Healthy Kids Zone
Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner hosts this podcast focused on keeping children healthy and happy. She emphasizes preventive care and the benefits of reading aloud to kids. The show covers the latest trends and issues affecting children, offering practical tips to make parenting less stressful.
Episodes
How to Recognize Measles Before the Rash Appears
Many people associate measles with its distinctive rash, but the illness actually begins days earlier with symptoms that look much like a severe cold. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains how to recognize the warning signs of measles, why the virus spreads so easily, and the serious complications it can cause in children and pregnant women. Learn what makes measles dangerous, how vaccinat
Measles or Something Else? How to Tell Common Childhood Rashes Apart
Measles is on every parent's radar right now, but the disease is just one of many childhood rashes that can look alarming. Cindy Gellner, MD, details the most common viral rashes in kids—from measles and chickenpox to scarlet fever, roseola, and hand, foot, and mouth disease—and explains when to call your child's pediatrician.
The Basics: Finding the Right Formula for Your Baby
Choosing a baby formula does not come with a one-size-fits-all answer. Babies tolerate formulas differently—some thrive on standard milk-based options while others need sensitive, reflux-friendly, or specialized formulations. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD, gives guidelines on how to spot what works best for your baby and why your pediatrician’s guidance can help you choose with confidence.
Why Young Children Get Sick More Often and What Parents Can Do
Young children get sick far more often than adults, and it is completely normal. Most healthy kids come down with about six viral illnesses a year—and preschoolers and early elementary-aged children can have even more, especially when school starts and germs spread quickly. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down why kids get sick so often, what parents can expect during peak illness seas
What Pediatricians Want Parents to Know About Child Therapy
Therapy is not a last resort—it is often the best first step for children with anxiety, mood changes, or behavior concerns. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why early support matters, how therapy can work even when medications are not an option, and what families should expect from a realistic treatment plan. Get practical advice on screening, choosing therapy styles, navigating insuran
Use Parent-Teacher Conferences to Check Learning and Mental Health
Ten minutes with your child's teacher can reveal more than grades—it can surface early signs of anxiety, attention issues, or social struggles. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses how to prep and what to ask so you can spot learning delays, behavior red flags, and "mental milestones" like focus, frustration tolerance, and peer relationships. Learn how to review sleep, screens, and schoo
Debunking Old Wives' Tales: Common Misconceptions About Your Baby's Teething
Many parents link fevers, diarrhea, and even ear pulling to teething. But are those symptoms actually related? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down what teething does and does not cause, along with how to tell when your baby's fussiness might be connected to more than just new teeth.
The Basics: What to Expect When Your Baby Starts Teething
Every baby teethes differently—some barely notice it, while others act like it is the end of the world. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why the experience varies so widely and how parents can support their little ones through this phase. From timelines to treatment tips, learn what to expect and when to ask your pediatrician or dentist for help.
Debunking Old Wives' Tales: Why Your Child Isn’t Actually on a Sugar High
For decades, parents have blamed sugar for their children's wild energy—but research tells a different story. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains how placebo studies, parental expectations, and social cues contribute to the myth. She also shares smart strategies for managing sugar in your child's diet while promoting healthy habits.
How to Make School Mornings Easier for You and Your Kids
From forgotten lunches to last-minute outfit debates, school mornings can be challenging. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares strategies to make them smoother, including setting up backpacks the night before, limiting screen time until after school, and sending kids off with a positive goodbye. These habits can help kids start the day on time and ready to learn.
The Pediatrician-Approved Back-to-School Health Checklist
Preparing for the new school year means a lot more than just buying school supplies. From medication forms and updated vaccines to vision checks and sleep routines, pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares a comprehensive checklist to help parents make sure their kids are physically and emotionally ready to return to the classroom. Learn how to take action now and prevent a last-minute scramble
The Basics: How to Accurately Take a Baby's Temperature
When your baby feels warm, it does not always mean they have a fever. A baby's age and how you take their temperature matter more than you think. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why certain thermometers are more reliable than others, when to use rectal vs temporal scans, and how to interpret different readings depending on your child’s age.
What to Do When Your Baby Sounds Congested
Newborns cannot blow their noses, and they are not great at breathing through their mouths either—so even a little mucus can sound dramatic. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares what is normal when it comes to newborn sneezing and snorting, how to use saline and suction safely, and when to check in with your pediatrician.
Is My Newborn Pooping Normally?
Wondering about your newborn's pooping habits? Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD, demystifies what is normal—from frequent poops to the occasional blowout. Learn when to relax and when to worry about your baby’s digestive health. Discover the signs that indicate normal processes and those that might require a visit to the emergency room.
Newborn Vomiting vs. Spitting Up: A Parent’s Guide to What’s Normal
Is your infant vomiting or spitting up? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down the sometimes-confusing differences with practical advice and explains the mechanics behind each response. She also outlines clear signs of when spitting up might be symptomatic of something more serious like pathologic reflux or anatomical issues, guiding parents on how to respond effectively.
The Basics: Your Newborn's Skin
Newborns often do not have the perfect skin we expect. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains some of the common skin conditions that newborns face, including seborrhea—often referred to as cradle cap—and newborn acne. Both conditions are usually temporary and part of normal development. Learn what causes these conditions and why frequent bathing is not recommended for newborns.
When Does Your Child Really Need Lab Work?
Parents often ask about blood tests during routine pediatric visits, but pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, clarifies that healthy children rarely need them. She shares some of the criteria for screenings in young patients and how insurance factors into decision-making. Learn more about the focused approach pediatricians take to evaluate your child's health and why it may be different than adult scre
The Basics: Is Your Newborn Hungry? Look for These Signs
New parents often wait for their baby to cry before feeding, but earlier signs can be spotted. Cindy Gellner, MD, pediatrician at University of Utah Health, discusses common signs of hunger in your baby, including rooting, hand sucking, and lip movements. Understanding these signals can help you more effectively address your baby’s needs and enhance feeding times.
How Skin-to-Skin Contact Benefits Both Baby and Parents
Learn about the nurturing impact of skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, with insights from pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD. This gentle practice helps stabilize a baby’s vital signs and fosters deeper bonds between parent and child. Find out more about potential benefits, from enhancing premature babies' weight gain to improving sleep patterns and emotional connectivity.
Understanding Childhood Mood Disorders Beyond Bipolar
Is your child often irritable or prone to temper outbursts? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, clarifies the distinctions between bipolar disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis in childhood mood disorders. Learn about the characteristics of DMDD, how it differs from other mood disorders, and the therapeutic approaches that can
Protect Your Family From Whooping Cough
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is highly contagious and can be quite dangerous to infants and newborns. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses how early immunization can keep your kids safe, along with the signs of whooping cough, when to seek timely treatment, and why it is crucial to stay up to date with vaccinations.
Helping Kids Cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal changes can profoundly affect children's mental health, especially in winter as days become shorter and it gets too cold to play outside. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains how seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can impact children, causing significant changes in their mood and behavior. Learn the biological underpinnings of SAD, its effects on serotonin and melatonin levels, an
The Basics: What Every Parent Should Know About Flying with Kids
Traveling by airplane with children can be a daunting task. But with the right preparation, it does not have to be stressful. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares essential tips for making air travel with your little ones just a little bit easier. From choosing between lap seating and purchasing an extra seat to navigating airport layovers and handling in-flight needs, get expert advice to
Does Your Baby Need Tongue-Tie Clipping?
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) can be alarming for new parents—but does your child's tongue actually need to be clipped? Cindy Gellner, MD, addresses the myths and facts about a frenotomy, from the diagnosis of tongue-tie to the actual procedure. Learn how to assess if your baby really needs treatment and the factors that should influence your decision.
How to Handle Screen-Related Temper Issues in Children
Is your child's screen time causing more tantrums? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, reveals how excessive digital exposure can lead to emotional challenges in kids. Discover strategies to mitigate anger issues and promote healthier emotional development without resorting to tablets and smartphones.
Is Social Media Taking Over Your Teen's Life? What You Can Do About It
Teens are spending more time on social media than ever before, and it is taking a toll on their mental and physical health. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, addresses the urgent concerns surrounding excessive social media use among teenagers, the rising rates of depression, self-harm, and obesity linked to screen time, and how parents can step in to make a difference.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in Teens: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Teen marijuana use is rising, especially through vaping, and many parents and teens may assume it is relatively harmless. But regular cannabis use during adolescence can affect brain development, academic performance, and mental health. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, talks about cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a condition that causes severe, repeated nausea and vomiting in frequent ma
Bronchiolitis in Babies: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Bronchiolitis, primarily caused by RSV, is a serious respiratory condition in infants that can lead to severe mucus build-up and breathing difficulties. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD explains how bronchiolitis starts, its peak crisis period, and effective home remedies like humidity therapy and nasal suctioning. Learn when hospital care is necessary and how to prevent virus spread among young chi
Diagnosing Strep Throat in Children: What Parents Need to Know
Does your child have strep throat, or is it just a common cold? It's challenging but important for parents to understand the differences in throat infections in kids. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down how to identify strep throat in children, discussing everything from palatal petechiae to the implications of scarlet fever. Learn why accurate diagnosis through strep testing is crucial fo
Effective Strategies to Handle Mosquito Bites in Children
Learn how to handle mosquito bites effectively to ensure your child’s comfort during the summer season. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses typical reactions to mosquito bites and rare allergies like Skeeter syndrome while providing a comprehensive guide to at-home treatments and preventive measures to protect your little ones from pesky mosquito bites.
Managing Asthma in Children
Asthma can be a daunting diagnosis for parents, but it can be managed effectively with the right knowledge and tools. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses how asthma affects the airways and makes it difficult to breathe while outlining the medications used to treat and manage the condition. Learn how to recognize asthma symptoms, the importance of treatment adherence, and strategies to preven
Understanding POTS: A Growing Concern Among Teens
Diagnoses of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) among teenagers is on the rise. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains the symptoms of POTS, how it differs from other conditions like anxiety or dehydration, and the role of the autonomic nervous system in regulating blood pressure and heart rate. Learn about the diagnostic process involving neurologists and the supportive treatments
Exercise as a Prescription for Children's Mental Health
Is regular exercise the key to managing ADHD, anxiety, and depression in children? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, examines recent evidence that shows how increased physical activity can significantly improve mental health conditions in kids. Also, learn practical strategies that parents can use to integrate more exercise into their children's daily routines.
Screen Time and Speech Delays in Toddlers
Recent studies suggest a link between increased screen time in toddlers and developmental delays in speech and problem-solving skills. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses what the research shows and provides practical advice for parents. Learn how to reduce screen time, and how to select high-quality educational content for those moments when screen time is appropriate
Fentanyl Overdoses Are Increasing Among Teens. What Can Parents Do?
Fentanyl overdoses in teens are rising sharply. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explores some of the reasons behind this increase and advocates for a proactive approach to curb it. Learn the importance of having a naloxone kit in every household with opioids and how to engage in vital conversations with teens about the dangers of fentanyl.
Teens, Social Media, and the Trouble with Self-Diagnosis
In an age when social media heavily influences youth, many teens are quick to label themselves with mental health conditions they see trending online. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD, highlights the intricacies of diagnosing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. She also emphasizes the need for expert mental health evaluations and helps parents understand the potential hazards when teens
How to Help Your Child with School Phobia
If your child complains of stomach aches, headaches, and other vague symptoms that seem to increase the night before or morning of a school day, your child may be dealing with school phobia. As the condition becomes increasingly prevalent, parents need to be equipped with the right tools to help their kids. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares techniques to help your child overcome their fear of
Do Children Need Fiber?
Adults need fiber in their diets to help prevent certain illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. But what about children? While fruits and vegetables are great fiber sources, there are also supplement options available for picky eaters. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, talks about the role of fiber in children's diets and its impact on their health. Dr. Gellner also shares how to use the "Rul
Supporting Your Teen After a Suicide
With U.S. rates of teen suicide and suicidal ideation on the rise, how should parents respond when their teenager loses a friend or acquaintance to suicide? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, provides insight into guiding your teen through the grieving process, fostering open conversations about suicide, and determining when professional mental health assistance is required.
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Diagnosing ADHD in Children
Is it normal childhood behavior or could it be ADHD? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, delves into why ADHD diagnosis often goes beyond the scope of a pediatrician's role in a traditional well-visit and underscores the importance of referral to a pediatric behavioral specialist. She shares some advice for parents who suspect their child may have ADHD and learn how to seek appropriate assistance.
The Difference Between a Pediatrician and a Pediatric Gynecologist
What do you need to know about pediatric OB care and how doctors can address gynecological issues in children? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, clarifies common misconceptions and sheds light on the scope and limitations of general pediatricians. Learn about the types of gynecological issues that pediatricians can manage and when it's necessary to consult a pediatric gynecologist for specialized ca
The Basics: Pediatric Behavioral Issues
Facing challenges with your child's behavior? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, provides expert guidance on how to differentiate between normal childhood misbehavior and genuine behavioral concerns. Learn when to seek professional help from a mental health specialist and when the issue may actually be a result of parenting approaches. Equip yourself with the knowledge to better understand and suppor
The Basics: Painful Periods in Girls
Are your daughter's periods causing her pain? It's essential for parents to understand what's normal and what's not when it comes to menstrual pain in young girls. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down the common causes of painful periods, discusses what symptoms to look for that may indicate a more serious issue, and provides tips on how parents can help their daughters manage the pain.
Why You Shouldn't Miss Your Child's Pediatric Doctor Appointments
As a busy parent, it's easy to let your child's routine doctor appointments slip through the cracks. But skipping or missing those check-ups can have consequences for your child's health—and prevent other kids from receiving care. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains the importance of keeping those appointments and why canceling and rescheduling is always a better option than simply not showin
If Your Child Swallows a Button Battery, It’s an Emergency
There are around 6,000 pediatric ER visits for button battery ingestion every year in the United States. If you even suspect your child may have swallowed a button battery, take them to the emergency room immediately for surgery. Ingesting a battery can cause severe and potentially permanent damage to a child’s esophagus or digestive tract in as little as two hours. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD,
The Basics: Your Daughter's Painful Urination
Is your young daughter complaining about painful urination when using the bathroom? It could be more than a urinary tract infection. Girl parts can be very sensitive, especially between the ages of potty training and puberty. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains the most common causes of pain or irritation in the vagina or vulva, how to prevent them, and what treatments can provide relief to y
The Basics: Vision Screening for Young Children
A majority of children will not develop 20/20 vision until they are four to six years old. During those first few years, what should parents do to make sure their kids maintain healthy vision? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains vision screening expectations during the first years of your child’s life, how to navigate school vision screening requirements, and when your child may need to
Eating Disorders in Teens: What Parents Need to Know and How to Spot the Signs
The rate of eating disorders among children under 12 has increased by 119% since 2020. Anorexia is the third most common chronic disorder among kids, behind asthma and obesity. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains what could be causing this increase and how to identify the most common red flags of potential eating disorders. She also talks about what steps can be taken to help your child
How to Prevent Needle Phobia in Kids
No one likes to be poked with a needle, whether for a vaccine or a blood draw. But for children, getting a shot at the doctor's office can be frightening and lead to some emotional outbursts. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains what she does in her practice to ensure kids are not overly afraid of needles, and shares some tips for parents to get their child the medical treatment they need whil
What to Expect if Your Child Gets RSV
In adults and young children, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can look a lot like the common cold. But for little ones under two years old—especially preemie babies—RSV can be severe due to their still-developing respiratory systems. Cindy Gellner, MD, talks about the increase in RSV during the 2022 respiratory season, what parents need to know to keep their child safe, and what to expect if the
The Basics: Your Child’s Vaccination Schedule
For new parents, it can be hard to keep your child’s vaccines straight. When do they get DTAP? What is MMR? Does my child really need all of these shots? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, has the answers about vaccines for kids—from birth to college. On this episode of The Basics, learn more about recommended vaccines, when they should be received, and how to ensure your kid grows up with the maximu
The Basics: Newborn Reflexes
Newborns make a lot of strange movements and exhibit unexpected behaviors during the first year of life. They can startle at nothing, suck at the air, cross their eyes, breathe funny, and more. New parents may be a little worried about what is and isn’t normal. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains the most common reflexes seen in newborns and how to identify whether or not they're something wo
Does Your Child Really Need a Vitamin Supplement?
As a parent, you have seen commercials saying you need to give your kid chewable vitamins or special, expensive supplement drinks for them to grow and develop properly. Do children really need supplements? Probably not. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why even the pickiest eater is probably getting enough of their daily vitamins and minerals without the need for additional supplements.
The Basics: Why is Your Child Crying?
New parents may be surprised at just how often their baby cries. It is their main form of communication after all. Hungry, bored, in need of a diaper change, they will cry for many reasons - and often. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, goes over the basics of crying for parents. From newborn to teenager, learn how to understand your child’s crying and how best to respond with advice from an expert.
What Can Parents Do for Their Baby During a Formula Shortage?
Many parents in the United States are scrambling to find baby formula. What are you supposed to do with a hungry baby at home and empty shelves at the store? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares how you can feed your baby and support other parents in this difficult time.
Does My Child Have a Sensory Disorder?
Sensory disorders in children have recently been added as an official psychiatric diagnosis and are estimated to impact as many as 15% of kids in the US. These conditions are marked by a significant sensitivity to sounds, textures, tastes, or brightness and can be quite disruptive to their behavior and development. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains why these conditions are on the rise, and
Contact Dermatitis Could Be the Reason for Your Child’s Rash
Have you ever put a piece of clothing or jewelry on your child to have them break out in a rash or hives? It’s called contact dermatitis, and it’s more common than you may think. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains the condition and how you can treat and prevent those itchy rashes your kid may get with certain materials.
Long Haul COVID in Children
In general, kids do pretty well if they catch COVID-19. But Cindy Gellner, MD, is seeing a significant number of kids experiencing symptoms from the disease for weeks if not months after the initial infection. The ongoing symptoms seem to impact children regardless of how severe their illness was. Learn more about long-haul COVID in your children and what you can do to prevent and treat the sympto
The Basics: Child Developmental Milestones
As a new parent, it’s important to you that your child meets all the expected developmental milestones, like walking and talking. But which milestones are backed by research, and how do you know if your kid is meeting expectations? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains what the important milestones are, how to measure your child’s development, and when you should speak with a specialist.
The Basics: Common Skin Conditions in Kids
Young kids can have all sorts of skin issues as they grow up, and Dr. Cindy Gellner, MD, and pediatrician, has seen them all. Learn the basics of diaper irritation, dry skin, eczema, and rashes that you should know as a parent and how you can treat many of them at home.
When Should I Call the On-Call Pediatrician?
As a parent, your pediatrician can be your lifeline whenever you have a question about the health of your child. But what should you do when you have a pressing question or concern after-hours, and the clinic is closed? Cindy Gellner, MD, and pediatrician with University of Utah Health, shares the pressing circumstances when you should reach out to the on-call pediatrician and when it can wait unt
The Basics: Common Questions About Feeding Your Child
"What formula should I give my new baby?" "When should I start introducing other food groups?" "What do I do if my child only wants to eat junk food?" Parents have a lot of questions about the basics of feeding their child. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, covers The Basics.
Dizziness in Children
Your child complains of constant dizzy spells or vertigo. Could it be a symptom of something serious? According to Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, dizziness is a pretty common condition—especially for adolescents. Learn more about the causes of dizziness in children and treatments that can help.
What to Expect When Your Son Reaches Puberty
As a boy begins to mature, their body and mind go through a lot of changes. It can be tough not only for kids but for their parents too. From growth spurts - and the appetites to match - to strange smells to general moodiness, Dr. Cindy Gellner shares her expertise to prepare parents for raising a boy going through puberty.
Is My Child Breathing Carbon Dioxide When Wearing a Mask?
Evidence shows that masks work at preventing the spread of COVID-19. But could wearing a mask increase the amount of carbon dioxide your kid breathes during the day? Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner debunks this mask myth and explains the science behind the safe long-term use of masks—even for children.
Does My Child Have a Learning Disability?
Could your child have a learning disability? It’s a frequent question for pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner. Whether it be dyslexia, dyscalculia, or another learning disorder, identify the common signs to look for and when you should speak with your pediatrician about getting the help your child needs to succeed.
Is it Safe for Your Kids to Have a Playdate?
A lot of parents are concerned about keeping their kids safe during the COVID pandemic. Parents and teenagers may be vaccinated, but younger kids are not eligible to receive the shot yet. Is it safe to let them return to playdates? Should they be wearing masks? Dr. Cindy Gellner discusses current recommendations and considerations parents should take before letting their children return to play.
What Causes Common Heel Pain in Children?
Most children—especially child athletes—will complain of heel pain at some point in their development. This may be an inflammatory condition called Sever’s Disease. Dr. Cindy Gellner explains why this common heel pain occurs during growth spurts and how you can help relieve your kid's foot pain.
What to Expect When Your Daughter Reaches Puberty
A daughter’s first period marks her entry into womanhood. For a lot of parents—mothers in particular—this is also a time of new anxieties and concerns about their child’s health. Dr. Cindy Gellner explains what’s normal, what’s not, and what to expect now that your daughter has had her menarche.
Child Organ Donation
Most parents have never thought about the difficult decision of whether or not you should donate your child’s organs when the unthinkable happens. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner discusses the potential benefits of pediatric organ donation and the considerations involved in the process.
Choosing the Right Pediatrician for Your Child with Disabilities
Caring for the health and development of your child is a pediatrician’s top priority. This is especially true for children with a physical or developmental disability. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner explains the expanded role for parents and the considerations you should make to find the right doctor for your child with special needs.
Are Dangerous Apps on Your Child’s Phone?
With so many apps, it can be hard as a parent to keep track of all of them. If your child has a smartphone, it may be tricky to decipher what each app does. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner discusses the programs that may look harmless but are definitely not for children. Learn how to spot these dangerous apps and keep your kids safe.
Reducing Pandemic Fatigue in Your Kids
Pandemic fatigue is the mental exhaustion that comes from the sustained increase of stress and uncertainty during the global pandemic of COVID-19 and it can impact children just as much as adults. With few signs of the world returning to normal soon, how can you keep your kids spirits up? Dr. Cindy Gellner explains what she’s seeing in her young patients and strategies you can use to help your lov
Preventing Suicide in Teens
Suicide can be a difficult topic to discuss with a teenager, but it is too important to ignore—especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teen depression, self-harm, and suicide have seen a rise as teenagers are cut off from their sense of normal. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner shares her personal and professional experience with suicide, and the importance of checking in with your child and helping
Does My Child Need an Emotional Support Animal?
Animals can provide comfort, this is a fact. But an emotional support animal is not a pet or a service animal and requires specific training and certification. Some parents may think to request a letter from their child's pediatrician if the child has an emotional disability and a pet helps calm their symptoms—pediatrician Dr. Cindy Geller talks about the criteria for a diagnosis that qualifies yo
Well-Child Visits During COVID-19
Well-child visits are still happening, even during a global health pandemic. The good news is your doctor's office is probably one of the safest places to be during COVID-19 outside of your house. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about what to expect during your child's visit, how doctors' offices are adjusting to COVID-19, and whether or not virtual well-child visits are a good alternative.
Keeping Students and Teachers Safe During COVID-19
While the classroom may look different this year, school is still happening. As a parent, you worry your child might get infected if they are attending in-person classes. But if your child is remote learning, you worry they are not fully absorbing the learning materials. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner talks about how to keep both students and teachers safe—in the classroom and at home—during the C
Fun Halloween Activities During COVID-19
Just because you're social distancing, doesn't mean you can't celebrate Halloween this year. There are a lot of fun Halloween activities you and your family can enjoy—even during a global health pandemic. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner has some dos and don'ts on how to celebrate Halloween during COVID-19.
How to Get Your Child Off the Pacifier
Pacifiers can be a powerful soothing tool in infancy. But when comfort stretches into the toddler and preschool years, it can quietly create new problems. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD, walks parents through when pacifier use stops helping, the age milestones that matter most, and realistic strategies to wean without turning bedtime into a battle. Learn how to help your child transition off th
How to Get Your Toddler Off the Bottle
Keeping your child on the bottle for too long can lead to dental and nutritional risks associated with prolonged bottle use. But weaning a toddler off the bottle is easier talked about than accomplished. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, acknowledges how difficult this transition can be for both toddlers and parents. Dr. Gellner shares effective strategies and age-appropriate guidelines for a smooth
