The Pediatrician Next Door

The Pediatrician Next Door

Pediatrician Wendy Hunter, MD answers the questions you forgot or were too embarrassed to ask at the doctor’s office. She mixes the science of medicine with the realities of parenting to give satisfying answers to questions about kids’ health.

Episodes

April 30, 2025 25 mins
How early should you start teaching your child about their body? Child abuse pediatrician Dr. Shalon Nienow, MD explains what’s normal when it comes to young children’s sexual behaviors—and how to respond when things feel awkward or surprising.  Hear tips for talking to kids about private parts, and what to do when they start exploring. We share simple ways to explain the concept of consent to toddlers, school-aged kids, and tweens...
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With measles cases rising across the U.S., parents have new questions. In this re-release of last year’s episode discover why measles cases are making headlines.  Learn how to recognize early symptoms of measles, how it spreads, and whether your child should get the MMR vaccine ahead of schedule. You'll hear a real story from a patient who had measles and expert advice about how to protect your family.       Send your questions to ...
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Few things make parents cringe like lice—except maybe pinworms. Dr. Wendy explains how kids catch lice, the most effective treatments, and whether you really need to deep-clean your entire house. She answers a listener’s question about whether it’s safe to bring a baby to high altitude during travel or on an airplane. From itchy scalps to squirmy questions, this episode is packed with practical tips and pediatrician-approved advice...
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Are you worried that your kids have too much freedom with their iPhone, tablet, or video games? It’s not too late to set new screen time rules for your family! Parenting coach Tyler Durman is back to share his expert advice on managing screen time, social media, and gaming. In this episode, you’ll learn how to help your kids handle the responsibility that comes with technology, create healthy boundaries, and find the right balance ...
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Do your kids roll their eyes, ignore you, or act disrespectful? Don’t worry—it’s never too late to reset your relationship! In this episode, parenting expert Tyler Durman shares simple, effective strategies for handling tough moments with your kids. Discover how to respond when they push your buttons or shut down, and learn why saying “I’m sorry” can be a game-changer. Tyler shares what to say to rebuild trust and get back on the s...
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Do you want to connect with your kids? Parenting expert Tyler Durman has spent years working with teens, uncovering what they actually need from parents—and it’s not constant friendship or unlimited freedom. In this episode, we dive into the secrets of raising confident, respectful teens. Learn how to set boundaries, foster trust, and create a strong, lasting relationship with your child.    Tyler Durman can reset your relationship...
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We're bringing back our most downloaded—and most debated—episode ever! You might think the most controversial parenting topic would be fevers, vaccines, or screen time… but nope! It’s Intuitive Eating. Get ready to revisit the conversation that had everyone talking!    Do you want to make mealtimes better for you and your kids? Are you tired of food battles? Discover “Intuitive eating” which isn't just about eating whatever you wan...
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March 12, 2025 34 mins
Are vaccines safe? Can shots overwhelm a baby’s immune system? And what about creating your own immunization schedule? If you’ve asked these questions, you’re not alone—many parents feel hesitant about vaccines.  Vaccine hesitancy is fueled by myths, misinformation, and fear—not science. The truth is that vaccines are some of the most tested medical products in history. In this episode, we break down the most common vaccine worries...
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Are vapes and nicotine pouches like Zyn safer than cigarettes? The tobacco industry has spent decades perfecting addiction, and now they’re targeting a new generation with sleek vape pens and smokeless nicotine. Dr. Wendy reveals how nicotine rewires young brains, increasing addiction risk and leading to lifelong problems. Learn the science behind nicotine addiction, the hidden dangers of vaping and Zyn, and how to protect your kid...
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Is your social media feed full of gut health advice? From food sensitivity testing to “leaky gut”, there's a lot of misinformation out there! Dr. Wendy busts the biggest gut health myths and shares real, science-backed tips for keeping your microbiome happy. Learn what actually helps (and what doesn’t) when it comes to cleanses, diets, probiotics, fermented foods, and keeping your gut and your kids’ gut healthy.    Send your questi...
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If your child isn’t sleeping well, you’re not alone! The good news? There are plenty of resources to help—from books and websites to online courses and certified sleep consultants. In this bonus episode, we’ll guide you through the best options so you can find the right sleep solution for your family.     Resources:  Consult a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant: The Good Night Nurse  Find a solution to your child’s sleep problem ...
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If your baby isn’t sleeping, you aren’t either! Even when kids do sleep, many parents still struggle with their own rest. What if understanding how sleep cycles work could help everyone in the family get better sleep? In this episode, Brittany Hefetz, NP —also known as the Good Night Nurse—shares tips for teaching babies to fall asleep, stay asleep longer, and even helps adults improve their rest. Plus, she reveals the secret to ge...
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How do you explain IVF and surrogacy to your child when you’re not sure yourself? In this episode, we’ll break it down in a simple, caring way to help your child understand the amazing ways families are created. We’ll also explore the ethical questions surrounding these technologies and how to answer your child’s big questions with honesty and warmth.      Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpodcast.com or submit at dr...
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February 5, 2025 41 mins
In Part 2 of our 100th episode special, we’re sharing 50 more expert-approved parenting tips to make family life easier, happier, and more connected. From strengthening family bonds and boosting creativity to managing screen time and social skills, these practical hacks will help you navigate parenting. Whether you’re raising toddlers, tweens, or teens, these tips will help you create a happy, balanced family life.       Send your ...
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Celebrate the 100th episode with a list of tried-and-true parenting tips we've collected from you! From clever organization hacks to navigating daily life, handling discipline with ease, and ensuring safety, this episode is filled with practical advice every parent will love.  As promised....COMMAND HOOKS!    Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpodcast.com or submit at drwendyhunter.com  Find products from the show on...
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Why won’t that cough go away? Dr. Wendy dives into the science of coughing—what causes it, how long it’s normal to last, and when it’s time to see a doctor. She shares practical tips to soothe and treat a stubborn cough. And what about the flu? Do you really need the flu vaccine? Discover why influenza is such a tricky virus. how pandemics start, and how the flu vaccine works.    Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpod...
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Where are the most dangerous places in your house? Learn how to safety proof your home and avoid trips to the ER with tips from emergency medicine physician Darria Long Gillespie, MD.     Find Dr. Darria at NoPanicParenting.com    Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpodcast.com or submit at drwendyhunter.com  Find products from the show on the shop page.   *As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purc...
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Eating isn’t just about nutrition—it’s also a social skill. As parents, it’s your job to help kids feel confident about eating in social settings. How can you tell if your child has an unhealthy relationship with food? Adolescent Medicine specialist Dr. Maya Kumar shares how to spot the signs and guide your child toward normal, balanced eating habits. She breaks down the risks of fad diets, the importance of “celebration eating,” a...
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Start the new year with a look back at the most popular and helpful topics from The Pediatrician Next Door in 2024! In this special "best of" episode, Dr. Wendy revisits listener favorites, including how to handle fevers, the pros and cons of plant-based versus cow’s milk, and the hidden dangers of forever chemicals. These are the parenting conversations you won’t find anywhere else—designed to help you make informed, confident dec...
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A doctor’s words can shape how kids feel about their body. In this episode, Adolescent Medicine pediatrician Dr. Maya Kumar shares how doctors can approach weight conversations with care and compassion. Learn how to focus on health, while addressing weight-related issues.     Find Maya Kumar, MD at UC San Diego and Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego  Send your questions to hello@pediatriciannextdoorpodcast.com or submit at drwendy...
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