Vaccines are a modern medical miracle according to “Dr. Hutch” (also known as Brett Hutchinson, MD, Board Certified pediatrician.) While we’ve talked about COVID vaccines on other ParentingU episodes, this time Dr. Hutch joins us to talk about what vaccines teens and tweens might hear about from their doctors at well check visits.

If you’ve ever questioned why your teen or tween is recommended to take vaccines that you never received, Dr. Hutch gives clear, understandable explanations about how vaccine technology has changed over the years and why teens of today might receive vaccinations that parents did not.

ParentingU host Stephanie asks Dr. Hutch about the current recommended vaccine schedule and what conditions are trying to be prevented from the vaccinations. The conversation even covers flu shots for teens, and the top myth about flu shots.

Parents will appreciate Dr. Hutch’s calm, thoughtful manner in talking about vaccinations (he’s even got some suggestions for treats—even teens appreciate a little treat—after getting a round of vaccination shots.)

More Helpful ParentingU Resources

- Read more about vaccines for teens and tweens on our blog: Vaccines for Tweens & Teens | ParentingU Podcast - Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System (fmolhs.org)

- Dr. Hutch has included a handy primer for parents: A Parents’ Primer on Vaccines - Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System (fmolhs.org)

- Check out our current recommended vaccine schedule. Download the guide here: What to Expect at Well Checks Guide (PDF)

Watch Dr. Hutch speak with Stephanie (mom of two and ParentingU host): https://youtu.be/evgGDF8C9Ig

Season 4 of ParentingU is all about Teens and Tweens! You can hear all episodes of ParentingU on our website or Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. New! Watch videos of our podcast on YouTube: ParentingU playlist.