Pediatrics Now for Parents

Journalist Benjamin Hall joins Pediatrics Now to recount his 2022 injury in Ukraine, the rescue and medical care that followed, and the vital role his family played in his recovery. He reflects on resilience, teamwork, and the strength people find in crisis.

Hall also discusses turning his experience into a children’s book about courage, truth, and standing up for others, and shares practical messages for families and communities about supporting loved ones through hardship.

Parents Lisa and Craig recount their son Ryan’s sudden, devastating onset of PANS—extreme OCD, emotional contamination, refusal to leave home, or even the couch.

Today we’re talking about PANS and PANDAS. These are conditions in which a child’s immune response to an infection—sometimes strep—can trigger sudden changes in behavior or psychiatric symptoms like anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, or tics. It’s uncommon, but when it happens the changes can be dramatic, which is why awareness among parents and pediatricians is important.

Immunologist Dr. Anthony Infante describes using targeted autoimmune testing (Cunningham pan...

Host Holly Wayment talks to Pediatric GI specialist Dr. Anandini Suri who explains that constipation in children is often behavioral, frequently starting with rushed toilet training. She recommends patient toilet training, proper toilet posture with a stool under the feet, limiting screen time during bathroom visits, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, adequate fluids, and regular outdoor activity.

For belly pain, try simple breathing exercises (for example, inhale 6 seconds, hold 3, exhale 8) and seek medical care if pain is severe, sudden, or accompanied by blood. See a pediatrician if your child has fewer than three to four soft...

In this episode Host Holly Wayment talks with pediatric oncologist Dr. Shafqat Shah explains why most lumps and bumps in children’s necks are caused by common infections and usually resolve with time and supportive care. She reviews where lymph nodes are located, typical symptoms, and home care tips.

Dr. Shah also covers warning signs that need prompt evaluation — persistent or growing nodes, hard or fixed lumps, supraclavicular locations, prolonged fevers, weight loss, or other systemic symptoms — and explains when to call your pediatrician or seek emergency care.

Dr. Sarah Marucci joins Pediatrics Host Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now for Parents to explain common gut symptoms, warning signs that need medical attention, and why everyday choices matter more than trendy supplements. They discuss diet, probiotics, fermented foods, H. pylori testing, and how gut health uniquely affects girls and women.

Practical takeaways: focus on fiber and varied foods, watch for bleeding or sudden weight loss, keep open conversations with kids about bowel habits, and seek care when symptoms persist.

Host Holly Wayment interviews Dr. Alice Gong where she explains explains newborn screening: a few drops of blood (done at 24–48 hours and again at 7–14 days in Texas) detect dozens of conditions early so babies who look well can get life-saving treatment.

The episode covers blood screening, hearing and critical congenital heart disease checks, common conditions like PKU, new treatments such as gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy, and the importance of timely follow-up with your pediatrician.

Host Holly Wayment speaks with pediatric infectious disease expert Dr. Deena Sutter about pertussis (whooping cough) and the approaching flu season. They explain how pertussis spreads, why maternal Tdap during pregnancy protects newborns, and when exposed family members should get antibiotics or seek care.

They also discuss signs of severe illness in infants, practical tips like nasal suctioning for young babies, and the importance of timely vaccinations—especially flu shots—to reduce severe cases and hospitalizations this season.

In this episode Holly Wayment interviews Dr. Ian Mitchell about common chest wall differences in children — pectus excavatum (sunken chest) and pectus carinatum (pigeon chest). They cover causes, family patterns, and when to seek care.

Dr. Mitchell explains non-surgical options like bracing and the vacuum bell, surgical repair with the Nuss procedure, typical recovery, activity limits, and the importance of listening to the child’s emotional needs.

Practical advice for parents on evaluation, timing of treatment, and how repairs can improve both physical function and self-confidence.

Join Host Holly Wayment and national feeding expert Dr. Cynthia Blanco,  where Dr. Blanco explains the FDA approval of goat milk infant formula, how it compares to cow's milk and human breast milk, and why breastfeeding remains the optimal nutrition for babies.

She urges parents to use only FDA-approved infant formulas (not whole milk), follow pediatric advice, be patient with common infant issues like reflux or colic, and ensure babies are thriving and gaining weight.

Learn how to recognize tics, when to see your pediatrician, and why most tics are harmless and treatable. Videotaping movements and getting the right diagnosis are key first steps.

Dr. Sheldon Gross explains common motor and vocal tics, their impact on a child’s well-being, and when referrals to specialists may help. The focus is on support, evaluation, and simple steps parents can take.

Host Holly Wayment interviews this highly experienced pediatric psychiatrist .  Dr. Boddapadi  explains that autism has no single cause — it’s multifactorial, involving strong genetic risks and environmental factors.  Vaccines have been ruled out as a cause, and  evidence  shows a very weak association with Tylenol.

The conversation emphasizes taking care of maternal health, discussing medications with clinicians, following evidence-based guidance, and the importance of early identification and support for children with autism. 

Its back! Host and Executive Producer Holly Wayment interviews Jacklynn Ware of Project YES, a free, evidence-based online mental health resource for teens with short, anonymous modules that cover mood, anxiety, body image, safety planning, and more.  Its back, better than ever, right when teens need it more that ever.  And that includes the option of watching a video of the "World's Most Adorable Porcupine" chomp on a pumpkin.

Accessible on phones, tablets, and computers, it includes crisis check-ins for warning signs and creates action plans at the end of modules. Designed for teens but helpful for pa...

Join Host Holly Wayment and UT Health San Antonio and University Health's Infectious disease specialist Dr. Deena Sutter.   They discuss recent Chikungunya outbreaks, how mosquito-borne viruses (chikungunya, dengue, Zika) spread, and who is most at risk. Dr. Sutter explains symptoms—especially Chikungunya’s debilitating joint pain—and severe outcomes for newborns and the elderly.

Dr. Sutter reviews practical prevention: remove standing water, use EPA‑approved repellents (DEET or picaridin) appropriately, wear long sleeves when needed, keep screens and air conditioning, and maintain flea prevention for pets to avoid flea‑borne typhus. She also advises when to see a doctor for...

Join Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now as she delves into the transformative power of self-compassion with expert Dr. Karen Bluth. Discover how self-compassion can help teens combat anxiety, depression, and stress, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Dr. Bluth shares insights from her extensive experience, and practical tools for parents and educators to support teens, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness. This episode highlights resources available for those looking to explore self-compassion further, making it a vital listen for anyone involved in teen development.

Join Holly Wayment and Dr. Ted Wu on Pediatrics Now for Parents as they delve into the critical topic of sepsis, a potential risk for children following viral infections. Dr. Wu, a seasoned pediatrician and father, who works in the pediatric ICU, discusses the progression of this serious condition and its symptoms, often resembling the flu or a cold. He emphasizes the importance of early detection, citing signs like altered mental status, decreased urine output, and prolonged fever.

The episode highlights the balance between appropriate antibiotic use and prevention strategies, advocating for vaccinations to significantly reduce bacterial...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment delves into the critical topic of sepsis with Dr. Ted Wu, a pediatric critical care physician and father of two. Dr. Wu shares his insights from the front lines of the pediatric intensive care unit, discussing how sepsis can develop from common viral and bacterial infections in children.

Listeners will learn about the early warning signs of sepsis, such as altered mental status, decreased urine output, and prolonged fever. Dr. Wu emphasizes the importance of being vigilant, advocating for your child, and maintaining open communication with...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Ted Wu, a seasoned pediatric critical care physician, to discuss crucial topics surrounding child safety and health. With nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Wu shares insights on the importance of prevention, particularly in avoiding accidental injuries in children.

The conversation delves into water safety, highlighting the significant risks associated with drowning, and emphasizes the need for vigilant supervision around pools and bodies of water. Dr. Wu underscores the role of preventive measures, like wearing life jackets, in safeguarding children.

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In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment explores essential vaccine insights with infectious disease expert, Dr. J.B. Cantye, who is also a father of three. Discover updated COVID-19 and flu vaccination recommendations for children, understand the significance of the three-dose COVID vaccine regimen, and learn why both flu and COVID vaccines should be prioritized for your kids' health. Dr. Cantey shares the science behind vaccines, the benefits of cross-vaccine strategies, and how these preventive measures can boost lifetime immunity. Tune in for a concise yet informative discussion aimed at equipping parents with the knowledge...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, hosted by Holly Wayment and the Department of Pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio and University Health, we discuss the pressing topic of measles, which is on the minds of many parents. Joining the discussion is Dr. Jason Bowling a leading expert in infectious diseases with 15 years of experience, who provides a deep dive into the current measles outbreak. 

Bowling and Wayment explore the severe neurological condition SSPE that can develop years after measles recovery, the risks of pneumonia in children post-measles infection, and the importance of maintaining a h...

Part Two
Join Holly in this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents as she delves into the transformative practice of motivational interviewing with expert Dr. David Roberts. Discover how this unique approach can aid parents in effectively communicating with their children, addressing common parenting struggles, and nurturing intrinsic motivation in kids. Whether it's breaking down resistance or guiding adolescents towards healthier choices, motivational interviewing offers practical tools for parenting success. Tune in to learn strategies that not only support your child's growth and wellness but also foster a compassionate and respectful family environment.

Join Holly and Dr. David Roberts, a tenured associate professor of psychiatry at UT Health, as they dive into the transformative approach of motivational interviewing or M. I.

Discover how this technique empowers parents to help their children to make positive health choices by reflecting.  Whether it’s helping children with dietary challenges or adolescents navigating chronic conditions, motivational interviewing offers a unique way to foster meaningful communication. Dr. Roberts shares insights from 20 years of experience, shedding light on how anyone can harness these skills to facilitate lasting change. This is part one on motivational interviewing. In par...

Balancing Fatherhood and Leadership: Insights from Paypal and Venmo's Head of Customer Service

Join mother and host Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now for Parents as she talks with Matthew Anderson, a father of five and Vice President of Customer Service for PayPal and Venmo. Anderson shares his personal experiences and offers valuable advice on navigating the overwhelming world of medical information, stressing the importance of partnering with healthcare professionals. He also discusses practical tips like maintaining a laminated medical history for efficiency during doctor visits. Anderson's inspiring mantra, "Come what may and love it," encourages embracing life's...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment sits down with Dr. Emily Becker, a triple board-certified pediatric dermatologist and mother of four, to delve into the multifaceted world of acne. They explore the prevalence of acne beyond the teenage years, touching upon its occurrence in infants and adults. From understanding the hormonal influences to navigating common myths, Dr. Becker provides practical advice on how to manage acne across different age groups. The discussion examines the importance of early intervention, highlights various treatment options, and emphasizes the psychological impact of acne on children and teenagers. Tune...

Join Holly Wayment and pediatric dermatologist Dr. Emily Becker as they offer practical tips for parents. Learn about the different types of sunscreens available, the best ways to ensure children use them, and the significance of protective clothing. Dr. Becker also addresses common myths surrounding sun protection and provides valuable insights into effective skincare routines for kids and teens. Discover how to keep your family safe under the sun this spring and summer with expert advice from a mother of four and a leading dermatologist.

Join host Holly Wayment on "Pediatrics Now" as she welcomes back Dr. Ed Brooks.  In this episode, they dive deep into the world of pollen allergies, focusing on the predominant tree pollen season impacting many, especially in San Antonio. Dr. Brooks shares helpful tips on managing allergies, from practical advice like wearing a mask and rinsing eyes to using nasal steroids effectively. They also explore emerging allergy treatments such as sublingual immunotherapy. Additionally, the discussion expands on the hygiene hypothesis and the balance between maintaining cleanliness and exposure to germs. Discover insightful information aimed at helping you and your l...

In this insightful episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Ginnie Abarbanell, the head of the pediatric cardiology at UT Health SA and University Health, to discuss crucial aspects of children's heart health. Dr. Abarbanell emphasizes the significance of February as Heart Month and the often-overlooked importance of monitoring children's heart health alongside adults'.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how early food choices and physical activities can influence lifelong habits. Dr. Abarbanell shares practical tips for encouraging children to enjoy fruits and vegetables, become physically active, and develop lasting healthy...

Join us in this episode of Pediatrics Now as we dive into the impactful world of pediatric plastic surgery with Dr. Richard Thomson, an esteemed surgeon from UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Thomson shares insights into the profound effects of plastic surgery on children's lives, highlighting transformative procedures for prominent ears and cleft palates that greatly enhance a child's quality of life.

Discover Dr. Thomson's remarkable journey from the UK to Texas, and his passion for building a child-led approach in his practice. Alongside anecdotes from his personal and professional life, including his experiences with outdoor swimming...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. J.B. Cantey from University Health and UT San Antonio to discuss the challenges of this year's aggressive flu season. Dr. Cantey, the first double-boarded doctor in neonatology and infectious disease, provides insights into the circulation of two strains of influenza A and the potential risks posed by H5N1, the bird flu.

The discussion covers the importance of flu vaccinations, the efficacy of Tamiflu, and key symptoms to monitor in children and vulnerable populations. Dr. Cantey emphasizes the need for preventive measures such...

Join Pediatrics Now host Holly Wayment as she delves into this year’s fierce flu season with Dr. J.B. Cantey, the expert from University Health and UT San Antonio. Discover why this season is particularly tough with two flu A strains plus bird flu. Dr. Cantey provides insights into the mutation potential of influenza, the concerns surrounding the possible rise of H5N1, or bird flu, and practical advice on preventing the flu with tips on hygiene and vaccinations.

Learn about the challenges healthcare providers face in diagnosing flu strains, the efficacy and considerations of Tamiflu, an...

This episode of Pediatrics Now features Dr. Marisa Earley from University Health and UT Health San Antonio. Join host Holly Wayment as they delve into kid ear health and the challenges children face. Dr. Earley explains how the structural immaturity of the eustachian tube in children can lead to frequent ear infections and shares practical advice for parents on how to manage and recognize symptoms.

Listeners will discover useful tools such as affordable phone otoscopes that help parents monitor their kids' ear health effectively. The conversation also covers the importance of proper ear hygiene, the pros and...

Host Holly Wayment explores the challenges and solutions during the peak of respiratory virus season. Joining Holly is Dr. Tess Barton, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Texas at San Antonio who sheds light on the wave respiratory illnesses.

With a deep dive into the seasonal trends, Dr. Barton explains the implications of RSV, flu, and COVID-19, providing parents with crucial information on identification and prevention.

Dr. Barton shares her expertise on the use of antivirals for influenza and COVID, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and vaccination to prevent severity and...

Welcome to this episode of Pediatrics Now, hosted by UT Health's Holly Wayment, where we explore the challenges and solutions during the peak of respiratory virus season. Joining Holly is Dr. Tess Barton, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Texas at San Antonio who sheds light on the wave respiratory illnesses.

With a deep dive into the seasonal trends, Dr. Barton explains the implications of RSV, flu, and COVID-19, providing parents with crucial information on identification and prevention.

Dr. Barton shares her expertise on the use of antivirals for influenza and COVID...

Join host and executive producer Holly Wayment and Dr. Marisa Earley, head of pediatric ENT at UT Health San Antonio and University Health, as they delve into the pediatric ear infections, eustachian tube dysfunction, and respiratory health, with a focus on the prevention.  Also, does your child really need that antibiotic?  

The discussion also covers practical tips for parents on managing common conditions like eustachian tube dysfunction using home remedies such as saline nasal rinses and when to opt for medical interventions. Learn why proper management of ear health is crucial for children,  and the natural course of m...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, Host and Executive Producer Holly Wayment talks to Dr. Jessica Sandoval, child psychiatrist at UT Health San Antonio.  They explore the challenging topic of depression in youth. Dr. Sandoval shares invaluable insights into recognizing depressive episodes, understanding their symptoms, and the importance of listening as a crucial intervention.

Dr. Sandoval emphasizes the need for safety plans, outlining coping skills, and ensuring that affected youths have a reliable support network. She sheds light on common misconceptions about depression, especially in minors, and highlights how various factors, including social isolation and structural issues, c...

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Tess Barton, an infectious disease expert at the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Health. They delve into the topic of atypical pneumonia, commonly known as walking pneumonia, and discuss the recent surge in mycoplasma pneumonia cases both locally and nationally.

Dr. Barton explains the clinical presentation of atypical pneumonia, including symptoms such as fever, cough, and wheezing, and differentiates it from other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV. She highlights the importance of increased awareness among pediatricians and parents, and the...

In this episode of "Pediatrics Now for Parents," host Holly Wayment dives into the complexities of the teenage brain with expert Dr. David Yeager, a professor at UT Austin. Known for his extensive research and his book, "10 to 25, The Science of Motivating Young People," Dr. Yeager shares transformative insights that can help parents navigate the challenges of raising teenagers.

Join the discussion as Dr. Yeager explores the similarities in motivation drivers across ages 10 to 25 and offers practical advice for addressing common teenage habits, such as excessive phone use and social media engagement. Discover how understanding the social...

Join Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now as she interviews Dr. David Yeager, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and author of the book 10 to 25, The Science of Motivating Young People. In this insightful episode, they delve into the rising anxiety levels among young people, exploring its roots in economic and social changes since the Great Recession.

Dr. Yeager challenges common assumptions about technology's role in youth anxiety and emphasizes the importance of understanding young people's social motivations. He shares practical strategies for parents and educators, highlighting the mentor mindset—a balance of high standards an...

Join host Holly Wayment in this insightful episode of Pediatrics Now, where Dr. Tess Barton shares her recent experiences at the annual Barbie convention and the bout with COVID that followed. 

This episode features a conversation with Dr. Barton, an expert in infectious diseases from the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Health. Dr. Barton discusses the importance of staying vigilant with COVID precautions, including the updated guidelines and the importance of vaccines. She shares her personal experiences and professional insights on managing COVID and flu risks, emphasizing the need for early vaccinations as respiratory v...

Welcome to Pediatrics Now, hosted by Holly Wayment from UT Health San Antonio's Department of Pediatrics. This episode, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and University Health's new Women's and Children's Hospital, features an in-depth discussion on school refusal with Dr. Thomas Matthews, a seasoned pediatric psychiatrist and medical director of Clarity Outpatient Psychiatry.

Dr. Matthews delves into the different learning styles of children and how mismatched learning environments can trigger anxiety. The episode also explores the emotional and behavioral well-being of children, emphasizing...

Welcome to Pediatrics Now, hosted by Holly Wayment from UT Health San Antonio's Department of Pediatrics. In this episode, we delve into the topic of school refusal with Dr. Thomas Matthews, a seasoned pediatric psychiatrist and medical director of Clarity Outpatient Psychiatry.

Dr. Matthews shares valuable insights into the different learning styles of children, the impact of social interaction on anxiety, and the importance of emotional and behavioral wellbeing. He emphasizes the significance of identifying the underlying causes of school refusal, ranging from bullying and anxiety to family dynamics and media stressors.

Through real-life examples...