Young & Healthy

Toddler Spells vs. Seizures: What’s Normal and When to Worry

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. 

Navigating Kids' Routines: Tips for Caregivers

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! 
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Separation Anxiety in Kids

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. 
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Scared, but Strong: Understanding Fear

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 in our Community and Measles in Texas

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. 
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