Healthy Children
241 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 20 ratingsProduced in conjunction with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and their consumer site, HealthyChildren.org, Healthy Children is hosted by our favorite Mom: Melanie Cole, MS. Join Melanie as she interviews expert pediatricians and discusses all aspects of your children’s health and well-being. From infants to teens, potty training to bullying, to prom safety – this is your ultimate audio parenting guide available On Demand 24/7!
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Episodes
Helping Children Struggling With Virtual Learning
December 22, 2020 06:00 - 23.3 MBWe've had months to learn it, but virtual learning just doesn't seem to get any easier - for parents of the kids! We're all homeschoolers at this point, and it's driving some of us a little mad. Dr. Arthur Lavin has been in pediatric practice for more than 25 years. He has served on several national committees of the AAP, as president of the Northern Ohio Pediatrics Society, and continues his work in Cleveland, Ohio. He is back on the show to talk about maintaining those old school day ro...
Staying In Touch With Grandparents During COVID
December 15, 2020 06:00 - 17.3 MBOne of the hardest parts of this pandemic is not being able to see or hug our older loved ones. Whether it's parents or grandparents, we have to be extra careful to not get these people in our lives sick, and staying away is really the easiest way to do that, even when it hurts. Dr. Arthur Lavin has been in pediatric practice for more than 25 years. He has served on several national committees of the AAP, as president of the Northern Ohio Pediatrics Society, and continues his work in Clevel...
Planning Winter Breaks and the Holidays During COVID
December 08, 2020 06:00 - 21.3 MBThe number of children who have tested positive for COVID-19 is expected to surpass 1,000,000 very soon. Which is scary for parents especially as we plan for school breaks and winter holidays. Dr. Alison Tothy joins us today for this conversation, she is a pediatric emergency medicine physician and a spokesperson for the AAP. We'll hear about how to handle kids coming home from college, if and how you should gather for holidays, how to keep kids occupied through lockdowns and school breaks,...
COVID-19 And The Holiday Season
December 01, 2020 06:00 - 29.2 MBGetting through the holidays during COVID 19 is going to be difficult. With kids of any age, there will be a lot of saying no and changing plans and traditions. Here to help us with this challenge is Dr. Arwa K. Nasir. She is a pediatrician in Omaha and is an Associate Professor, Division of General Pediatrics at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. She walks us through some tips for keeping kids resilient during the holidays, including maintaining routines, continuing to get exercis...
Screening for Bullying, and How To Prevent It
November 24, 2020 06:00 - 25.7 MBOne of the worries all parents have is that their kids might get bullied at school, on the sports field, or now even online. Bullying is an even bigger problem now as it takes on many forms and can happen really all the time on social media. Today we're talking to who works in Pediatric Emergency at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and has noticed a significant impact in bullying on her pediatric population there with manifestations including both medical and mental health ...
Children, Reading and The Pandemic
November 03, 2020 06:00 - 17.7 MBTeaching our kids to enjoy reading can be difficult, but while we're spending more time at home with our families, now might be the perfect time to try and instill a passion for reading in our young ones. Joining us to talk about reading is Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, he is a pediatrician and spokesperson for AAP, as well as an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. He talks about sharing that love of reading with our children and our...
Digital Advertising and AAP’s Call For Regulations
October 27, 2020 05:00 - 24.3 MBWe have never been more dependent on technology than during this pandemic. Between video calls for fun, for work, and many kids going to school virtually, we are on the internet and on screens almost all of the time. As kids become more adapt to technology, the AAP is calling for more regulation when it comes to digital advertising and our children. Dr. Yolanda "Linda" Reid Chassiakos is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, and the Di...
What Will Happen To Halloween During COVID?
October 20, 2020 05:00 - 20.4 MBHalloween is just a week away now, have you finalized your plans for this year? Halloween 2020 will be one to remember with the COVID-19 still raging on. So how will Halloween change this year, is trick or treating safe? Can we still have costume parties? What should you do if you are hitting the streets Halloween night? We are joined once again today by Dr. Shelly Vaziri Flais - she is a practicing pediatrician, mom of 4, AAP author, and Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Northwe...
Colleges & Universities In The Time of COVID
October 20, 2020 05:00 - 27 MBToday's episode is a bit personal for our host Melanie, as she kept her son home this semester instead of sending him back to college. He is miserable, but she thinks she made the best decision! Well, we're going to talk all about colleges in the time of COVID with Dr. Yolanda “Linda” Reid Chassiakos, the Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, and the Director and Medical Chief of Staff at the Klotz Student Health Center, at California State...
Digital Media and Virtual Schooling
October 13, 2020 05:00 - 18.3 MBIt is an especially difficult time to be a parent, with all of the different forms of schooling going on during the pandemic. Whether you're homeschooling, helping with virtual lessons, or sending your kid to physical classrooms, learning is not what it used to be. Helping us navigate through all of these options today is Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, he is a pediatrician and spokesperson for AAP, as well as an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Pu...
Testing For COVID-19
October 06, 2020 05:00 - 24.7 MBWe've done a lot of shows about COVID-19, but today we're going to breakdown testing for the virus. The different kinds, antibody vs diagnostic, and other confusing parts of the process. Joining us is Dr. Yolanda "Linda" Reid Chassiakos, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, and the Director and Medical Chief of Staff at the Klotz Student Health Center, at California State University Northridge. She tells us how there is no textbook to tu...
Flu, Cold and COVID: What Will Happen This Fall?
September 29, 2020 05:00 - 32.7 MBIt's stressful already being a parent during this pandemic, but now we have an upcoming cold & flu season to worry about as well. Epidemiologists around the globe are worried about what the overlap of illness will look like this winter. Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson joins us once again - she is a pediatrician and a spokesperson for the AAP and is here to guide us through this next season. She breaks down the difference between each sickness, the importance of those flu shots, and keeping calm headin...
How To Get Kids To Wear Masks
September 15, 2020 05:00 - 16.9 MBThese times are unprecedented, people have been saying that for months now. But as the pandemic continues into those last half of 2020, one thing is for certain: masks arent going anywhere anytime soon. So how can we convince our young ones to keep them on, whether we're heading to the store or heading back to school? Dr. Jennifer Shu is a board-certified pediatrician and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics She is back on the show to talk about the most difficult ages to ...
Finding Childcare During The COVID-19 Pandemic
September 08, 2020 05:00 - 23.7 MBChildcare has always been an issue in this country for working parents and has only become more urgent and difficult to find in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between licensing, cost, and just finding a place with available slots - it can be hard to access good, reliable childcare, especially when schools may not be open in your area. Dr. Danette Glassy is a Pediatrician in practice at Mercer Island Pediatrics and joins us today to talk about all things childcare, especially as we hea...
How To Talk To Teens About Taking Responsibility For Their Health
September 01, 2020 05:00 - 21.1 MBAs our children grow into teens (and eventually adults), there comes a time where we need to sit them down to talk about handling and advocating for their own health. Whether its nutrition, a chronic health problem, or personal hygiene, sometimes kids as early as 11 or 12 are ready to take on these activities. While the timing comes down to your child and their maturity level, there are a general set of tips that can help any parent whenever its time to pass that responsibility along. Dr....
Hot Car Deaths: How Are They Still Happening?
August 25, 2020 05:00 - 18.4 MBWe've heard about it every summer for years, but somehow it still happens, kids dying in hot cars. On average 40 kids die in hot cars every year, with most incidents happening towards the end of a typical work week. Dr. Benjamin Hoffman is a pediatrician and expert on child safety, and sits down with Melanie Cole to discuss how fast cars can get too hot, how long it takes for kids to be affected by heat, staying hydrated, and the importance of parents keeping to their routines. And when i...
Modern Step-Parenting
August 18, 2020 05:00 - 15.7 MBThe stereotype stepparents we saw in the movies growing up are outdated. Step-parents of all genders, blended families, co-parenting, and more are becoming more the norm. Elizabeth Meade is a pediatric hospitalist, and the Medical Director of Patient Safety for Pediatrics at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, and a step-parent herself. She joins Melanie Cole again this episode to talk about the journey of introducing a new parent figure to children, how and when to discipline as a step-paren...
What To Expect When Having A Newborn During A Pandemic
August 11, 2020 05:00 - 26.9 MBHaving a baby is typically a joyous and exciting time. But now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, going to and spending time in the hospital is worrisome, and the idea of bringing a new life into the world amidst all this can be overwhelming. Elizabeth Meade is a pediatric hospitalist, and the Medical Director of Patient Safety for Pediatrics at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, and joins Melanie Cold to discuss many common questions about labor during COVID-19 like visitor policies, if breast...
Electronic Devices and Young Kids
August 04, 2020 05:00 - 24.7 MBAs we move toward a more digital world, many parents are weighing the benefits of electronic devices - are they good or bad? With schools moving to online classes because of the pandemic, kids are on phones and computers now more than ever. So can kids be addicted to devices, how can you move kids offline, and what counts as screentime? Dr. Nusheen Ameenuddin is a general pediatrician at the Mayo Clinic and joins us this episode to talk about managing electronic devices.
Helping Teens Navigate Adolescence To Become Successful Adults
July 28, 2020 05:00 - 29.2 MBOne of the most important parts of being a parent, besides keeping your children alive, is helping them to navigate adolescence to become successful adults, giving them roots and wings. It's inevitable your teens will one day become adults, so ensuring those values in them now will only help them as they grow into adults. Dr. Ken Ginsberg joins Melanie Cole for another conversation about nurturing adolescents. He is the Founder of the Center For Parents and Teen Communication.
Building Resilience & Bringing Teens Back From Difficult Times
July 21, 2020 05:00 - 24.4 MBTimes are tough for everyone these days, but especially teens who haven't been in school and can't hang out with their friends like they used to. Building resilience in teens is always important, but more critical now than ever in making them feel seen, and making sure they have the resources to get through whatever troubles they may be facing. Dr. Ken Ginsberg is the Founder of the Center For Parents and Teen Communication and talks to us about how we can talk to our teens.
Talking To Children About Protests
July 14, 2020 05:00 - 22.2 MBParents, especially White Parents, should be having conversations with children about race anyway, protests or not. Institutionalized racism is as old as America, so parents need to be talking to their children about power and privilege early on. Reading books that discuss racism and have different characters with different races, ethnicities, and cultures is recommended. Only by starting this conversation early can we ever expect to have a more loving, less hateful world. Regarding the prot...
What Summer Activities Are Safe For Kids Amid Coronavirus?
July 07, 2020 05:00 - 20.9 MBThe COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on kids. The mental, psychosocial aspects of social distancing and isolation are starting to pile up as we enter another month of this new normal. But as the weather gets warmer, kids are trying to see their friends, head to a park or a pool, and play outside. But what activities are safe this summer amid the pandemic? Dr. Tanya Altmann is a best-selling author, network television parenting expert, and an American Academy of Pediatrics spokesperson, and ...
Water Safety & Drowning Prevention
June 30, 2020 05:00 - 15.8 MBSummer is here, and everyone is itching to get outside after a long spring indoors. So whether you're heading to the lake, the ocean, or a backyard pool, its still important to keep swimming safety and drowning in mind. To talk about water safety in the summer is Shelly Vaziri Flais, MD - a practicing pediatrician, fellow mom, AAP author, and Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Talking To Children About Racism
June 23, 2020 05:00 - 24.9 MBProtests have been raging on in most major cities for weeks now protesting the death of George Floyd, police brutality, and systemic racism. All of these are incredibly heavy and complex topics to discuss with children, so where do you begin? Dr. Nia Heard-Garris joins Melanie Cole, MS, to help parents discuss this moment in history with our kids. Dr. Heard-Garris is a pediatrician and a researcher in the Department of Pediatrics at Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University; an...
Encore Episode: Racism: Uncovering and Preventing Biases
June 16, 2020 05:00 - 30.6 MBYour responsibility as a parent is to encourage an understanding and appreciation for diversity. Racism affects all people. First, you have to acknowledge that bias is real. Then, you have to encourage individuals who have conscious biases to be better. Discuss the challenges that come up for yourself and your children. Biases start early. Your children are exposed to biases as early as preschool. Establish a safe space to talk about the things they hear and see in the world. Listen as Dr...
When to Take Your Child to the ER During the Pandemic
June 09, 2020 05:00 - 13 MBWe know parents have a lot of questions and fears concerning the spread of COVID-19 and some might be reluctant to bring their child to the doctor, even when it’s an emergency. Dr. Alison Tothy joins Melanie Cole, MS, to talk about what she’s seeing in patients these days and what parents should do in case of an emergency or other less urgent problems.
How Parents Can Prepare for Schools Reopening (And What That Might Look Like)
June 02, 2020 05:00 - 11.5 MBThinking of sending children back to schools this fall brings up a range of emotions. - is it relieving that they'll be out of the house and taught by teachers once again? or scary, the idea of going back to crowded classrooms? Whether it's going back to a local public school or sending older children away to college - schools will inevitably be open in most places after the COVID-19 pandemic in different ways. Sara Goza is the President of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is joining M...
How to Keep Children Safe from Poison via Household Hazards During the COVID-19 Pandemic
May 26, 2020 05:00 - 11.2 MBAs more people are taking extra steps to sanitize their homes, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a rise in calls to the Poison Control Center. Dr. Benjamin Hoffman is a pediatrician and nationally recognized expert in child injury prevention and education. He currently serves as Director of the Tom Sargent Safety Center at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. Dr. Hoffman joins host Melanie Cole, MS, to share information on poison risks during this time, as well as how to keep chi...
Encore Episode: Preventing Suicide
May 19, 2020 05:00 - 16.8 MBPediatric suicide is a difficult topic but parents may be able to help children who are at risk. Bullying is rampant in pre-teens and teens. In the age of social media, bullying doesn't stop once the school day is done. Find out how much time your child is spending online. Those who are already prone to anxiety and depression are at greater risk for self-harm and suicide. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) lead to higher potential for depression. Feeling unworthy, lonely or trapped can ...
Encore Episode: What Does Social Distancing Really Mean? Can Kids Have "Safe" Play Dates?
May 12, 2020 05:00 - 12 MBBy this time in the COVID-19 pandemic, your kids might be going a little stir crazy... or a lot. Social distancing was designed to reduce the risk of the virus to thrive. But your kids, especially the little ones, don't understand why they can't have a play date or go to the playground. Older kids are also trying to find ways to sneak out of the house to meet up with their friends. It's critical for the health of your family, your community, and the world for us to remain steadfast with so...
How the COVID-19 Pandemic Impacts Kids with Special Healthcare Needs
May 05, 2020 05:00 - 15.1 MBThe COVID-19 pandemic is affecting everyone, in different ways. How are children with special healthcare needs uniquely impacted -- especially those who often receive important care during the school day? Dr. Lynn Davidson says that parents and family members are required to "get creative" in getting access to necessary therapies. She also advises that parents be okay with doing the best they can, given the circumstances. Some of that involves getting "back to basics;" things like using coo...
Encore Episode: Coronavirus: Screen Time Advice for Toddlers to Teens
April 28, 2020 05:00 - 14.4 MBThe coronavirus is causing uncertainty among us all. It's been a total disruption of what we consider "normal." How long will the social-distancing and self-isolation last? One cannot tell -- meaning the disruption continues. For families with children at home, whether small children, school-aged kids, or even young adults home from college, it can be even more challenging. How can you keep your kids busy and in continued health, despite the restrictions? Donald Shifrin, MD, provides some...
Encore Episode: How to Ease Your Children's Anxiety About Coronavirus
April 21, 2020 05:00 - 32 MBCOVID-19's presence in our society, our communities, our households is the cause of a great deal of anxiety. While children may not fully understand what's going on, they can still pick up on the fear and anxiety circulating within the their environment. They also may not comprehend the importance of social distancing. They're disappointed by the reality of the situation. Allow them to own that disappointment (don't deny it), but try to find ways to explain why social distancing is so crit...
What Does Social Distancing Really Mean? Can Kids Have "Safe" Play Dates?
April 14, 2020 06:00 - 12 MBIt's critical for the health of your family, your community, and the world for us to remain steadfast with social distancing and self-isolation.By this time in the COVID-19 pandemic, your kids might be going a little stir crazy... or a lot. Social distancing was designed to reduce the risk of the virus to thrive. But your kids, especially the little ones, don't understand why they can't have a play date or go to the playground. Older kids are also trying to find ways to sneak out of the hou...
Coronavirus: Screen Time Advice for Toddlers to Teens
April 07, 2020 06:00 - 14.4 MBFor families with children at home, whether small children, school-aged kids, or even young adults home from college, these coronavirus times are especially challengingThe coronavirus is causing uncertainty among us all. It's been a total disruption of what we consider "normal." How long will the social-distancing and self-isolation last? One cannot tell -- meaning the disruption continues. For families with children at home, whether small children, school-aged kids, or even young adults h...
How to Ease Your Children's Anxiety About Coronavirus
March 31, 2020 05:00 - 32 MBWhile children may not fully understand what's going on regarding coronavirus, they can still pick up on the fear and anxiety circulating within the their environment.COVID-19's presence in our society, our communities, our households is the cause of a great deal of anxiety. While children may not fully understand what's going on, they can still pick up on the fear and anxiety circulating within the their environment. They also may not comprehend the importance of social distancing. They'r...
Encore Episode: Electronic Devices and Social Media
March 17, 2020 05:00 - 24.9 MBTeach your children how to manage digital usage and social media.Today’s children are immersed in digital media. It can be a double-edged sword. Remember that technology is a tool. Children need parameters to help manage online interactions. As a parent, you need to guide them. Monitor what they’re doing. Warn your child about the perils of online communication. They may think that all people are as honest as they are, which means they may provide too much personal information in earnest....
Preventing Suicide
March 10, 2020 05:00 - 16.8 MBWatch for warning signs to help prevent suicide.Pediatric suicide is a difficult topic but parents may be able to help children who are at risk. Bullying is rampant in pre-teens and teens. In the age of social media, bullying doesn't stop once the school day is done. Find out how much time your child is spending online. Those who are already prone to anxiety and depression are at greater risk for self-harm and suicide. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) lead to higher potential for depr...
Infant Safe Sleep
March 03, 2020 07:00 - 15.8 MBKeep your infant safe while sleeping.Having a new baby is exciting and you want to do everything right. Part of your job is ensuring baby's safety, which includes sleep time. Baby is safest sleeping on their back. Swaddle your baby smartly. There's no need to buy crib bumpers and fluffy things to stick in your baby's bed. Infants don't need these things. Listen as Dr. Elizabeth Murray joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss safe infant sleeping practices.
Should Your Kid Make Breakfast?
February 18, 2020 07:00 - 18.6 MBIs it time for your child to start making breakfast?When are your kids old enough to make their own breakfast? There's no one-size-fits-all with breakfast preparation, but responsibility can vary by age range. A four-year old child could put prepared and measured ingredients into a very simple recipe. No knives, no electricity, no stoves or ovens. Yogurt parfaits are perfect for your child to mix with ingredients from containers. Older children can take more responsibility, using the micro...
Who Should Worry About RSV, Flu and Coronavirus
February 11, 2020 07:00 - 16.3 MBShould you worry about these viruses?RSV, influenza and coronaviruses are not uncommon, especially in children. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a form of the common cold. It occurs frequently in children. It's most dangerous in babies. Flu affects many people, which is why it's important to get the flu vaccine. The current strain of coronavirus is not as prevalent as the flu. The CDC is tracking and reporting on the coronavirus. As boring as it sounds, the easiest defense is to was...
Encore Episode: Showing Love to Your Children
February 04, 2020 07:00 - 13.7 MBSimple tips to show your children that you love them on Valentine's Day and beyond.It seems straightforward to show love to your kids. But, every parent and every child is different. Fight colds and flu with Hydralyte. Rapid and complete hydration, suitable for all ages and doctor recommended. Use code “hydrakid” to save 30% - sponsor First, your words have an impact. Sarcasm and mocking can be upsetting to your child. Be positive and find kinder ways to communicate that don’t make your c...
Encore Episode: The Dangers of Vaping
January 28, 2020 07:00 - 22.5 MBVaping can harm you and your child.As cigarette smoking seems to be on the decline, vaping is on the rise in young folks. Once called electronic cigarettes, vaping devices offer nicotine delivery with appealing flavors. Fight colds and flu with Hydralyte. Rapid and complete hydration, suitable for all ages and doctor recommended. Use code “hydrakid” to save 30% - sponsor The particles in the vaping mix can inflame the lungs. While it’s called vaping, the substance is an aerosol -- not wate...
Electronic Devices and Social Media
January 21, 2020 07:00 - 24.9 MBTeach your children how to manage digital usage and social media.Today’s children are immersed in digital media. It can be a double-edged sword. Remember that technology is a tool. Children need parameters to help manage online interactions. As a parent, you need to guide them. Monitor what they’re doing. Warn your child about the perils of online communication. They may think that all people are as honest as they are, which means they may provide too much personal information in earnest....
How to Talk to Your Kids About Climate Change
January 14, 2020 07:00 - 16.6 MBFind out how to address your kids' concerns about climate change.Climate change affects all of us. Your children may have concerns. You want to be able to talk to them about it without affecting them with your own anxiety. Tell your children the truth but frame it with hope. We have the ability to act on climate change right now. Many of the things we can do to help the planet improve our own lives in the short term. Advocacy by young people brings attention to the concerns. Work to empow...
Encore Episode: Teaching Your Child Empathy & Compassion
December 31, 2019 07:00 - 14.7 MBThe holidays and current events are a great opportunity to teach your child empathy and compassion.It’s your responsibility as a parent to teach your child empathy and compassion for others. This will help him have more caring and understanding for others throughout his life. Empathy starts with understanding other people’s emotions and feelings. Kids have to get in touch with their own emotions and feelings first. You can’t understand emotions unless you communicate face-to-face. Talk thro...
Encore Episode: Holiday Safety & Cheer
December 24, 2019 07:00 - 14.8 MBHave a happier holiday with these tips for your family.Holidays are joyful for many. There are a few things to keep in mind to keep your family happy and safe. Safety Don’t let your tree dry out. Don’t leave your tree lights on when you aren’t home. Don’t overload outlets and extension cords. Be sure outdoor lights and power cords are intended for outdoor use. Stash guest belongings out of your child’s reach so no one gets into personal pill boxes. Hire a sitter if you have lots of to...
When to Discuss Weight with Your Child
December 17, 2019 07:00 - 19.7 MBLove your child at their current weight while making lifestyle changes in your household.Are you concerned about your child’s weight? You don’t want to ruin their self-esteem by bringing something up that may not be a problem, but you also don’t want your child to endure the health risks connected with being overweight or obese. Processed foods are dense in calories but not necessarily packed with nutrients. Today’s children aren’t as active as those in the previous generation because of te...
Starting Solid Foods
December 03, 2019 07:00 - 19.8 MBWhat should you do when you want to start your infant on solid foods?Your infant will eventually be ready to start eating solid foods to complement milk or formula consumption. Don’t start solids until baby is at least four months old. Breastfed babies should start solids around six months. Every baby is different. A good sign is that your child can sit in a high chair and stares down your plate at dinner. First foods can be instant oatmeal, avocados or bananas. Use some breast milk or fo...