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Today, I talked about something that's really close to my heart - how our immune system and brain development are connected, especially in kids. You know what's crazy? About one in three kids these days isn't developing quite the way they should, and as a mom and doctor, that really gets me thinking. 

n this episode, we also talked about stress (because who isn't stressed these days, right?), and how it affects both parents and kids. When we're stressed, it actually changes how blood flows to our brain, which impacts everything from how we handle emotions to how we make decisions. But here's the good news - it's never too late to make changes that can help our brains work better.

Whether you're thinking about having kids someday, expecting a little one, or already in the parenting trenches, this episode is packed with practical tips to help create the best environment for your child's brain to thrive. And remember, small changes can make a big difference - we just need to take that first step!

The best part? You don't need a medical degree to understand this stuff. It's all about making small, meaningful changes that can help our kids (and us!) feel and function better. Because at the end of the day, isn't that what we all want for our families?

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SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode137

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Let me share some fascinating insights about how a mother's health during pregnancy affects her baby's brain development. The connection between our immune system and our baby's developing brain is truly remarkable.

Think of the immune system during pregnancy as a blueprint for baby's brain development. Whether dealing with a virus like COVID-19, managing an old infection like mono, or experiencing high levels of stress, it all impacts how the brain develops. The fascinating part? The baby doesn't even need to get sick - just the mother's immune response can influence brain development patterns.

When explaining brain development to parents, comparing it to gardening helps make it clear. The brain starts with abundant neural connections and naturally trims away the unnecessary ones, keeping the vital pathways. The vestibular system in the inner ear plays a crucial role too, affecting everything from movement to emotional processing.

Many parents are surprised to learn just how significant stress during pregnancy can be. High stress levels can affect how a baby's brain develops, potentially impacting movement, thinking, and language skills. This isn't about creating guilt - it's about understanding how to support healthier pregnancies.

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SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode137

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Today's discussion delves into the fascinating world of neuroimmune development and its profound impact on children's health, particularly during pregnancy and early childhood.

Recent research about "pandemic babies" (children born after March 2020) reveals important findings about how maternal inflammation can affect fetal brain development, even without direct infection. Using a favorite analogy of tiddlywinks, the complex concepts of neural circuit development become clearer, making brain development more understandable for parents and caregivers.

The episode emphasizes the critical nature of developmental windows - those key periods when the brain, gut, and immune system are forming. Environmental factors during these times can significantly influence a child's future health. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, the crucial connection between gut health and neurological development becomes evident, leading to practical solutions for parents dealing with picky eaters and nutritional challenges.

SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode136

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Today, Dr. Laura Hanson sits down with Dr. Zelinsky from the Mind-Eye Institute to discuss the fascinating connection between vision, brain function, and overall development. Dr. Zelinsky brings a unique perspective to optometry, focusing on how the entire visual system—not just central eyesight—affects learning, attention, and behavior.

For parents concerned about their child's development, this episode offers hope and practical insights. The Mind-Eye Institute's approach goes beyond traditional vision care to address the complex relationship between visual processing and brain function.

Want to learn more about how vision might be affecting your child? Visit http://mindeye.com or call 847-501-2020. The Mind-Eye Institute team can help you figure out if this approach could help your child succeed.

Remember: Sometimes the solution isn't about seeing better—it's about helping the brain process what it sees in a better way.

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SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode135

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Phone the office: 678-501-5172

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Ever wondered why your child seems to have bigger reactions than other kids? In this episode of Connect My Brain, Dr. Laura Hanson breaks down the science behind emotional outbursts in a way that makes sense for parents.

Children's reactions sometimes don't match the situation - like having a complete meltdown over bumping an elbow or not being able to wait while mom's on the phone. Instead of just labeling this as "bad behavior," we want to consider there might be more going on under the surface.

Kids between 7 and 8 years old go through an especially important time in brain development. What's happening in their lives during this period - including family stress or big events like the pandemic - can have a lasting impact on how they handle emotions.

Think of it this way: adults have years of experience to draw from when dealing with frustrating situations. But kids? They're still building their emotional toolbox. They don't have that library of experiences to help them respond appropriately yet.

The good news? The brain can change and improve at any age, though it's easier when children are younger. Don’t wait if you notice your child struggling with big emotions. Getting help early can make a big difference.

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SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode134

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Phone the office: 678-501-5172

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As a mom, have you ever worried about your child's development? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Laura Hanson talks about why so many kids are struggling today and what parents can do to help.

What makes this episode really helpful is Dr. Hanson's explanation of why some kids are picky eaters or have tummy troubles. These aren't just "phases" - they might be signs that your child needs support. She explains how food sensitivities and poor nutrient absorption can affect behavior and development.

The best part? Dr. Hanson offers hope! She shares how her team works with families, taking things step by step without overwhelming kids with too many changes at once. They even offer online appointments for families who don't live nearby.

Whether you're planning to have a baby, expecting, or already have kids who might need extra support, Dr. Hanson's message is clear: there are always options and ways to help your child thrive. Sometimes you just need to try a different approach.

Want to learn more? Dr. Hanson invites parents to check out Connect My Brain's website and reach out if they need guidance. Remember, you're not alone in this journey!

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SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode133

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Phone the office: 678-501-5172

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Today, Dr. Laura Hanson sits down with Sean Brock from Neuro Colorado to explore the intersection of neurofeedback, counseling, and mental health. This conversation reveals how two different professions can come together to offer comprehensive care for individuals struggling with various mental health challenges.

Sean Brock, a licensed professional counselor, shares his journey of incorporating neurofeedback and neurostimulation into his practice. He explains how these techniques can complement traditional counseling methods, offering a more holistic approach to mental health treatment. Dr. Hanson, a chiropractor with expertise in neurofeedback, brings her unique perspective on how physical health and brain function intertwine.

The discussion delves into the science behind neurofeedback, explaining how it can help regulate brain activity and potentially alleviate symptoms of conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. Brock also provides an insightful explanation of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and how it differs from neurofeedback while still targeting trauma processing.

One of the most compelling aspects of their conversation is the emphasis on hope and the potential for positive change. Both experts stress that individuals struggling with mental health issues have options and that feeling better is possible with the right approach and support.

SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode132

Connect with Sean:

• Visit Sean's website, Neuro Colorado
• Connect with Sean on Facebook and LinkedIn
• Phone Sean at Neuro Colorado: 720-232-0834

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Phone the office: 678-501-5172

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Dr. Laura Hanson offers a fascinating exploration into the crucial role of movement in child development and learning. As a passionate educator and healthcare professional, Dr. Hanson shares her invaluable insights on how physical activity can jumpstart a child's cognitive and emotional growth.

In this episode, we cover:

• The importance of primitive reflexes in early development
• How movement discharges stress and improves attention
• The connection between physical posture and emotional well-being
• The impact of chronic habits on brain circuitry
• The role of the hippocampus in learning and memory

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SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode131

What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: https://www.connectmybrain.com/survey/

Phone the office: 678-501-5172

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free)

Bradley Hilton, a father and financial planner, shares his family's journey in helping their daughter overcome developmental challenges. After noticing differences in their child's behavior post-pandemic, Bradley and his wife sought help. They eventually found Dr. Laura Hansen at Connect My Brain, who offered a unique approach to addressing their daughter's needs. In their very first session, they saw a breakthrough - their 4.5-year-old daughter suddenly became potty trained, a milestone they had been struggling with for months.

The path to improvement wasn't easy, though. Bradley describes the intense commitment required - daily exercises, dietary changes, and a complete lifestyle overhaul for the whole family. He emphasizes that while it was overwhelming at times, the results were worth it. Bradley encourages other parents, especially fathers, to be open to recognizing potential issues in their children's development and to seek help without trying to "fix" everything themselves.

Dr. Laura Hansen stresses the importance of early intervention, explaining that there are crucial developmental windows in a child's life. She discusses how various factors, from prenatal health to gut bacteria, can impact a child's brain development. However, she reassures listeners that it's never too late to make positive changes.

Watch Laura’s video podcast!

SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode130

What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: https://www.connectmybrain.com/survey/

Phone the office: 678-501-5172

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free)

Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the different approaches to helping your child with attention, behavior, or learning challenges? As a mom and a doctor, I totally get it. In this podcast, I first dive into the world of traditional versus alternative treatments for kids' developmental issues. Then, we'll explore why the usual route of medication and standard therapies might not always be the best fit, and why it's so crucial to keep an open mind about other options out there. Moreover, we'll discuss the pros and cons of insurance-based treatments and why sometimes thinking outside the box can lead to better results.

Next, I'll share some practical tips on how to research different approaches, such as primitive reflex work and nutrition, that could make a significant difference for your child. Additionally, we'll delve into the fascinating connection between body movement and brain development, and how understanding this link can unlock new ways to help your little one thrive. Furthermore, I'll explain concepts like lateralization and the homunculus in simple terms, showing how they relate to your child's learning and behavior. Whether you're a parent desperately looking for answers or just curious about how our amazing brains work, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights that could transform the way you think about child development and learning.

Watch Laura’s video podcast!

SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode129

What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: https://www.connectmybrain.com/survey/

Phone the office: 678-501-5172