Your Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica Hochman
Welcome to Your Child Is Normal, the podcast that educates and reassures parents about childhood behaviors, health concerns, and development. Hosted by Dr Jessica Hochman, a pediatrician and mom of three, this podcast covers a wide range of topics--from medical issues to emotional and social challenges--helping parents feel informed and confident. By providing expert insights and practical advice, Your Child Is Normal empowers parents to spend less time worrying and more time connecting with their children.
Ep 198 Lice Myths Busted: What Every Parent Needs to Know, with Amy Chinian
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In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Jessica Hochman, MD, talks with Amy Chinian, founder of My Hair Helpers, about the truth behind lice—what they are, how they really spread, and why they have nothing to do with hygiene. Together, they bust common myths (spoiler: you can stop bagging stuffed animals for two weeks), explain the most effective ways to check for lice, and share safe, non-toxic treatment options. Whether you’ve been through a lice outbreak or just want to be prepared, this conversation will help you.
Your Child...
Ep 197: Helping Kids Feel Safe Before Anesthesia, with pediatric anesthesiologist Dr Jacqueline Drummond Lewis
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When kids need anesthesia for a medical procedure, it’s normal for both them—and their parents—to feel anxious. In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman speaks with pediatric anesthesiologist Dr. Jacqueline Drummond Lewis (aka Doc JC), author of Adventures with Doc JC: The Unseen Planet. Together they explore what anesthesia actually is, how it works in kids, and how families can better prepare their children before a procedure. Dr. Lewis shares practical tips, reassures us about safety, and explains how imagination and preparation can reduce fear for everyo...
Ep 196: Using Hypnosis with Children — Lynn Lyons on Helping Anxious Kids Tap into Their Imagination
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This week on Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman welcomes back Lynn Lyons—licensed therapist, author, and host of the Flusterclux podcast—for a surprising and eye-opening conversation about clinical hypnosis for kids.
You might associate hypnosis with stage tricks or pop culture shenanigans, but as Lynn explains, it's actually a science-backed, deeply therapeutic technique—especially powerful for children dealing with anxiety, phobias, or even chronic pain.
Drawing from her book Using Hypnosis with Children, Lynn breaks down how hypnosis really works (hint: it’s not about going into a t...
Ep 195: Acupuncture for Kids with Anxiety: A Conversation with Dr. Tara McCannel
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In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman is joined by Dr. Tara McCannel—retinal surgeon, ocular oncologist, and co-founder of Seyhart Acupuncture in Santa Monica, California. They discuss how acupuncture can be a powerful, evidence-informed, and low-risk option to support anxiety—especially in children who present with physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or sleep disturbances. Whether you're a parent seeking alternatives to medication, or simply curious about the science behind acupuncture, this episode is full of practical insights and thoughtful reflection.
Your Child is Normal is the...
Ep 194: Breaking Free of childhood Anxiety and OCD: A conversation about SPACE! with Dr Eli Liebowitz
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Anxiety is the most common mental health challenge kids face—and it doesn’t just affect them, it impacts the whole family. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Eli Lebowitz, the clinical psychologist behind the SPACE program (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), about how parents can help reduce their child’s anxiety—not by changing their kids, but by changing their own responses. We discuss how accommodation and overprotection can backfire, what supportive parenting really looks like, and why this parent-based model is so empowering. Whether your child has a formal anxiety...
Ep 193: How to Help Your Child Build Strong Friendships: Tips for Parents with Nina Badzin
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Friendship is one of the most important parts of childhood—and yet, many kids struggle to make and keep friends, especially in today's tech-heavy world. In this episode, I talk with friendship expert and podcast host Nina Badzin about how parents can support their children's social lives. We cover how to help kids initiate plans, what makes a healthy friendship, why being the “hosting house” matters, and how to guide your child through conflict and growing apart from friends. This episode is full of practical tips for helping your child feel more confident, connec...
Ep 192: Why boredom is a good thing for kids! (Minisode)
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In this solo episode of Your Child Is Normal, pediatrician and mom of three Dr. Jessica Hochman explores a summer parenting dilemma almost all families face: what to do when kids say, “I’m bored.”
Rather than seeing boredom as a problem to fix, in episode makes the case that it’s actually a gift. Drawing on developmental psychology and research, she explains how boredom helps children develop creativity, autonomy, and emotional regulation. You’ll hear stories about J.K. Rowling, Albert Einstein, and Thomas Edison—all of whom had major breakthrough...
Ep 191: Summer Q&A Minisode! Hydration, Constipation, Sunscreen Battles & Motion Sickness
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In this special "minisode" of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman answers four of the most common summer questions she hears from parents:
– Is it normal if my kid doesn’t drink much water?
– Why does my child get constipated when we travel?
– What if my child refuses sunscreen?
– How do I prevent motion sickness in the car?
The goal is to help parents learn practical tips of normal parent concerns to help you feel more prepared during the summer months.
Your Child is Normal is...
Ep 190: Bonding from birth: normalizing early parenting challenges, with neonatologist Dr Joanna Parga-Belinkie MD
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Episode 190 with neonatologist, author and podcast host, Dr. Joanna Parga-Belinkie who talks about her new book, We talk about the challenges of parenting, particularly in the newborn phase. She emphasizes the importance of bonding with babies, the role of community support, and the impact of modern technology on parenting. Dr Joanna offers practical advice for navigating the early days of parenthood. The discussion highlights that while parenting can be overwhelming, focusing on relationships and being present can lead to fulfilling experiences.
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, p...
Ep 189: Catch Them When They’re Good: Behavioral Psychology for Better Parenting with Dr. Larry Waldman
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In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, I’m joined by Dr. Larry Waldman, a behavioral psychologist and author of Who's Raising Whom?, to unpack how behavioral psychology can make parenting easier — and more effective. We talk about how small, consistent changes in how we respond to our children can lead to big shifts in their behavior.
You’ll learn:
Why kids sometimes misbehave just to get attention — and how to turn that aroundHow to use praise and logical consequences that actually workWhy consistency matters more than perfectionWhether...
Ep 188: Why Bedwetting Happens—and What Really Helps: A Conversation with Pediatric Urologist Dr. Andrew Kirsch
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Bedwetting is incredibly common—but it’s also often misunderstood, leaving families feeling frustrated, confused, or even ashamed. In this episode, pediatric urologist Dr. Andrew Kirsch joins Dr. Jessica Hochman to demystify nighttime wetting and offer real, evidence-based guidance for parents.
They explore:
Why bedwetting happens (hint: it’s not your child’s fault)When to worry and when to waitThe truth about bedwetting alarms and medicationsA promising new non-drug device called Soluu that could reshape how we treat bedwettingWhether you're in the thick of it with your child or...
Ep 187: When is the digital world too much for kids? And what can realistically be done about it? With Julie Frumin, MFT
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In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman talks with therapist and screen-time educator Julie Frumin about the digital world kids are growing up in—and how to push back. They explore the rise in anxiety, sleep deprivation, and attention issues linked to screens, and how we can respond as parents and communities. Julie shares her personal story, professional insights, and her work with Healthier Tech and MAMA (Mothers Against Media Addiction). From delaying smartphones to modeling unplugged behavior to creating phone-free spaces, this conversation is filled with realistic, empowering to...
Ep 186: Between a Shot and a Hard Place: A Conversation with Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh
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In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman speaks with integrative pediatrician Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh about his brand-new book, Between a Shot and a Hard Place. They discuss vaccine decision-making in today’s polarized climate, the importance of listening to parents, and how to navigate thoughtful conversations rooted in care and trust.
Dr. Hochman also shares her own perspective as a pediatrician who strongly supports vaccines and believes in creating space for respectful questions and dialogue.
If you're a parent looking to make informed, confident choice...
Ep: 185 Healthy Kids, Real Life: A Pediatrician Mom’s Honest Approach with Dr. Padget Skogman
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In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with pediatric hospitalist and mom of three, Dr. Padget Skogman, for a refreshingly honest conversation about raising healthy kids in a very imperfect world. They dive into the real-life challenges of nutrition, screen time, and daily routines—offering practical, judgment-free advice for families who want to feel better without burning out.
Dr. Skogman shares how her experience as a physician and a mother shaped her views on food, wellness, and the importance of small, sustainable changes. Th...
Ep 184: Flat Feet, Smelly Feet, Ingrown Toenails, Toe-Walking and more--your common feet questions answered! with podiatrist Dr. Michael Zapf
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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Zapf, a podiatrist who’s been treating kids’ feet for nearly 40 years. We cover the most common foot concerns I hear from parents—how to tell what’s normal, when to worry, and what you can do to support healthy feet at home. In this episode you'll hear tips on ingrown toenails, shoes, feet hygiene, Severs disease, plantar warts, and more!
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising he...
Ep 183: Feeding Without Fear: A Guide to Starting Solids with Cinthia Scott
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This week on Your Child Is Normal, I’m joined by pediatric dietitian Cinthia Scott, co-author of Baby Leads the Way, to talk about starting solids, baby-led weaning, early allergen introduction, picky eating, and how to reduce the pressure we put on ourselves as parents. We cover practical tips like the “smush test,” how to reframe gagging, the myth of “food before one is just for fun,” and how to raise adventurous eaters without mealtime battles.
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want s...
Ep 182: Communicating with Respect — The RIE Approach with Melani Ladygo
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In this episode, I'm joined by Melani Ladygo to explore the RIE approach — a respectful, relationship-based way of communicating with children from infancy onward. Developed by Magda Gerber in the late 1970s, RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) is built on the idea that even the youngest babies deserve to be treated as capable individuals, with mutual respect at the core.
Melani shares how RIE gives parents a practical framework for setting boundaries without being either too harsh or too permissive. We talk about what respectful caregiving actually looks like wi...
Ep 181: Part 2 Childhood Vaccines--common parent questions explained with Dr. Paul Offit
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In Part 2 of my conversation with vaccine expert Dr. Paul Offit, we take a deep dive into the most frequent vaccine questions families ask pediatricians today. We cover concerns like giving multiple vaccines at once, whether it’s safer to space out shots, why certain vaccines are given at birth, and how to explain the roles of preservatives like aluminum and thimerosal. Dr. Offit offers clear, evidence-based answers while also showing understanding for the emotions and uncertainty many parents feel.
Dr. Paul Offit is a pediatric infectious di...
Ep 180: Part 1: Navigating Vaccine Hesitancy with Dr Paul Offit
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In this conversation, Dr. Paul Offit and pediatrician Jessica Hochman discuss the importance of vaccinations, the challenges of vaccine hesitancy among parents, and the need for nuanced conversations in public health. They explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public trust, and the science behind vaccination schedules. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding parental concerns while advocating for the safety and efficacy of vaccines.
About Paul A. Offit, MD!
Paul A. Offit, MD, is Director of the Vaccine Education Center and professor of pediatrics in the Division o...
Ep 179: How to embrace being a "good enough" mother. With Dr Margo Lowy author of Maternal Ambivalence
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In this conversation, Dr. Margo Lowy discusses the complexities of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of embracing the messiness and normalizing the feelings that come with it. They explore the role of community support, the significance of maternal ambivalence, and the need for mothers to forgive themselves for not being perfect. The discussion advocates for a more compassionate understanding of the motherhood experience.
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica...
Ep 178: The Seven Principles to help Connection with your Child, with Ned Johnson
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Ep 178: Ned Johnson joins Dr Jessica Hochman on "Your Child is Normal" and they explore the complexities of parenting, emphasizing the importance of connection, understanding, and enjoying the journey with children. Ned shares insights from his new book, "Seven principles for raising self-driven children", highlighting practical strategies for building lasting relationships with their children.
To purchase Ned's new book The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child: A Workbook click here
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nu...
Ep 177: Why Support Matters in Pregnancy & Childbirth, with Carson Meyer, Doula & Author of Growing Together
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In this conversation, Jessica Hochman and Carson Meyer discuss role of doulas in supporting families during pregnancy and childbirth. They explore the misconceptions surrounding birth, the importance of education and quality support to help the birthing experience. They emphasize how doulas can help provide emotional and physical support to mothers during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
About Carson:
Carson Meyer is a doula, nutrition consultant, and advocate for holistic maternal care. She graduated from NYU in 2016 with a degree in child development and holistic health. Now based in North Carolina, Car...
Ep 176: Rethinking Youth Sports: Can we lessen the pressure and make it more fun? with Linda Flanagan Author of Taking Back the Game
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In this conversation, Linda H Flanagan and Jessica Hochman explore the complexities of youth sports today, discussing the pressures faced by young athletes, advocating for a more balanced approach to youth athletics. We discuss the importance of exercise, the risks of early specialization, and the mental health implications of competitive sports. The discussion emphasizes the need for free play, the debunking of myths surrounding sports and character building, and the design of an ideal sports curriculum that prioritizes enjoyment and well-being over competition. A really important conversation, especially for parents who have children...
Ep 175: Childhood obesity- when to consider medication and surgery treatment options? with Dr. Alaina Vidmar and Dr. Kamran Samakar
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In this conversation, Dr. Alaina Vidmar and Dr. Kamran Samakar discuss the complexities of pediatric obesity, emphasizing that it is a chronic disease influenced by genetics, biology, and environment. They highlight the importance of understanding the stigma surrounding obesity and the need for comprehensive treatment approaches that include medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes. The conversation also addresses the rising rates of childhood obesity, the challenges of weight loss, and the criteria for seeking help. They advocate for a patient-centered approach that meets families where they are and provides education on nutrition and health...
Ep 174: Herbal Medicine for Kids, the truth about what works? A Conversation with Tasha Rose
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Episode 174 with Herbalist Tasha Rose and talk herbal medicine! We discuss common misconceptions, what herbs may be effective herbs for various ailments, and we also discuss some of the medical literature on natural remedies.
To learn more about Tasha Rose, here is her website:
Tasha's favorite place to buy herbs: Oshala Farm
Here are links to some published medical studies reviewing herbal medicine.
Peppermint and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): "Peppermint oil for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis...
Ep 173: Beyond Labels: Understanding the Whole Child. Lev Gottlieb, PhD
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Dr. Lev Gottlieb, a neuropsychologist discusses his unique approach to neuropsychology and child development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among caregivers, and a strengths-based approach to treatment. He highlights the need for effective communication between parents and professionals and the challenges of navigating labels and accommodations in education. Dr. Gottlieb advocates for a comprehensive care model that focuses on the whole child rather than just their diagnoses, encouraging parents to trust their instincts and create open channels for communication.
About Dr. Lev Gottlieb: He is a neuropsychologist and UCLA Assistant Clinical...
Ep 172: Should normal "sucking habits" like breast feeding, pacifiers and thumb sucking be stopped? Dr Lisa Bienstock pediatric dentist
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Today, Dr Jessica Hochman and Dr. Lisa Bienstock, pediatric dentist, discuss the nuances ] focusing on common concerns parents have regarding their children's "sucking" habits. They explore the importance of understanding non-nutritive sucking habits, for example the implications of breastfeeding, and the role of pacifiers and thumb sucking on children's oral development. Dr. Bienstock emphasizes the importance of allowing children to stop these habits on their own terms and provides various strategies and tools for parents to support their children in this process. The discussion aims to reassure parents about common concerns regarding their c...
Ep 171: How to create helpful boundaries with our teens? with Dr Candice Feinberg
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In this conversation, Dr. Candice Feinberg, a clinical psychologist and CEO of ROWI, a mental health center for teens. In this episode we talk about her book "No Parent Left Behind: How to Parents Teens from Love Instead of Fear". We talk about the art of setting boundaries with teens-- emphasizing the need for parents to approach parenting from a place of love rather than fear. The discussion highlights the significance of in-person connections and the necessity of seeking support when facing parenting challenges.
For more information on ROWI:
h...
Ep 170: How to prevent childhood obesity? With Dr Art Mollen
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Today's guest is Dr. Art Mollen, longevity health expert and best selling author, and he gives practical tips to parents to help establish healthy eating habits for children. We discuss the role of parents in modeling healthy behaviors for their children, the necessity of exercise, tips to avoid eating from boredom, and more. Dr Mollen is celebrating his 80th birthday this month and he is the epitome of health---mentally and physically--so thank you to Dr Mollen for imparting your words of wisdom!
About Dr Mollen:
He is a nationally r...
Ep 169: How to sugar detox with our kids after the holidays?! with Dr Michael Goran
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Ep 169 of Your Child is Normal! (Note the new podcast title!!!)
On today's episode Dr. Michael Goran discusses the impact of sugar on children's health, the challenges of reducing sugar intake, and practical strategies for families to manage sugar consumption. Dr Goran’s approach is practical, he doesn’t advocate for no sugar, just less if it. He offers actionable steps for parents to help their children develop healthier eating habits. The discussion also highlights the significance of teaching kids about nutrition and making informed choices regarding sugar.
*To list...
Ep 168: How to best protect our lungs from poor air quality? With Dr Irina Dralyuk, Pediatric Pulmonologist
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In this conversation, pediatric pulmonologist Dr. Irina Dralyuk discusses the importance of lung health, especially in light of recent fires affecting air quality in Los Angeles. She explains the significance of air quality indices (AQI), and its limitations. She reviews the use of air purifiers and masks, to protect lung health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children with pre-existing conditions. She emphasizes the importance of post-exposure care, the role of vitamins and homeopathic remedies, and the impact of nutrition on lung health. Dr Dralyuk also addresses exercise considerations during times of poor ai...
Ep 167: Everyday Health Decision for kids-- with Dr Cara Natterson & Vanessa Kroll Bennett
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Ep 167: I was lucky enough to be a guest on "This is So Awkward" hosted by the amazind, smart and funny duo, Dr Cara Natterson and Vanessa Bennett" and I thought my audience would enjoy hearing this conversation as well. In this episode we talk about winter illnesses, vaccine anxiety, common injuries, travel tips with children and more! This is So Awkward is a fantastic podcast---I recommend checking it out for more on puberty, tweens and teens!
Also, this podcast is coming out as Los Angeles has been dealing with unprecidented fire...
Ep 166: How to effectively support and replenish your child's microbiome? With Taylor Soderborg MD PhD, Medical Director at Tiny Health
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In this conversation, Taylor Soderborg MD PhD discusses her journey as a physician scientist and her focus on the microbiome's role in child health. The discussion emphasizes the importance of optimizing microbiomes, their impact on health, and practical advice for parents to support their children's microbiome. Soderborg introduces Tiny Health, a company dedicated to microbiome testing, and explains the testing process and personalized recommendations for families. Taylor shares insights from ongoing research, including the impact of microbiome restoration on clinical outcomes, and emphasizes the importance of making microbiome testing accessible to families.
Ep 165: Movement therapy, a practical tool to support our children's emotional, social, and educational needs. With Dr Lori Baudino
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Ep 165: Dr. Lori Baudino, a licensed clinical psychologist and dance movement therapist, discusses how a child's movement and their psychology are integrated. She emphasizes the importance of understanding children's behaviors through their body language and movement, offering practical strategies for parents to support their children's emotional, social and educational needs.
To learn more about Dr Baudino check out her website: https://www.drloribaudino.com/
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, res...
Ep 164: What parents need to know about the Pediatric ICU, with Dr Kyle Willsey
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In this conversation, Dr. Kyle Willse, a pediatric intensivist, shares insights on the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). The discussion is meant to provide a basic understanding as to how the PICU operates and to help parents be an advocate for their children. A must listen for anybody who has a child or a loved one in the PICU.
Kyle Willse, DO, is board certified in Pediatrics and in Pediatric Critical Care. For the past 5 years, he has worked at Cedars-Sinai hospital as an attending in the pediatric and congenital cardiac inten...
Ep 163: Strategies to help parents play & be present with their children! With Dr Tina Payne Bryson!
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In this episode, Dr Tina Payne Bryson returns to Ask Dr Jessica to discuss her new book 'The Way of Play' which explains the importance of incorporating play into parenting, building relationships, regulating emotions, and developing essential skills in children. Her latest book shares strategies and tips to help parents play and be present with their kids--- which ultimately will help strengthen their bond with their children.
Dr. Tina Payne Bryson is a licensed mental health professional and she has co-written several books on parenting, including 'The Whole-Brain Child,' 'No-Drama D...
Ep 162: Navigating the Complexities of Gender Identity and the potential dangers in transitioning children, with Buck Angel
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In this conversation, Buck Angel shares his experiences as a transgender male, discussing the complexities of gender dysphoria, particularly in children and adolescents. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about transgender issues and the critical role of mental health care in understanding and supporting individuals with gender dysphoria. He emphasizes the potential dangers of rushing into medical transitions, and the need for comprehensive support for both parents and children.
Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about ra...
Ep 161: Melatonin use in children: a cause for concern or a helpful supplement? with Pieter Cohen, MD
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In this episode, Jessica Hochman MD and Pieter Cohen MD discuss melatonin use in children! Dr Cohen recently authored a study on melatonin use in children, and the study revealed significant discrepancies in the labeling of melatonin supplements. They explore the safety concerns, regulatory issues, and the need for better quality control in the supplement industry.
Dr. Pieter Cohen, a graduate of Yale School of Medicine, is an associate professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and a practicing internist at Cambridge Health Alliance (Somerville, Massachusetts). His area of research is th...
Ep 160: How can understanding a child's brain help us parent better? With Dan Siegel MD
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Episode 160 (a continuation from last weeks episode) with Dr Dan Siegel explores how a child's brain is different from the adult brain, and how by understanding a child's brain, we may parent from a place of empathy.
Daniel J. Siegel received his medical degree from Harvard University and completed his postgraduate medical education at UCLA with training in pediatrics and child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. He served as a National Institute of Mental Health Research Fellow at UCLA, studying family interactions with an emphasis on how attachment experiences influence emotions, behavior, au...
Ep 159: The Science behind attachment relationships and Child Development! With Dan Siegel, MD
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Thank you to Dr Dan Siegel for joining Ask Dr Jessica! This will be a two part conversation, and in the first part Dan Siegel and Jessica discuss the intricacies of parenting and the neuroscience behind child development. They explore the importance of attachment, as attachment relationships are crucial for a child's emotional health. The discussion highlights the need for parents to understand their own reactions and the impact of their behavior on their children, ultimately offering hope and guidance for navigating the challenges of parenting.
Daniel J. Siegel received his m...
