Natural Super Kids Podcast

Episode 241: Reflections as my son turns 18!

HOW PARENTING TEENAGERS CHANGES WHEN YOUR CHILD BECOMES AN ADULT AT 18 This week on the podcast, we invite you into a more personal episode with Jessica Donovan, Founder of Natural Super Kids & Naturopath — one filled with reflection, honesty and those “no one warned me about this part” moments that arrive as your child steps into adulthood. 💛 With her eldest son officially turning 18, Jess shares what the transition into the later teenage years has really been like; the joys, the grief, the unexpected emotional challenges, and the deep sense of pride that comes with watching your child become their own person. Rather than giving you a “how-to” guide, this conversation is a warm, real look at the changing dynamics of parenting teenagers, navigating independence, and staying connected even as family routines shift. Here’s what we cover: * Why the teenage years can feel both fun and emotionally confronting and the parts of this stage that surprised Jess the most. * How family routines evolve as teens build their own schedules, friendships and independence (and why this shift brings up real feelings for parents). * The balance between freedom and responsibility, including how Jess is increasing expectations at home now that her son is earning and transitioning into adult life. * What connection looks like with teens, and how staying open, flexible and empathetic helps keep communication flowing during this huge life stage. 🎧 Tune in to hear Jess’s heartfelt reflections on parenting teenagers, embracing change, and finding your footing as your child steps into adulthood. It’s honest, comforting and a beautiful reminder that while everything changes, connection remains the anchor. Resources & Links Mentioned * 15% Off Initial Consultations [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/book-a-consultation/]— Ends November 30 | Use code NOVEMBER when booking. (Appointments can be scheduled for December or January.) * Book an Appointment with Natural Super Kids [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/book-a-consultation/] - All consults are online and family-friendly.  - Work with our highly experienced team in the areas your child needs most. * Follow us on Instagram @naturalsuperkids [https://www.instagram.com/naturalsuperkids/] This episode is proudly sponsored by my membership, the Natural Super Kids Klub. If you would like to become a member of the Klub to get more helpful resources to help you raise a happy and healthy family click here and pop your name on the waitlist [https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturalsuperkids.com%2Fklub-waitlist%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AOvVaw2LQUz4zfJD7RkBHFS4-lRX]. If you loved this episode, leave me a review! I would really appreciate it. Also, let me know your biggest takeaway from this episode by sending me a direct message on Instagram @naturalsuperkids or shoot me an email at jessica@naturalsuperkids.com.

Episode 240: 3 common nutrient deficiencies in children and how to spot them with Nutritionist Adelle Rutch

How to Recognise Nutrient Deficiencies in Children (Through Practical & Manageable Steps) This week on the podcast, we’re diving into a topic that comes up constantly inside our clinic: the three most common nutrient deficiencies we see in children and the subtle signs parents often miss. We are joined by our nutritionist Adelle Rutch, who supports families all over Australia and beyond through our online clinic. From rural communities to busy city families, Adelle brings a practical approach to helping parents understand what might really be going on beneath every child being “tired, moody” or “just not quite themselves.” In this episode, we explore why these 3 nutrient deficiencies show up so frequently in kids, what they actually look like in everyday life, and gentle ways parents can start supporting their child’s nutrient levels without overwhelm. Here’s what we cover: ✅ The three nutrient deficiencies Adelle sees most often in clinic and how they can affect your child’s energy, immunity, growth and learning. ✅ Subtle signs to look out for – from frequent infections and “fake hyper” tiredness to growing pains and concentration struggles. ✅ Everyday ways to support your kid's nutrients naturally, including family-friendly food ideas and small tweaks that make a real difference over time. ✅ When testing is worth considering and why working with a practitioner helps you get the right markers checked (and avoid guessing or supplementing blindly). 🎧 Tune in to feel more confident spotting early signs of nutrient deficiencies in children, and learn where to begin with gentle, realistic nutrition support that fits into real family life. 🌱 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode * Book an Online Appointment with Adelle Rutch [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/book-a-consultation/] Work directly with our experienced nutritionist Adelle Rutch for personalised support with nutrient deficiencies, kids' health, and family nutrition. * Check Your Private Health Extras Cover  Adelle is claimable under many private health funds - a great way to reduce out-of-pocket costs for consults. * Episode 239: BEST OF: Addressing Iron Deficiency in Kids [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/episode-239-best-of-addressing-iron-deficiency-in-kids/] * Claim 15% off your initial consultation [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/book-a-consultation/] with the code NOVEMBER - (Offer valid for bookings made before November 30; appointments available December and January.) * Follow us on Instagram @naturalsuperkids  [https://www.instagram.com/naturalsuperkids/]for more kids’ health tips and updates on new episodes This episode is proudly sponsored by my membership, the Natural Super Kids Klub. If you would like to become a member of the Klub to get more helpful resources to help you raise a happy and healthy family click here and pop your name on the waitlist [https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturalsuperkids.com%2Fklub-waitlist%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AOvVaw2LQUz4zfJD7RkBHFS4-lRX]. If you loved this episode, leave me a review! I would really appreciate it. Also, let me know your biggest takeaway from this episode by sending me a direct message on Instagram @naturalsuperkids or shoot me an email at jessica@naturalsuperkids.com.

Episode 239: BEST OF: Addressing Iron Deficiency in Kids

Why iron matters more than most parents realise and how to spot (and support) low iron in your child. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient issues we see in kids, and it often goes unnoticed for far too long. Many little ones struggle with low iron stores, unexplained fatigue, behavioural changes, or slow recovery from illness and parents are left wondering what’s really going on. In this Best Of episode, we revisit one of our most-requested topics: understanding iron deficiency in children and how to support healthy iron levels without overwhelm or guesswork. This episode breaks down the signs, causes, testing, diet tips, and supplement guidance so you can feel confident knowing what your child needs. In this episode, you’ll learn: * The early signs and symptoms of low iron in children (and which ones parents often miss). * The most common causes of iron deficiency including how maternal iron levels may impact kids. * When and how to check your child’s iron levels, plus the testing markers that matter. * The difference between heme and non-heme iron, and how each is absorbed in the body. * Practical nutrition strategies to support iron naturally through food. * What improves absorption (and what blocks it). * How to approach supplementation safely — including best forms, dosage considerations, and why you shouldn’t supplement without confirmed deficiency. This replay is perfect for parents navigating fatigue, behavioural changes, fussy eating, slow growth, or frequent illness or anyone wanting to better understand their child’s iron needs. Tune in to learn the small changes that can make a big difference to your child’s energy + behaviour. 🎙️🌿 Episode Links: * Read the full blog: Low Iron in Children – How To Boost Their Levels [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/low-iron-in-children/] * Book an appointment with our team at the Natural Super Kids Online Clinic [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/book-a-consultation/] * Download our Free Gut Health eBook [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/kids-gut-health-ebook/] This episode is proudly sponsored by my membership, the Natural Super Kids Klub. If you would like to become a member of the Klub to get more helpful resources to help you raise a happy and healthy family click here and pop your name on the waitlist [https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturalsuperkids.com%2Fklub-waitlist%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AOvVaw2LQUz4zfJD7RkBHFS4-lRX]. If you loved this episode, leave me a review! I would really appreciate it. Also, let me know your biggest takeaway from this episode by sending me a direct message on Instagram @naturalsuperkids or shoot me an email at jessica@naturalsuperkids.com.

Episode 238: BEST OF: A Natural Approach to Managing Anxiety in Children

Our kids are living in an anxiety-promoting world. There is so much stimulation out there thanks to modern technology, which gives their brains a lot to process. Some even say that anxiety is a normal and rational reaction to the modern world. Anxiety is the second most common mental health disorder among children in Australia. It is more common in girls than boys, but boys can still have a hard time with anxiety.  As a Mum of a child who experiences anxiety, I know firsthand how tricky it can be to manage, which is why I love helping as many parents as possible in this area.  In this episode, I discuss: * The difference between feeling anxious vs having anxiety; * Common signs and symptoms of anxiety in children; * The most common contributors including: * Gut-brain connection; * Screen time * Lack of physical activity * Quality of sleep * Diet and nutrition * The Natural Super Kids naturopathic approach to managing anxiety in children which involves: * Validating the child’s fears and emotions; * Addressing underlying triggers; * Dietary factors that contribute to anxiety in children * Particular dietary changes that can benefit anxiety in children; * Nutritional supplements that can be beneficial in supporting children with anxiety. Episode Links: * Screen time linked to psychological problems in children – research study. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/10/101011085958.htm] * Changes in screen time and mental health outcomes – research study.  [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1755296616300862] * Blog post: Exploring anxiety in children. [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/anxiety-in-kids/]   This episode is proudly sponsored by my membership, the Natural Super Kids Klub. If you would like to become a member of the Klub to get more helpful resources to help you raise a happy and healthy family click here and pop your name on the waitlist [https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturalsuperkids.com%2Fklub-waitlist%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AOvVaw2LQUz4zfJD7RkBHFS4-lRX]. If you loved this episode, leave me a review! I would really appreciate it. Also, let me know your biggest takeaway from this episode by sending me a direct message on Instagram @naturalsuperkids or shoot me an email at jessica@naturalsuperkids.com.

Episode 237: BEST OF: The 2 Most Common Parasites We See in Kids (and What to Do About Them)

Welcome back to our ⭐ Best Of series — where we’re sharing some of the most loved and listened-to episodes from the Natural Super Kids Podcast. In this Best Of episode, we’re revisiting one of our most popular topics — parasites in children — specifically the two we see most often: Blastocystis hominis and Dientamoeba fragilis. These microscopic critters can cause a surprising range of symptoms in kids — from tummy aches to mood swings an,d are more common than most parents realise. Jess shares the signs to look out for, how kids can pick them up, and the Natural Super Kids approach to treating and preventing parasite infections naturally. In this episode, you’ll learn: * The most common symptoms of parasite infections in children - digestive, mood, and behavioural changes. * Why some kids are more at risk (especially those on tank water). * How parasites can affect mood, irritability, and concentration. * Our holistic, naturopathic approach to testing, treatment, and prevention. * The role of gut health and “terrain” in keeping parasites at bay. * How we use antimicrobial herbs, probiotics, and prebiotics to support recovery. * When to consider medical treatment or further investigation. Episode Links: * Blog post: Holistic approach to treating worms in kids [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/treating-worms-in-kids/] * Blog post: Low iron in children – How to boost their levels [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/low-iron-in-children/] * Research: Mental and behavioural effects of parasitic infections [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17593680/] * Research: Intestinal parasites may be associated with later behavioural problems in internationally adopted children [https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0245786] Need support with testing or treatment? If you suspect parasites could be affecting your child’s health, our online clinic can help.  Our qualified naturopaths and nutritionists can arrange testing, interpret results, and create a personalised treatment plan to support your child’s recovery and overall gut health — all from the comfort of your home. Book an online appointment here [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/book-a-consultation/] This episode is proudly sponsored by my membership, the Natural Super Kids Klub. If you would like to become a member of the Klub to get more helpful resources to help you raise a happy and healthy family click here and pop your name on the waitlist [https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturalsuperkids.com%2Fklub-waitlist%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AOvVaw2LQUz4zfJD7RkBHFS4-lRX]. If you loved this episode, leave me a review! I would really appreciate it. Also, let me know your biggest takeaway from this episode by sending me a direct message on Instagram @naturalsuperkids or shoot me an email at jessica@naturalsuperkids.com.