For Kids' Sake Podcast Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/for-kids-sake For Kids’ Sake is a pediatric health podcast from Cook Children’s Health Care System that brings trusted expertise off the page and into real conversations for parents and caregivers. As an extension of Checkup Newsroom, a go-to source for kids’ health news since 2014, this weekly podcast focuses on everyday questions families are asking right now. Each episode features Cook Children’s physicians, specialists and clinicians discussing trending topics, breaking down what matters (and what doesn’t) and sharing practical, evidence-based guidance you can use at home. Expect clear answers from guests who tackle the questions you’re almost afraid to ask. For Kids’ Sake is for moms, dads, grandparents and guardians making decisions about their child’s health and well-being. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch full episodes on Cook Children’s YouTube channel. A Spanish-language companion, Por Su Bienestar, delivers the same trusted information bi-weekly for Spanish-speaking families. © Cook Children's Health Care System b5cf9717-d168-5b9e-9ce0-f00d72dfec13 yes en Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:56:41 -0500 Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:57:08 -0500 https://www.cookchildrens.org https://img.transistorcdn.com/bOG9ATj_ru2eGsCAeqOJCgtEFpjVkQRdIqIdghwu2f0/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8xZjNm/Y2Y3ZTRjYTliN2E4/Mzc3MzZhNzM5YjY2/MjM4MS5qcGc.jpg For Kids' Sake Podcast https://www.cookchildrens.org episodic Cook Children's Health Care System For Kids’ Sake is a pediatric health podcast from Cook Children’s Health Care System that brings trusted expertise off the page and into real conversations for parents and caregivers. As an extension of Checkup Newsroom, a go-to source for kids’ health news since 2014, this weekly podcast focuses on everyday questions families are asking right now. Each episode features Cook Children’s physicians, specialists and clinicians discussing trending topics, breaking down what matters (and what doesn’t) and sharing practical, evidence-based guidance you can use at home. Expect clear answers from guests who tackle the questions you’re almost afraid to ask. For Kids’ Sake is for moms, dads, grandparents and guardians making decisions about their child’s health and well-being. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch full episodes on Cook Children’s YouTube channel. A Spanish-language companion, Por Su Bienestar, delivers the same trusted information bi-weekly for Spanish-speaking families. For Kids’ Sake is a pediatric health podcast from Cook Children’s Health Care System that brings trusted expertise off the page and into real conversations for parents and caregivers. family, kids, medicine, kids health, children, family, pediatrician, kids health, cook Children's, health care Cook Children's Health Care System nexmcreative@gmail.com No No Halloween Safety 101: Trick-or-Treating, Candy Checks and Teen Safety 11 11 Halloween Safety 101: Trick-or-Treating, Candy Checks and Teen Safety full aea0b575-22fa-497b-bcb9-23fea6ad2bdd https://share.transistor.fm/s/27e3976e Halloween should be filled with costumes, candy and fun memories, but it also presents unique safety concerns for children, teens and caregivers. In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Laura Romano, D.O., shares expert advice on everything from crossing streets safely and choosing properly fitted costumes to inspecting candy and helping teens navigate Halloween independently. She also addresses common misconceptions about tampered candy, discusses newer concerns involving THC-infused products, and explains why preparation is one of the best tools families have for a successful Halloween night. 

You'll Learn 

  • Costume safety tips 
  • Pedestrian safety recommendations 
  • How to inspect trick-or-treat candy 
  • What to know about THC-infused candies and snacks 
  • Safety guidance for teens 
  • How to create a family Halloween plan 
  • Strategies for managing candy after Halloween 
  • Ways to reduce holiday-related stress 
]]> Halloween should be filled with costumes, candy and fun memories, but it also presents unique safety concerns for children, teens and caregivers. In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Laura Romano, D.O., shares expert advice on everything from crossing streets safely and choosing properly fitted costumes to inspecting candy and helping teens navigate Halloween independently. She also addresses common misconceptions about tampered candy, discusses newer concerns involving THC-infused products, and explains why preparation is one of the best tools families have for a successful Halloween night. 

You'll Learn 

  • Costume safety tips 
  • Pedestrian safety recommendations 
  • How to inspect trick-or-treat candy 
  • What to know about THC-infused candies and snacks 
  • Safety guidance for teens 
  • How to create a family Halloween plan 
  • Strategies for managing candy after Halloween 
  • Ways to reduce holiday-related stress 
]]> Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:56:21 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 937 Halloween should be filled with costumes, candy and fun memories, but it also presents unique safety concerns for children, teens and caregivers. In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Laura Romano, D.O., shares expert advice on everything from crossing streets safely and choosing properly fitted costumes to inspecting candy and helping teens navigate Halloween independently. She also addresses common misconceptions about tampered candy, discusses newer concerns involving THC-infused products, and explains why preparation is one of the best tools families have for a successful Halloween night. 

You'll Learn 

  • Costume safety tips 
  • Pedestrian safety recommendations 
  • How to inspect trick-or-treat candy 
  • What to know about THC-infused candies and snacks 
  • Safety guidance for teens 
  • How to create a family Halloween plan 
  • Strategies for managing candy after Halloween 
  • Ways to reduce holiday-related stress 
]]> family, kids, medicine, kids health, children, family, pediatrician, kids health, cook Children's, health care No Raising Resilient Kids: Why Struggle Isn't Always Bad 10 10 Raising Resilient Kids: Why Struggle Isn't Always Bad full 7cd8bf69-2c55-4398-9fe2-4ad72c0e9346 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7073a3c3 Every caregiver wants to protect children from disappointment and hardship. But what if experiencing challenges is exactly how children build confidence, perseverance and resilience? 

 

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Child Life Specialist Ashley Pagenkopf explains how resilience develops, why failure can be a powerful teacher and how caregivers can support children without removing every obstacle in their path. The conversation explores social media, emotional validation, everyday opportunities to develop resilience and why human connection remains one of the strongest protective factors for children. 


You'll Learn 

  • What resilience really means 
  • Why children need opportunities to struggle 
  • The difference between helping and enabling 
  • How caregivers model resilience 
  • Why validation matters 
  • How social media affects resilience 
  • The role of friendship and community 
  • Why failure is an important teacher 
  • Everyday ways to build resilience at home 
]]> Every caregiver wants to protect children from disappointment and hardship. But what if experiencing challenges is exactly how children build confidence, perseverance and resilience? 

 

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Child Life Specialist Ashley Pagenkopf explains how resilience develops, why failure can be a powerful teacher and how caregivers can support children without removing every obstacle in their path. The conversation explores social media, emotional validation, everyday opportunities to develop resilience and why human connection remains one of the strongest protective factors for children. 


You'll Learn 

  • What resilience really means 
  • Why children need opportunities to struggle 
  • The difference between helping and enabling 
  • How caregivers model resilience 
  • Why validation matters 
  • How social media affects resilience 
  • The role of friendship and community 
  • Why failure is an important teacher 
  • Everyday ways to build resilience at home 
]]> Mon, 12 Oct 2026 22:46:50 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1416 Every caregiver wants to protect children from disappointment and hardship. But what if experiencing challenges is exactly how children build confidence, perseverance and resilience? 

 

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Child Life Specialist Ashley Pagenkopf explains how resilience develops, why failure can be a powerful teacher and how caregivers can support children without removing every obstacle in their path. The conversation explores social media, emotional validation, everyday opportunities to develop resilience and why human connection remains one of the strongest protective factors for children. 


You'll Learn 

  • What resilience really means 
  • Why children need opportunities to struggle 
  • The difference between helping and enabling 
  • How caregivers model resilience 
  • Why validation matters 
  • How social media affects resilience 
  • The role of friendship and community 
  • Why failure is an important teacher 
  • Everyday ways to build resilience at home 
]]> family, kids, medicine, kids health, children, family, pediatrician, kids health, cook Children's, health care No Safe Sleep 101: What Every Caregiver Needs to Know 9 9 Safe Sleep 101: What Every Caregiver Needs to Know full ad8cf453-4b95-466b-a94c-05df8f628def https://share.transistor.fm/s/d77e82f0 Sleep is one of the most common sources of questions and stress for caregivers. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, pediatrician Ramon Kinloch, M.D. discusses safe sleep recommendations for newborns, common sleep mistakes, toddler sleep challenges and practical ways families can create healthy sleep routines. He explains why sleep environments should be simple, when babies should stop swaddling, the risks associated with bed sharing and what warning signs might indicate a more serious sleep concern. Most importantly, he reassures caregivers that asking for help and prioritizing their own well-being is an important part of keeping children safe. 


You'll Learn 

  • The ABCs of safe sleep 
  • Why babies should sleep on their backs 
  • When to transition out of a bassinet 
  • Risks associated with bed sharing 
  • How to encourage healthy sleep habits 
  • Signs of sleep apnea and other concerns 
  • What to know about sleep aids 
  • Why consistency matters for sleep success 
  • How caregivers can cope with sleep deprivation 
]]> Sleep is one of the most common sources of questions and stress for caregivers. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, pediatrician Ramon Kinloch, M.D. discusses safe sleep recommendations for newborns, common sleep mistakes, toddler sleep challenges and practical ways families can create healthy sleep routines. He explains why sleep environments should be simple, when babies should stop swaddling, the risks associated with bed sharing and what warning signs might indicate a more serious sleep concern. Most importantly, he reassures caregivers that asking for help and prioritizing their own well-being is an important part of keeping children safe. 


You'll Learn 

  • The ABCs of safe sleep 
  • Why babies should sleep on their backs 
  • When to transition out of a bassinet 
  • Risks associated with bed sharing 
  • How to encourage healthy sleep habits 
  • Signs of sleep apnea and other concerns 
  • What to know about sleep aids 
  • Why consistency matters for sleep success 
  • How caregivers can cope with sleep deprivation 
]]> Mon, 05 Oct 2026 23:13:23 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1502 Sleep is one of the most common sources of questions and stress for caregivers. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, pediatrician Ramon Kinloch, M.D. discusses safe sleep recommendations for newborns, common sleep mistakes, toddler sleep challenges and practical ways families can create healthy sleep routines. He explains why sleep environments should be simple, when babies should stop swaddling, the risks associated with bed sharing and what warning signs might indicate a more serious sleep concern. Most importantly, he reassures caregivers that asking for help and prioritizing their own well-being is an important part of keeping children safe. 


You'll Learn 

  • The ABCs of safe sleep 
  • Why babies should sleep on their backs 
  • When to transition out of a bassinet 
  • Risks associated with bed sharing 
  • How to encourage healthy sleep habits 
  • Signs of sleep apnea and other concerns 
  • What to know about sleep aids 
  • Why consistency matters for sleep success 
  • How caregivers can cope with sleep deprivation 
]]> family, kids, medicine, kids health, children, family, pediatrician, kids health, cook Children's, health care No Social Anxiety in Kids: When Shyness Becomes a Barrier 8 8 Social Anxiety in Kids: When Shyness Becomes a Barrier full 3902e638-a941-4f45-b839-f57b5dc36831 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7714327f Many children feel nervous in social situations, but how can caregivers tell when those feelings become something more serious? In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, psychiatrist Kristen Pyrc, M.D., explains the difference between shyness and social anxiety, warning signs families should watch for, and practical ways to help children build confidence. She discusses how screens, the pandemic and caregiver anxiety may influence social development and shares simple strategies adults can use to support children without reinforcing avoidance. 

You'll Learn 

  • The difference between introversion and social anxiety 
  • Early signs of social anxiety in children 
  • How the pandemic may have affected social development 
  • Why caregiver anxiety matters 
  • When children may benefit from counseling 
  • Ways to build confidence through practice and exposure 
  • Why avoiding feared situations can make anxiety worse 
  • Simple coping skills for anxious children 
]]> Many children feel nervous in social situations, but how can caregivers tell when those feelings become something more serious? In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, psychiatrist Kristen Pyrc, M.D., explains the difference between shyness and social anxiety, warning signs families should watch for, and practical ways to help children build confidence. She discusses how screens, the pandemic and caregiver anxiety may influence social development and shares simple strategies adults can use to support children without reinforcing avoidance. 

You'll Learn 

  • The difference between introversion and social anxiety 
  • Early signs of social anxiety in children 
  • How the pandemic may have affected social development 
  • Why caregiver anxiety matters 
  • When children may benefit from counseling 
  • Ways to build confidence through practice and exposure 
  • Why avoiding feared situations can make anxiety worse 
  • Simple coping skills for anxious children 
]]> Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:43:32 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1118 Many children feel nervous in social situations, but how can caregivers tell when those feelings become something more serious? In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, psychiatrist Kristen Pyrc, M.D., explains the difference between shyness and social anxiety, warning signs families should watch for, and practical ways to help children build confidence. She discusses how screens, the pandemic and caregiver anxiety may influence social development and shares simple strategies adults can use to support children without reinforcing avoidance. 

You'll Learn 

  • The difference between introversion and social anxiety 
  • Early signs of social anxiety in children 
  • How the pandemic may have affected social development 
  • Why caregiver anxiety matters 
  • When children may benefit from counseling 
  • Ways to build confidence through practice and exposure 
  • Why avoiding feared situations can make anxiety worse 
  • Simple coping skills for anxious children 
]]> social anxiety, child anxiety, anxiety in children, childhood mental health, social skills, shyness vs social anxiety, pediatric psychiatry, anxiety symptoms, anxious children, parenting, caregiver support, school anxiety, friendship skills, child development, mental health, Cook Children's, Dr. Kristen Pyrc, social confidence, parenting podcast, children’s podcast, medical podcast No Parenting Without Perfection: Advice from Pediatrician Justin Smith, M.D. 7 7 Parenting Without Perfection: Advice from Pediatrician Justin Smith, M.D. full ad0e7e52-6f3c-4241-8757-58571fc96b3b https://share.transistor.fm/s/fc4941a9 Today's caregivers have access to more parenting advice than any generation before them. But more information doesn't always mean more confidence. In this episode, pediatrician Justin Smith, M.D., discusses how information overload, social media and unrealistic expectations can leave families feeling overwhelmed. He shares practical guidance for navigating common parenting concerns, improving communication with children, handling sleep regressions and recognizing when a medical concern deserves attention. Families will walk away with reassurance that perfect parenting doesn't exist and that meaningful connection matters far more than getting every decision right. 

You'll Learn 

  • Why information overload increases parenting anxiety 
  • Better questions to ask children after school 
  • How to recognize when symptoms need attention 
  • Why answers can be different for every family  
  • Why family meals support mental and physical health 
  • How perfectionism impacts caregivers 
  • Why curiosity strengthens parent-child relationships 
]]> Today's caregivers have access to more parenting advice than any generation before them. But more information doesn't always mean more confidence. In this episode, pediatrician Justin Smith, M.D., discusses how information overload, social media and unrealistic expectations can leave families feeling overwhelmed. He shares practical guidance for navigating common parenting concerns, improving communication with children, handling sleep regressions and recognizing when a medical concern deserves attention. Families will walk away with reassurance that perfect parenting doesn't exist and that meaningful connection matters far more than getting every decision right. 

You'll Learn 

  • Why information overload increases parenting anxiety 
  • Better questions to ask children after school 
  • How to recognize when symptoms need attention 
  • Why answers can be different for every family  
  • Why family meals support mental and physical health 
  • How perfectionism impacts caregivers 
  • Why curiosity strengthens parent-child relationships 
]]> Mon, 21 Sep 2026 23:08:09 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1071 Today's caregivers have access to more parenting advice than any generation before them. But more information doesn't always mean more confidence. In this episode, pediatrician Justin Smith, M.D., discusses how information overload, social media and unrealistic expectations can leave families feeling overwhelmed. He shares practical guidance for navigating common parenting concerns, improving communication with children, handling sleep regressions and recognizing when a medical concern deserves attention. Families will walk away with reassurance that perfect parenting doesn't exist and that meaningful connection matters far more than getting every decision right. 

You'll Learn 

  • Why information overload increases parenting anxiety 
  • Better questions to ask children after school 
  • How to recognize when symptoms need attention 
  • Why answers can be different for every family  
  • Why family meals support mental and physical health 
  • How perfectionism impacts caregivers 
  • Why curiosity strengthens parent-child relationships 
]]> family, kids, medicine, kids health, children, family, pediatrician, kids health, cook Children's, health care No Nutrition Made Simple: Realistic Healthy Eating for Busy Families 6 6 Nutrition Made Simple: Realistic Healthy Eating for Busy Families full 08f2bba6-c69a-4d46-8bac-656a9839804d https://share.transistor.fm/s/7b01290a Between social media nutrition trends, picky eating battles and busy schedules, healthy eating can feel overwhelming for caregivers. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children’s nutrition coordinator Maya Rashad shares realistic strategies for making nutrition simpler, more affordable and more sustainable. 

You'll learn: 

  • Why family meals matter more than chasing nutrition trends 
  • How to build healthier snacks 
  • The truth about frozen and canned foods 
  • Budget-friendly grocery tips 
  • How to get children involved in cooking 
  • Strategies for handling picky eating 
  • The benefits of plant-based proteins 
  • Why nutrition doesn't need to be perfect 

Whether you're packing lunchboxes, navigating picky eating or trying to make healthier choices as a family, this episode provides practical advice you can start using right away. 

]]> Between social media nutrition trends, picky eating battles and busy schedules, healthy eating can feel overwhelming for caregivers. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children’s nutrition coordinator Maya Rashad shares realistic strategies for making nutrition simpler, more affordable and more sustainable. 

You'll learn: 

  • Why family meals matter more than chasing nutrition trends 
  • How to build healthier snacks 
  • The truth about frozen and canned foods 
  • Budget-friendly grocery tips 
  • How to get children involved in cooking 
  • Strategies for handling picky eating 
  • The benefits of plant-based proteins 
  • Why nutrition doesn't need to be perfect 

Whether you're packing lunchboxes, navigating picky eating or trying to make healthier choices as a family, this episode provides practical advice you can start using right away. 

]]> Tue, 15 Sep 2026 08:42:31 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1362 Between social media nutrition trends, picky eating battles and busy schedules, healthy eating can feel overwhelming for caregivers. In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children’s nutrition coordinator Maya Rashad shares realistic strategies for making nutrition simpler, more affordable and more sustainable. 

You'll learn: 

  • Why family meals matter more than chasing nutrition trends 
  • How to build healthier snacks 
  • The truth about frozen and canned foods 
  • Budget-friendly grocery tips 
  • How to get children involved in cooking 
  • Strategies for handling picky eating 
  • The benefits of plant-based proteins 
  • Why nutrition doesn't need to be perfect 

Whether you're packing lunchboxes, navigating picky eating or trying to make healthier choices as a family, this episode provides practical advice you can start using right away. 

]]> Family nutrition, Healthy snacks, Lunchbox ideas, Picky eating, Child nutrition, Family meals, Cooking with kids, Healthy eating habits, Plant-based protein, Frozen vegetables, Grocery budget, School lunches Dietitian advice Nutrition for kids Parenting podcast Cook Children's Healthy families Food safety No Screen Time: Raising Healthy Kids in a Digital World 5 5 Screen Time: Raising Healthy Kids in a Digital World full 998fba70-6f7b-4ee5-8fb1-3caab826d462 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf828e59 Screens are everywhere, but how much screen time is actually too much for kids?

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children's psychiatrist Austin Greenhaw, M.D., helps parents navigate one of the biggest challenges of modern parenting: raising healthy kids in a digital world. From “educational” digital content and smartphones to tablets and video games, he breaks down what families should really be paying attention to and why the total number of hours on a screen isn't always the most important factor. 

You'll learn: 

  • Why focusing only on screen time limits can miss the bigger picture 
  • Signs your child may need a break from screens 
  • How excessive device use can affect mood, sleep, attention and family relationships 
  • Why "educational" content doesn't automatically get a free pass 
  • The best screen time rule every family should have 
  • How to use parental controls and screen time settings effectively 
  • When children are truly ready for a smartphone 
  • Practical ways to create healthier digital habits at home 


Plus, Dr. Greenhaw shares advice on digital media literacy, managing parent anxiety around technology, and helping kids develop a healthy relationship with screens that can last a lifetime. Whether you're parenting a toddler, tween or teen, this episode offers research-backed guidance and actionable tips you can start using today. 

]]> Screens are everywhere, but how much screen time is actually too much for kids?

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children's psychiatrist Austin Greenhaw, M.D., helps parents navigate one of the biggest challenges of modern parenting: raising healthy kids in a digital world. From “educational” digital content and smartphones to tablets and video games, he breaks down what families should really be paying attention to and why the total number of hours on a screen isn't always the most important factor. 

You'll learn: 

  • Why focusing only on screen time limits can miss the bigger picture 
  • Signs your child may need a break from screens 
  • How excessive device use can affect mood, sleep, attention and family relationships 
  • Why "educational" content doesn't automatically get a free pass 
  • The best screen time rule every family should have 
  • How to use parental controls and screen time settings effectively 
  • When children are truly ready for a smartphone 
  • Practical ways to create healthier digital habits at home 


Plus, Dr. Greenhaw shares advice on digital media literacy, managing parent anxiety around technology, and helping kids develop a healthy relationship with screens that can last a lifetime. Whether you're parenting a toddler, tween or teen, this episode offers research-backed guidance and actionable tips you can start using today. 

]]> Tue, 08 Sep 2026 00:10:28 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1563 Screens are everywhere, but how much screen time is actually too much for kids?

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children's psychiatrist Austin Greenhaw, M.D., helps parents navigate one of the biggest challenges of modern parenting: raising healthy kids in a digital world. From “educational” digital content and smartphones to tablets and video games, he breaks down what families should really be paying attention to and why the total number of hours on a screen isn't always the most important factor. 

You'll learn: 

  • Why focusing only on screen time limits can miss the bigger picture 
  • Signs your child may need a break from screens 
  • How excessive device use can affect mood, sleep, attention and family relationships 
  • Why "educational" content doesn't automatically get a free pass 
  • The best screen time rule every family should have 
  • How to use parental controls and screen time settings effectively 
  • When children are truly ready for a smartphone 
  • Practical ways to create healthier digital habits at home 


Plus, Dr. Greenhaw shares advice on digital media literacy, managing parent anxiety around technology, and helping kids develop a healthy relationship with screens that can last a lifetime. Whether you're parenting a toddler, tween or teen, this episode offers research-backed guidance and actionable tips you can start using today. 

]]> Screen time, Smartphone age, Parental controls, Digital media, Social media, Social Media and Children, Screen addiction, Screen shock, Family technology rules, Healthy screen habits, Kids and smartphones, Child development, Parenting podcast, Cook Children's, Digital wellness, Screen time guidelines, Parenting, Parenting Advice No The Playbook for Sports Injury Prevention: Helping Young Athletes Stay Healthy 4 4 The Playbook for Sports Injury Prevention: Helping Young Athletes Stay Healthy full da940087-bd7d-40d6-846a-9c71baf7c3ac https://share.transistor.fm/s/4ed6dc5e When it comes to youth sports, preventing injuries often starts long before game day. 

 

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, athletic trainer Jeffrey Bass joins us to discuss the habits, routines and warning signs parents should know to help young athletes stay healthy and active. 

 

Jeffrey shares why proper warmups, recovery and hydration matter, explains the risks associated with year-round sports specialization, and discusses the warning signs that an athlete may be pushing too hard. He also breaks down common concussion misconceptions, heat-related illnesses and the important role parents, coaches and athletic trainers play in identifying injuries early. 

 

Whether your child participates in soccer, football, volleyball, baseball, basketball or another sport, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance to help families reduce injury risks and support young athletes throughout the season. 


In This Episode: 

  • Why injury prevention starts before game day 
  • The importance of consistent warmups and stretching 
  • Why young athletes should play multiple sports 
  • Warning signs your child may be overtraining 
  • Common concussion symptoms caregivers should know 
  • Hydration myths and facts 
  • How to recognize heat-related illness 
  • The role of recovery, nutrition and rest in injury prevention 

]]> When it comes to youth sports, preventing injuries often starts long before game day. 

 

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, athletic trainer Jeffrey Bass joins us to discuss the habits, routines and warning signs parents should know to help young athletes stay healthy and active. 

 

Jeffrey shares why proper warmups, recovery and hydration matter, explains the risks associated with year-round sports specialization, and discusses the warning signs that an athlete may be pushing too hard. He also breaks down common concussion misconceptions, heat-related illnesses and the important role parents, coaches and athletic trainers play in identifying injuries early. 

 

Whether your child participates in soccer, football, volleyball, baseball, basketball or another sport, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance to help families reduce injury risks and support young athletes throughout the season. 


In This Episode: 

  • Why injury prevention starts before game day 
  • The importance of consistent warmups and stretching 
  • Why young athletes should play multiple sports 
  • Warning signs your child may be overtraining 
  • Common concussion symptoms caregivers should know 
  • Hydration myths and facts 
  • How to recognize heat-related illness 
  • The role of recovery, nutrition and rest in injury prevention 

]]> Tue, 01 Sep 2026 09:23:30 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 2773 When it comes to youth sports, preventing injuries often starts long before game day. 

 

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, athletic trainer Jeffrey Bass joins us to discuss the habits, routines and warning signs parents should know to help young athletes stay healthy and active. 

 

Jeffrey shares why proper warmups, recovery and hydration matter, explains the risks associated with year-round sports specialization, and discusses the warning signs that an athlete may be pushing too hard. He also breaks down common concussion misconceptions, heat-related illnesses and the important role parents, coaches and athletic trainers play in identifying injuries early. 

 

Whether your child participates in soccer, football, volleyball, baseball, basketball or another sport, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance to help families reduce injury risks and support young athletes throughout the season. 


In This Episode: 

  • Why injury prevention starts before game day 
  • The importance of consistent warmups and stretching 
  • Why young athletes should play multiple sports 
  • Warning signs your child may be overtraining 
  • Common concussion symptoms caregivers should know 
  • Hydration myths and facts 
  • How to recognize heat-related illness 
  • The role of recovery, nutrition and rest in injury prevention 

]]> Sports Injury Prevention, Youth Sports, Athletic Training, Sports Medicine, Sports Injuries, Concussions, Hydration, Heat Illness, Youth Athletes, Sports Safety, Recovery, Multi-Sport Athletes, Overuse Injuries, Sports Parent Advice, Cook Children's, Orthopedics, High School Sports, Youth Athletics, injury Prevention Checklist, Athletic Trainer No Vaccines, Questions and Trust: What You Need to Know 3 3 Vaccines, Questions and Trust: What You Need to Know full 0e1c60a6-ff28-4bb4-8189-cdf5f8c2961f https://share.transistor.fm/s/027a6a04 Parents today are flooded with information about childhood vaccines. How do you know what to trust?


In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Alice Phillips, M.D., pediatrician and Medical Director for Ambulatory Quality at Cook Children’s, answers common questions families have about childhood immunizations and shares practical advice for navigating vaccine conversations in today's information-heavy world.


Dr. Phillips discusses why trusted relationships with pediatricians matter, what parents should know about delayed vaccine schedules, and why routine well-child visits remain essential. She explains how vaccines are researched, tested and reviewed before approval and offers insight into Cook Children's internal review process for new vaccines.


You'll also learn about the Comfort Menu, a program designed to reduce fear and discomfort during immunizations, why questions about vaccines are always welcome, and how parents can identify trustworthy health information online.


Whether you're preparing your child for daycare, kindergarten or simply trying to sort through conflicting information, this episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance for parents who want to make informed decisions about their child's health.

You'll Learn:

  • How to find trustworthy vaccine information
  • Why pediatricians encourage parents to ask questions
  • What parents should know about delayed vaccination schedules
  • How vaccines are tested before they are approved
  • The purpose of Cook Children's Comfort Menu
  • Common myths surrounding vaccine safety
  • Why routine well-child visits remain important
  • How to talk through vaccine concerns with your pediatrician
]]> Parents today are flooded with information about childhood vaccines. How do you know what to trust?


In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Alice Phillips, M.D., pediatrician and Medical Director for Ambulatory Quality at Cook Children’s, answers common questions families have about childhood immunizations and shares practical advice for navigating vaccine conversations in today's information-heavy world.


Dr. Phillips discusses why trusted relationships with pediatricians matter, what parents should know about delayed vaccine schedules, and why routine well-child visits remain essential. She explains how vaccines are researched, tested and reviewed before approval and offers insight into Cook Children's internal review process for new vaccines.


You'll also learn about the Comfort Menu, a program designed to reduce fear and discomfort during immunizations, why questions about vaccines are always welcome, and how parents can identify trustworthy health information online.


Whether you're preparing your child for daycare, kindergarten or simply trying to sort through conflicting information, this episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance for parents who want to make informed decisions about their child's health.

You'll Learn:

  • How to find trustworthy vaccine information
  • Why pediatricians encourage parents to ask questions
  • What parents should know about delayed vaccination schedules
  • How vaccines are tested before they are approved
  • The purpose of Cook Children's Comfort Menu
  • Common myths surrounding vaccine safety
  • Why routine well-child visits remain important
  • How to talk through vaccine concerns with your pediatrician
]]> Tue, 25 Aug 2026 06:00:00 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1070 Parents today are flooded with information about childhood vaccines. How do you know what to trust?


In this episode of For Kids’ Sake, Alice Phillips, M.D., pediatrician and Medical Director for Ambulatory Quality at Cook Children’s, answers common questions families have about childhood immunizations and shares practical advice for navigating vaccine conversations in today's information-heavy world.


Dr. Phillips discusses why trusted relationships with pediatricians matter, what parents should know about delayed vaccine schedules, and why routine well-child visits remain essential. She explains how vaccines are researched, tested and reviewed before approval and offers insight into Cook Children's internal review process for new vaccines.


You'll also learn about the Comfort Menu, a program designed to reduce fear and discomfort during immunizations, why questions about vaccines are always welcome, and how parents can identify trustworthy health information online.


Whether you're preparing your child for daycare, kindergarten or simply trying to sort through conflicting information, this episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance for parents who want to make informed decisions about their child's health.

You'll Learn:

  • How to find trustworthy vaccine information
  • Why pediatricians encourage parents to ask questions
  • What parents should know about delayed vaccination schedules
  • How vaccines are tested before they are approved
  • The purpose of Cook Children's Comfort Menu
  • Common myths surrounding vaccine safety
  • Why routine well-child visits remain important
  • How to talk through vaccine concerns with your pediatrician
]]> Vaccines, Childhood vaccines, Immunizations, Vaccine safety, Vaccine schedule, Delayed vaccine schedule, Parenting podcast, Pediatrician advice, Vaccine myths, Childhood health, Well-child visits, School immunizations, Vaccine education, Parenting, Cook Children's, Pediatric healthcare, Preventive medicine, Child health, Vaccine questions, Immunization schedule No ADHD or Just Being a Kid? What Parents Need to Know 2 2 ADHD or Just Being a Kid? What Parents Need to Know full 443bd397-80c9-438b-a69c-282ea644625c https://share.transistor.fm/s/a8b983a2 When is a child's hyperactivity or impulsiveness just part of growing up, and when could it be ADHD?

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, host Chelsea Kretz Howell sits down with Akemi Watkins, M.D., child psychiatrist at Cook Children's, to help parents and caregivers better understand the signs of ADHD and when to seek support.

Dr. Watkins explains how ADHD often shows up at home, in classrooms and during extracurricular activities, and shares what parents should watch for as children grow. 

She also breaks down: 

  • The differences between 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Early intervention resources available to families
  • Practical guidance for navigating concerns about a child's attention and learning

Most importantly, Dr. Watkins reminds parents that not every quirky or daydreaming child has a diagnosis, and that asking questions is never an overreaction when a child is struggling.

Whether you're concerned about your child or supporting a student, this conversation offers expert insight and actionable next steps.

Subscribe to For Kids' Sake for trusted parenting advice from Cook Children's doctors, nurses and clinicians.
 

]]> When is a child's hyperactivity or impulsiveness just part of growing up, and when could it be ADHD?

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, host Chelsea Kretz Howell sits down with Akemi Watkins, M.D., child psychiatrist at Cook Children's, to help parents and caregivers better understand the signs of ADHD and when to seek support.

Dr. Watkins explains how ADHD often shows up at home, in classrooms and during extracurricular activities, and shares what parents should watch for as children grow. 

She also breaks down: 

  • The differences between 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Early intervention resources available to families
  • Practical guidance for navigating concerns about a child's attention and learning

Most importantly, Dr. Watkins reminds parents that not every quirky or daydreaming child has a diagnosis, and that asking questions is never an overreaction when a child is struggling.

Whether you're concerned about your child or supporting a student, this conversation offers expert insight and actionable next steps.

Subscribe to For Kids' Sake for trusted parenting advice from Cook Children's doctors, nurses and clinicians.
 

]]> Tue, 18 Aug 2026 08:02:52 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1237 When is a child's hyperactivity or impulsiveness just part of growing up, and when could it be ADHD?

In this episode of For Kids' Sake, host Chelsea Kretz Howell sits down with Akemi Watkins, M.D., child psychiatrist at Cook Children's, to help parents and caregivers better understand the signs of ADHD and when to seek support.

Dr. Watkins explains how ADHD often shows up at home, in classrooms and during extracurricular activities, and shares what parents should watch for as children grow. 

She also breaks down: 

  • The differences between 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Early intervention resources available to families
  • Practical guidance for navigating concerns about a child's attention and learning

Most importantly, Dr. Watkins reminds parents that not every quirky or daydreaming child has a diagnosis, and that asking questions is never an overreaction when a child is struggling.

Whether you're concerned about your child or supporting a student, this conversation offers expert insight and actionable next steps.

Subscribe to For Kids' Sake for trusted parenting advice from Cook Children's doctors, nurses and clinicians.
 

]]> family, kids, medicine, kids health, children, family, pediatrician, kids health, cook Children's, health care No Back-to-School Survival Guide: Sleep, Anxiety & Healthy Habits 1 1 Back-to-School Survival Guide: Sleep, Anxiety & Healthy Habits full 1ba98103-a966-4469-a9dc-aae9b525479c https://share.transistor.fm/s/a75ac753 The school year is here. Is your family ready?
 

In the first episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children's pediatrician Diane Arnaout, M.D., shares practical advice to help families navigate the transition from summer break to the classroom.

From resetting sleep schedules and easing first-day anxiety to understanding school vaccines and preparing for cold and flu season, this episode covers the essentials every parent and caregiver should know before the school bell rings.


You'll learn:

  • Why sleep should be at the top of every back-to-school checklist
  • How to help anxious children feel more confident about a new school year
  • The signs your child may be struggling with back-to-school stress
  • What vaccines and preventive health measures parents should discuss with their pediatrician
  • Simple ways to build healthy routines that support learning and emotional well-being
  • How to prepare your home for inevitable school-year germs and illnesses


Plus, in our "Asking for a Friend" segment, Dr. Arnaout answers a question many parents quietly wonder about: Is it okay if my child eats the same lunch every day?


Whether you're sending a child to kindergarten or high school, this episode will help your family start the school year healthy and confident.


Subscribe to For Kids' Sake for trusted parenting advice from Cook Children's doctors, nurses and clinicians.
 

]]> The school year is here. Is your family ready?
 

In the first episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children's pediatrician Diane Arnaout, M.D., shares practical advice to help families navigate the transition from summer break to the classroom.

From resetting sleep schedules and easing first-day anxiety to understanding school vaccines and preparing for cold and flu season, this episode covers the essentials every parent and caregiver should know before the school bell rings.


You'll learn:

  • Why sleep should be at the top of every back-to-school checklist
  • How to help anxious children feel more confident about a new school year
  • The signs your child may be struggling with back-to-school stress
  • What vaccines and preventive health measures parents should discuss with their pediatrician
  • Simple ways to build healthy routines that support learning and emotional well-being
  • How to prepare your home for inevitable school-year germs and illnesses


Plus, in our "Asking for a Friend" segment, Dr. Arnaout answers a question many parents quietly wonder about: Is it okay if my child eats the same lunch every day?


Whether you're sending a child to kindergarten or high school, this episode will help your family start the school year healthy and confident.


Subscribe to For Kids' Sake for trusted parenting advice from Cook Children's doctors, nurses and clinicians.
 

]]> Sun, 09 Aug 2026 12:56:48 -0500 Cook Children's Health Care System Cook Children's Health Care System 1188 The school year is here. Is your family ready?
 

In the first episode of For Kids' Sake, Cook Children's pediatrician Diane Arnaout, M.D., shares practical advice to help families navigate the transition from summer break to the classroom.

From resetting sleep schedules and easing first-day anxiety to understanding school vaccines and preparing for cold and flu season, this episode covers the essentials every parent and caregiver should know before the school bell rings.


You'll learn:

  • Why sleep should be at the top of every back-to-school checklist
  • How to help anxious children feel more confident about a new school year
  • The signs your child may be struggling with back-to-school stress
  • What vaccines and preventive health measures parents should discuss with their pediatrician
  • Simple ways to build healthy routines that support learning and emotional well-being
  • How to prepare your home for inevitable school-year germs and illnesses


Plus, in our "Asking for a Friend" segment, Dr. Arnaout answers a question many parents quietly wonder about: Is it okay if my child eats the same lunch every day?


Whether you're sending a child to kindergarten or high school, this episode will help your family start the school year healthy and confident.


Subscribe to For Kids' Sake for trusted parenting advice from Cook Children's doctors, nurses and clinicians.
 

]]> back to school, school, kids health, flu shots, children, health care, kids health, Childs health, health care, cook Childrens No