MomDocTalk with Kristen Cook, MD

Tick Bites and Lyme Disease in Kids: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] Tick season is here, and if you've ever found a tick on your child, your pet, or even yourself, you've probably wondered: How worried should I be? In this episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician and mom Dr. Kristen Cook breaks down everything parents need to know about ticks, Lyme disease, tick bite prevention, and when it's time to seek medical care. You'll learn how Lyme disease is transmitted, how to safely remove a tick, why timing matters, what symptoms to watch for, and why diagnosing Lyme disease isn't always straightforward. Dr. Cook also shares practical prevention tips to help keep your family and pets safe during outdoor adventures. Most importantly, you'll leave feeling informed, empowered, and prepared instead of fearful. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN * What causes Lyme disease * Which ticks carry Lyme disease in the United States * How ticks transmit disease * Why prompt tick removal matters * How to safely remove a tick * What an engorged tick looks like * When preventive antibiotics may be considered * Early symptoms of Lyme disease * The classic Lyme disease rash and what it looks like * Late complications of untreated Lyme disease * Why Lyme disease testing can be complicated * Treatment options for Lyme disease * What post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome is * Signs of Lyme disease in dogs and pets * Practical ways to prevent tick bites Order Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Redefined-Understanding-Nurturing-Behavior/dp/B0F7926HYZ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Zsq10vruB_eVHs7casBaHOsHo4oFPndOubS9C4AyRqt636f52zfML_t_QXZHZrpQVmRsYEfilBTq-h2qj4EfJSXwOqH_VFr8kaeWeMJCjlgsdvhruUEcsKF4vUhbhsMiwElYiYyXwZSaK9A55tRDAaTPD2t3bBY6hS2owVByAe47xGFxwdfFxdY9hBdpSbLKCuu7rSihRjEkOR8QgdkSDDOW3NnRVI-G3WxZOiFY0PQ.ZB62HdvmYkE8Bt7FGx9YL9c_WlyKRYFRupQViwBBysg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Parenting+Redefined&qid=1762368846&sr=8-1&utm_source=chatgpt.com] If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE [https://a.co/d/9CXpoU5] Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ [https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/] Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk [https://twitter.com/momdoctalk] https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en [https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en]

Father's Day and Parenting: Helping Kids Honor Dad, Grieve Loss, and Navigate Absence

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] Father's Day can be a joyful celebration, but for many families, it can also bring complicated emotions, grief, disappointment, and difficult questions. In this heartfelt episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician and parenting expert Dr. Kristen Cook explores the history of Father's Day, practical ways children of all ages can celebrate father figures, and how parents can support children when Father's Day feels painful rather than celebratory.  Whether your child's father is actively involved, has passed away, is absent, or there is another important father figure in their life, this episode offers compassionate, age-appropriate guidance to help families navigate the day with intention and emotional safety. Dr. Cook shares practical ideas for toddlers, school-age children, and teenagers while addressing grief, loss, absent parents, and the powerful role that trusted mentors and father figures can play in a child's life. Because Father's Day is about more than gifts. It's about connection, gratitude, love, and creating space for every family's unique story. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN *  The surprising history of Father's Day  *  How Father's Day became a national holiday  *  Age-appropriate Father's Day activities for toddlers and preschoolers  *  Meaningful Father's Day ideas for school-age children  *  Ways teenagers can celebrate and reconnect with dads  *  How to support children whose father has died  *  Why grief should be acknowledged rather than avoided  *  How to navigate Father's Day when a parent is absent  *  What to say when children ask difficult questions about their father  *  Why children often internalize parental absence  *  How to validate children's feelings without criticizing the other parent  *  The difference between being a father and actively fathering  *  How trusted father figures can positively impact a child's life  Order Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Redefined-Understanding-Nurturing-Behavior/dp/B0F7926HYZ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Zsq10vruB_eVHs7casBaHOsHo4oFPndOubS9C4AyRqt636f52zfML_t_QXZHZrpQVmRsYEfilBTq-h2qj4EfJSXwOqH_VFr8kaeWeMJCjlgsdvhruUEcsKF4vUhbhsMiwElYiYyXwZSaK9A55tRDAaTPD2t3bBY6hS2owVByAe47xGFxwdfFxdY9hBdpSbLKCuu7rSihRjEkOR8QgdkSDDOW3NnRVI-G3WxZOiFY0PQ.ZB62HdvmYkE8Bt7FGx9YL9c_WlyKRYFRupQViwBBysg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Parenting+Redefined&qid=1762368846&sr=8-1&utm_source=chatgpt.com] If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE [https://a.co/d/9CXpoU5] Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ [https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/] Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk [https://twitter.com/momdoctalk] https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en [https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en]

Summer Parenting Without Guilt: Screen Time, Routines, and Strong-Willed Kids

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] Summer is supposed to feel relaxing, but for many parents, it feels anything but. School routines disappear, screen time increases, kids become dysregulated, and strong-willed children seem to find new ways to test every boundary. In this episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician and mom Dr. Kristen Cook shares practical, realistic strategies to help parents navigate summer without guilt, perfectionism, or constant power struggles. You'll learn how to create flexible routines that support emotional regulation, set healthy screen time boundaries without shame, manage public meltdowns with confidence, and stop comparing your family to social media's highlight reel. If you're feeling overwhelmed by summer parenting, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and actionable tools to help you create a more peaceful season for both you and your children. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN * Why summer can be emotionally challenging for children * How routines support emotional regulation * The difference between structure and rigidity * When screen time can be helpful * Signs that screen use may be becoming unhealthy * Practical screen time boundaries that actually work * How to reduce power struggles with strong-willed children * Why boredom is healthy for child development * Strategies for handling public meltdowns * How to stop comparing your family to social media * Why connection matters more than perfection * How to create a peaceful summer without over-scheduling Order Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Redefined-Understanding-Nurturing-Behavior/dp/B0F7926HYZ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Zsq10vruB_eVHs7casBaHOsHo4oFPndOubS9C4AyRqt636f52zfML_t_QXZHZrpQVmRsYEfilBTq-h2qj4EfJSXwOqH_VFr8kaeWeMJCjlgsdvhruUEcsKF4vUhbhsMiwElYiYyXwZSaK9A55tRDAaTPD2t3bBY6hS2owVByAe47xGFxwdfFxdY9hBdpSbLKCuu7rSihRjEkOR8QgdkSDDOW3NnRVI-G3WxZOiFY0PQ.ZB62HdvmYkE8Bt7FGx9YL9c_WlyKRYFRupQViwBBysg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Parenting+Redefined&qid=1762368846&sr=8-1&utm_source=chatgpt.com] If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE [https://a.co/d/9CXpoU5] Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ [https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/] Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk [https://twitter.com/momdoctalk] https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en [https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en]

How to Help a Child With Obesity Without Shame or Diet Culture

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] Childhood obesity affects nearly 1 in 5 children in the United States, yet many parents feel afraid, ashamed, or overwhelmed when discussing weight and health with their children. In this honest and compassionate episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician Dr. Kristen Cook breaks down what pediatric obesity actually means, why BMI is both useful and flawed, and how parents can support their child’s health without shame, fear, or harmful diet culture messaging. Dr. Cook explains the medical risks associated with childhood obesity, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, joint problems, mental health struggles, and cardiovascular complications. She also shares practical ways families can create healthier habits together while protecting a child’s confidence and self-worth. Most importantly, this episode helps parents move away from blame and toward supportive, sustainable lifestyle changes that focus on overall wellness, movement, emotional health, and family connection. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN * What pediatric obesity actually means medically * Why BMI is helpful but imperfect * The difference between being “fat” and having obesity * Why shame and diet culture can harm children * Medical complications linked to childhood obesity * How obesity impacts mental health and self-esteem * Healthy language to use when discussing weight with kids * Small habit changes that can improve family health * Why movement should never be used as punishment * Ways to encourage healthy eating without labeling foods “good” or “bad” * Tips for reducing sedentary screen time realistically * How parents can model healthy habits at home Order Dr. Kristen Cook’s Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Redefined-Understanding-Nurturing-Behavior/dp/B0F7926HYZ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Zsq10vruB_eVHs7casBaHOsHo4oFPndOubS9C4AyRqt636f52zfML_t_QXZHZrpQVmRsYEfilBTq-h2qj4EfJSXwOqH_VFr8kaeWeMJCjlgsdvhruUEcsKF4vUhbhsMiwElYiYyXwZSaK9A55tRDAaTPD2t3bBY6hS2owVByAe47xGFxwdfFxdY9hBdpSbLKCuu7rSihRjEkOR8QgdkSDDOW3NnRVI-G3WxZOiFY0PQ.ZB62HdvmYkE8Bt7FGx9YL9c_WlyKRYFRupQViwBBysg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Parenting+Redefined&qid=1762368846&sr=8-1&utm_source=chatgpt.com] If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE [https://a.co/d/9CXpoU5] Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ [https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/] Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk [https://twitter.com/momdoctalk] https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en [https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en]

Teaching Gratitude and Service: Kristen’s Tips for Meaningful Memorial Day Conversations with Kids

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen explores the deeper meaning of Memorial Day beyond barbecues and long weekends. She shares the holiday's history, tracing it back to 1868's Decoration Day, and offers parents practical guidance for discussing sacrifice, gratitude, and service with children of all ages. From simple flower-placing activities for toddlers to thought-provoking conversations with teenagers, Kristen provides age-appropriate approaches to honoring fallen soldiers. She also addresses how parents can thoughtfully respond if their teen expresses interest in a military career, encouraging honest, balanced discussions about both the rewards and realities of military service. What you’ll learn: * The historical origins of Memorial Day and its evolution from Decoration Day. * The significance of Memorial Day in honoring U.S. military personnel who died in service. * The opportunity for parents to teach children about gratitude, sacrifice, and service. * Age-appropriate ways to explain Memorial Day to toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and teenagers. * Suggested activities for different age groups to commemorate Memorial Day. * The importance of discussing military careers with teenagers and addressing their interests. * The realities of military life, including benefits and challenges. * The development of leadership skills and personal growth through military service. * The significance of community and relationships formed in the military. * The overarching goal of raising children who understand the value of service and contributing to something greater than themselves. Order My Book: Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive [https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Redefined-Understanding-Nurturing-Behavior/dp/B0F7926HYZ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Zsq10vruB_eVHs7casBaHOsHo4oFPndOubS9C4AyRqt636f52zfML_t_QXZHZrpQVmRsYEfilBTq-h2qj4EfJSXwOqH_VFr8kaeWeMJCjlgsdvhruUEcsKF4vUhbhsMiwElYiYyXwZSaK9A55tRDAaTPD2t3bBY6hS2owVByAe47xGFxwdfFxdY9hBdpSbLKCuu7rSihRjEkOR8QgdkSDDOW3NnRVI-G3WxZOiFY0PQ.ZB62HdvmYkE8Bt7FGx9YL9c_WlyKRYFRupQViwBBysg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Parenting+Redefined&qid=1762368846&sr=8-1] Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE [https://a.co/d/9CXpoU5] Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ [https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/] Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk [https://twitter.com/momdoctalk] https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en [https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en]