Kids’ Health Uncomplicated

In this episode of Kids' Health Uncomplicated, host Dr. Patty Manning sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Melissa Young to discuss youth suicide prevention, warning signs parents should know, and how to have difficult but potentially life-saving conversations with children and teens. Dr. Young explains why asking directly about suicide does not put the idea into a child's head, how parents can recognize changes in behavior that may signal a struggle, and practical steps families can take to create a safer environment during a mental health crisis. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or trusted adult, this episode offers...

In this episode of Kids' Health, Uncomplicated, Dr. Patty Manning discusses how new parents can advocate for their baby without fearing they’re overreacting, joined by Dr. Nick DeBlasio, a pediatrician at Cincinnati Children’s who also trains residents. He emphasizes that parents should feel comfortable asking any question and should call when concerned, especially for newborn breathing issues, color changes during feeding, or fever. Dr. DeBlasio explains that for babies 60 days or younger, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher is a medical emergency and requires an immediate call day or night. The conversation also covers when to messa...

When your child is sick or hurt and it's nine o'clock at night, how do you decide where to go? The emergency room? Urgent care? Or can it wait until morning? For most parents, that moment of uncertainty is one of the hardest parts of raising kids — and making the wrong call can feel terrifying.

In this episode of Kids' Health Uncomplicated, host Dr. Patty Manning sits down with Dr. Brad Sobolewski, a pediatric emergency medicine physician and professor of pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, to help families make smarter, calmer decisions when th...

Back-to-school season can bring excitement, stress, and a lot of questions for both kids and parents. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, transitioning to a new school, or feeling nervous about a new teacher, the return to school can be a big adjustment for the whole family.

In this episode of Kids' Health Uncomplicated, host Dr. Patty Manning sits down with Cincinnati Children's psychologist Dr. Melissa Foti-Hoff to discuss how families can help children feel confident, prepared, and ready for a successful school year. Drawing from years of experience working directly with students, teachers, and school staff...

In this Kids Health Uncomplicated episode from Cincinnati Children’s, host Dr. Patty Manning talks with general pediatrician Dr. Nick DeBlasio about what to expect with newborn sleep and feeding in the first 90 days. They normalize how difficult the newborn period is and discuss common concerns that are often normal, including spitting up (usually a “laundry problem”) and wide variation in stooling patterns, while emphasizing that adequate wet diapers and weight gain are key signs a baby is getting enough.

They share practical sleep expectations, tips for day/night confusion, and the value of splitting nighttime duties and ac...

In this episode of Cincinnati Children’s Kids Health Uncomplicated, host Dr. Patty Manning talks with parent and disability-housing advocate Emily Kendall about what she wishes families knew sooner when a child’s health journey takes an unexpected turn. Emily shares her family’s story, including a premature daughter, a son born with Down syndrome and Hirschsprung’s disease who required early surgery and an ileostomy, and a youngest child later diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

They discuss releasing rigid expectations, moving through grief, and trusting that parents can learn complex care skills over time. Emily highlights helpful resource...

Safe sleep is one of the most critical topics for families bringing home a newborn. This episode of the Kids Health Uncomplicated podcast focuses on actionable steps you can take to reduce risks and promote better sleep habits for your infant.

We break down the core principles of baby sleep safety so you can feel confident every time you put your little one down for a nap or at night. Whether you are expecting or already caring for a newborn, understanding these pediatric health advice standards is vital for peace of mind.

Dr. Manning explains...

New parenthood can bring excitement, joy — and a lot of anxiety. In this episode of Kids’ Health Uncomplicated, Dr. Patty Manning sits down with Dr. Nick DeBlasio to discuss the common fears and pressures many new parents experience. From sleep concerns and feeding questions to knowing when to call the doctor, Dr. DeBlasio offers practical guidance, reassurance, and perspective for navigating the early stages of parenting with more confidence.

New Parent Anxiety, Uncomplicated is intended for informational and educational purposes only.

Eczema – you see it in commercials on TV, and you probably know someone who is affected by it. What exactly is eczema? On today’s episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, Dr. Jess Trygier and Dr. Mariam Iqneibi sit down with host Kate Setter to talk about this common skin condition that affects many children and families. 

They discuss what eczema looks like at different ages, why symptoms can come and go, and how parents can help manage flare-ups at home. The conversation also covers practical skincare tips, common treatment options, and when it might be time to talk wit...

The topic of consent can feel tricky to navigate, but it’s a conversation that should start early and continue often. On the newest episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, Ashley Cremeans, a social worker with the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Cincinnati Children’s, sits down with host Kate Setter to explore how consent can be discussed across different ages and stages of development. 

Ashley discusses how families can approach conversations about consent during adolescence, reinforcing that consent is ongoing, can be withdrawn at any time and applies in many everyday situations. She offers pr...

Blood donation has a vital role in care at Cincinnati Children’s and is truly a lifesaving resource. The impact of donating just once can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who need care. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Kristina Prus, director of transfusion medicine and Emily Kimball, physician outreach consultant, to talk about why blood donation matters and how donated blood is used in hospitals like Cincinnati Children's.  

Did you know that nearly all of the blood used for Cincinnati Children’s patients comes directly from our local partner, Howorth Blood Center? Dr. Prus and E...

Bronchiolitis is one of the most common illnesses affecting babies and young children during the winter months. It’s one of the leading reasons families end up in pediatric offices, urgent care and the emergency department. We know that this can be an exhausting and stressful experience for caregivers, so in this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Brad Sobolewski to break down what parents need to know to navigate bronchiolitis.  

Dr. Sobolewski explains how bronchiolitis is different from bronchitis, what causes it and why babies get it more often than older kids. We talk about RSV as the leading...

Just in time for spooky season, we’re pulling back the covers on all there is to know about nightmares and night terrors in children. These sleep disturbances can leave kids—and even their grown-ups—feeling haunted. Dr. Jessica Trygier joins us to help banish the bedtime boogeyman with expert advice and practical tips to help calm and reassure kids and families.  

In this episode, we dive into the difference between a nightmare and a night terror, the age they commonly start and how to understand any triggers that could cause them.  Dr. Trygier offers helpful strategies for paren...

We know parents have questions, and maybe even concerns about the safety and benefits of fluoride for children. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Bobby Thikkurissy and Dr. Scott Schwartz to talk all about fluoride.  

We break down everything parents need to know about fluoride for kids and its impact on children’s oral health. We explore the basics of fluoride, how it helps prevent cavities and dive into concerns like whether kids can get too much and how to know if your water is fluoridated. We also cover practical tips like how much toothpaste...

Game on! Host Bo McMillan sits down with Child Life Specialist Matt Flynn on the latest episode of the Young & Healthy Podcast to talk about video games, screen time and healthy gaming habits. They talk about the game worlds kids love and balancing them with the real world. 

Matt explains the difference between passive scrolling on TikTok and active video gaming. He also shares his thoughts on how electronics and games can both support and challenge childhood development. Spoiler, there are skills kids can learn from gaming that can be applied to real-life situations.

Listeners wil...

A few drops of blood from a heel prick shortly after birth is sent to the state lab for every baby born in a hospital, and most who are born at home. The screening looks for markers of critical health conditions and flags abnormal results to the family’s pediatrician, and to genetics specialists. In this episode of the Infant Series on the Young & Healthy Podcast, host Kate Setter sits down with genetic counselors Lisa Berry, LGC and Cecilia Goueli, LGC to answer the question: What happens next if a newborn screening shows an abnormal result? 

They exp...

Safety planning and preparation are essential for all children, but for kids on the autism spectrum, it is even more important. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Julia Anixt and Dr. Jen Smith, two pediatric autism specialists, to explore how families and community members can work together to help keep kids safe.  

We discuss the term elopement, what it looks like in the context of autism, and explore common reasons why kids may run off. Dr. Anixt and Dr. Smith share practical tips on how to make the home safer to make it harder for kid...

Emergencies like natural disasters, fires, or even power outages can happen any time, and staying prepared can make all the difference. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Nathan Timm, medical director of emergency management at Cincinnati Children’s, to explore easy ways families can prepare for unexpected situations without feeling stressed.  

Dr. Timm shares advice on how to talk with kids about emergencies in a way that helps them feel safe and calm. He also gives tips on first aid kits, including items every household should have, how often to check it, and where to keep...

Kids are endlessly curious—and somehow always getting into things. But what should you do if your child swallows something they shouldn’t? On this episode of Young & Healthy, host Bo McMillan sits down with pediatric GI specialist, Dr. Alex Nasr, to talk through what parents and caregivers need to know in these scary moments. 

Dr. Nasr dives into the most common objects kids swallow—coins, batteries, magnets and the newest shiny craze, water beads. He explains why batteries are especially dangerous and what steps to take if you suspect your child has swallowed a foreign object. Listener...

As kids grow, their bodies change rapidly, and for young athletes, those changes can bring both opportunities and challenges. Dr. Jeremy Shapiro, a sports medicine and rehabilitation pediatrician, joins us to talk about how growth impacts musculoskeletal health and what families can do to support their young athletes.  

In this episode, we cover issues active kids may face as they grow, which sports may have a higher risk of injury during growth spurts, and the importance of stretching. Dr. Shapiro highlights how sleep, nutrition and hydration support healthy growth and development. We explore the benefits of sports d...

Sun, sand, and sunscreen – all key essentials for summertime fun. But did you know these summer staples can irritate your child’s eyes? On this episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, host Kate Setter sits down with Dr. Leah Owen, pediatric ophthalmologist and division director, to talk about simple ways to help your kids enjoy the summer while keeping their eyes safe. 

You'll hear about common summer eye injuries, irritants, and treatments – plus tips on what to do if your kiddo has sore eyes from swimming and how to stay safe during epic Nerf battles. Dr. Owen also ex...

Firearm injuries are the leading cause of death in children in the United States. This public health issue is heartbreaking, but it’s also preventable. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Richard Falcone, pediatric trauma surgeon and chief of staff at Cincinnati Children's, to talk about practical steps families can take to keep kids safe.  

We discuss the importance of firearm storage, different storage options and how to set clear boundaries with family or friends who may have firearms in their homes. Dr. Falcone also shares advice on how to talk to kids about firearm safety and...

Ever wonder how something as simple as yoga can help kids feel calmer, stronger, and more in control—whether they’re at home, standing, sitting or in the hospital? In this new heartwarming episode of Young & Healthy, healthcare professionals and certified yoga instructors Nancy B. and Frankie M. join host Kayla McNeal to explore the powerful role pediatric yoga can play in healing and recovery. 

They’ll unpack how yoga goes beyond just poses—blending breathwork, gentle movement and mindfulness to meet children right where they are, even in a hospital bed. You’ll hear how just a few minut...

Summer is right around the corner and with it comes fun in the sun and plenty of time to make memories with your family. But let’s be honest—summer activities can get expensive. The good news is there are tons of things to do in Cincinnati that are free or super affordable for families.  

Linsey Kraeling is our guest. She’s a mom of 2 and lifelong Cincinnatian that knows the Queen City inside and out.  Linsey runs Tour de Cincinnati,  a go-to resource for discovering the best that Cincinnati has to offer—including food, events, parks, and hidden gem...

Toddlerhood comes with lots of surprises, and some can be a little scary.  Have you ever noticed your little one zoning out or holding their breath and that made you pause and question, “Is that normal?” You’re not alone. Toddler spells can be alarming for parents, and it can be hard to tell the difference between a harmless toddler spell and a seizure.  

In this episode, we’re joined by two pediatric neurologists, Dr. Marissa Vawter-Lee and Dr. Barbara Hallinan, to break down toddler spells vs. seizures. We talk about common toddler spells—like breath-holding or staring spel...

Routines are a series of steps that repeat regularly—some happen daily, while others happen in certain situations. But what happens when those routines get interrupted? In the newest episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, host Kate Setter talks with Dr. Alex Nyquist, a pediatric psychologist at Cincinnati Children’s, about how life’s changes can help shape routines and help kids grow. 

Listeners will learn how to develop routines to fit their child’s needs, how bedtime routines change over time, and why interruptions are a natural part of development. Dr. Nyquist also shares tips for re-establi...

Letting go is hard—on kids and parents alike. At what age can separation start causing anxiety for a child? What should parents and caregivers expect? In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Symfhani Fair-Harris sits down with pediatric psychologist Dr. Lynne Merk and child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Brian Kurtz to explore the ins and outs of separation anxiety. They break down its causes, common signs, and strategies to ease transitions for both kids and caregivers. Plus, they discuss when separation can be beneficial and how to recognize when professional support might be needed. 

Parenting isn’t alwa...

Fear is something that we all have experienced at some point.  Whether it’s from watching a scary movie, facing a natural disaster, having a bad dream, or simply an overactive imagination, fear can be overwhelming, especially for children. When kids experience fear, they might not know what is happening in their bodies and how to process this emotion.  

In this episode Bo McMillian is joined by two child and adolescent psychiatrists, Dr. Desiree DiBella and Dr. Brian Kurtz, to talk about how kids understand fear and ways parents can help them process. They break down what fear is a...

Flu season is here, and sickness is everywhere—but what exactly is going around? In this episode, host Kate Setter sits down with Felicia Scaggs-Huang, MD, MS, a pediatric infectious diseases expert, to break down what’s happening in the community. They discuss the latest flu cases in the greater Cincinnati region, the developing measles outbreak in Texas, and what parents need to know to keep their families healthy. Dr. Scaggs-Huang covers everything from common and severe flu symptoms to when a doctor visit is necessary and what to expect from the flu vaccine. She then shifts to the risi...

Conversations that protect you and your kids are important. On the latest episode of Young & Healthy, host Bo McMillian sits down with social worker Ashley Cremeans to dive into the importance of teaching kids about boundaries from an early age. The team explores how setting clear boundaries—like allowing kids to say no to hugs or respecting privacy during dressing and bathing when age-appropriate—helps build confidence and independence. 

We’ll also discuss how boundaries evolve over time, why respecting others' boundaries is just as important as setting your own, and how cultural and family norms play a role...

From first coos to their first words, the newest episode of Young & Healthy is all about nurturing your baby's language skills in the first year of life. Join us as we sit down with Speech-Language Pathologist, Marsha Lee Watson, to learn more on how babies communicate and how parents can create a language-rich environment. We also explore the role siblings play in language development, first-year milestones to watch for along the way, valuable resources to support your baby's growth, and more! 

You won’t want to miss these practical tips to support your baby’s journey into the w...

Ever wonder why your kiddo outgrows clothes overnight or seems endlessly hungry? They might be going through a growth spurt! In the season five kickoff of Young & Healthy, pediatricians Dr. Mary Carol Burkhardt and Dr. Nick DeBlasio join host Kate Setter to dive into the fascinating world of growth spurts. They’ll break down what’s happening during these phases, patterns parents might notice, and how long growth spurts typically last. The conversation also touches on the difference between growing pains and growth spurts, plus when it might be time to consult a pediatrician. Don’t miss this episode filled...

As we turn off the mics and close out season 4 of Young & Healthy, the whole team gathers for a special episode to reflect on an incredible year. We’re sharing our favorite episodes and answering some fun fall-themed questions so you can get to know us and the podcast a little better! 

This season, we’ve covered it all from bedwetting to sunscreen for kids. Whether you’re a first-time parent navigating parenthood or a seasoned pro, we hope after listening that you feel informed, empowered and heard. 

Season 5 kicks off in January, and there’s plenty more...

Kids today juggle a lot—playing sports, homework, studying for exams, and sometimes caring for siblings. Not to mention their regular school responsibilities. While it is great to see them involved, the heavy load can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to stress.  

In this episode, Kate Setter chats with Dr. Brian Kurtz, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Dr. Melissa Young, a pediatric psychologist, about how kids can better balance their responsibilities. They explore the most common stressors affecting young people, physical symptoms of stress, and strategies to help them create balance in their life. They also talk abo...

Kids are going crazy for coffee shop drinks and boba teas, but are these drinks okay for teens and tweens? In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Kate Setter sits down with Registered Dietitian Samantha Zalewski to have a conversation about what’s in these trendy drinks. She shares insights on caffeine, sugar, and other ingredients caregivers should be mindful of. We talk about healthier drink options and learn what “natural energy” really means. Plus, find out what physical signs to watch for that could mean your child is having too much caffeine.  

Potty training is a huge milestone for both children and caregivers, but it’s a process that varies for every child and can’t be rushed. In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Symfhani Fair-Harris chats with pediatricians Dr. Mary Carol Burkhardt and Dr. Nick DeBlasio to explore the ins and outs of potty training. They discuss the best time to introduce the potty, how to recognize signs your child is ready—or not ready—to begin, common mistakes to avoid, and strategies to create a positive, stress-free potty-training experience. The doctors also share advice for caregivers facing resistance from the...

It's important to ensure your child's vision is ready for the classroom as school for many has just started. In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Kate Setter sits down with Dr. Leah Owen to explore the essentials of eye care for kids. Dr. Owen discusses the importance of routine eye exams, what pediatricians look for during check-ups, and when it might be time to see an ophthalmologist or optometrist. 

We also dive into common signs that a child may have vision problems, such as squinting, and getting too close to screens or books to see better. A...

Do you have a toddler who struggles to fall asleep at night? Or a school ager who has stayed up way too late through the summer? Or are you simply fascinated by sleep and want to learn more? In today’s episode of the Young & Healthy Podcast, host Bo McMillian chats with Dr. Kelly Byars about all things sleep. Listen today to the newest episode of the podcast to learn how you can help your kids, and yourself, sleep better every night. 

Learn from Dr. Kelly Byars about the impact of blue light on kids’ brains, the role...

On today's episode of Young & Healthy, Bo McMillian talks with Dr. Theresa Guilbert about asthma in kids. They explore what asthma is, symptoms of asthma in kids and why it's more common in places like Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Guilbert explains the causes of asthma, which kids might be more likely to develop the disease, and some ways parents and caregivers can treat and manage it so kids can stay healthy and active. 

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious, this episode is packed with helpful information to keep your family healthy.  

Is your kids’ skin protected as well as it should be when they’re outside this summer? The realistic answer for many families is - probably not! 

In the newest episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, Kate Setter sits down with pediatric dermatologist Dr. Kalyani Marathe to learn more about what every parent needs to know about sunscreen for kids – even parents who already have high sunscreen IQ. 

This episode covers the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens and explores the various types of application methods – spray, stick, lotion, cream. Dr. Marathe explains how often you should...