Answers | Overview
Boston Children’s Answers Parentcast is the ultimate podcast for parents who want expert advice on keeping their kids healthy. Hosted by neonatologist and mom Dr. Jennifer Arnold, each episode features Boston Children’s specialists sharing valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate the journey of raising children.
Want more episodes? Explore Seasons 1 and 2 for even more expert guidance.
Season 3, Episode 4: How can families navigate sickle cell disease?
In this episode, Dr. Natasha Archer, director of the Sickle Cell Disease Program at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's, joins Dr. Arnold to discuss sickle cell disease (SCD), including diagnosis, management, and even potential cures.
Together they address the following questions:
- What is sickle cell disease?
- How common is SCD, and who is most at risk?
- How is SCD inherited?
- When and how is sickle cell disease diagnosed?
- What are the signs and symptoms of SCD?
- What treatment options are available for sickle cell disease?
- Are gene therapies available for sickle cell disease?
- Is there a cure for SCD?
- What new research offers hope for the future?
Advancements in therapies have led to transformative treatments for many patients diagnosed with SCD, with some patients experiencing significant relief from pain and a renewed quality of life. Listen to the full episode to learn more.
Season 3, Episode 3: How is vaping hurting kids?
Vaping has become alarmingly common among kids and teens, but how much do we really know about its risks? In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold speaks with pulmonologist Dr. Alicia Casey about the dangers of vaping, its effects on adolescent lung health, and what parents need to know to protect their kids. Together, they answer critical questions, including:
- What is vaping?
- How do vape pens work?
- What harmful substances are in vaping products?
- How common is vaping among middle and high school students?
- Why is vaping popular with kids?
- Why is vaping so addictive?
- What are the short- and long-term health risks of vaping?
- Does vaping impact mental health?
- What is vaping associated pulmonary illness and how is it treated?
- What are some warning signs a teen or preteen may be vaping?
- What should parents do if they suspect their child is vaping?
- How can parents effectively talk to their kids about vaping?
- What resources are available to help kids quit vaping?
Talk to your kids early and often about vaping, ensuring they hear the facts from you — not just their friends or social media. If you suspect your child is vaping, reach out to your pediatrician for guidance and next steps.
Season 3, Episode 2: Do some kids have urinary challenges beyond toilet training?
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold is joined by Dr. Margaret Werner, a pediatrician at Boston Children's Center for Healthy Elimination and Bladder Rehabilitation (CHEER) — a program dedicated to nonsurgical urologic issues in kids and teens. Together, they answer important questions about urinary health, including:
- How common are urologic issues in kids and teens?
- How can parents talk with kids about urinary concerns?
- What is good bladder hygiene?
- Why is it important to fully empty your bladder?
- Is there an optimal toileting position for better bladder health?
- What are the key differences between daytime and nighttime wetting?
- What are some common causes of bladder issues in kids and teens?
- What are some bladder irritants that may cause problems?
- What tests help evaluate urinary concerns in children?
- What the signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
- How do recurrent UTIs impact a child’s health?
- How does CHEER approach treatment?
- What treatment options are available for urinary conditions?
- What research is currently being conducted on pediatric urinary conditions?
- What are Dr. Werner’s “doctor’s orders” for preventing urinary problems in kids?
Urinary health can be a sensitive topic for kids and parents, but knowledge is key to prevention and treatment. Tune in to hear expert insights on supporting your child’s health.
Season 3, Episode 1: Could my child be at risk for an ACL injury?
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold speaks with Dr. Mininder Kocher, an orthopedic surgeon. and chief of Boston Children’s Sports Medicine Division. Together, break down the causes, treatments, and prevention strategies for ACL injuries, answering questions such as:
- What is the ACL, and why is it important?
- How do ACL injuries happen in kids?
- Which sports have the highest risk for ACL injuries?
- What are the different levels of severity of ACL injuries?
- What is a tibial spine fracture?
- How common are ACL injuries, and why are they more prevalent now than in the past?
- Why are ACL injuries more common in females?
- What are the symptoms of an ACL injury?
- How are ACL injuries diagnosed?
- How are ACL injuries treated?
- When is surgery required for an ACL injury, and what types of surgery are available?
- What are growth plates and how do they factor into treatment?
- How do you choose a surgeon for ACL repair or reconstruction?
- How does Boston Children’s support patients’ mental health after orthopedic injuries?
- How is pain managed for patients with ACL injuries?
- What steps can young athletes take to prevent ACL injuries?
- At what age should young athletes start taking preventative measures?
- What research is currently being done to address ACL injuries?
- What are Dr. Kocher’s “doctor’s orders” for protecting young athletes from ACL injuries?
Listen now to learn everything you need to know to help your young athlete stay healthy and strong.