Healthy Children

Teen Substance Use: What Parents Need to Know About Vaping, Weed & Fentanyl – Ep. 75

Dr. Deepa Camenga joins guest host Dr. Khadijia Tribié Reid to talk about teen substance use. They delve into the health effects of vaping and other popular tobacco and marijuana products and how they're marketed to young people. They also explore controlled substances like fentanyl and steps parents can take to protect their kids and the wider community. For resources go to healthychildren.org/podcast.

Preschool and Kindergarten Readiness: What to Know Before the First Day – Ep. 74

Dr. Nathaniel Beers joins guest host Dr. Molly O'Shea to talk about preschool and kindergarten readiness. They unpack the advantages of preschool attendance, what families should consider when selecting a program and practical ways to help children feel confident on their first day. They also explore the potential consequences of delaying kindergarten and how kids with developmental differences can adjust to a classroom environment. For resources go to healthychildren.org/podcast.

How Much Sleep Do Teens Really Need? Expert Advice for Parents – Ep. 73

Dr. Cora Breuner joins guest host Dr. Scott Hadland to talk about teen sleep habits. They explore why teenagers naturally stay up later, what happens when they don't get enough sleep and what research says about ideal school start times. They offer practical tips on building healthy bedtime routines and addressing common sleep challenges like insomnia. For resources go to healthychildren.org/podcast.

Understanding Autism: A Deep Dive with Dr. Tommy Martin – Ep. 72

Dr. Tommy Martin joins host Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez to talk about autism. Together, they break down science behind the rising number of autism diagnoses, explore the neurological factors that might contribute to the condition and share practical tips for how parents can best help their autistic children thrive. Dr. Martin shares his personal story of his son's autism diagnosis and the wonderfully unique way his child sees the world. For resources go to healthychildren.org/podcast.

Body Positivity and Kids: How to Raise Confident, Healthy Children – Ep. 71

Dr. Whitney Casares joins host Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez to explore the foundations of body positivity. They talk about how kids can thrive at any size, the importance of body confidence and strategies for addressing body bullying. Dr. Caseres, author of the AAP book, "My One-of-a-Kind Body," shares tips on raising emotionally and physically healthy kids without falling into the traps of perfectionism or pressure. For resources go to healthychildren.org/podcast.