Parenting in the First 3 Years

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, host Ann McKitrick dives into a question many parents rarely pause to consider: “What do you really want?”

Amid the demands of daily life, parents can lose sight of their own desires and needs. Ann shares insights on reconnecting with yourself and introduces a simple exercise to help clarify and prioritize what truly brings joy and fulfillment.

Tune in to explore how reclaiming your wants can enhance not only your well-being but also your parenting journey.

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, I’m talking with early childhood expert Dan Wuori, author of The Daycare Myth.

Dan brings a fresh perspective on the world of daycare, breaking down the misconceptions and explaining why every environment—whether at home or in childcare—shapes a child’s early learning. We chat about how to spot high-quality childcare, why nurturing interactions matter so much for little ones’ brain development, and the challenges early educators face in a broken system.

If you’re a parent, educator, or just passionate about giving young children the best start, this conversation is for you!

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, Ann McKitrick welcomes fitness expert Desi Bartlett to discuss how new moms can find strength and balance during the early years of parenting. With insights from her work with celebrities like Ashley Tisdale and Kate Hudson, Desi shares practical tips for incorporating fitness into your daily routine—even with a baby or toddler in tow.

Tune in to hear Desi's wisdom on juggling motherhood and self-care, the connection between mental and physical health, and how to stay strong through life’s transitions.

In this episode Ann McKitrick sits down with Audrey Rowland, founder of Greenspace Learning and president of the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children, to explore the biases we often hold against childhood.

Audrey shares her insights from her powerful South by Southwest presentation, "Confronting Our Bias Against Childhood," and helps us understand why we sometimes feel pressured to make our children act beyond their age to meet adult expectations.

This episode will challenge your perspective, freeing you from the need to rush your child's development, and encourage you to celebrate who they are in the moment. Tune in to gain valuable wisdom about honoring childhood and trusting your child's unique journey.

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, host Ann McKitrick talks with Dr. Joel Warsh, a holistic pediatrician and author of Parenting at Your Child's Pace.

They discuss practical tips for preventing and managing common childhood illnesses like the flu, colds, and RSV, especially as kids return to school and daycare. Dr. Warsh shares insights on boosting children's immunity, the role of natural remedies, and when it's necessary to visit a doctor.

Tune in to learn how to keep your little ones healthy during the cold and flu season!

Did you know your baby is born ready and equipped to connect with you?

In this episode, I reflect on a powerful memory of caring for a tiny foster baby named Desmond. The experience brought me back to the awe-inspiring abilities of newborns that often go unnoticed!

Join me as I explore three things that your newborn instinctively knows how to do from the moment they're born. Discover how their scent triggers deep emotional responses, the significance of their gaze, and their incredible ability to learn and imitate from day one.

Plus, I'll debunk four common myths about newborns that new parents often hear. Tune in to learn more about these tiny wonders and how to best care for them during those sweet early days. 

 Links

Do you feel like you're the one responsible for making sure your baby meets all their milestones at the right time? That it's a reflection on you as a parent if they're not talking, walking, or playing with others at the same time as other kids? If you answered yes, then take heart - we've got great news for you!

In this episode, Rae Pica, a renowned expert in the early childhood community helps debunk some of the most persistent myths about early childhood development, particularly the belief that "earlier is better."

Together, we explore the natural process of child development and emphasize the crucial role of play in fostering healthy growth. And most importantly, the importance of letting go and trusting that healthy growth and development is happening, even if it's a different pace for your child.

What are some creative things you can add to your daily routines to support your toddler a little later when they start big school?

In this enlightening episode, we welcome back Gabrielle Holt, Infant Toddler Program Coordinator at Montessori Country Day School in Houston, Texas. Gabby is a trainer for Montessori teachers across the country and works as a research assistant at the Lilac Lab at the University of Texas at Dallas.

Join us as we dive into the world of early literacy and explore practical tips for parents to foster learning at home.

Topics Discussed:   

• Defining Early Literacy
• The Power of Storytelling
• Engaging in Storytelling
• Early Literacy Activities
• Supporting Writing Skills
• Practical Tips for Parents

How can understanding your child's temperament help you tailor your responses to their behavior, and what specific strategies can you use to support a child with a more reactive or less adaptive temperament?

Reflective parenting is about observing, understanding, and thoughtfully responding to your child's needs. By using the Reflective Cycle, parents can foster a nurturing environment that supports their child's emotional and social development. Remember, the key is patience, observation, and maintaining a calm presence.

In this episode, we explore a powerful approach to parenting called the Reflective Cycle. Using an engaging story from a wonderful little school, the Infant Development Center, we delve into practical strategies to support your child's social-emotional development.

Is the convenience of a toy subscription worth the cost?

The world of parenting has been revolutionized by various innovations, one of which is the concept of toy subscriptions. These services promise to deliver a curated selection of toys to your doorstep regularly, tailored to your child’s age and interests. While the idea is appealing to many busy parents, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before subscribing.

In this episode I am joined by a dear friend, Dr. Zlata Stankovic-Ramirez, Child Development and Early Childhood Education Expert. We unpack the convenience and excitement of toy subscriptions, discussing how they can enhance playtime and learning for your little one. But are there downsides to consider? We delve into the potential drawbacks and how to navigate them.

Dr. Zlata Stankovic-Ramirez brings a wealth of experience in early childhood development to the table, making this episode a must-listen for parents everywhere.

Topics Discussed:

• Making your child's play space accessible and interactive.
• How to provide intentional materials in every space where a child is likely to be.
• Selecting toys that encourage imagination and creativity.
• The benefits of rotating toys every 4 to 12 weeks and how to declutter.
• Toy subscription benefits

Parenting can be overwhelming, but effective strategies can help manage daily demands. Setting realistic expectations and seeking support are key!

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, Ann dives into the challenges and strategies for finding balance amidst the chaos of parenting young children with Lori Oberbroeckling, host of Secrets of SuperMom podcast.

Lori identifies four questions to ask yourself when you feel overwhelmed...

• Am I moving?
• Am I sleeping?
• Am I eating food that makes my body feel good?
• Am I connecting with humans I like?

Listen to hear her amazing tips on simple ways to make sure you can answer yes to these questions!

Today's guest, Gina Mundy, an experienced attorney and author of A Parent's Guide to Safer Childbirth.

In this episode, we dive into crucial topics for expecting parents. We discuss the essential steps to ensure the safety of both mother and baby and how being well-prepared can make a significant difference in your childbirth experience.

Gina shares valuable insights from her book and her podcast, The Childbirth Attorney with Gina Munday. Whether you're an expecting parent or know someone who is, this episode is packed with vital information you won't want to miss.

Topics Discussed:

• Importance of being informed and knowing what questions to ask
• Common complications and how to avoid them
• The role of communication with your delivery team
• Tips for preparing a birth plan and the significance of having a support person

In this episode, we delve into the how-to's of playing with your baby, guided by expert advice from Autumn McKay, founder of Best Mom Ideas. As parents, understanding how to effectively engage with our little ones during the infant/toddler years is paramount.

We explore three key points that shed light on nurturing your child's development through play, ending with suggestions on how you can learn from Ms Rachel, the YouTube phenomenon that's got babies mesmerized!

Topics Discussed:

• Creating Opportunities to Learn
• Connecting Emotionally with Your Child
• Screen Time, Learning and Ms Rachel

How does our internal dialogue influence how we parent and what steps can we take to cultivate a more positive mindset?

In this episode Lenora Edwards, a board-certified speech language pathologist shares her insights from her TEDx talk titled "How to Stop Negative Self Talk." Together we explore the impact of negative thoughts on parenting and discover strategies for fostering a more positive mindset.

So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth in the realm of parenting.

In this episode, we'll explore the realities of parenting, including the myths surrounding maternal instinct, the importance of parent intuition, and how we can better understand and connect with our children through mind-mindedness.

Anya will also share practical tips for navigating the early years of parenting with confidence. Whether you're a new parent or simply interested in the science behind connecting with children, this conversation with Anya Dunham will provide valuable insights into how we can better understand and connect with the children in our lives.

About our Guest: Anya Dunham holds a Ph.D. in biology and works as a research scientist focusing on ecology, specifically the interactions between living organisms and their environment.

Can you imagine being told at 25 weeks pregnancy that your baby has a rare heart condition and will likely not survive? And then choosing to discontinue the medication given that's might help your baby (but they really didn't know)?!

That's what happened with our guest speaker, Paulette Kamenecka.

In this episode, you'll hear her amazing story of facing the terrible news that no pregnant woman wants to hear... and how she embraced the challenge, followed her heart and believed in her strong baby girl, who kicked the odds right outa the park.

Paulette shares invaluable lessons about parenting that she and her partner learned along the way.

Talking through the important questions, "what will we do if....?" is an integral part of preparing to be a parent.

In this episode, we'll uncover the dynamics of attention-seeking behavior in children and how parents can navigate these challenges with compassion and effectiveness.

From understanding the developmental roots of attention-seeking to practical strategies for fostering positive interactions, Camilla shares invaluable insights to empower parents. We discuss the importance of self-reflection, the role of humor in parenting and actionable tips for building stronger connections with our children.

Topics Discussed:       

• Understanding Attention Seeking Behavior
• Differentiating Positive and Negative Responses
• Managing Negative Behavior
• Parental Response and Self-Reflection
• Encouragement and Humor

In this episode, Andrea Ventim join Ann for a conversation about how we help our kids grow into who they are meant to be.

Even in the early years, our children's passions and gifts begin to shine through. How we respond as a parent can shape their future self!

Andrea, mom of 2, shares some great stories and tips on making sure our kids are supported to pursue their interests. In her extensive journey through personal development, Andrea has not only invested in her own growth but has also actively collaborated with top-tier mentors.

It's a must-listen for any parent who wants to better understand their kids and help them thrive in their own unique way.

How can parents effectively balance the inherent challenge of safeguarding their children while nurturing their autonomy, particularly in the context of risky play?

In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Audrey Roland, the visionary founder of Green Space Learning. Audrey has dedicated herself to early childhood professional development, and her organization includes licensed childcare centers along with the creation of innovative natural play equipment for playgrounds.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply curious about fostering a child's development through risky play, Audrey's wealth of experience and wisdom is bound to captivate you. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to delve into a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of embracing risk in childhood development.

Topics Discussed:

• Children's compulsion to take risks - it's innate!
• Differentiating between hazard and risk
• The Parents role in engaging with risky play
• Supporting resilience in children

 Have you ever paused to consider the conversations you have with yourself, and how those internal dialogues shape your mindset?

In this episode we talk about how important it is to speak to yourself with positive words and how you can affirm your child in easy, natural ways. We cover why it matters, the science behind your self-talk and how you can implement the practice in your daily life.

Topics Discussed:·                 

• The Power of Self-Talk
• The Science Behind Affirmations       
• Crafting Effective Affirmations 
• Affirming Your Child – Practical Strategies  
• How to Create "Kid of the Week"               

In this episode, Christine, Catherine and I delve into a subject that is both timely and essential – the dynamics of interracial friendships and the impact of these relationships on the journey of parenting. Their new book, Rebecca, Not Becky follows two upper-class stay-at-home mothers (one white, one Black) - who are tasked with “Making a (blank) Friend.” [fill in: white or black, accordingly).

The backdrop is a "perfect" suburbia where these women must coexist and navigate motherhood, friendship, and the true meaning of sisterhood amidst the backdrop of America’s all-too-familiar racial reckoning.

The authors share their own experiences with parenting and how to answer some of the questions we're not quite sure how to answer.

What's the one dream or goal that, if achieved, would bring you the greatest joy and fulfillment in your life?

In this episode, we delve into a step-by-step guide on setting and achieving your goals - for yourself as a parent plus that amazing non-parent side of you! From deciding what you truly want in life to celebrating your successes, we've got the roadmap to guide you along the way.

Ever wondered how to transform holiday gatherings into a seamless experience when kids are in the mix?

The holiday season is filled with excitement and anticipation, but for new parents there can be a sense of angst. Navigating holiday gatherings with babies and toddlers takes intention.

So join me in this special episode where we share insights, personal stories and practical tips to help you navigate the season with joy and ease.

Curious about the smart moves that can boost your finances as the year wraps up?

Join me and my lovely guest, Ann Garcia, in this week’s episode as we unravel the mysteries of college savings, financial planning and ensuring a secure future for both you and your little ones. Plus she's got a great tip about a savings account for those looking to give your child money instead of toys for holiday and birthday celebrations!

Understanding your finances shouldn't be intimidating, it should be empowering. Get ready to demystify the language of money, embrace smart financial habits, and embark on a journey towards financial freedom.

How does a good laugh become a powerful ally in the battle against postpartum stress?

Motherhood is a mix of joy and stress. Embracing humor can ease postpartum stress, making the journey more enjoyable. Laughter not only relieves stress but also connects you with others through shared experiences. In the chaos of postpartum life, a good laugh lightens the load and brings joy.

In this episode, join me and my special guest, D’Vorah Honey, a Licensed Midwife and a mother of four. We explore the transformative effects of humor, mindset, and postpartum mental health.

Topics Discussed:

• Using humor in everyday life
• The benefits of laughter in the first year postpartum
• The importance of mindset
• The importance of postpartum mental health
• Encouragement for parents

In this week's episode, host Ann McKitrick sits down with guest, Nate Feathers, as they discuss the evolving role of dads. As a father of 5, he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the table.

This episode challenges preconceived notions and ignites a positive change in your approach to parenting or understanding of familial dynamics. Join us as we navigate the landscape of fatherhood and uncover gems of dad wisdom.

Topics Discussed:

• The catalyst for change
• Mentoring fathers through Instagram
• Changing parenting narratives
• Personal growth and reflection
• Family dynamics and challenges
• The influence of past generations

The tone we use, our pauses, and our voice's inflection all weave together to create a nuanced backdrop for the messages we convey. Join us in this episode as we explore the world of communication through voice inflection, pausing, and tone. How can parents fine-tune their tone for better communication with their kids? We'll unravel the natural and the not-so-natural, offering insights into how voice modulation impacts young minds. Plus, learn about children's reactions to different tones and why it's crucial to nurture a positive auditory environment. Topics Discussed:

• Decoding the language of tone
• Parental tone adjustment toolkit
• The ripple effect on children
• Creating a harmonious auditory environment 

Which distinct self-care methods have proven to be effective in cultivating a positive mindset, specifically within the realm of motherhood, and what advice is provided for integrating these practices into one's daily routine?

In this episode, we hear from Brianna Wilkerson, a Holistic Health and Life Coach about her journey as a mother, focusing on her strategies for keeping a positive mindset amidst the challenges of motherhood. Brianna shares her insights on the significance of self-care and explores various personal requirements individuals often have for themselves.

Topics Discussed:

• Brianna Wilkerson's story
• The essence of self-care
• Unconventional requirements
• Practical tips and actionable points
• Words of encouragement

In this episode, Amy Weber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Parent Coach joins me as we talk about the complexities of parenting and how individuals can break away from the cycles of the way they were raised to find their own unique parenting styles.

With the abundance of information available from various sources like books, family advice, and pediatricians, it can be challenging for parents to discern what's best for their family. Amy's got practical advice on how to do just that! Topics Discussed:

• Understanding generational influences
• Exploring diverse perspectives
• Embracing individuality
• Filtering information overload

In this episode, I am joined by Miranda Rake, a writer at Romper, as we discuss parenting while navigating through the ever-evolving landscape of information and shifts in thinking. We explore the delicate balance between thorough research and everyday practicality to foster the development of our children.

Join us as we discuss the integration of fresh perspectives and valuable lessons learned into effective parenting through innovative approaches that are shaping the modern parenting experience.

Topics Discussed:

• Balancing research and practicality for optimal child development
• Exploring shifts in topics of discussion over the past five years
• Integrating new concepts and lessons learned into parenting strategies
• Refined perspectives in parenting research
• Words of encouragement

As a mom, prioritizing your health and happiness is essential for your well-being and creating a nurturing environment for your little ones.

In this episode, we explore maternal health and well-being with Maria Dior, a seasoned maternal nutrition and fitness professional. She shares actionable strategies for maintaining balance during and after pregnancy, shedding light on common challenges pregnant and new moms face.

Topics Discussed:

• Dietary challenges and solutions
• Exercise and movement goals
• Impact of self-care on mental health
• Closing words of encouragement

In this week's episode, I'll discuss a topic that's close to the hearts of parents everywhere – childcare. Finding the right childcare provider can be daunting, with steep costs and complex choices.

I'll share the various types of childcare options available, provide you with five crucial questions to ask when choosing a childcare provider, and share some personal stories to shed light on the real-world experiences of parents like you.

Topics Discussed:

• Types of child care
• 5 questions to ask when choosing a child care provider
• Why is child care so expensive
• Breakdown of child care expenses

How can parents strike the perfect balance between providing stimulating experiences for their little one’s developing brains and ensuring they don't become overwhelmed or overstimulated? In this episode, I am joined by Deborah McNelis, M.Ed, an Early Brain Development Specialist, as she shares about Balance Brain Stimulation, including what it is and its benefits. We share real stories and offer practical tips to help you give your child the best start to life.

Topics Discussed:

• What is balanced brain stimulation
• The benefits of balanced brain stimulation
• Providing balanced brain stimulation for infants
• Signs you might not be doing it well

In this episode, Joanna Clark, a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach, discusses how big changes, like bringing a new baby into the house, can disrupt established sleep patterns. The conversation sheds light on the emotional and practical aspects of parenting during this transitional period, leaving listeners with a sense of empowerment and a deeper understanding of how to nurture both their toddler and newborn in harmony.

Listen in now for some great strategies and tips to help you can navigate these challenges and ensure everyone in your family gets the rest they need.

Topics Discussed:

• The challenge of a new sibling
• The toddler factor
• Sleep disruptions and regression
• Tips for Parents
• Understanding sleep coaching

As a mom, the days often feel like a whirlwind of responsibilities and cherished moments with our little ones. However, amidst the chaos, we must carve out moments for ourselves, nurturing our well-being and finding balance in the daily grind.

In this episode, we take a journey through the day, looking at ways for moms to boost their energy and peace with routines and rituals.

Topics Discussed:

• The mental load of parenting
• Morning routine for mental space
• Evening routine for relaxation
• Prioritizing self-care
• Seeking support

Biting is a common behavior observed in infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds. However, the reassuring news is that as children develop self-control, acquire problem-solving skills, and they typically outgrow this behavior. While biting incidents can be distressing for everyone involved, it's essential to approach them with patience and understanding.

In this episode, we'll explore the reasons behind this behavior, how to manage it effectively and provide you with valuable insights to navigate this aspect of child development confidently.

Topics Discussed:

• Biting as a typical behavior

• Why do children bite?

• Outgrowing biting behavior

• Coping strategies for parents and caregivers

• Seeking professional help

How can we empower our children through risky indoor and outdoor play and embrace a facilitator parenting approach? In this week's episode, we have a special guest, Dr. Catherine O’Brien, a renowned expert in child psychology and play. We talk about playtime for young children and how parents can change their protective mindset to nurture their child's growth.

Topics Discussed:

• Playing Indoors vs. Outdoors for Young Children.
• Understanding "Risky Play" for 2-3 Year Olds.
• Changing the Protective Mindset.
• Practical Suggestions for Parents.

Wondering how you can secure your family's finances without missing out on those precious moments with your kids? We've got you covered.

In this episode, we're talking about mom finances. We all know it's not just about the dollars – it's about finding that balance and mindset that works. We'll explore how you can manage providing for your family while being there for your children, and still keep your peace of mind intact.

Topics Discussed:

• Building financial security while prioritizing family
• The intricate relationship between money and mindset
• Strategies to enhance financial security
• Navigating financial worries during challenging times

Are you curious about how to nurture your kid's social-emotional growth while also creating a community with other parents?

We all want our little ones to thrive emotionally and establish meaningful connections; that journey starts with us. The little moments we put in today can pave the way for a lifetime of emotional intelligence, resilience, and strong relationships.

This week, Michael Gonzalez, father of four and Director of Professional Development at Metropolitan Montessori Schools, joins us to discuss how parents can foster social-emotional growth and connect with their kids.

Topics Discussed:

• Fostering social-emotional skills at home
• Building a supportive community with other families
• Trends in social-emotional development in schools
• Parental role in supporting your child's social-emotional growth
• Insights from experts and listener questions

Embarking on the incredible journey of breastfeeding brings a mix of complexities and wonders. With each breastfeeding experience being unique, finding the right resources and support can transform the path you're on.

Join us in this episode as we plunge into the heart of breastfeeding. Our guest, Dr. Andrea Braden, Obstetrician-Gynecologist and Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, is here to share her expertise and some great resources for parents.

Topics Discussed:

• Common Pitfalls and Misconceptions Around Breast Milk Supply
• Milk Changes: From Feeding to Baby's Age
• Pumping and Milk Expression
• Breastfeeding Resources and Support

As parents, understanding the stages of play and the importance of social interactions in early childhood development can influence how we approach our children's playtime. Encouraging them to play with others, fostering independent play, and engaging with other families can provide a well-rounded and enriching experience for their growth.

In this week's episode, Gabrielle Holt, a Montessori teacher educator with 8 years of experience, discusses the fascinating world of child development and explores the topic of play in early childhood.

Topics Discussed:

• When do babies begin playing with each other?

• The developmental stages of play

• Helping children "learn to play."

• Transitioning from parent-centric to peer play.

• Fostering independent play.

• Advantages of getting together with other families.

Being a mom of a toddler is an exhilarating journey, but it comes with its share of challenges, especially when it comes to keeping up our energy levels. In today's episode, Krizia Graham and I explore strategies to harness and nurture that power within you.

Krizia Graham is a 32-year-old entrepreneur, fitness professional (NASM-CPT), nutritionist (ISSA), wife, stepmom to a teenager and mom of an active toddler. Her passion is to help others feel stronger than ever and she's got great ideas on how you can increase your energy and stamina as you parent your little ones.

Motherhood is a transformative journey, filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with our children. But for some moms, the call to pursue their passions beyond parenting becomes irresistible.

In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Newcomb who is a devoted mom and a successful business owner. She shares her journey of self-employment, the joys of motherhood, and the personal growth she's experienced along the way. Whether you're a mom considering entrepreneurship or just seeking inspiration, this conversation is sure to resonate with you as she uncovers the challenges and triumphs she encountered along the way.

Kelsey's journey serves as a powerful reminder that motherhood doesn't restrict our potential—it magnifies it.

Have you ever experienced the mixed emotions of being both motivated and disheartened by what you see on social media? How do these contrasting feelings affect you?

In this week's episode, we explore the pros and cons of social media and the crucial role of critical thinking in our digital interactions.

Have you ever wondered what to do or how to set up your home when you have other children over to play? 

In this episode, Jeanne-Marie Paynel, M.Ed, shares practical insights and tips to support your child's development. Our conversation reveals the beauty of simplicity, the power of observation, and the importance of allowing children to navigate conflicts and find their own solutions. Topics discussed:

• Importance of setting up the home for our little ones
• The four main areas and how these evolve - sleeping, feeding, movement, and self-care of the child
• Benefits of having a bed on the floor for sleep time
• How to support social development that will benefit your child and their friends
• Preparing your child and helping to set intentions for playdates
• Practices to support your child when conflicts come up 
• Words of encouragement for parents and learning to play

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Our children go through developmental stages from the moment they are born, but did you know that parents also go through stages of development?

In this episode, Ellen Galinsky, co-founder and President of Families and Work Institute discusses her book "The Six Stages of Parenthood." She shares that when she had her first child, she understood his development, but she didn't understand her own. Understand more about parent development and the six stages in this episode with Ellen!

Did you know that you can often recognize the signs of autism around 18 months of age? In this episode, Diane Fleming explains what it was like seeing some developmental differences in her son Jacob around that age. Diane and I navigated the early years of parenthood together, and I've invited her to share her experiences as a mom. We'll rewind the clock to when her son Jacob was just a little baby and explore the differences she noticed and their journey.

Topics discussed:

• Diane shares about raising her three children
• The developmental differences and unique traits she noticed in her son Jacob 
• Their journey pursuing therapy and developmental intervention
• Words of encouragement for parents that are seeing developmental differences in their child

In this episode of "Parenting in the First Three Years," host Ann McKitrick discusses the common fears and worries parents may experience. She shares a personal story of feeling fear and panic while driving on a steep hill in Italy and highlights how fear can impact us physiologically, emotionally, and cognitively. Ann emphasizes that fear can be helpful, as it increases self-preservation and focus, and can motivate personal growth. She also provides advice on assessing the proportionality of fears and offers tips for managing them.

Topics discussed:

• What fear can do to you
• How it immobilizes you
• How fear can help you
• How to recognize if you are letting fear get a hold of you
• The tools for knowing what to do when fear is overwhelming

In this episode of "Parenting in the First Three Years," host Ann McKitrick interviews Katie Larson, a physician's assistant with personal experience in dealing with severe food allergies in her own child. Katie shares her journey of discovering her child's allergies and undergoing oral immunotherapy treatment. She emphasizes the importance of introducing allergenic foods early to reduce the risk of developing allergies and gives tips on when and how to introduce peanuts to your baby, as young as four months.

Topics discussed:

• Katie’s journey with her son’s food allergies
• The 9 allergenic foods
• Guidelines for introducing new foods
• What to look for when introducing new foods
• What are the statics for a child having a food allergy