Young & Healthy

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. 
Resources:
Utilize the Cincinnati Children's app
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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