all this information.So, I welcome Holly Choi. She is a mother, CPR/first aid instructor, child burn educator, and child passenger safety technician to speak about 10 things she wishes every parents would know about child safety.How can we prevent burns in the home?What are the biggest safety tips around the home? What are the most common injuries we see as a Pediatrician and safety educator? How do we make sure toys are not choking hazards? What is one thing we want every family to feel comfortable knowing how to do? Make sure to follow her @safebeginnings on Instagram to learn more about infant and child safety! We only hit 10 things here and of course there is so much more to learn. Resources:@safebeginnings free guide on anchoring furniture: https://safebeginnings.ca/anchoring-furniture/ Free babyproofing checklist: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f066b9e65532200269e28dbInformation on @safebeginnings webinars and e-courses: https://safebeginnings.ca/onlinecourses/US Car seat checks: safekids.org/eventsCanadian Car seat checks: cpsac.org/findatechPoison Control in US: (800) 222-1222 Follow me at @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for more 

It is an honor to welcome Emily Oster who is an economist, mother, and author of the New York Times Bestselling book, Cribsheet, to the podcast today.Emily's book Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting, from Birth to Preschool breaks down so many topics and choices parents struggle with in parenthood.From deciding to circumcise, sleep train, to introduce screen time, she breaks it all down with the evidence.I welcome her on this episode to talk about the limitations of breast feeding research.Breast milk is beneficial, but is it really FAR superior to formula feeding?We break down the research and discuss if breast is REALLY best. https://emilyoster.net/https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/572658/cribsheet-by-emily-oster/Make sure to follow @profemilyoster and @pedsdoctalk on Instagram 

What is your parenting style?Have you really thought about what goes into finding your parenting style and WHY finding your unique parenting style is important for you?i welcome Mercedes Samudio, a licensed psychotherapist, parenting coach, and author of Shame Proof Parenting: Find your unique parenting voice, feel empowered, and raise whole, healthy children.I welcome her on the podcast to discuss parenting styles, how a parent can find their unique parenting style, what a parent should consider when establishing this parenting style, and why it's important for a parent to find their unique parenting voice. Listen in as we try to empower parents in their parenting journey through SHAME PROOF PARENTING. For more resources visit:https://shameproofparenting.com/Make sure to follow @Diversityinparentinginc and @pedsdoctalk on Instagram to continue the conversation 

For my final episode of 2020, I want to talk about the year that has felt like five.So many people wanted to "cancel" this year. And although this year was tough in so many ways, it has taught us more about the world and ourselves than we may have realized. It has also taught our children so much as well.Listen in as I celebrate the GOOD this year has brought us. By celebrating the good, I am not undermining the lives loss and those who experience injustice in this world. Let's celebrate this year and what's to come tomorrow, in 2021, and the years to come.Follow @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for more educational and uplifting and honest content! 

How many of you have heard the following myths in regards to your child??"Wait for tummy time!""Put alcohol on an umbilical cord to clean it.""Sleeping on your belly as a newborn is fine!""Give your baby formula or oatmeal to make them sleep longer." "Your baby needs a walker to help them learn how to walk.""Bouncing your baby on your legs will make them bowlegged." "It's okay to give your baby/child aspirin for a fever." "Slapping is a good way to discipline a child." "Every boy should be circumcised." "Wait until one year to give allergenic foods" "Toddlers NEED cows milk and juice and should have milk with every meal"On this episode, I welcome my best friend, fellow Pediatrician and momma Dr. Marie Jones to bust these myths and why these are not true. This is an episode you may want grandma and/or grandpa to hear because I have a feeling you have heard many of these from them. Tune in and make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk for more!  

Do you know what it really means to be a conscious parent?On today's episode I welcome Katherine Sellery, a 3x TEDx speaker, who has taught thousands of parents the Conscious Parenting Revolution  to help them raise resilient, considerate, centered and empowered kids who know their inner voice and honor it.We discuss what it means to be a conscious parent. Being a conscious parent requires us to dive deep into our insecurities as parents, how we approach discipline, and the high expectations we place on our children and ourselves.It's about being more aware of ourselves so we can better parent our children and meet their emotional needs.Listen in as we discuss what it means to be a conscious parent, how we can create boundaries, but still allow our child's inner voice to be head, how to find a balance between praise and acknowledgment, and so much more! Make sure to visit https://www.consciousparentingrevolution.com/ for more resources on becoming a more conscious parent. 

"Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others." -Brene Brown Why is it so hard to set boundaries with our relatives? Why is it important to set these boundaries? On today's episode I welcome Jenny Mehrer. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (On Instagram as @jennywestmehrerlmft) who joins me to talk about boundary setting with our loved ones. We discuss:Why we have difficulty setting boundaries with loved onesWhy lack of boundary setting can cause friction in familiesWhy lack of boundary setting can cause behavioral issues in children First steps in creating boundariesHow we can communicate to our parents who differ in various parenting philosophies How to create boundaries during the holidays and surrounding COVID precautionsTune in for this very important episode. Follow @jennywestmehrerlmft and @pedsdoctalk to continue the conversation! 

A healthy body image is one of the most important things I want to teach our children. How they look at their bodies, how they view food, and how they value themselves more than how they look is so important. The medical community is guilty of causing issues with body image on how we sometimes report weight, percentiles, and BMI. The medical community doesn't take into consideration genetics and various body types when they come up with these "standards of health."On this episode, I welcome back Jessica Gust. She is a mother and Pediatric Dietician (@elementnutrition.kids on Instagram). We discuss when percentiles are helpful, how they should be used, why we both don't love BMIs, how we tie in eating habits to body image, and how we can create a healthy body image for our children.Tune in to learn so much on this very important topic. Remember to follow @pedsdoctalk and @elementnutrition.kids on Instagram to finish the conversation. 

On this episode I welcome Allison, the owner and founder of The Potty Training Consultant (@pottytrainingconsultant on Inatagram), to discuss the basics of potty training. She is a mother of two and her company has helped thousands of families around the world in their potty training journey. We discuss: The average age of potty training in AmericaSigns of readinessA couple methods to considerHow to determine which method may be best for your childWhat a parent should do if their child is resistant to potty trainingWhat are some barriers to potty training Tune is as we talk about potty training basics! Make sure to follow @pottytrainingconsultant and @pedsdoctalk on Instagram to continue the conversation! 

Simply put, we can learn a lot from kids. They are the greatest teachers and I often find that when we are feeling the weight of the world on our shoulders, children can be the ones to make us feel like ourselves again. They are honest, they are full of love, and they are not afraid to be themselves! We can learn a lot more from kids! In this episode, I share 15 ways we can be more like kids. Characteristics I love most about kids that inspire me every day to be a better adult. Tune in and as always follow me @pedsdoctalk on Instagram if you are not already! 

Infant spit up, reflux, and constipation are common. When severe, it can be really overwhelming to a parent. On this episode, I welcome Dr. GI Joe (Dr. Joanna) who is a pediatric Gastroenterologist (@gastrodoc.md on Instagram). We discuss infant reflux and constipation. Why does spit up happen?What is the difference between spit up and reflux?When are medications needed for reflux?When does reflux get better?What are some basic reflux precautions after feedings?What is infant dyschezia?Is all straining constipation?What are some basic remedies for constipation?What are some red flags when it comes to baby poop?Tune in to listen to a great discussion on the infant gut! Make sure to follow @gastrodoc.md and pedsdoctalk to continue the conversation!

It’s 2020. Why is there still a stigma surrounding mental health?! Especially around maternal mental health? Women are celebrated for doing it all.Society tells us we can juggle it all, when in reality it is IMPOSSIBLE to do it all without help.Postpartum is the most critical time in a mother’s life. A baby is born, but so is a mother.We still tend to forget about mom when the baby arrives. How does that make a woman feel?Their body has changed, their hormones are all over place, and they are now responsible for caring for a new human being.We cannot underestimate the weight of this transition in a woman’s life. We cannot diminish the emotional weight postpartum carries and motherhood carries. We cannot tell women to brush their feelings under the rug.We need to be open about postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety so women know the signs and symptoms to look out for.I am so honored to speak to Dr. Pooja Lakshmin (@womensmentalhealthdoc on Instagram. She is a Perinatal Psychiatrist and contributor for the NY Times.We speak about “Mom martyr mode,” Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety, and how to know when you need to talk to someone about your mental health. Our hope is to break the stigma surrounding maternal mental health. Understanding things are not okay take strength. Getting help takes strength. We want to normalize therapy and the medications and diagnosis of postpartum anxiety and depression. Follow us @pedsdoctalk and @womensmentalhealthdoc to continue the conversation.IF YOU WANT SOMEONE TO TALK TO ABOUT HOW YOU'RE FEELING, CALL POSTPARTUM SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL AT 1-800-944-4773Dr. Laksmin is also starting an online community called the Gemma Project, to empower mothers and guide them in their postpartum mental health journey. For more details, visit:https://www.gemmawomen.com/

There is nothing really basic about breastfeeding. Although it is something many women do, it is not easy by any means.Production, finding the right latch, and pain can all be common hurdles in establishing breastfeeding and enjoying the experience. On this episode, I welcome Melissa Mancini (@more_than_milk on Instagram). She is a mother of two, registered nurse, and certified lactation consultant. She answers breastfeeding and pumping questions such as: How can a mother best prepare herself postpartum for BF?What are some must haves for a mother who is choosing to BF?What is the physiology behind BF?Why does cluster feeding happen?What is better? Feeding on demand or feeding on a schedule?When can we introduce a pacifier?What are the biggest hurdles to establishing BF?What can a mother do about pain with BF?Are nipple shields okay?When should we incorporate pumping, especially if a mother is going back to work?How often should a mother pump?What is powerpumping?Tune in to learn more about breastfeeding and pumping basics from Melissa! Follow her at @more_than_milk to learn more about breastfeeding in a supportive and empowering way! 

We are 6 months into the COVID-19 Pandemic and parents around the world are balancing more than they ever have had to.Work, distance-learning, daycare, COVID risk, your own well-being, and the safety of their families. Decision fatigue IS REAL. Parenting is tough, but Parenting in a Pandemic is even tougher. I welcome Dr. Kelly Fradin (@adviceigivemyfriends on Instagram). She is also the author of the new book: Parenting in a Pandemic. We have a Pediatrician to Pediatrician conversation about COVID, flu, and bronchiolitis, when to seek care, how each of them can present, testing, return to daycare and school, and navigating viral season in a pandemic as parents. We hope this episode empowers you to get through this pandemic--and take care of yourselves so you can take care of your little ones. Dr. Fradin also discusses portions of her book, which is available NOW. https://adviceigivemyfriends.com/parenting-in-a-pandemic/Follow @adviceigivemyfriends and @pedsdoctalk to continue the conversation and get more COVID/parenting tips!Thank you to Lark Adventurewear for sponsoring this episode.Visit https://larkadventurewear.com/ to shop.Use promo code Pedsdoc15 at checkout to save 15% off your first order! 

In honor of teething week on my Instagram, I welcome Dr. Erin Isaac, Pediatric Dentist and @dr_erin on Instagram.We have a great discussion about Pediatric Dental Health. We discuss: When should babies see the dentist?What is typically done at these early visits?When should a parent start brushing and flossing and how?Is fluoride okay? What if there is fluoride in drinking water?What are risk factors for developing cavities?What do you do if a tooth falls out?How can a parent prep their child for a dentist visit?How can a parent help the dentist do their job as seamlessly as possible?Tune in to hear the answers to all of these questions and so much more.Follow @dr_erin for more information on your child's dental health and for inspiration as a practice owner. FOR MORE information on all things teething, visit my Instagram @Pedsdoctalk. I will save all useful info to my Story Highlight-Dental Health. Thank you to Lark Adventurewear for sponsoring this episode.Visit https://larkadventurewear.com/ to shop. Use promo code Pedsdoc15 at checkout to save 15% off your first order! 

Kids. They are adorable. Until you give them a red crayon instead of a yellow one and all of a sudden that adorable kid is screaming in your face. Childhood tantrums can be draining. So I invited Deena and Kristin (the masterminds behind the popular Instagram account, @BigLittleFeelings) to discuss all things toddler tantrums.Kristin is a mother of two and Deena is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has studied neurobiology and childhood development. Together, they provide amazing resources for caregivers in navigating those difficult moments with toddlers.Tune in to find out how to be the calm, cool, and collected leader of your house with effective and loving boundary setting. We discuss real-life situations and provide examples on how to navigate them to help your child cope with those Big Little Feelings. Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @biglittlefeelings on Instagram to learn more about childhood wellness. If you want more, check out https://biglittlefeelings.com/ for a link to their popular tantrum course! 

I welcome Dr. Carey Wilson, a Pediatric Neurologist with specialized training in epilepsy to discuss two common concerns in pediatric neurology: Febrile Seizures (fever seizure) and infantile spasms. Dr. Wilson has her own podcast called Child Neuro Chat where she shares educational information on all things Pediatric Neurology. We discuss the bread and butter of both of these conditions. What are febrile seizures?Why are some children prone to them and some are not?Is there a genetic predisposition? What age do you usually see them get better? What is the difference between simple and complex febrile seizures?When should a parent call 911? When should they go to the ER?What should a parent do if they see their child seizing? What workup would be done in the hospital or with a neurologist? What age do children outgrow them?Are antipyretics necessary to give around the clock?What are infantile spasms?What is the prognosis?This episode is for educational purposes and is not medical advice.Follow us on Instagram @pedsdoctalk and @childneurochat

Tune in to hear all of your common questions about asthma and seasonal allergies with Dr. Manisha Relan.  Dr. Relan (@pedsallergymd on Instagram) is an Allergist and Immunologist and mother.   We discuss common misconceptions about asthma and seasonal allergies. How is asthma defined? What are symptoms of asthma?Can a cough be asthma?Does bronchiolitis predispose someone to asthma?Is it genetic?Is there an association with eczema?What are the formal evaluations for asthma?Is there a difference between a nebulizer and inhaler?Are inhaled steroids safe?What are symptoms of season allergies?Can a 6 month old have seasonal allergies?What are the medicines available for seasonal allergiesTune in to learn so much about asthma and seasonal allergies.   Make sure to follow Dr. Relan on Instagram @pedsallergymd 

On this episode, I welcome Alison and Layla. Two of the scientists and mothers behind Scimoms. Scimoms is an evidence-based platform that shares content for parents. From vaccines to food myths to the environment, they provide up-to-date scientific information on your most common concerns as a parent. Visit them at https://scimoms.com/Follow them @scimoms on Instagram Tweet them @scimoms on TwitterWe discuss how to approach evidence-based vaccine information, where NOT to turn to for information on vaccines, why we vaccinate our children, the vaccine schedule, why spacing is not recommended, and bust common myths we hear about vaccines. Listen along for a science-based discussion on vaccines.For more reading about vaccines visit these reputable websites:https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/index.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/index.htmlhttps://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/default.aspxhttps://scimoms.com/tag/vaccine/FOR A LIST OF PEER-REVIEWED VACCINE SAFETY RESEARCH https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Vaccine-Studies-Examine-the-Evidence.aspx

In honor of National Immunization Awareness Month, I welcome Dr. Nicole Baldwin. She is a fellow general Pediatrician and mother and we have a heart to heart about vaccines. The myths we hear, how we approach vaccine hesitancy, the reason we vaccinate ourselves, our children, and why we promote vaccination for our patients.Tune in to get the REAL DEAL on vaccines from two mothers and two Pediatricians who want the best for all children. This episode is part one of two episodes about vaccines. On episode 32, I break down the science of vaccines with Scimoms as we bust myths surrounding vaccines even further. Make sure to follow @dr.nicolebaldwin on Instagram@drnicolebaldwin on Tik Tok@NicoleB_MD on Twitterand @DrNicoleBaldwin on Facebook

Choosing an infant formula can be extremely confusing. There are so many to choose from that a new parent can be left confused in the middle of the aisle when deciding on which one is best. I welcome Dr. Bridget Young, who has a PhD in nutrition and studies the composition of breastmilk and formula. She has an amazing website and Instagram account to educate parents on informed formula decisions.Parents are often confused about the ingredients in infant formulas, so I welcome Dr. Young to speak about these misconceptions. We discuss some of the most common questions I get asked about formulas:Is the regulation process in the US thorough for infant formulas?Are European formulas better?What are the protein sources in formula? Why does it matter? Why do formulas have corn syrup? Is it okay for baby? What about prebiotics and probiotics in formula? Beneficial?What are signs a baby may not be tolerating a formula? When would a baby need soy formula?What are partially hydrolyzed formulas? What are examples of extensively hydrolyzed formulas? How can a parent approach reading a formula label?What are some good formulas to start with? Are there any "bad" formulas?Are organic formulas better? Does powder versus ready-to-made matter? Tune in as we hash out these questions. Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @babyformulaexpert to continue the conversation.Dr. Young's team also has a formula educational course for parents and medical professionals! Visit her website for more info:https://babyformulaexpert.com/USE PROMO CODE PEDSDOCTALK10 for $10 off the course 

Dogs are a part of many families and it's important we remember their needs as we raise our children alongside of them.On this episode, I welcome Michelle. She is a mother, certified professional dog trainer, and founder of Pooch Parenting. She helps families navigate many issues to create a healthy relationship between dogs and kids. Here are some of the questions we discuss: What can families do to prepare their dog for the arrival of a new baby?What are some of the biggest mistakes new parents make when acclimating their dog to a new baby?What are some worrisome signs in a dog that they may not be acclimating well to the arrival of a new baby?Is licking a baby okay?How can we teach a child to gently interact with dog?Where do we start with dog barking?How can I best prevent dog bites? Make sure to follow Michelle @poochparenting on Instagram for more dog training tips. She also has courses and an online membership community called Thriving Parents Membership where you can get more support for your doggie and child behavior needs. https://poochparenting.net/Follow me @pedsdoctalk for more!

Being a new parent is an amazing experience.One filled with a lot of joy, some worry, and a whole lot of questions.On this episode, I'm happy to welcome one of my followers from my Instagram @pedsdoctalk. She was 33 weeks pregnant with her first child at the time of the recording and she had a list of questions in regards of what to expect as a new parent. How do we find a Pediatrician? How long does baby stay in the hospital?Who examines baby in the hospital?What tests are done in the hospital?What about circumcisions?How to care for the umbilical cord postpartum?What about breastfeeding tips?What about formula?Can we introduce pacifiers?What about screen-time?We also spend the last portion of the episode discussing COVID, so if you are listening to this episode AFTER the COVID-19 pandemic, you can just stop it before that portion.If you haven't already, listen to episodes 4 and 6 of the podcast which can be helpful to new parents as well. As always, make sure to follow me @pedsdoctalk to continue the conversation. 

I welcome Labor and Delivery Nurse and Instagram phenom, @mommy.labornurse to discuss your common questions about labor, delivery, and postpartum.Liesel is also 36 weeks pregnant with her second child at the time of the recording. We discuss how she is approaching her delivery this time around, what she's looking forward to, how she's staying safe being pregnant in a pandemic, what we both wish we had known prior to delivering, and your common questions submitted on my Instagram @pedsdoctalk!How best can I advocate for myself during labor, especially during a pandemic? (Ill chime in about COVID precautions)What are some C-section must-haves?What are some vaginal delivery postpartum must-haves?How can I maximize BF success postpartum?How to care for stitches postpartum?Listen is as we have a fun discussion about the joys of pregnancy, delivery, and motherhood! Follow us @pedsdoctalk and @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to continue the conversation!

If you know me already, you know how much I love children. Not only are they cute, but they are extremely intelligent.On this episode I review the Documentary Series on Netflix: "Babies." This is a docuseries showing infant and child developmental researchers from around the world as they explain just how awesome babies are. They follow 15 families through their journey to show us how babies think, act, and move. I discuss the key studies they present, add my own feelings on how it applies to my knowledge of babies, and share what studies I wish they would talk more about next season. Infant and childhood development is fascinating and babies are fascinating too!Here are some of the amazing questions that I will answer with the help of this documentary:Are mothers the only ones who bond strongly with their infant? What about fathers? Or situations where it's a same-sex couple? How important is the gut microbiome?Is crawling an innate ability?How do babies learn words?What effect does sleep have on development?Do walking babies learn words differently than crawling babies?Do babies prefer familiar faces?Do newborns understand their movements have purpose?Are babies inclined to certain foods based on what their mother drank during pregnancy?How important is joint attention?How do nature and nurture impact who we are?Are toddlers innate helpers? Make sure to follow me at @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for more about infant and child development 

I welcome Erin--a chemical engineer and food scientist and she helps me bust some myths about food science.She has an amazing Instagram account @foodsciencebabe where she shares evidence-based explanations of myths regarding food. Tune in as we discuss the following:Is corn syrup bad?Is baby rice cereal going to give my child arsenic poisoning?Are there really heavy metals in baby food? Is it a problem?Why do Cheerios get a bad rap?Is organic food better? Is it better for the environment/What is GMO? Is non-GMO really better? Is food coloring bad?Is the EWG a science-based organization?How is food regulated in the US?Supplemental Reading:https://scimoms.com/social-consequences-gmo-debate/https://scimoms.com/history-of-healthy-food-and-mom-shaming/https://scimoms.com/arsenic-in-rice/https://scimoms.com/intro-to-gmos/https://scimoms.com/high-price-food-labels/https://www.safefruitsandveggies.com/https://www.acsh.org/news/2019/10/22/95-baby-food-tainted-toxic-metals-dont-panic-14354https://www.agdaily.com/insights/ewgs-tone-deaf-decision-to-publish-dirty-dozen-despite-global-pandemic/https://www.parents.com/recipes/scoop-on-food/is-there-sugar-in-baby-formula/Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @foodsciencebabe on Instagram. 

It's always hard to know where to start those conversations about difficult topics with your children. We often feel they may be too young or too innocent to have these conversations, but the reality is they are curious and curious minds deserve open conversation.On this episode, I welcome Jelani Memory. He is an author, father, and owner of A Kids Book About. A publishing company geared towards having those difficult conversations with your children.Some of the topics of their books include: Racism, Disabilities, Empathy, Bullying, Depression, Divorce, Body Image, Cancer, Anxiety, Feminism, Mindfulness, and so many more. The books are geared towards school aged children 5+.Here's their website for more info! https://akidsbookabout.com/Promo code: Pedsdoctalk through end of August for $5 off On this episode, Jelani and I speak about how parents can begin the conversation around difficult topics, some of the barriers he sees when starting these conversations, and we discuss the importance of having these conversations with our children.Make sure to follow us @pedsdoctalk @akidsbookabout to continue the conversation 

As a Pediatrician, I meet so many mothers in my office. Some of them seem to have it all together. They seem to be enjoying motherhood. Mothers who have figured out how to find joy even in the hardest of circumstances.Others would come in and I could feel that they could use some more joy. They seem unhappy and stressed every single visit. I wish I could sit there and talk with THEM about motherhood, but in a Pediatric office time was already limited for the patient, let alone for me to dig more into how the mom was feeling.In my dream practice, I would get hours with every visit to really get to know the baby and the mother. What do they feel is lacking? What makes them wake up content and ready to start another day of mothering? What would make them happier as a mom? What have they learned to let go of to live a more fulfilled life as a mother?Mothering is hard work. I don’t think any woman on this planet has it all figured out. Even me--someone who uses this platform to give parenting and health advice—is not perfect and learns a lot every day about being a mother. But, what I have found are traits that bring me joy as a mom. Traits that bring those content mothers in my office joy as well.Overall, I find that the mothers who are happiest are the ones that love themselves. They know what they need to work on it and are constantly emotionally growing alongside their child. There are many things we do as women and as mothers than can block our happiness. Tune in as I talk about 15 behaviors that we do as women/mothers that can rob us of our joy.I lay down some tough love so we can become better versions of ourselves so we can find joy in the craziness that is motherhood.Just as our children go through milestones and growth, we also grow through motherhood as well.Follow @pedsdoctalk on Instagram to continue to conversation

I welcome back Dr. Shreya Patel, an Allergist and Immunologist. We spoke on episode 7 about Eczema 101 and she's back to talk all about FOOD ALLERGIES and FPIES. Parents are afraid of their child having a food allergy, but it is this fear that can cause them to delay the introduction of allergenic of foods which can increase chances of a food allergy.What are the most common allergenic foods?Can children outgrow food allergies?When can you introduce allergenic foods?What's the deal on allergenic food programs like Spoonful One, Ready Set Food, and Lil' Mixins?What is FPIES? And what are the signs? Listen in as we answer these questions and so much more! Follow us on Instagram @pedsdoctalk and @shreyapatelmd to continue the conversation. 

I welcome Pediatric Dietician Caroline Weeks to discuss Introduction of Solids!Caroline has an amazing Instagram account @theclinicdietician where she shares educational information regarding nutrition and introducing solids. She has a Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) academy as well.We discuss introduction of solids in both the traditional method (purees) and BLW. Both methods can lead to healthy eating habits as long as you always listen to baby's hunger and fullness cues. What are signs of readiness?What are some good foods to start with?When can you introduce spices?When can you introduce proteins?What exactly is BLW?How do you make BLW as safe as possible?Can a family do a mix of purees and BLW?Tune in as we talk all about my personal favorite thing to do--eating. Make sure you also listen to Episode 5: Raising an Intuitive Eater which is an important listen when introducing solids and approaching eating in general. Follow @pedsdoctalk and @theclinicdietician on Instagram to continue the conversation! 

On this last episode of my sleep series, I talk with six mothers. Six mothers who approached sleep in different ways with their children. I decided to do this episode for a few reasons:1. To hear from real mothers about how they approached sleep-training for their child2. To hear different methods3. To hear how although the methods were different, they are loving mothers who are raising amazing children.It really shouldn't matter how or when a parent chooses to sleep-train their child. Some do it early, some never do it, some wean feeds, some don't, some use cry-method and some prefer more gradual. All methods discussed are great methods I have seen work and it's important for me to share these women's strategies with all of you! If you haven't already, make sure to listen to episode 17,18 and 19 of the sleep series where I share more about why I recommend sleep-training, various methods, and an interview with a sleep consultant! 

As part of my sleep series of podcast episodes, I wanted to welcome a sleep consultant. Sleep consultants are relatively new in the world of parenting. Over the past 10 years, they continue to gain in popularity. In Episode 18, I discuss my personal views on sleep consultants and if every family needs one to have a successfully sleeping child.I am so happy to welcome Andrea, a sleep consultant (@babysleep.answers on Instagram). We have a great conversation about infant/child sleep.We talk about sleep training (and sleep in general) including her thoughts on various methods and considerations when a family is deciding how to aid their child is self-settling. She also tackles common questions I get asked in regards to transitioning baby from a bassinet to a crib, naps, early wakings, and information on cry-methods of sleep training and methods with less crying. Tune in and make sure to also listen to episode 16, 17, and 18 as all episodes are jam-packed with useful info that pertains to sleep and sleep-training.Follow us at @pedsdoctalk and @babysleep.answers to continue the conversation! 

No. It's never too late. You can choose when you feel is best for you!On this episode, I expand on episode 17 where I speak about various methods of sleep-training.This episode speaks about OLDER kids (kids that may be coming out of the bed and are developmentally capable of understanding some rules). Likely the 2+ crowd. I speak about strategies to approach sleep with these kiddos and I also speak about common questions I get asked about sleep:NapsSwaddlesSleep-training in the same roomSleep regressionsTravelTeething/illnessEarly risersDream feeding Twins And I end with a final important message I want every parent to hear 

This is Episode 2 of a 5 part sleep/sleep-training series). On this episode Im discussing my views on sleep and sleep-training. I discuss how as a generation we are overthinking sleep in general compared to our parent's generation and thus sometimes lose sleep over it.I discuss why I support sleep-training and the benefits it can provide for both the child and the parent. I also discuss various methods to help a child learn self-settling skills. You will hear methods that involve cry-methods and some that involve more gradual methods with less crying. I am aware that this episode doesn't nearly encompass ALL choices someone may make when sleep-training their child, but I just chose my favorite methods.This episode is for education. It's for everyone to hear all the methods I have seen work and for a family to choose what is best for them and their family. I also spend some time at the end discussing how we approached sleep-training with our son. A method that worked for us and one that I am sharing as many of my followers were curious.I hope as you listen to this episode, you listen with an open mind and an open heart. Understand and digest the various methods to find one (or a combo of some) that works for your family! 

The world of parenting is very divided. Especially when it comes to sleep-training. There is a whole lot of judgement, when in the end a parent needs to choose what is best for them.The reason why sleep-training is so confusing is that there truly is no right or wrong, contrary to what you may be told on social media. You can choose to sleep train or not. You can choose a cry-it-out method or not.Every baby is different and may require a unique method. Every parent is different and they may be comfortable with one method or another.The choice is truly up to the parent.You can raise securely attached children in whatever method you choose.On this episode, I welcome Dr. Brie Reid. She has a PhD in Developmental Psychology and studies stress and malnutrition in early childhood development.We have a fascinating discussion about early childhood stress and cortisol research in children.Research that has unfortunately been taken and misconstrued to say that infants/children should never cry in order for them to have secure attachment.Research that has been misconstrued to say that any stress a child feels in infancy and childhood is not good for them, when in fact not all stress is detrimental.Listen in as we discuss the impact this misconception can have on parenting including on maternal mental health, what exactly is considered toxic stress in childhood, and the importance in understanding that secure attachment can be obtained in many different parenting styles. This episode is an important segway for the other sleep episodes as I discuss MANY methods of sleep training, including ones that involve more crying than others.This episode is not encouraging everyone to choose a cry-method of sleep-training because cry-methods don't work for every child and every parent. This is just to reassure those that do choose one that based on the evidence and our experience, there is no issue with choosing a cry-method of sleep training. We all need to stop judging one-another for these choices.Parenting is NOT a one-size-fits-all approachFurther reading:https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/toxic-stress/ https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/130/4/643https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2016/05/21/peds.2015-1486

"Make Your Mess Your Message."Birth trauma is an experience no woman expects. It leads to overwhelming grief at a time when mothers are experiencing overwhelming joy. Six months later, I want to share more about my birth trauma. How I felt, what I learned, and how I will be forever changed as a Pediatrician, mom, and person. Our son was born on December 16th after a healthy pregnancy. We both spent time in the ICU with complications from birth.If you haven't already, please head over to my Instagram @pedsdoctalk and read my birth story (Black and White Images) on my feed. I am making MY MESS MY MESSAGE by sharing with you what I wish people would know about birth trauma survivors. I hope to use my recovery through a traumatic experience to help you heal if you are also suffering from any kind of trauma. My hope is that if you have experienced trauma, this episode will resonate with you. If you know someone who is going through trauma, this may give you insight as well. And if you ever find yourself grieving in the future, I hope my words will always live with you. As always, head over to @pedsdoctalk on Instagram to follow me for more!

As we process the tragic death of George Floyd on May 25th, 2020, it's important we take the events that transpired and make a positive effort for long-lasting change.I'm happy to welcome Dr. Tasha Brown, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. We talk about racial injustice in America and how to speak to children about what they may be seeing in the media. Where do you start in addressing these issues?Should you turn off the media?Why is understanding media bias important especially in racial issues?How can we make meaningful change for racial equality?Why does representation matter so much to minority communities? How can you foster activism in your child for the BLM movement or any social justice movement?What are the long-term impacts of oppression and racism on a child?Dr. Tasha Brown and I share our thoughts on these questions. As a Black-American professional, it was great hearing how she is navigating this time on a personal and professional level.  Meaningful change means putting the work in and we hope this can be a starting point for you.Please follow us @pedsdoctalk and @dr.tashabrown on Instagram to continue the conversation 

On this episode, I welcome Brooke and Bridget. They are sisters and speech therapists in Southern California, who own their own practice. They also have a great Instagram account (@speechsisters) where they share day-to-day tips for parents to engage their child in speech. We discuss:1. What parents can due in the "wait and see" period as development is being monitored.2. Tips on engaging speech under the age of one and between one and two years of age.3. What a typical speech therapy session looks like.4. When a child should be referred to a speech therapist. Listen is as we talk all about...talking! Follow us at @pedsdoctalk and @speechsisters to continue the conversation 

Summer is approaching here in the U.S. and although COVID is on our minds, we can't forget how to keep our kids safe in the summer (social-distancing) fun! It's also Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May and I want to share how to keep our kids' skin safe in the summer months. Melanoma risk begins in childhood and adolescence and repetitive skin burns in childhood can increase the risk of melanoma later on in life. On this episode I talk about sun safety, heat safety, drowning safety, and bug bite safety. I go over some of my favorite products for sun protection and bug-bite protection and discuss ways to keep your family safe during the summer months.This episode does not go into detail about COVID precautions as things are slowly opening up in some parts of the country. I don't have enough information to make recommendations just yet, BUT will do so here or on my Instagram @pedsdoctalk when I do. As a reference, here are my favorite products as mentioned in the episodes. If you head over to my highlight "SAFETY" on my Instagram account @pedsdoctalk,  I discuss more of these and other tips. Here are some of my favorite sunblocks for babies/kids. More in the episode on how to apply and how young! Neutrogena Pure and Free Baby SPF 50Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Baby SPF 30+Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (good for eczema) California baby super sensitive SPF 30 Here are some Insect Repellants:DEET: is a safe product used to repel insects. It can be used in babies over 2 months. For children under 12, use bug spray with a DEET less than 30%Considered the best repellant. It is the #1 recommended insect repellant for kids and adults and is safe.Under 2 months, no DEET.2 months- 2 years: one application a day with DEET <10%Over 2 years, DEET 10-30% with no more than 3 applications a day10% DEET provides protection for about 2-3 hours and 30% protects for about 6-8 hours. Read the packages for frequency of application instructions. Do not use more than recommended! Some examples/faves:Cutter’s-7% DEET (What we use for our son)OFF!-25% DEETBen’s-30% DEETPICARIDIN: approved in the US in 2005, Picaridin is an alternative to DEET and may work as well as DEET. It’s also odorless compared to DEET products. Currently, it’s though that Picaridin has a duration of action similar to 10% DEET.Some examples/faves:SAWYER-Picaridin 20%NATRAPEL- Picaridin 20%Can be used 6 months+ ALWAYS FOLLOW PACKAGING FOR AGE/HOW TO USE/HOW FREQUENTESSENTIAL OILS such as citronella, cedar, eucalyptus, and soybean. Likely more short term protection than DEET (less than two hours of protection). In terms of benefits, picaridin and/or DEET provides more protection. Here is the AAP rec about sunscreen under 6 months (as mentioned in the recording):https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Sun-Safety-and-Protection.aspxFollow me @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for more! 

On this episode, I welcome back Dr. Hina Talib, an Adolescent Medicine Physician. We both fell in love with the Netflix Series "Never Have I Ever."As two ethnic women (and Pediatricians with kids of our own) we immediately connected with all the themes brought up in the show. The show is funny, respectful, and honest in the way it depicts common issues teenagers go through in this day and age. We are playing Never Have I Ever and tackling the main themes in the episode. We talk about our own personal experiences in High School in regards to the themes in the show and Dr. Talib digs deeps into the issues she sees as an Adolescent Medicine Physician. We discuss issues like body image and mental health. Tune in to hear why we love this series so much, why we think shows like this are important, learn more about us, AND learn more about teenagers. We can't wait for season 2 so we can do this again!Follow us @pedsdoctalk @teenhealthdoc on Instagram to continue the conversation.

In my practice, I feel that I am seeing anxiety more and more in the teenage years and early childhood. Mental Health is important to me and I have always felt we need to go "downstream" into childhood to establish healthy coping skills.We cannot ignore pervasive signs that our young children may have anxiety so we can intervene and teach them healthy coping skills and give them the support they need. On Episode 8, I discussed Meditation in Kids and on today's episode I discuss The Anxious Child.I speak with Reena B. Patel who is a Psychologist, Author, Mother, and Parenting Expert with over 20 years of experience. She has a wealth of experience working with patients with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and so much more. She wrote a book called, Winnie and Her Worries, which is geared towards managing anxiety in children aged 3-10.On this episode we speak about her book, Winnie and Her Worries, how to recognize signs of anxiety in a child, why anxiety may seem more prevalent now, how to talk to children about the COVID-19 pandemic, some basic tips to manage in parenting an anxious child, and when to seek care from a Pediatrician or Mental Health Professional.During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Reena is offering a month FREE of her virtual counseling session packages! Check out her website and Instagram for more details:https://reenabpatel.com/Instagram: @reenabpatel

If you listen to only one educational episode on The Pedsdoctalk Podcast, I hope this one is it. On this episode I go over the Top 10 Reasons Children come to the office for a sick visit. I go over these issues and explain when to be concerned to speak to your child's clinician. I was inspired to do this episode because I found that parents were often coming in for symptoms that could be managed at home. I understand that this can be a combination of rightful parental worry and possibly not being told when they should be concerned. I believe that through the information I present in this episode, you can feel more confident in when you should have your child evaluated. When your child is not feeling well, it causes a level of worry I am very familiar with as a mother. As you go through the topics remember these disclaimers:1. This is for education. I will not provide medical advice or provide a diagnosis. 2. If your child has any underlying medical issues, please confirm any educational content presented in this episode also applies to them.3. If you are concerned about your child, SEEK CARE, Nobody will ever fault you for bringing in your child to be evaluated even if it is only to provide you peace of mind. As you listen to the topics, remember Dr. Mona's Pedsdoctalk Cardinal Rules for a sick child:1. Are they hydrated?2. Are they breathing comfortably?3. Are they interactive with you/are they consolable4. Do they have a persistent feverListen in as I explain these rules and the following 10 Topics:HeadachesAbdominal PainPink eyeVomiting/diarrheaRashesEar painSore ThroatDifficulty BreathingCongestion/coughFever For the pink eye discussion, I talk about pink eye being overtreated. Here's a link to more information about pink eye and return to daycare.https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/healthy-child-care/Documents/M3_Pinkeye.pdfFollow me at @pedsdoctalk on Instagram, if you are not already for more educational tips and parenting inspiration. 

Mindfulness and Meditation is something near and dear to me. Not only do I incorporate this into my life, but I preach the importance of living a mindful life to parents and children. As we are deep into the COVID-19 Pandemic, it becomes more apparent how important mindfulness is. Not only to navigate big events like pandemics, but also the day-to-day events that can rob us of peace and joy. On this episode, I speak with Tejal Patel (@tejalvpatel).She is a divorce attorney turned certified mindfulness, meditation, and Ayurveda advocate for moms and kids. She is the host of the Time-In Talks Podcast and has a great course called #kidscanmeditate.She just released a NEW BOOK which I am in love with called Meditation for Kids- 40 Activities to Manage Emotions, Ease Anxiety, and Stay Focused.And let me tell you, it’s so fun and vibrant that even ADULTS will want to learn to meditate with this book.We talk all about her journey, her book, and why we both feel mindfulness is important for parents and children.We truly believe that raising mindful children can make the world a better place. Here is a link to her must-have bookhttps://tejalvpatel.com/meditationforkidsbook/

Get ready to get the basis info on eczema! What it is, why it happens, and ways to manage it.As a general Pediatrician, I see TONS of eczema. Some mild, some moderate, some very severe. I always manage it the best we can in our office before sending patients to a specialist.But how do you know when you need to see an allergist for eczema?On this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. Shreya Patel (@shreyapatelmd).She is a mom and Allergist/Immunologist who owns her own private practice.We chat all about Eczema 101:What does eczema looks like?Are some children predisposed to eczema?Are there preventable measures? When should a child see an allergist for their eczema?What would workup entail at the allergist?What are some basic skincare tips for eczema?Eczema is THE most common chronic skin condition I see in my office and it was such a pleasure discussing this topic with Dr. Patel.Please make sure to follow us @pedsdoctalk and @shreyapatelmd on INSTAGRAM o continue the discussion! 

I personally don't like the word  "colic" when talking about a newborn. Babies fuss and some fuss more than others. A fussy baby can be extremely difficult to take care of as sometimes it may seem nothing can soothe them.   In this episode, I discuss:The definition of colic and why I don't like labeling a fussy baby as "colicky."Infant gas. Why it happens and how to help babies.Tips to soothe a fussy babyWhen to be concerned about a baby who is inconsolableThe psychological impact of taking care of a fussy infant and the correlation I see between postpartum depression/anxiety and colic.Some tips to help you through those tough moments. I have been there too and I hope through sharing some of my experiences with our own son, you will find some guidance in finding a plan that works for your baby.Please make sure if you are exhibiting signs of postpartum depression/anxiety, you seek medical attention. It's important for mommas to take care of themselves. https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/postpartum-depressionMAKE SURE TO FOLLOW ME @PEDSDOCTALK ON INSTAGRAM 

I talk to Pediatric Dietitian, Jessica Gust, about ways to raise an intuitive eater.Jessica has an amazing Instagram account (@elementnutrition.kids) where she shares tips on nutrition, picky eating, and any common concern you would have in regards to feeding your child. She also has resources on her website including how to introduce solids and easy meal ideas for kids using pantry/frozen foods (timely for the COVID-19 Pandemic).https://www.elementnutritionco.com/resources/Jessica and I chat about ways to raise an intuitive eater and what it means to be an intuitive eater. Allowing your child to have a positive relationship with food is important and we hope this episode can lay a healthy foundation for feeding your child. Make sure to follow us on Instagram @pedsdoctalk and @elementnutrition.kids

Having a new baby is tough, but I hope this episode makes it a little bit easier. Our son is now three months old and I want to share some of the tricks of the trade (from my personal and professional experience) to get you through the whirlwind that is---THE FOURTH TRIMESTER. To all my mommas currently pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, I sincerely hope this episode will help ease your mind and make you feel better about that transition into the fourth trimester. Being a new mom is already hard and this pandemic truly does add another layer. I discuss:Getting to know your baby's temperament Understanding sleepy, feeding, and ready-to-play cuesWays to engage with your baby from a developmental standpointBaby careSafetyVisitorsStrategies to set a foundation for self-soothing and sleepWhen to seek medical attention As a disclaimer, this is medical education and all concerns should be discussed with your child's healthcare clinician. Your Pediatrician will likely also discuss other reasons to follow up depending on your child's medical history and exam. 

When your child is sick, it's never easy. What's harder is determining if that issue warrants an ER visit or a visit to your Pediatrician.On this episode, Dr. Ruchika Jones (@pedsdcoc_md on Instagram) and I discuss common reasons we see parents in the ER.Topics include:1. Difficulty breathing2. Allergic reactions3. Broken Bones4. Deep wound/lacerations5. Burns6. Vomiting/diarrhea7. Head injuries8. Skin and soft tissue infections (abscesses)9. FeverThe most important thing is remembering that nobody will EVER fault your for bringing your child in to be evaluated. As always, this content is for medical education and does not encompass every reason a child can be seen in the ER. 

I am a Pediatrician and momma on a mission to educate and inspire modern parents. In this episode, find out what motivated me to start Pedsdoctalk on Instagram and ultimately expand to this podcast. 

Through the years, I have taken care of many different types of families. Through this, I have seen the actions that parents do that have both positive and negative impacts on children. Listen in as I talk about behavior modifications we can make as parents that can impact the emotional and social development of our children. Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for more.