Physician and psychologist Heidi Feldman is a pioneer in the field of developmental behavioral pediatrics who says that the world’s understanding of childhood disability is changing and so too are the ways we approach it. Where once institutionalization was common, today we find integrative, family-centered approaches, charting a more humane, hopeful path forward. For example, for children born prematurely with increased likelihood of disability, increasing skin-to-skin contact – what is called  “kangaroo care” – can literally reshape that child’s brain development, she tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

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Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Heidi M. Feldman

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• Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest  Heidi Feldman, professor of pediatrics at Stanford University.

(00:03:26) Path to Developmental Pediatrics

Heidi’s journey from education to developmental-behavioral pediatrics.

(00:05:10) The Emergence of Developmental Pediatrics

How developmental disabilities entered the medical mainstream.

(00:07:30) Common Disorders in Children

The most prevalent disabilities seen in practice and diagnostic trends.

(00:09:46) Preterm Birth and Disability Risk

Why premature birth is a major risk factor for developmental challenges.

(00:13:53) Brain Connections and Outcomes

How white matter and brain circuitry impact development.

(00:17:09) Kangaroo Care’s Potential

How skin-to-skin contact positively influences brain development.

(00:21:30) Inclusive Family and Community Support

Why integrated care and inclusive classrooms benefit all children.

(00:23:37) Social and Economic Upsides

Cost savings and increased independence from inclusive care.

(00:24:33) Transitioning to Adult Care

Gaps and opportunities in supporting disabled youth into adulthood.

(00:27:12) Using AI to Improve Care Quality

AI models help track whether care guidelines are being followed.

(00:31:00) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook