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In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with Dr. Nina Shapiro, pediatric ENT and author of Take a Deep Breath: Clear the Air for the Health of Your Child, now out in its updated edition.

Together, they dive into one of the most common worries for parents: their baby’s breathing. Dr. Shapiro explains why newborns are “obligate nasal breathers,” what normal baby breathing actually sounds like, and when parents should (and shouldn’t) worry. You’ll also learn practical, evidence-based tips on:

• The safest and most effective way to use nasal saline
• When (and when not) to use suction devices
• How safe-sleep practices like “A B C — Alone, on their Back, in a Crib” protect babies from SIDS
• Simple tools like the "A B C D E" checklist for spotting breathing trouble

This conversation will help parents feel calmer, more confident, and better equipped to care for their baby’s breathing.

👉 Stay tuned for Part 2 next week, when Dr. Shapiro returns to discuss breathing issues in older kids — including chronic stuffy noses, snoring, and when to see a specialist.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

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Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

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The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...