Podcasts | Answers

In this episode of Boston Children’s Answers Parentcast, we focus on a crucial subject for expecting parents: prenatal care.

Dr. Jennifer Arnold is joined by nurse Olivia Oppel, the Clinical Coordinator at Boston Children’s Fetal Care and Surgery Center. Together, they provide valuable advice and insights on monitoring fetal development to help expecting parents navigate the journey to parenthood with confidence. Listen or watch the episode for answers to questions like:

• What is prenatal screening?
• What types of prenatal tests are available?
• What can an ultrasound detect, and what are the different ultrasound levels used?
• When can parents first see the fetus's anatomy during a prenatal scan?
• When are abnormalities typically detected in prenatal testing?
• Which prenatal tests involve more detailed procedures?
• When do genetic counselors typically get involved to discuss possible genetic testing?
• What factors should parents consider when choosing which prenatal tests to undergo?
• If something unusual is found during prenatal screening, what are the next steps for parents?
• What is a maternal fetal medicine specialist?
• What forms of advanced imaging can help diagnose fetal issues in utero?
• Can some conditions be treated in utero?
• Who makes up the multidisciplinary care team at Boston Children’s Fetal Care and Surgery Center?
• How does the team plan for delivery and post-birth care?
• Does Boston Children’s Fetal Care and Surgery Center collaborate with obstetric hospitals?
• What innovations are advancing the field of fetal surgery and medicine?

Whether you’re expecting or know someone who is, this episode offers expert insights into how to navigate the excitement and unknowns of pregnancy with confidence and care.

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children and young adults worldwide. But what should you do if your child is diagnosed with diabetes, and how can you best care for them?

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold sits down with Dr. Katharine Garvey, director of the diabetes program and clinical chief for diabetes at Boston Children's Hospital, to explore these questions. Together, they address important topics like:

• What are the different types of diabetes?
• What causes type 1 versus type 2 diabetes?
• Is diabetes genetic, and are some populations more at risk?
• What are the key signs and symptoms parents should look out for?
• How common is diabetes in children, and how is it diagnosed?
• What are the latest treatments and technologies available for managing diabetes?
• What happens if diabetes isn’t properly managed?
• Who makes up the Boston Children's care team for kids with diabetes?
• How does physical activity affect diabetes care?
• How can parents support their child’s emotional well-being while managing diabetes?
• What cutting-edge research is being conducted on diabetes?
• What are Dr. Garvey’s doctor's orders for parents managing their child's diabetes?

With the right tools, education, and support, diabetes doesn't have to hold your child back. Tune in to learn more about how you can help your child thrive.

The teenage years can be both exciting and challenging for parents and teens. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold is joined by Dr. Pamela Murray, an attending physician at Boston Children's Hospital's Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine. Together, they dive into the unique healthcare needs of adolescents, answering key questions, including:

• What is adolescent medicine?
• What age range does adolescent medicine cover?
• Which conditions are commonly treated within adolescent medicine?
• What sets adolescent medicine apart from other medical specialties?
• What specialized programs does Boston Children’s Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine offer?
• When should you consider seeking out an adolescent medicine specialist for your teen?
• What are the current areas of research in adolescent medicine?

If you’ve ever wondered whether your teen could benefit from specialized care during these formative years, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn more about supporting your teen’s health and well-being.

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold is joined by Boston Children's pediatric endocrinologist Dr. Nora Renthal to dive into the vital topic of bone health and growth in children. Dr. Renthal explains how to monitor and support a child’s growth, the significance of bone health, and the role of Boston Children’s Bone Health Program in providing comprehensive care.

Key questions they answer include:

• How can parents help maintain their children’s bone health?
• Why are calcium and vitamin D crucial for bone health?
• What role does exercise play in bone health?
• What are the risk factors for children with poor bone health?
• What factors contribute to bone strength in children?
• What gives kids’ bones flexibility?
• Do premature babies face unique bone health challenges?
• What environmental factors can lead to bone disease?
• How do doctors assess concerns about a child’s growth?
• What methods do clinicians use to determine a child’s growth potential?
• Who is involved in the multidisciplinary Bone Health Program at Boston Children’s?
• What current research is advancing our understanding of bone health?
• What are Dr. Renthal’s Doctor’s Orders for maintaining bone health?

Short stature is not necessarily a cause for concern. A thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals can determine if medical intervention is required. Regardless, parents should focus on their child’s overall health and well-being rather than solely on height.

It’s a frequent question for parents: Is my baby, child, or teen getting enough sleep? Parents tend to worry regardless of their child’s age, and for good reason — many kids aren’t getting the sleep they need.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold is joined by Dr. Judith Owens of Boston Children's Sleep Center. Together they delve into the critical importance of sleep for children, share advice for families, and answer questions such as:

• Why is sleep important?
• How much sleep is needed for various ages?
• What are some helpful tips for going to bed and waking up?
• What are the signs my child may be experiencing a sleep issue?
• What kind of research is Boston Children’s doing about sleep?
• How do school start times impact my child’s sleep?
• Could melatonin help my child sleep?
• When should I take my child to a sleep specialist?

Sleep is important. It impacts cognitive function, mood, memory, and many other things. Do what you can to help your child get the rest they need; consistency is the key to success. And if your child is experiencing a sleep issue, take them to see a sleep doctor with a sleep lab experienced in studying children.

The rate of childhood obesity has more than tripled since the 1960s and today obesity affects more than 20 percent of children. A variety of elements play a role in obesity, and sometimes eating healthy and leading an active lifestyle are not enough to counteract it.

Today, weight loss medications and even bariatric surgery are options for some children diagnosed with obesity. The available treatments depend on things like age and body mass index. But how do you know what’s right for your child?

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold explores weight loss medications for children with Dr. Margaret Stefater Richards, a physician and researcher at Boston Children's Hospital's Division of Endocrinology. Together, they address questions such as:

• How is obesity in children defined?
• Are there some kids at greater risk for obesity?
• What causes obesity in kids?
• What are the potential long-term consequences if childhood obesity is untreated?
• Does obesity impact psychosocial health?
• What treatment options are available for kids with obesity?
• What medications are available for treating teens with obesity, and how do they differ?
• Are these medications covered by insurance?
• What are the potential side effects or risks of these medications?
• Is there a risk of regaining weight if kids stop taking the medication?
• Should patients with difficulty accessing these medicines try dupes?
• How is obesity treated at Boston Children’s, and where do medications fit into treatment?
• How do doctors treat obesity while recognizing the risk of eating disorders?
• What research is happening around childhood obesity?
• What are the doctor’s orders related to children and obesity?

There are many factors to consider when deciding on the right treatment option for your child. We’re happy to offer weight loss medications as another option.

You anticipate and celebrate the big moments in your child's life — from their first steps to their high school graduation. But what about the less-obvious milestones, like the last trip to their pediatric doctor and their first visit to an adult provider? Lots of families don't think about these changes until they’re happening — which can lead to gaps in care. Fortunately, proactive planning can help make the transition smoother — especially for young people managing chronic health conditions.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses transitioning to adult care with Dr. Ahmet Uluer, director of Boston Children's BRIDGES Adult Transition Program and Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program. Together, they explore the rationale behind transitioning and practical strategies for ensuring a seamless shift in health care providers, answering questions such as:

• Why do teens need help transitioning from pediatric to adult health care providers?
• What does "hybrid" or "co-production" of care entail?
• Why is it important to have a transition plan as your teen approaches adulthood?
• How do the areas of expertise differ between adult and pediatric health care providers?
• How does the Boston Children’s BRIDGES Adult Transition Program facilitate seamless transitions for patients to adult health care providers?
• What is the difference between a transition and a transfer?
• Where can parents look for a local care transition program?
• Why is empathy a crucial component for caregivers involved in the process of transitioning to adult health care providers?
• How do pediatric and adult care approaches differ, and why is this significant during the transition phase?
• What are some typical health conditions that prompt families to develop a transition plan from pediatric to adult health care for seamless health care management?
• When is the best time to transition care from pediatric to adult health care providers?
• Are there any signs that someone is ready to transition care to adult health care providers?
• What does the care transition process look like for families and patients?
• How does the transition from pediatric care to adult care contribute to the overall improvement of health care delivery?

Transitioning from pediatric to adult health care providers is just another milestone. Embracing it will empower your child to be confident entering the next phase of their health care journey.

Many people have heard of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but not everyone really understands it. The saying goes “If you’ve met one person with autism, then you’ve met one person with autism,” meaning that it presents itself in many different ways. In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses the nuances of ASD with Dr. Sarah Spence, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of Boston Children's Autism Spectrum Center.

Together, they answer questions such as:

• What is autism spectrum disorder ? 
• What causes ASD?
• Is there any scientific evidence linking pediatric vaccines to ASD?
• What challenges do children or young adults with ASD often face?
• Is autism becoming more common?
• Is ASD more prevalent in a particular gender?
• How is ASD diagnosed?
• At what age is autism typically diagnosed?
• What are the treatment options available for people with ASD?
• How can we foster a more inclusive environment for kids and adults with ASD? 
• What are some common strengths observed in people with ASD?

While people with ASD may have some unique challenges compared with someone neurotypical, they may also have some unique strengths. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to receiving the support and accommodation they need to thrive.

Dental visits can be daunting for children, often causing fear and apprehension, which adults can also relate to. However, there are effective strategies available to parents and dentists to ease these anxieties and prepare children for their time in the dental chair.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses how to alleviate dental anxiety with Dr. Elaine Smyth, a pediatric dentist at Boston Children's Department of Dentistry.

Together, they answer questions such as:

• Why is it important to visit the dentist regularly?
• At what age should kids start visiting the dentist?
• How often should kids visit the dentist?
• What are the risks of avoiding dental care?
• What factors should parents consider when choosing a dentist for their child?
• What are some common reasons kids fear visiting the dentist
• How do dentists manage children's anxiety during dental visits
• Are there specific populations for whom dental visits are more challenging?
• How do dentists address anxiety in these populations?
• Is sedation an option for children with significant dental anxiety?
• Until what age should parents help their child brush their teeth?

Oral health is important for overall health, so children should start early. If your child feels anxious about dental visits, discuss it with them openly. Then, consult their dentist to address and ease any worries they may have.

In a world filled with what people commonly call "kid food" — typically meaning highly processed and low nutrient options like boxed mac 'n cheese or chicken nuggets — it is important to help your kids establish healthy eating habits.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses the importance of a balanced, nutritious diet with licensed clinical nutrition specialist Carolina Ruiz-Valenzuela.

Together, they answer questions such as:

• What is healthy eating?
• Why do people often avoid choosing a healthy diet?
• What are the health risks of an unbalanced diet?
• What is the glycemic index, and how can your family eat based on the glycemic index?
• What should we look for when choosing which carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to eat?
• What are the best ways to hydrate?
• How can parents tell if their child’s diet is off?

Remember, you are what you eat. Help your kids embrace a balanced diet, eat the correct portion size, and understand their hunger cues. When we instill this early on, we empower our kids to become lifelong healthy eaters.

Genes provide information/instructions that influence everything about you and your child, from the color of your eyes to the intricate functioning of your body. When a gene is missing or doesn’t work correctly, it can lead to various health issues. Enter gene therapy — a revolutionary technique that uses a person’s genes to treat or even cure diseases.

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold talks with Dr. Christine Duncan, medical director of clinical research and clinical development, at Boston Children’s Gene Therapy Program. Together, they delve into the transformative impact of gene therapy on pediatric health care, especially in addressing rare diseases.

Explore key questions with them, such as:

• What are genetic mutations?
• How does gene therapy work?
• What makes gene therapy unique as a form of treatment?
• Which pediatric diseases have FDA-approved gene therapies today?
• How does one learn if a gene therapy clinical trial exists for a specific condition?
• Is gene therapy considered a safe approach?
• What does the future of gene therapy look like?

Get ready for a fascinating journey into the world of gene therapy and its profound impact on the future of health care — especially for kids.

Did you know there is a dedicated team within some hospitals whose sole mission is to make the experience the best it can be for your family?

Join host Dr. Jennifer Arnold in a conversation with Caitlin McGowan, a member of Boston Children’s Child Life Services Department.

In this episode, they delve into the invaluable support provided by child life specialists, addressing key questions such as:

• How do child life specialists identify ways to make the hospital experience easier for patient families?
• What innovative tools and therapies do child life specialists use?
• What techniques do child life specialists use to alleviate stress for young patients?
• How do child life specialists help educate families?
• How do child life specialists tailor their methods based on the age of the child?
• How do child life specialists help parents and health care providers have challenging conversations?

The Child Life Services team is a versatile group that uses play, music, creative arts, and technology to help patients and families adjust to and understand health care. Tune in and discover how they're dedicated to making your entire family's health care journey more manageable.

Kids with ADHD need to learn to self-regulate and direct their attention appropriately. Getting them the support they need — and having a little extra patience — will help them succeed.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects the ability to pay attention and regulate impulse control. If your child has ADHD, they’re not alone: It’s the most common neurodevelopmental condition in childhood, affecting up to 7 percent of school-aged kids.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold talks with Dr. Anne Arnett, a scientist in Boston Children’s Division of Developmental Medicine. Together, they answer questions about ADHD, including:

• What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD?
• What causes ADHD?
• When is ADHD usually diagnosed?
• What are the different subtypes of ADHD?
• What kinds of treatment are available for kids with ADHD?
• What are the potential risks or consequences if ADHD is untreated?
• How can we support kids with ADHD at home and in school?

Kids with ADHD need to learn to self-regulate and direct their attention appropriately. Getting them the support they need — and having a little extra patience — will help them succeed.

There’s no doubt that physical activity is important for kids and adults alike. But could the exercise your child gets now set them up for good heart health later on?

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses the importance of exercise — especially for a healthy heart — with cardiologist Dr. Naomi Gauthier, director of Boston Children’s Cardiac Fitness Program.

Together, they discuss fitness and exercise, and answer questions such as:

• What are the short- and long-term benefits of exercise?
• How important is exercise for good health at any age?
• How much exercise should kids and teens aim to get each day or week?
• What are the risks if you don't get enough exercise?
• Can medically complex kids or those with chronic conditions exercise?
• What is Boston Children's Cardiac Fitness Program?

The first step to getting enough exercise is to know how much you're already doing. Having that awareness and increasing activity over time will help your child experience the benefits of exercise today and for a lifetime.

As its name suggests, simulation training is a form of training that mirrors real-life situations. For example, it is the standard for training pilots, and as a result, the aerospace industry has become one of the safest industries, despite the inherent risks.

Like aviation training, health care simulation provides a realistic setting that allows clinicians to train without putting patients at risk. It enhances quality and safety, improves communication and performance, and minimizes errors and patient harm. Simulation can also help patients and families prepare for certain medical procedures and manage care at home afterward.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses health care simulation with Dr. Peter Weinstock, executive program director at Boston Children’s Immersive Design Systems (IDS).

Together, they discuss health care simulation and answer questions such as:

• What is health care simulation?
• What are the different kinds of simulations used in health care?
• What are some of the tools and technology used in health care simulation?
• How do patient families benefit from health care simulation?
• How does simulation help improve communication?
• How does health care simulation prepare people for times of crisis?
• What is psychological safety and how can simulation improve it?
• How can hospitals leverage simulation to decrease medical error rates?

Health care simulation allows people to be more prepared and can also identify complications they would not have known about until they were in the moment. Listen to this episode to learn more about it.

You may not realize it, but you could know someone with cleft lip or cleft palate — conditions that occur when a baby’s lip or mouth do not form properly during pregnancy. That’s because while these diagnoses can be an unwelcome surprise for families, they are very treatable.

In this episode, our host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses cleft lip and cleft palate with Dr. Carolyn Rogers-Vizena, a pediatric plastic surgeon in Boston Children's Cleft and Craniofacial Center and the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery.

Together, they share information and recommendations for families, answering questions like:

• What are cleft lip and cleft palate, and what is the difference between them?
• How and when are cleft lip and cleft palate diagnosed?
• What causes cleft lip and cleft palate?
• What are some misconceptions related to cleft lip and palate?
• What are the treatment plans for cleft lip and cleft palate?
• Who is part of the care team for cleft lip and cleft palate?
• How is simulation involved in surgical training for cleft lip and palate?
• What are some possible complications if a child is not treated?
• What research is currently being conducted in this area?

It may sound like a daunting diagnosis, but both cleft lip and cleft palate can be repaired and cared for over time.

We all have times in life when we feel anxious. For your child it could be worrying about a test, fitting in socially, or a life event like moving. When the anxiety is uncontrollable or starts to impact their daily life, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. In fact, anxiety is one of the most diagnosed mental health concerns in children.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses anxiety with Dr. Erica Lee, an attending psychologist at Boston Children's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Together, they share advice for families and answer questions such as:

• What causes anxiety?
• What anxiety disorders are most common in childhood?
• Are some people more prone to anxiety than others?
• How does a parent identify if their child is experiencing anxiety?
• How is anxiety treated in kids and teens?
• How do you decide if your child needs treatment?
• What are the risks if anxiety is left untreated?
• What should parents consider when choosing a therapist for their child?

It’s equally important to care for your child’s mental and physical health. And there are tools to help your child if they are experiencing anxiety, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Young athletes — and their families — want to succeed at their sport. Many believe that if they put all their focus into one area, they’ll be more likely to achieve their athletic dreams, but that isn’t always the case.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold talks with one of our doctors in the Sports Medicine Division about sports specialization.

They share practical advice for families and answer questions such as:

• What are some of the overall benefits of sports?
• What is sports specialization, and why has it become so popular with young athletes?
• How does puberty impact sports specialization?
• Are there physical and mental risks to sports specialization?
• What are some of the long-term risks of sports specialization?
• What research is underway to help prevent sports injuries?
• How can athletes prevent concussions, and how has concussion management changed?

Participating in sports and exercising offer many benefits, regardless of your child’s age. However, it's important that young athletes give themselves the time they need to rest and don't lock into any single sport too early.

Acute pain can be helpful: It tells us when there is a problem in our body. However, chronic pain is different and may negatively affect a child’s daily life and happiness.

In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold talks with special guest Dr. Christine Greco, Division Chief of Pain Medicine at Boston Children’s Pain Treatment Center. Together, they offer practical advice and answers to questions like:

• What does it mean to have chronic pain?
• What are the different types of chronic pain?
• How is chronic pain treated?
• Is there a connection between stress and chronic pain?
• What are some of common myths about chronic pain?
• What research is underway about chronic pain?

Overall, chronic pain can be managed. Don't be afraid to ask for help, especially when that pain impedes your child's ability to do what they like to do.

In this digital age, many parents struggle with how to manage their child's time online using social media, gaming or watching videos. In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold talks with special guest Dr. Michael Rich, Director of the Digital Wellness Lab and the Clinic for the Interactive Media and Internet Disorders at Boston Children's Hospital. Together they offer practical advice and answers to questions like:

• Is there a specific age that is best for a parent to give their child a phone or social media?
• How can parents set boundaries when it comes to screen time?
• When should parents use parental controls?
• How much time is too much for your child to be spending online?
• How do parents keep their kids from getting involved in the dangerous viral challenges on social media?

Overall, parents need to know that they already have the parenting skills they need. They just have to step into the digital space where their children spend so much time with confidence and competence.

Whether you’re a new parent or just ready to make a change, choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family’s health. In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold chats with special guest Dr. Valentine Esposito, a physician at Boston Children’s Primary Care Center and the Martha Elliot Health Center, to get answers to questions like:

• What are some of the logistical considerations in choosing a pediatrician?
• Who should parents talk with for word-of-mouth recommendations?
• How important is a provider’s communication style?
• Is telehealth something to ask about?
• How do you address mental health when choosing a provider?

Ultimately, every pediatrician wants you to find the right fit for your family. If you’re worried you didn't choose the ideal pediatrician, keep looking — it’s never too late to make a change.