Young & Healthy

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how families can approach conversations about consent during adolescence, reinforcing that consent is ongoing, can be withdrawn at any time and applies in many everyday situations.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 practical guidance on helping children identify trusted adults and confidently communicate their boundaries — from playtime to physical affection and beyond.  Ashley also dives into the complexities of teen relationships, including situations in which consent cannot be given. She explains consent laws within the tri-state area, equipping parents and caregivers with the knowledge they need if deeper conversations arise.  This episode provides tools to help kids stay safe and feel empowered. Be sure to tune in and share it with your friends and family.  Full Transcript and Show Notes Here: Consent and Communication: Building Healthy Relationships - Cincinnati Children's Blog Resources:  For more information from the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Cincinnati Children’s, visit Research | Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children  For resources on healthy dating relationships, visit Healthy relationships for young adults | love is respect  Listen to Empowered Kids: A Guide to Boundaries | Young & Healthy and dive deeper into what boundaries for younger kids look like  Check out amazon or other book distributors to find resources like Only for Me  

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 Emily explain what the Hoxworth Blood Center is and how our partnership directly impacts patients. They also walk through what blood donation really entails, what the term “blood products” means and how much blood Cincinnati Children’s uses on an average day. In addition, they dive into the importance of different blood types and share practical tips on ways families can support blood donation efforts if they feel nervous about giving blood or aren’t able to donate themselves.   This episode is filled with clear, helpful information about how blood donation works, why it matters and how each of us can take part in helping save lives.  Full Transcript and Show Notes: Blood Donation Doesn’t Have to Be Scary: Tips for Families - Cincinnati Children's Blog Resources   Hoxworth.org  

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 cause of bronchiolitis and what treatment looks like.   As many as 90% of babies will get bronchiolitis by the time they’re 2, so it is important to know the early signs to watch for, and the best way to observe your baby’s breathing at home. You’ll hear practical, realistic guidance like why “suctioning, feeding, and love” are often the most effective treatments at home and which symptoms are reassuring versus concerning.    Whether your baby is currently sick or you’re preparing for respiratory illness season, this is an episode you won't want to miss out on.  To read more about bronchiolitis, check out: Bronchiolitis: A Parent’s Guide to One of the Most Common Winter Illnesses 

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 parents, including clever tricks like crafting “monster spray,” and knowing when to talk about a nightmare with your child. She also shares guidance on when you should consult a pediatrician or a specialist, and what parents should avoid doing during these sleep disturbances. This episode is packed with lots of practical tips and advice to help keep the spooky scaries at bay.  

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 to use at different ages, training toothpaste and what to do if you suspect fluoride toxicity. Plus, we touch on the ideal age for kids to start brushing their own teeth.  Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious about pediatric dental health, this episode gets down to the tooth truth and helps ease concerns with expert-backed guidance.  Resources:  https://www.aapd.org/  

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 will learn how to keep their kids safe in online gaming and make sure that their children are connecting instead of isolating themselves. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or gamer, this episode offers practical insights on screen time, healthy gaming habits, and childhood growth. Power up, grab a seat and dive in for an insightful conversation.  Resources:  To learn more about Child Life at Cincinnati Children’s, visit Child Life | Child and Adolescent Psychiatry  To learn more about game ratings, visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website ESRB Ratings | Entertainment Software Rating Board  For other media and entertainment information to keep your family up to date on all things media, visit the following websites:  Common Sense Media: Age-Based Media Reviews for Families | Common Sense Media  TechCrunch | Startup and Technology News  WIRED - The Latest in Technology, Science, Culture and Business | WIRED  Chapter Markers:  00:00:53 – What is a Child Life Specialist?  00:02:31 – Is There a Difference Between Scrolling and Playing Games?  00:05:21 – In What Ways Do Electronics and Games Support Childhood Development?  00:07:25 – How Can Skills Learned from Games Apply to Life?  00:11:37 – Do Video Games Negatively Impact Childhood Development?  00:13:22 – Are There Signs Screen Time Is Affecting Your Child?  00:17:15 – How Can Parents Decide if a Game Is Appropriate for Their Child?  00:22:10 – How Can Parents Keep Kids Safe in Online Games?  00:26:48 – How Can Families Make Games Feel Connecting, Not Isolating?  00:28:15 – Final Thoughts and Wrap Up. 

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 explain everything families need to know about newborn screenings—from what to expect to how results are interpreted. Families will learn what to expect after an abnormal newborn screen, understand the possibility of false positives, and discover how to access support if a diagnosis is confirmed following screening. Don’t miss this insightful episode full of important guidance for new parents.  Chapter Markers: 00:00:57 – What Is Newborn Screening and How Is It Done?  00:02:48 – What Conditions Does Newborn Screening Detect?  00:04:11 – How Is Newborn Screening Handled for Home Births?  00:05:04 – Can Newborn Screening Be Done Too Late?  00:05:45 – What Should Parents Expect After an Abnormal Newborn Screen?  00:08:46 – Can Families opt Out of Newborn Screening?  00:10:07 – Do False Positives Happen in Newborn Screening?  00:11:06 – How Are Families Supported After a Flagged Newborn Screen?  00:14:15 – What Do Follow-Up Tests Look Like for Newborn Screening?  00:15:29 – What Does Guidance Post Diagnosis Look Like?  00:19:59 – What Support and Resources Are Available for Families?  00:22:54 – Final Thoughts and Wrap Up. 

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 kids to run off and offer guidance on teaching kids different safety strategies such as identifying safe places, asking for help if lost and communicating basic personal information to help them stay safe.  Dr. Anixt and Dr. Smith also give advice to families and the community on what to do if you notice a child has run off, including first steps and how to approach and support them in a calm way. We discuss how families can collaborate with schools to create safety plans to ensure their child's needs are met. They also offer advice for families who are just beginning to navigate these safety concerns.   This episode is filled with practical insights and heartfelt reminders that keeping all kids safe, especially those who may be more vulnerable, is a shared responsibility. With awareness, preparation, and resources, we can build safer communities for all kids.     Resources:  Big Red Safety Box® by the National Autism Association    Outreach and Community Education 

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 supplies in your family home for easy access. We also talk about fire safety, including checking  fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are up to date. You’ll also learn how to create a simple starter checklist to prepare for natural disasters.   This episode is packed with hospital recommended safety tips and small steps your family can take to make your home safer. Tune in to learn how a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your loved ones safe.  Resources mentioned in episode:  https://www.ready.gov/   Other Resources:  Emergency and Disaster Planning | Ongoing Support Resources  Disaster Preparedness Resources for Families   https://www.fema.gov/  For emergency kits and learn more about the Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/store/training-supplies 

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. Listeners will learn when it’s time to visit urgent care or the emergency room, and what treatment to expect. Plus, Bo and Dr. Nasr share practical tips to help prevent kids swallowing things they shouldn’t—and why it can be more common during the holidays.  So, grab your headphones (wired ones, if you can) and tune in to this vital conversation to help keep your family safe and healthy.  Resources:  To learn more about the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC) at Cincinnati Children’s, visit https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/service/d/dpic    For free, confidential assistance 24/7/365, please call 1-800-222-1222 to speak with an expert at Ohio Poison Centers.   

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 diversification and why it’s good for kids to play multiple sports throughout the year instead of focusing on just one.  This episode also introduces families to the world of adaptive sports. Dr. Shapiro is passionate about adaptive sports and highlights programs like Be.Well and The Bridge Adaptive Program, which make movement accessible and empowering for all children.  Whether you're a parent, coach, or caregiver, this episode is packed with insights to help young athletes grow strong, stay healthy and keep doing what they love. Listen now.  More Resources for Families:  Learn more about be.Well Wellness Programs and the power of movement in our episode:  The Power of Movement: Pediatric PT and the Magic of Be.Well  For more information on be.well: Wellness Programs    Explore The Bridge Adaptive Program:https://www.thebridgeadaptive.org/ 

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 explains what styes are and why they tend to pop up more in the warmer months. She shares practical advice on protecting young eyes from the sun, signs of poor vision to watch for and when it might be time to schedule an eye screening,   Taking care of your eyes is an essential part of living young and healthy. So put on your shades, grab your headphones and tune in for this warm, fun, and knowledge-filled conversation. 

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 why it's okay—and encouraged—to bring up firearm safety with your pediatrician.  Whether you own firearms or your child may be around them in other homes, this episode offers guidance on how we can advocate for our kids and protect them from firearms.  

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 minutes a day can ease anxiety, boost focus, and support overall well-being. Plus, Nancy and Frankie share real-life stories, practical tips and creative ways to bring calm and connection into pediatric care through yoga. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about helping kids find strength and peace, one breath at a time. 

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 gems perfect for families.   Linsey has all the best recommendations for fun spots and activities that are great for kids of all ages. Whether you have a baby, toddler, school-aged kids or teens, there are ideas in this episode for you! We talk about parks, museums, playgrounds, libraries and Linsey’s best tips for how to spend a few hours exploring.  Local families and those visiting for a few days will all discover something new to do for the summer. Listen today.  More resources from Linsey are available at Tour de Cincinnati and you can follow her on Instagram @linsinnati.   Places mentioned in this episode:  Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library  Discovery Pass through Cincinnati Public Library  Cincinnati Art Museum  American Sign Museum  Creeking in Cincinnati  Parks Mentioned:  Great Parks of Hamilton County  Devou Park  Winton Woods  LaBoiteaux Woods Nature Center  Caldwell Nature Center  Playgrounds Mentioned:  West Fork Park  Kingswood Park  Home of the Brave Park 

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 spells— what they look like, and what to do in the moment. We also cover how to tell a spell from a seizure, including signs and symptoms of seizures and what you should and shouldn’t do if your child is having a seizure. 

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-establishing routines after vacations or big changes, preparing for summer, and even discusses whether routines can ever become too strict.  No matter what your podcast routine looks like, tune in and discover how to keep growing, adjusting, and moving forward!  Resources Follow Young & Healthy on Instagram to stay up to date! 

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 always easy, and in the tough moments, grace can feel out of reach. So, grab your headphones, hug your little one, and learn how to navigate the art of letting go.  Resources:   Follow the Young & Healthy podcast on Instagram. 

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 and some common ways it can show up in a child’s body. They also share how positive self-talk can impact a child, strategies parents can use to help navigate fear, when to seek professional help and more.   Don’t miss this insightful conversation that is packed with practical tips to help kids feel secure during times of fear. 

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 rising measles cases across the country, sharing key symptoms, and how parents can protect their children. Put on your headphones, wash your hands, and tune in for this timely and informative conversation.  Resources: Utilize the Cincinnati Children's app Follow the podcast on Instagram