Ask Doctor Amy

Should I give my baby the new RSV vaccine?

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 16:32:20 +0000

An FDA panel just voted to approve the new RSV vaccine for babies and vulnerable toddlers. Dr. Amy gives her take on this potential new vaccine, the risks/benefits, and how we can approach making the decision.

In this episode you will hear:

Why is RSV a big deal, and how many kids get very sick from it?
What is the new vaccine, and will it be available?
What makes kids at high risk for RSV?
Is this RSV vaccine really necessary?

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit Ask Doctor Amy and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Disclaimer: This show is for information and discussion purposes, not for medical advice and should never replace instructions from your own physician.

Kailee Noland - Baby "Container "syndrome": how to avoid, how to correct, how to encourage healthy development

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Kailee Noland DPT, Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 23 May 2023 11:58:39 +0000

Dr. Amy chats with pediatric physical therapist Kailee Noland all about Container Syndrome - a scary term that leads to many misunderstandings. In this episode you will hear:

What is container syndrome?
How to avoid container syndrome
Does this mean all baby containers are bad? Which ones are the worst?
How to encourage free play and normal development
The 2:1 rule
How to speak to nannies and day cares about avoiding container syndrome

To find out more about the best and most practical advice for parents who want to encourage healthy development in their little ones, check out Kailee's resources:
Instagram: @themovementmama
Website: https://themovementmamablog.com/
Blog about container syndrome: https://themovementmamablog.com/post/crushing-container-syndrome?rq=container
Container free solutions: https://themovementmamablog.com/post/my-all-time-favorite-container-free-solutions?rq=container
More courses from Kailee: https://themovementmamablog.com/explore-the-courses

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit Ask Doctor Amy and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Lyme disease in kids: What to know to stay safe this summer

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 2 May 2023 13:24:12 +0000

With warmer weather, it's time to talk about tic awareness and lyme disease prevention. Dr. Amy shares her own experience, and talks through the steps to stay safe this summer.

In this episode you will hear:

What is lyme disease?
What to do if you find a tic on your child
When do we give prophylactic treatment with antibiotics?
What symptoms to look for if your child had a tic bite

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit Ask Doctor Amy and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Our lead scare, and how you can prevent lead poisoning in your child

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 15:17:38 +0000

Dr. Amy shares the scary experience of lead exposure in her own son, and talks about how an urban family can make sure to protect themselves against lead poisoning in children.

In this episode you will hear:

Is there an acceptable lead level?
How do you know if a child has been exposed to lead?
Most common symptom of lead exposure
What if you live in an old house that has already been "de-leaded?"

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit Ask Doctor Amy and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

3 things to know about treating a child's fever

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 4 Apr 2023 14:44:28 +0000

Dr. Amy discusses 3 things for parents to keep in mind when treating a child's fever, including the most common reason kids end up in the emergency room unnecessarily!

KidDose - the app that lets you always know your child's correct medication dose.
iPhone download: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kiddose/id6446280175
Android Download: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kiddoseapp

In this episode you will hear:

Is there a temperature at which you should always worry about the fever?
Why do we treat fever?
How do we know when we need to treat a fever?
How to accurately dose medication for fever

*Please note any information from this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not to be taken as medical advice. Podcast information and KidDose guidelines should NEVER replace your physician's advice. Please check with your physician before giving ANY medications to a child.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Dr. David Bjorklund: Saving our kids' mental health through play and independence

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (David Bjorklund PhD, Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Amy chats with Dr. David Bjorklund, professor of developmental psychology and senior author of a groundbreaking study in the Journal of Pediatrics that links the mental health crisis in young children today to a decades-long trend in diminishing independence during childhood. While many elements of an independent and roaming childhood of our ancestors might not be possible today, this conversation focuses on actionable tips that could help parents prioritize the important elements that are crucial to a strong and health mental foundation for kids.

In this episode you will hear:

How could the mental health crisis be linked to the trends of decreasing independence for children
What is true "play," why it's important for kids, and how to protect it
Do we truly live in a more dangerous society today? How do we still protect our children's safety while prioritizing autonomy?
Psychological importance of being a contributing member of a community
How to be intentional about unstructured time

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For bite sized monthly health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit https://askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Why does my child have a cough that won't go away?

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 15:21:50 +0000

Answering a question submitted by a listener, Dr. Amy breaks down the common causes for a chronic cough in childhood.

In this episode you will hear:

The most common causes of chronic cough
What happens after RSV?
Signs that a cough might be more than a viral illness
Diagnosis and treatment

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Melissa Fairhurst: A safe space for the mental journey of motherhood

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Melissa Fairhust LPC, Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 7 Mar 2023 14:27:29 +0000

Recent tragedies in the news have put maternal mental health on our minds. What has the story of Lindsay Clancy taught us, and what are some practical ways to actually make a difference for moms hopefully before the breaking point? Dr. Amy chats with Melissa Fairhust, a therapist and mom of 3 who specializes in perinatal mental health and is paving the way for accessible, inclusive help for moms through the entire journey of motherhood.

Find Melissa and learn more about her work on Instagram here.
You can also reach Melissa directly at mfairhurstlpc@gmail.com.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Feb 2023 Q&A: Is my 15 month old too big? My kid on social media; Croup and asthma in kids

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Dr. Amy answers all your questions, rapid fire style.

In this episode you will hear:

What to do when pediatrician says 15 month old is too big
Why Dr. Amy doesn't post photos of her child online
What is croup anyway?
My 1 year old has asthma, now what?

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

How to save our children's brains and happiness from TikTok

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:57:51 +0000

Unchecked social media use is dangerous for our brains, and especially the young developing brains of children. Dr. Amy breaks down the biological and psychological harms of the social media world with a few calls to action for parents to prevent the addiction.

In this episode you will hear:

Why social media use is especially dangerous for young peole
The biological and psychological harms of being addicted to easy dopamine hits
What parents can do to prevent this addiction

Original article discussed in the episode: https://tinyurl.com/yn6yzbk3

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

New Parent Survival Guide: 6 things to think about before birth

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 16:32:08 +0000

Being a brand new parent can feel like a catch-22, you don't know what you don't know. In this episode, Dr. Amy gives her advice (as a pediatrician and a mom) about 6 things to think about and prepare for BEFORE giving birth.

In this episode you will hear:

Feeding plans and how to plan for unexpected tweaks
Setting boundaries postpartum
Unconventional things to buy, that only a pediatrician would suggest!
How to protect your own recovery to support your baby's wellbeing.

Other resources mentioned:

Video about formula choice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJYDI8GcRrU
Video about diapers and diaper rashes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCHtI2CI--c

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

How your pediatrician thinks about your child's fever

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 7 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Ever get confused by your pediatrician's reaction to your child having a fever? Get inside your pediatrician's brain with Dr. Amy and learn how they approach the topic.

In this episode you will hear:

What counts as a "true fever" and why do pediatricians care?
Which 3 pieces of key information you need to tell your pediatrician when your child has a fever
Red flag signs that make a pediatrician nervous about a child's fever
Why most pediatricians think the fever is "just viral" and what that means

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and she's here to answer your questions.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Ask Doctor Amy Jan 2023: Diarrhea, Night potty training, Peanuts around newborns

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the monthly Ask Doctor Amy Q&A! This month, we talk about diarrhea in a 6 month old, night potty training, and whether it's safe to have peanuts around newborns!

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Caley @Learnwithchatterboxes: Speech & Language Mom - How to relax about milestones + the comparison trap of modern motherhood

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week we have Caley, also know as @Learnwithchatterboxes on Instagram, as a guest! You know her best as the speech & language mom offering fun and practical tips to help YOU help your little ones communicate. Enjoy this wide ranging conversation with Caley and Dr. Amy as they talk about milestones, learning to speak, modern motherhood, and so much more.

In this episode you will hear about:

How an SLP mom approaches her son's language milestones
The backstory and goal of @Learnwithchatterboxes
Thoughts on modern motherhood, the comparison trap, and how to navigate
Bridging the gap between neurotypical and neurodiverse children
Caley's new children's booking, dropping March 2023, that will address the Double Empathy problem
A fun personal nugget at the 24:00 mark!

You can find Caley on Instagram @Learnwithchatterboxes, or through her website at www.learnwithchatterboxes.com.

Check back in March 2023, and we will link to her children's book, You and Me, after it is released.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and she's here to answer your questions.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Preventing childhood obesity

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:37:36 +0000

A recent update from the AAP outlines childhood obesity as one of the most serious chronic conditions facing our kids today. Dr. Amy discusses 5 steps to prevent childhood obesity and align the family to work together towards a healthy future.

In this episode you will hear:

What qualifies as obesity in childhood?
How to make changes together as a family
How to design a 3 prong plan that is actionable and manageable for a healthy 2023

Free BMI Percentile Calculator

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

How to boost your child's immune system in 5 steps

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:31:23 +0000

Learn the top 5 ways to support your child's immune system this winter. Decrease illness duration and support their long term health with Dr. Amy's top 5 tips for a balanced immune system.

In this episode you will hear:

The top 3 areas to optimize for any area of health
How the immune system is connected to the microbiome, sleep, stress
The top 2 things to minimize for decreased inflammation
Practical things you can start doing today for your child!

Supplements mentioned*

Vitamin C
Members Mark USP Certified Probiotic
TruNature USP Certified Probiotic

*Links do not constitute medical advice or recommendation. Please check with your own pediatrician before giving any supplements or medications to children.
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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Rapid Fire Q&A: Eczema, Lead Poisoning, ADHD

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 16:14:05 +0000

Welcome to the last episode of 2022! In this rapid fire Q&A, Dr. Amy answers your top 3 questions: Eczema, Lead Poisoning, and ADHD.

In this episode you will hear:

How to approach treating eczema
Common triggers for eczema and how to test for them
Should you do lead poisoning tests for your toddler?
The most common lead poisoning symptom
How to think about ADHD in kids
The most important things to keep in mind when using medication to treat ADHD

Favorite moisturizers for kids with Eczema:
- Vanicream
- Aveeno
- EraOrganics

Comprehensive resource on developmental origin of ADHD: Scattered Minds by Dr. Gabor Maté, M.D.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

How to do less and connect more during the holiday season

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 00:00:22 +0000

Stressed about designing the perfect holiday for your family? Feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to provide every possible nice experience for the kids? Dr. Amy shares 5 personal tips to help you focus on doing less, while actually being there more in connection.

In this episode you will hear:

Why media has been designed to make us feel like we are never doing enough
Giving yourself permission to accept help and let go of perfection
How to keep expectations realistic
The magic of unscheduled, truly free time

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent. Her mission is to use minimalism and practical advice to help parents do less, connect more, and raise happy + healthy children.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

5 parenting practices around the world that may surprise you

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 6 Dec 2022 15:38:30 +0000

Ever wonder how parents in other cultures do things? Dr. Amy shares and discusses 5 parenting practices around the world that might be surprising, and what we can learn from them.

From Japan to Denmark to India, follow along on this trip around the world and be inspired to approach parenting in a way that works for your family.

To read more on the topic, here is the original article.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Melatonin for kids - yay or nay? And 5 natural ways to improve sleep

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Giving kids melatonin for sleep issues is becoming a very popular practice. Even though melatonin is lauded as a safe sleep aid and available over the counter, is it safe to give on a long term basis for kids? Dr. Amy weighs in with her concerns for the practice, and suggests 5 natural things you can do today to improve children's sleep without giving any medication.

In this episode you will hear:

Effects of melatonin, why it has been thought to be a safe/natural sleep aid
Potential concerns for chronically taking extra hormone (melatonin), and how it might affect the rest of the body's hormonal balance
Early morning practice to drastically improve night sleep

The Huberman Lab Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huberman-lab/id1545953110

Animal model study on the effects of high dose melatonin:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7837417/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15550508/

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

4 tips to help you navigate RSV season

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

RSV is making the news this year. While this is a common childhood viral illness, it can make some kids sick enough to need escalated care, especially for children under 2. How do you tell? What does a parent need to know? Dr. Amy gives 4 functional tips to help you get through this especially severe RSV season.

In this episode you will hear:

Is RSV especially bad in 2022? Why?
How is RSV different from other viruses?
What are red flag signs that might mean a child needs more care?
What to expect during and after an episode of RSV

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Dr. Amy Conrad is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and an ally of the modern parent.

For health tips, parenting ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy, submit questions for future episodes, and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

3 weeks in France with a learning-to-eat 9 month old

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 21:13:44 +0000

Dr. Amy does a review of her family's trip to France, baby in tow! After 3 weeks in a country that has a reputation to be difficult to travel to with a baby, Dr. Amy shares her experiences and tips on how to navigate lodging, restaurants, and finding a good way to feed a baby who is just learning to eat. Learn how to order food off the menu and how to look for hotels that guarantee a great time for baby AND parents.

In this episode you will hear:

Why France has a reputation for being not baby-friendly for travelers (and is it true)
How to find the right foods for a baby who is just learning to eat
Learn the secret tip to tap into the glorious French tradition of cooking real and nutritious foods for baby!
Lodging tips, and the kind of hotels to look for

To find the black-out tent that allows baby to share a hotel room with parents with everyone getting a good night's sleep, check out the Favorites page on Dr. Amy's website, where she curates a list of the items she personally uses and loves.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, a mom, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation.

For parenting tips, ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Boredom in childhood leads to successful adults

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 13:58:01 +0000

Dr. Amy explains how boredom and unstructured time in childhood holds the secret key to achieving success as adults.

In this episode you will learn:

The study that showed the link between self distraction and success as adults
The importance of unstructured time
How to start preparing kids for unstructured solo play time from infancy

For parenting tips, ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

4 things I want you to know about the growth curve

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 4 Oct 2022 14:23:29 +0000

Growth curves are usually handed to us on the way out the door at the pediatrician's office, and we have no idea what the numbers mean! Dr. Amy breaks down the top 4 things to know about the growth curve so you know how to think about those percentile numbers, and actually use them as a tool to track a child's growth over time.

With these 4 simple tips, you'll learn to think about the growth curve like a pediatrician. BONUS: We'll answer a growth curve question submitted over Instagram by a mom worried about her child's growth.

In this episode you will learn:

How to think about those growth curve numbers your pediatrician tells you
What's a red flag that makes us worry about appropriate growth
Percentile vs. percentage
Is 90th+ percentile really the best?
Why the growth curve number is just one of many factors to consider in understanding a child's growth status

5 things you didn't know about ear infections

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 18:45:59 +0000

Dr. Amy shares the top 5 things parents should know about ear infections. This episode will give you a framework around how to think about this common childhood illness, helping you make decisions and understand the treatment.

You will learn:

What, actually, are ear infections?
Why are they more common in kids?
How can there be ear pain and symptoms without having a true infection?
How are they treated?
What to expect after treatment?

For parenting tips, ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

How I became a pediatrician

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:13:00 +0000

Dr. Amy tells the story of her journey to becoming a pediatrician, from college to residency training! If you have ever wondered what it takes to become a doctor for children, or if you're wondering how to become a pediatrician yourself, here is the insider's scoop, along with important tips on how to make the journey more fun and meaningful.

In this episode you will hear:

How to pick a college major in preparation for medical school
What it's like to go to medical school
How and why Dr. Amy picked the field of pediatrics, and what's special about it
What is residency training like?

You asked: what if my child only wants to eat carbs?

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:32:50 +0000

Continuing the live Q&A series, Dr. Amy talks to Paige, a mom with a background in nutrition, about her daughter's preference for fruits and carbohydrates. How do you encourage a toddler to eat a more balanced diet without constant monitoring and pushing? What is a balanced diet for a toddler anyway?

In this episode you will hear:

Tips for thinking about a balanced DAY vs a balanced meal
Age specific recommendations for diet
Overall tips for meal times to keep it relaxed
What parents can focus on (and what to let the kids focus on)
Food and recipe recommendations

For parenting tips, ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Ask this ONE question to preserve the connection with your child in any situation

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

It seems there are countless scripts these days to effectively communicate with your child. To simplify, Dr. Amy distills it down to 1 single question you can use in any situation.

You will learn:

How to turn 1 question into an organic script in any situation. No more memorizing!
The 4 steps to answer "yes" to this important question
The lifelong benefits of asking this question

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation, and find Kinder on Instagram @kinder.pediatrics.

For parenting tips, ideas, mama hacks and more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com and subscribe to Dr. Amy's newsletter. Feel free to submit questions for future episodes!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy and stay connected to the community of growth-minded parents.

Rapid Q&A: transitioning to cups, leeches, febrile seizures

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 9 Aug 2022 13:40:17 +0000

Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation, and find Kinder on Instagram @kinder.pediatrics.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

The 3 dietary supplements for babies and toddlers

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 19:51:30 +0000

In this episode you will hear:

Supplements to consider for newborns and babies
Supplements for toddlerhood and beyond
How to maximize nutrients through food
How our modern lifestyle contributes to a universal need for these 3 supplements

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

You Asked: how do I travel internationally with my baby?

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 16:39:22 +0000

In this episode you will hear:

How to plan international flights with a baby
Tips for navigating the airport, baby gear, boarding, etc.
Safety and vaccine concerns for international destinations
How to deal with jet lag and get on the local time
Bringing breastmilk, local babysitters
Overall mentality check and readiness to enjoy the trip!

If you have a question that you'd like to talk to Dr. Amy about in a future episode, please feel free to send an Instagram message @askdoctoramy to sign up.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Should my kids have a dog?

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode we will discuss:

How having a dog might shape a child's propensity for allergies
Hygiene theory
Autoimmune illnesses (Asthma, Eczema), and how they can be affected by animals in the home
Psychological and character building aspects of having a pet

Further reading: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2632649

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Toddler illness in the post-COVID world

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 13:20:31 +0000

In this episode we will discuss:

Are toddler illnesses more frequent or severe now? Why?
How to distinguish between illnesses and allergies
The life complications of dealing with a sick toddler
Tips for reframing - how might these illnesses be good for the kids?
Practical tips for childcare and daycare needs

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation, and find Kinder on Instagram @kinder.pediatrics.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

How to co-sleep safely with a baby

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 7 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Is co-sleeping actually dangerous? How can it be made safer?

It is time to objectively review the data for co-sleeping and evaluate: is it inherently dangerous, or is it associated with dangerous conditions that can be altered? Can co-sleeping actually be beneficial?

Trigger warning: Any discussion of sleep safety for babies necessarily involves a discussion of SIDS. This episode particularly dives into the evidence of co-sleeping related SIDS (whether it's actually harmful or protective against SIDS to co-sleep) between timestamp 08:45 to 15:45.

Select referenced work:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ajpa.20736

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/07/Co-sleeping-and-SIDS-A-Guide-for-Health-Professionals.pdf

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

You Asked: My 11 month old wants purees instead of BLW foods

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD, Julia Loewenthal MD) — Wed, 1 Jun 2022 08:00:00 +0000

An 11 month old healthy boy prefers to have purees instead of Baby-Led-Weaning finger foods, is this okay?

Welcome to a new series on the Ask Doctor Amy Podcast: "You Asked" - Live Q&A from parents just like you! In this inaugural episode, we talk to Julia, a concerned mom who is trying to implement Baby-Led Weaning, only to find her 11 month old preferring purees instead.

In this conversation, Dr. Amy troubleshoots with Julia about her son's diet, growth, meal plans, providing reassurance as well as tips for how to move forward in his diet. The topic then expands to the difficulties of dealing with expectations, "perfect meal" pressures from social media, and so much more!

In this episode you will hear:
- What should an 11 month old eat?

- Baby Led Weaning strategies

- How to use hunger as an incentive

- How to tell baby's nutrition status is okay

- How to meet your child where he/she is

- The pressures in modern parenting, and how it can distract from the child's needs

We are excited to present these unedited discussions with parents, and invite you to be part of the conversation. To submit a question to get on the show, please go to our instagram @AskDoctorAmy and get in touch!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Baby formula shortage Do's and Don'ts

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Wed, 25 May 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The baby formula shortage of 2022 has been devastating for many families. In this episode, Dr. Amy gives practical advice for what to do (and what not to do!) to get through this shortage as safely as possible.

We will talk about:

- Donated milk
- Cow milk
- Switching between brands of formula
- Possibly overlooked sources for formula
- European formulas - yes or no?

And so much more!

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If you do decide to purchase European formulas (please check out the European formulas episode in this podcast), here are some links where you might order them:

Partially Hydrolyzed (European)

• HiPP: https://tinyurl.com/7sve3haw

Other European organic sensitive formulas

•*Holle: https://tinyurl.com/2uu22mdx

•*Lebenswert: https://tinyurl.com/2f6yzb82

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Traveling with a newborn baby

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 12:57:46 +0000

Should you travel with a newborn baby? Is it even possible, and how do you navigate the disruptions to their schedule?

Dr. Amy shares her own experience of traveling with her 8 week old baby as she dives into this topic. From the logistics of travel to the approach in making the decision, join us in this personal episode to discuss how to navigate travel with a newborn baby.

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation, and find Kinder on Instagram @kinder.pediatrics.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

The fussy newborn

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Wed, 6 Apr 2022 13:26:37 +0000

The newborn period is full of joy, but can also be full of mystery and frustration for the new parent. Dreaded words like "colic" and long nights with an inconsolably crying baby can make this period a painful and scary one.

We takes you into this special time with a discussion on how to approach thinking about fussiness in the newborn period. As a pediatrician, mom, and evolutionary anthropologist, Dr. Amy explains the different elements to consider for this magical time, and offers practical advice to help you get through it with confidence.

Int his episode you will hear:

What to expect in the timeline of fussiness
Impact of normal development
Gas? Colic? Why might the gut be unhappy?
Evolutionary origin considerations
When might fussiness be a warning sign?
A pep talk!

Thoughts on the developmental milestones update (and a personal announcement!)

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The CDC released an update to the developmental milestones of age 0-5 for the first time in 15 years. There has been much controversy, particularly surrounding the fact that many milestone timelines were pushed back. Will this lead to delays being missed? Fewer referrals or less resources? Was this because of COVID-19 and its effects on children?

Dr. Amy breaks down the changes and discuses her take on their implications as a primary care pediatrician who uses these milestones to assess children's development. You will hear:

The background for the changes and how it came about
Whether it's related to COVID-19
The common concerns, shared by Dr. Amy, about what these changes might lead to
How might it affect referrals and the "wait and see" attitude, and how there might be an opportunity to do better
The important partnership between pediatrician, parents, and the professionals who diagnose/treat delays

and....

Bonus: a personal announcement from Dr. Amy!

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Baby Led Weaning Part 3. - Which foods to try

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 14:57:32 +0000

You decided your baby is showing readiness signs for trying solid foods, and you can finally get started! But which foods should the baby have? What foods need to be avoided? What is the nutritional goal? In the third and final part of our Baby Led Weaning series, Dr. Amy talks about the ideal foods to start with.

We will discuss:

Which foods are "allowed," how to focus on texture
Which foods to avoid
Age specific nutrition guidelines
Baby led vs puree foods, and how it's not only one or the other

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Baby Led Weaning Part 2. - Timing

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 14:44:26 +0000

In part 2 of the Baby Led Weaning series, Dr. Amy discusses the ideal timing to start introducing solid foods to babies.

The guidelines can sometimes be confusing: 4 months? 6 months? Since every baby is unique, Dr. Amy believes it's important to have a working understanding of optimal timing by knowing which readiness signs to watch for, thereby finding the best time for YOUR baby.

We will cover

Readiness signs for trying solid foods
What to expect when initially trying
How to navigate foods vs. milk, when to wean?
How to know you are on the right track
Important goal-posts in the transition from milk-based to food-based diet

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Baby Led Weaning Part 1. - What is it?

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 22:36:45 +0000

What exactly is baby led weaning, and how to make it happen? In this 3 episode series, Dr. Amy breaks down the concepts behind baby led weaning (compared to traditional introduction of solid foods), exactly how to apply it, and some thoughts on how you can make the process your own.

Since baby led weaning has become more and more popular, the phrase has become confusing for many families as it seems to encompass many different concepts - timing, food choices, methods, etc. In this first episode of the series, Dr. Amy focuses on just defining the concept of baby led weaning, as well as the possible benefits associated with it.

Potty training in 5 quick tips

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 16:38:37 +0000

Potty training doesn't have to be stressful! Dr. Amy shares 5 quick tips to make the process as smooth as possible. In this episode, you'll learn:

How to find the optimal timing for potty training (hint: your kid will tell you!)
Physiologic windows and timings from a pediatrician's perspective
How to set a schedule, and how to make it as relaxing and fun as possible for everyone involved

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

European vs American baby formula

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Wed, 8 Dec 2021 15:56:36 +0000

After last week's episode on the overview of baby formulas, many parents reached out to ask whether it's worth looking across the pond for baby formula. Do European formulas have a better nutritional profile? What are the differences? What to look for in American formulas for a comparable quality?

In this follow-up episode, Dr. Amy succinctly addresses the broad differences in European vs. American formulas, due to different regulations. Learn how the different requirements apply to key components of formula nutrition: carbohydrates, fats, proteins.

Combined with last week's episode, you will learn exactly how to read the label of a baby formula to interpret its nutritional value, quality of sources, and how to make sure it fits the physiologic needs of your baby!

Choosing the right baby formula with nutrition science

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy Conrad) — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Overwhelmed by endless baby formula choices? In this episode, Dr. Amy breaks down the science behind formulas, giving practical tips to help you think through the choices on the shelf. She explains topics such as lactose intolerance, cow's milk protein intolerance, the importance of DHA and AA, and how each concept applies to the nutrition a baby needs.

Even exclusively breastfed babies can need some supplementation with formula at various points during the first year. Dr. Amy discusses the science behind today's formulas, which seeks to make the products as nutritionally close to breastmilk as possible.

This episode is not sponsored by or affiliated with any products or brands. Rather than recommending brands, Dr. Amy believes in giving you the practical tools to analyze a product, so you truly understand how to choose the best option for your family.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

4 Tips for healthy and fun meal times

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 13:43:16 +0000

Are mealtimes a battleground at your house? Do you constantly worry whether your kids are eating enough?

Dr. Amy shares 4 tips to reframe the approach to meal times to make it both fun and productive. Wanting to make sure our kids have adequate nutrition is a strong and universal drive. However, constant stress and negotiations at the dinner table can actually be counter-productive, distracting children from their appetite and the meal in front of them.

In this episode, Dr. Amy recommends 4 simple tips to reframe the approach to meals as a household. She recommends staying objective, clearly dividing the duties between the adults and children when it comes to nutrition, and shift towards a lighthearted approach when it comes to getting results. Check out the episode for practical advice you can start applying today!

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Dr. Amy is a board certified pediatrician, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation, and find Kinder on Instagram @kinder.pediatrics.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Dr. Tracy Townsend: Mom, Surgeon, Healer

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD, Tracy K. Townsend MD) — Tue, 9 Nov 2021 15:42:29 +0000

Dr. Tracy K Townsend is a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, and one of Dr. Amy's oldest friends. In this episode, Dr. Townsend shares her journey as a mom to toddler Leo, whom she gave birth to merely weeks before starting her pediatric orthopedic is surgery fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital. This wide ranging conversation touches on motherhood for the modern professional woman preparing for birth during a pandemic the healing power of meditation and growth for a young mother empowering the next generation of young women to advocate for a balanced life and so much more!

Dr. Townsend is an alumnus of Khan Academy, and her Youtube channel can be found here. Aside from her surgical clinical interests, Dr. Townsend is passionate about mental health and integrated healing. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @tracyktownsend, and find out more about Dr. Townsend on her personal webpage at www.tracytownsendmd.com.

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Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com

6 reasons to take your kid to the emergency room

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Tue, 9 Nov 2021 15:05:36 +0000

What is a true health emergency for kids that requires a trip to the emergency room (ER)?

It can be hard to tell, from all the day-to-day runny noses and falls and scrapes, when a true health emergency arises. Dr. Amy has always wanted to help parents avoid unnecessary trips to the ER, leading her to found Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic, where parents can get in touch easily with their own pediatrician to check if something is indeed an urgent problem.

However, it's also important to not miss the situations where such a trip is necessary. In this episode, Dr. Amy goes over 6 common child-specific conditions where a trip to the ER is always needed, and a speedy response might be crucial. They range from allergic reactions, breathing issues, mental changes and much more.

Disclaimer: the does not constitute an exhaustive list of relevant emergent situations, and cannot be used in place of a consultation with your own pediatrician. Information from this podcast are for entertainment purposes only, and is not to be taken as medical advice.

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Dr. Amy F. Conrad is a board certified pediatrician, and the founder of Kinder Digital Pediatric Clinic. To learn more about getting personalized care for your child from your own pediatrician like Dr. Amy, visit Kinder's website for a free consultation, and find Kinder on Instagram @kinder.pediatrics.

Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.

Screen time is not the enemy

dramyfconrad@gmail.com (Amy F. Conrad MD) — Mon, 8 Nov 2021 21:27:15 +0000

Instead of rigid guidelines and arbitrary time limits, Dr. Amy offers a realistic way to understand and approach screen time for kids, in a way that supports their development and mental health.

Parents have been warned for years that excessive screen time can be bad for kids. Indeed, it is linked to increased isolation and decreasing quality of mental health among children today. But screens and technology are an increasingly important part of modern life - more than ever now, since the pandemic created the necessity of learning through screens.

So how much screen time is too much? How should parents approach this confusing topic, once and for all?

As always, Dr. Amy approaches this topic in a practical way. Instead of focusing on counting the minutes, she encourages parents to ask different questions: what does screen time represent, in your family? What do kids need in order to flourish and have healthy mental development? In this episode, she explores a living guideline for screen time that reframes it to fit into the modern child's life. Instead of making screen time the enemy, she invites parents to shift towards maximizing the elements that foster healthy, creative, strong minds in children.

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Follow Dr. Amy on Instagram @askdoctoramy for more tips and ideas, and to submit questions for future episodes.

For a full transcript of this episode and to find out more, please visit www.askdoctoramy.com.