Little Health: A Cleveland Clinic Children’s Podcast

Are you struggling with a teenager who rolls their eyes, slams doors, or meets every rule with an argument? This episode breaks down the biological changes in the teen brain and why your own emotional intelligence is the secret to de-escalating conflict. We discuss the power of staying calm when your teen's emotions are running high, why short conversations beat long lectures, and how to keep your core principles and connection strong while tackling modern pressures like vaping and social media.

Managing a child’s eczema can feel like a guessing game when rashes appear to come and go for no obvious reason. In this episode, we debunk common myths about eczema triggers and explain why traditional allergy testing can often be misleading when it comes to skin inflammation. We provide a practical guide for daily skin hygiene, from choosing the right non-soap cleansers to identifying the specific indoor allergens that might be making your child's skin worse.

Is your child constantly catching colds? This episode explains the difference between a normal amount of illness (up to 8-10 per year) and when frequent sickness, especially those needing IV or repeated antibiotics, might signal an actual immune system problem. We discuss groundbreaking early diagnosis using the newborn screen and provide effective, safe ways parents can support their child's natural defenses.

Is your child's stuffy, drippy nose a common cold or seasonal allergies? In this episode, a pediatric allergist provides tips for parents on how to tell the difference, pointing out key symptoms like itchy eyes and frequent sneezing. We break down typical pediatric allergy treatments - from nasal sprays to oral antihistamines - and discuss when a more permanent solution, like allergy shots (immunotherapy), might be necessary, especially for kids dealing with year-round issues from pet allergies or dust mites.

Managing food allergies in children is becoming increasingly common, and this episode equips parents with the knowledge needed to navigate this challenging issue. A pediatric allergist-immunologist guides listeners through recognizing food allergy symptoms and the steps involved in getting a proper diagnosis, emphasizing that a child's history is the most crucial factor. Learn about the latest advances in treatment, including early food introduction for prevention, and new therapeutic options.

Are you wondering if your little one is a typical picky eater or if something more serious is happening? This episode explains the difference between normal food fussiness and a serious issue called a Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD). We share the main signs of PFD, like a child eating less than 20 foods in total or not eating any fruits, vegetables, or proteins. We also discuss why early help is important, why parents need to offer a new food 10 to 15 times, and how to make dinner time fun and relaxed instead of a fight.

Is your child's anxiety holding them back? While it's natural to want to rescue them, this can actually prevent kids from developing vital coping skills. This episode offers practical strategies to help your child face their fears, understand their anxiety, and build resilience and confidence.

What do you do when your child struggles to connect with others? When they just don't seem to fit in on the playground or in the group chat? This episode explores the emotional side of parenting a child with a developmental difference like ADHD or autism, or one who simply finds friendships a challenge. We'll talk about what's really going on inside their heads, the importance of social skills and perseverance, and how to help them find a place where they feel completely accepted.

Childhood depression is a growing concern for many parents, but recognizing the signs can be challenging. In this episode, we explain what to look for and discuss why early intervention is critical. We'll help you tell the difference between a temporary mood and a serious issue, highlight key risk factors like social media and bullying, and offer steps for finding professional help. We also cover resources available at schools and in the community to help you and your child get through this complex mental health issue.

For parents, understanding and addressing suicidal thoughts in children is incredibly important. In this episode, our experts discuss key warning signs, from changes in behavior to expressions of hopelessness, and emphasize the power of open communication with kids and working closely with schools and mental health professionals. We also talk about practical steps for creating a safe home environment and knowing when to get immediate help through resources like the 988 helpline or emergency services.