MomDocTalk with Kristen Cook, MD

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]

The Best Summer Choices for Your Child: School, Camp, or Enrichment?

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen tackles the common parental dilemma of choosing between summer school and summer camp. She examines the needs of three groups: academically struggling children, who may benefit most from summer school's structured support; children performing adequately, who are better served by camp and free exploration; and gifted children, who may thrive in enrichment programs or camp. Kristen emphasizes that summer camp builds vital social skills, independence, and confidence. Her key message: there's no universal answer—parents should focus on their individual child's needs rather than comparison or perfection. What you'll learn * The dilemma parents face regarding summer school vs. summer camp for their children. * Emotional and practical considerations in making the decision. * The impact of academic performance on the choice between summer school and summer camp. * The concept of the "summer slide" and its varying effects on children. * Tailored recommendations for children struggling academically, those doing fine, and gifted children. * The benefits of summer school for children needing academic support. * The importance of social skills, independence, and emotional growth provided by summer camp. * The potential downsides of summer school, including emotional impact and risk of burnout. * The value of enrichment programs for gifted children and the need for balance in their activities. * Guidelines for parents to assess their child's needs and make informed decisions about summer activities. 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]

The Mental Load of Parenting: Kristen’s Permission to Let Go and Lighten Your Burden

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen explores why parenting feels so overwhelming despite the abundance of available advice. She acknowledges the invisible mental load parents carry, including the fear of "messing up" their kids. Rather than adding to parents' to-do lists, Kristen offers permission to do less by outlining six things parents can stop doing, including striving for perfect consistency, over-explaining decisions, comparing children, trying to fix every emotion, believing more effort equals better parenting, and feeling obligated to do everything. Kristen reminds parents that connection, presence, and self-compassion matter far more than perfection. What you’ll learn: * Common feelings of overwhelm among parents despite abundant parenting advice. * The mental load and fears associated with parenting in the modern world. * Critique of simplistic and unrealistic parenting advice. * The importance of connection, presence, and self-compassion over perfection. * Six specific actions parents can stop doing to improve their parenting. * The impact of social media on parental self-perception and comparison. * The distinction between parenting a child and parenting the fear of failing them. * The challenges of balancing parenting with work and personal responsibilities. * The significance of acknowledging and validating children's emotions. * Encouragement to redefine parenting success and focus on what truly matters. 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]

What Does Mother’s Day Really Mean to Moms?

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390933/fan_mail/new] In this episode, Kristen explores the true meaning of Mother's Day, tracing its origins with Anna Jarvis and how commercialization distorted its purpose. Drawing from personal experiences — including pregnancy loss, bonding struggles, and parenting challenges — Kristen encourages moms to redefine the holiday around connection, appreciation, and presence rather than perfection. She offers age-appropriate celebration ideas for children and emphasizes the importance of communicating needs clearly to partners. Kristen also champions maternal self-care and encourages mothers to honestly celebrate their own achievements. She concludes by reminding listeners that their parenting work matters every single day. What you’ll learn: * History and origins of Mother's Day in the United States, including Anna Jarvis's role. * The commercialization of Mother's Day and its impact on the holiday's meaning. * Personal experiences of motherhood, including pregnancy loss and parenting challenges. * The importance of authentic appreciation and connection on Mother's Day. * Practical advice for children of different ages on how to celebrate their mothers. * The significance of maternal self-care and overcoming guilt associated with it. * Encouragement for mothers to celebrate themselves and acknowledge their contributions. * The need for clear communication of expectations and desires for Mother's Day celebrations. * Redefining Mother's Day as a day of connection, appreciation, and presence rather than perfection. * The ongoing impact of motherhood on personal growth and emotional development in children. 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]