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Fireworks can be magical—or totally overwhelming. Why do some kids love the Fourth of July while others dread it? Learn tips for helping kids who are sensitive to loud noises, or anxious around crowds. Get ideas for fun, low-stress alternatives to traditional fireworks. Create a Fourth of July that’s festive, safe, and kid-friendly for everyone in the family!

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Is your child’s weight something to be concerned about—or just a normal part of growing up? Pediatrician and registered dietitian Natalie Muth, MD joins me to talk about how doctors decide when a child’s weight needs attention. We explain why a shift in BMI percentile—not just a number on the scale—can grab our attention, and how puberty, sleep, and lifestyle all play a role. Plus, we share practical tips for supporting healthy habits at home without harming your child’s self-esteem.

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Explore the role of medication in treating anxiety and depression in kids and teens. When can it help—and how do you decide? Psychiatrist Julia Krankl, MD, returns to share guidance for parents on when to consider medication and what to expect if your child starts an SSRI or other treatment. If you’re feeling unsure or even nervous, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and insights on finding the right balance between therapy, lifestyle changes, and meds.

Guest Julia Krankl, MD - Read her ...

Does your child have anxiety—or are they just a little worried? Anxiety is a normal part of growing up, but sometimes it can interfere with daily life. Psychiatrist Julia Krankl, MD returns to share simple, effective tools parents can use to treat anxious thoughts at home. From progressive muscle relaxation to better sleep routines, learn to help your child feel calmer, more confident, and in control.

Read The 21st Minute: Everything you Wished Doctors Explained about Mental Health by Julia Kra...

Practical tips to help your family get the most out of summer camp and family vacations—without the stress! Whether you're sending your child to overnight camp or hitting the road together, you'll learn how to plan ahead and make it fun for everyone. Dr. Wendy talks about the benefits of camp and travel for kids’ growth, independence, and confidence. Summer is the perfect time to make memories and build stronger family bonds!

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What if the best tools for managing your child’s anxiety, sadness, or stress weren’t found at the pharmacy—but in your daily routine? Dr. Julia Krankl, a psychiatrist and author of The 21st Minute, shares the powerful and often overlooked role of lifestyle in treating mental health issues in children and teens. We explore why meditation works (yes, even for squirmy kids!), how to sneak mindfulness into a busy family schedule, and why movement and gratitude can be just as powerful as medication. ...

It’s not just you—seasonal allergies really are getting worse. In this episode, Dr. Wendy explains why allergy season is lasting longer, why more kids are affected, and what simple steps you can take at home to bring relief. Plus, the surprising ways allergies can affect your child.

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Think it’s all about diet and exercise? Think again. Explore the surprising lifestyle factors that play a powerful role in childhood obesity and healthy weight—like sleep and even friendship. Guest pediatrician Dr. Natalie Digate Muth shares what science says about how things like social connection and sleep routines affect your child’s metabolism and long-term health. Learn how small, simple changes in your family’s daily habits can make a big difference—no calorie counting required.

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Weight loss drugs are all over the news—and your social media feeds! But are they safe for teens? And when are they actually used? Pediatrician and registered dietitian Dr. Natalie Digate Muth explains how doctors are combining lifestyle changes with new medications to help adolescents manage their weight and avoid long-term health problems.

Learn more from Dr. Natalie Digate Muth

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Worried something might be wrong—but not sure what to do? Learn to recognize the signs of abuse in kids. If you ever feel uneasy about a situation, you don’t need proof to take action—just a gut feeling is enough. Learn how to report suspected abuse, when to speak up, and how your concern could make all the difference in keeping a child safe.

Resources:

Childhelp: 1-800-4-A-CHILD - 1-800-422-4453.

childhelphotline.org

rainn.org for sexual abuse support

Or stopitnow.org, which is a great sit...

How early should you start teaching your child about their body? Child abuse pediatrician Dr. Shalon Nienow, MD explains what’s normal when it comes to young children’s sexual behaviors—and how to respond when things feel awkward or surprising.

Hear tips for talking to kids about private parts, and what to do when they start exploring. We share simple ways to explain the concept of consent to toddlers, school-aged kids, and tweens. Plus, we’ll guide you to trusted resources that can help you ke...

With measles cases rising across the U.S., parents have new questions. In this re-release of last year’s episode discover why measles cases are making headlines. Learn how to recognize early symptoms of measles, how it spreads, and whether your child should get the MMR vaccine ahead of schedule. You'll hear a real story from a patient who had measles and expert advice about how to protect your family.

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F...

Few things make parents cringe like lice—except maybe pinworms. Dr. Wendy explains how kids catch lice, the most effective treatments, and whether you really need to deep-clean your entire house. She answers a listener’s question about whether it’s safe to bring a baby to high altitude during travel or on an airplane. From itchy scalps to squirmy questions, this episode is packed with practical tips and pediatrician-approved advice every parent should hear.

Order Reese’s Pinworm Medication for ...

Are you worried that your kids have too much freedom with their iPhone, tablet, or video games? It’s not too late to set new screen time rules for your family! Parenting coach Tyler Durman is back to share his expert advice on managing screen time, social media, and gaming. In this episode, you’ll learn how to help your kids handle the responsibility that comes with technology, create healthy boundaries, and find the right balance between privacy and freedom for your teens.

Tyler Durman can res...

Do your kids roll their eyes, ignore you, or act disrespectful? Don’t worry—it’s never too late to reset your relationship! In this episode, parenting expert Tyler Durman shares simple, effective strategies for handling tough moments with your kids. Discover how to respond when they push your buttons or shut down, and learn why saying “I’m sorry” can be a game-changer. Tyler shares what to say to rebuild trust and get back on the same page with your kids.

Tyler Durman can reset your relationshi...

Do you want to connect with your kids? Parenting expert Tyler Durman has spent years working with teens, uncovering what they actually need from parents—and it’s not constant friendship or unlimited freedom. In this episode, we dive into the secrets of raising confident, respectful teens. Learn how to set boundaries, foster trust, and create a strong, lasting relationship with your child.

Tyler Durman can reset your relationship with your teen at Hopeforparents.com

Read Counterintutive: What 4...

We're bringing back our most downloaded—and most debated—episode ever! You might think the most controversial parenting topic would be fevers, vaccines, or screen time… but nope! It’s Intuitive Eating. Get ready to revisit the conversation that had everyone talking!

Do you want to make mealtimes better for you and your kids? Are you tired of food battles? Discover “Intuitive eating” which isn't just about eating whatever you want, whenever you want. It’s about understanding how we eat – our ins...

Are vaccines safe? Can shots overwhelm a baby’s immune system? And what about creating your own immunization schedule? If you’ve asked these questions, you’re not alone—many parents feel hesitant about vaccines.

Vaccine hesitancy is fueled by myths, misinformation, and fear—not science. The truth is that vaccines are some of the most tested medical products in history. In this episode, we break down the most common vaccine worries and separate facts from fiction so you can make the best, most i...

Are vapes and nicotine pouches like Zyn safer than cigarettes? The tobacco industry has spent decades perfecting addiction, and now they’re targeting a new generation with sleek vape pens and smokeless nicotine. Dr. Wendy reveals how nicotine rewires young brains, increasing addiction risk and leading to lifelong problems. Learn the science behind nicotine addiction, the hidden dangers of vaping and Zyn, and how to protect your kids from Big Tobacco’s big tricks!

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Is your social media feed full of gut health advice? From food sensitivity testing to “leaky gut”, there's a lot of misinformation out there! Dr. Wendy busts the biggest gut health myths and shares real, science-backed tips for keeping your microbiome happy. Learn what actually helps (and what doesn’t) when it comes to cleanses, diets, probiotics, fermented foods, and keeping your gut and your kids’ gut healthy.

Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpodcast.com or submit at drwendyhu...

If your child isn’t sleeping well, you’re not alone! The good news? There are plenty of resources to help—from books and websites to online courses and certified sleep consultants. In this bonus episode, we’ll guide you through the best options so you can find the right sleep solution for your family.

Resources:

Consult a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant: The Good Night Nurse

Find a solution to your child’s sleep problem at babysleep.com

Read:

Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child

The Happ...

If your baby isn’t sleeping, you aren’t either! Even when kids do sleep, many parents still struggle with their own rest. What if understanding how sleep cycles work could help everyone in the family get better sleep? In this episode, Brittany Hefetz, NP —also known as the Good Night Nurse—shares tips for teaching babies to fall asleep, stay asleep longer, and even helps adults improve their rest. Plus, she reveals the secret to getting stubborn toddlers to sleep!

Let The Good Night Nurse help ...

How do you explain IVF and surrogacy to your child when you’re not sure yourself? In this episode, we’ll break it down in a simple, caring way to help your child understand the amazing ways families are created. We’ll also explore the ethical questions surrounding these technologies and how to answer your child’s big questions with honesty and warmth.

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*As a...

In Part 2 of our 100th episode special, we’re sharing 50 more expert-approved parenting tips to make family life easier, happier, and more connected. From strengthening family bonds and boosting creativity to managing screen time and social skills, these practical hacks will help you navigate parenting. Whether you’re raising toddlers, tweens, or teens, these tips will help you create a happy, balanced family life.

Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpodcast.com or submit at drwend...