Young & Healthy

Empowered Kids: A Guide to Boundaries

Conversations that protect you and your kids are important. On the latest episode of Young & Healthy, host Bo McMillian sits down with social worker Ashley Cremeans to dive into the importance of teaching kids about boundaries from an early age. The team explores how setting clear boundaries—like allowing kids to say no to hugs or respecting privacy during dressing and bathing when age-appropriate—helps build confidence and independence. 
We’ll also discuss how boundaries evolve over time, why respecting others' boundaries is just as important as setting your own, and how cultural and family norms play a role. Plus, we’ll share practical tips to help kids recognize that privacy is both earned and deserved, guide parents in handling boundary-crossing conversations, set social media limits, and more. 
Don’t miss this insightful conversation on raising self-aware, empowered kids! Be sure to share this episode with fellow parents and caregivers and follow Young & Healthy for more expert advice to support your child’s development. 
Resources: 
To learn more about the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children, click here.
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Infant Series: Nurturing Language Development

From first coos to their first words, the newest episode of Young & Healthy is all about nurturing your baby's language skills in the first year of life. Join us as we sit down with Speech-Language Pathologist, Marsha Lee Watson, to learn more on how babies communicate and how parents can create a language-rich environment. We also explore the role siblings play in language development, first-year milestones to watch for along the way, valuable resources to support your baby's growth, and more! 
You won’t want to miss these practical tips to support your baby’s journey into the wonderful world of language. Be sure to share this episode with fellow parents and caregivers and follow Young & Healthy for more expert advice to help your little one thrive! 
Resources: 
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association 

Inch by Inch: Growth Spurts in Kids

Ever wonder why your kiddo outgrows clothes overnight or seems endlessly hungry? They might be going through a growth spurt! In the season five kickoff of Young & Healthy, pediatricians Dr. Mary Carol Burkhardt and Dr. Nick DeBlasio join host Kate Setter to dive into the fascinating world of growth spurts. They’ll break down what’s happening during these phases, patterns parents might notice, and how long growth spurts typically last. The conversation also touches on the difference between growing pains and growth spurts, plus when it might be time to consult a pediatrician. Don’t miss this episode filled with practical tips to keep your kiddos growing strong, inch by inch! 

Season 4 Finale and Favorite Episodes

As we turn off the mics and close out season 4 of Young & Healthy, the whole team gathers for a special episode to reflect on an incredible year. We’re sharing our favorite episodes and answering some fun fall-themed questions so you can get to know us and the podcast a little better! 
This season, we’ve covered it all from bedwetting to sunscreen for kids. Whether you’re a first-time parent navigating parenthood or a seasoned pro, we hope after listening that you feel informed, empowered and heard. 
Season 5 kicks off in January, and there’s plenty more in store. Until then, take a trip through our past seasons and don’t forget to follow the show and leave us a review! 
Kayla’s Favorite Episode- Bedwetting: Practical Advice for Families  
Nanette’s favorite episode-Eye Care Essentials for Kids  
Bo’s favorite episode- Snooze, Don’t Lose: Create healthy Sleep Habits Early  
Symfhani’s favorite episode-Sunscreen Explained: Tips for Parents  
Kate’s favorite episode-Sip or Skip? The Truth about Trendy Drinks 

Balancing the Load: Kids and Stress

Kids today juggle a lot—playing sports, homework, studying for exams, and sometimes caring for siblings. Not to mention their regular school responsibilities. While it is great to see them involved, the heavy load can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to stress.  
In this episode, Kate Setter chats with Dr. Brian Kurtz, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Dr. Melissa Young, a pediatric psychologist, about how kids can better balance their responsibilities. They explore the most common stressors affecting young people, physical symptoms of stress, and strategies to help them create balance in their life. They also talk about the role parents play in unintentionally contributing to their child’s stress and how parents can start the conversation to help their kids. Tune in to this insightful episode, filled with helpful advice for managing it all.