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In this engaging episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen, a respected pediatrician and trusted parenting advisor, dives deep into Mildred Parten’s six stages of play, revealing how each stage shapes a child’s social and emotional growth. Drawing insightful connections to Piaget’s cognitive theory, Kristen brings these concepts to life with relatable, real-world examples that every parent can appreciate. She offers thoughtful reassurance about the natural evolution of play, helping parents feel confident in their child’s unique journey.

Kristen doesn’t stop at childhood, she opens up about her own experiences, highlighting the transformative power of play for adults as well. With warmth and expertise, she encourages listeners to rediscover play as a vital tool for enhancing mental health and strengthening relationships.

Whether you’re seeking to better understand your child’s behavior or looking for fresh inspiration in your parenting journey, this episode is packed with valuable guidance. Kristen also shares insights from her acclaimed book, Parenting Redefined, making this a must-listen for anyone eager to nurture both their child’s development and their own well-being.

What you'll learn:

• The six stages of play as described by Mildred Parten.
• The significance of play in children's social and emotional development.
• Real-world examples of each stage of play.
• The relationship between Parten's theory and Jean Piaget's cognitive development theory.
• The importance of play for both children and adults.
• Strategies for parents to support their child's play and social development.
• The role of solitary and parallel play in child growth.
• The benefits of adult play for mental health and relationships.
• Encouragement for parents to embrace natural play progression without rushing.
• Insights on how to incorporate play into daily life for stress relief and creativity.

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
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https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this episode of MomDoc Talk, host Kristen Cook explores the challenges and importance of co-parenting after a romantic relationship ends. Drawing on personal stories and professional experience, Kristen highlights the need to prioritize children’s well-being, maintain consistency between households, and communicate respectfully with co-parents. She offers practical strategies for managing disagreements, setting predictable routines, and avoiding conflict that harms children. Kristen emphasizes intentional, child-focused cooperation and shares insights from her book, "Parenting Redefined," encouraging parents to put aside personal grievances for the sake of their child’s stability and emotional health.

What you’ll learn:

• The complexities and emotional challenges of co-parenting after a romantic relationship ends.
• The importance of prioritizing the child's needs in co-parenting situations.
• Strategies for maintaining consistency between different households.
• Effective communication techniques for co-parents.
• The impact of parental conflict on children and the importance of shielding them from adult issues.
• Practical advice for creating predictable schedules and managing disagreements.
• The significance of cooperation and respect between co-parents, even in difficult relationships.
• The role of emotional boundaries and personal healing in successful co-parenting.
• The necessity of avoiding manipulation and competition for the child's affection.
• The value of intentionality and focus on the child's well-being in co-parenting dynamics.

Get My New Book:
Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen, a pediatrician and mom, explores the crucial difference between punishment and discipline in parenting. She explains why punishment is reactive and shame-based, while discipline is intentional, focused on teaching, and helps children develop self-control and responsibility. Kristen offers practical strategies, including natural and logical consequences, and shares real-life examples. She emphasizes the importance of compassion, consistency, and connection in guiding children’s behavior, referencing her book, Parenting Redefined, as a resource for parents seeking to nurture positive growth in their children.

What you’ll learn:

• Difference between punishment and discipline
• Characteristics of punishment (reactive, shame-based, focuses on misdeeds)
• Characteristics of discipline (intentional, teaching-focused, promotes self-control and empathy)
• Importance of separating a child's actions from their identity
• Negative effects of punishment on learning and behavior
• Role of fear in punishment versus safety in discipline
• Importance of connection in effective discipline
• Use of natural and logical consequences in discipline
• Four-step approach to implementing effective discipline
• Emphasis on growth and learning over perfection in parenting

Get My New Book:
Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen, a pediatrician and mother, addresses eating disorders—anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Drawing from her personal experience, she explains their signs, symptoms, and serious health impacts. Kristen emphasizes early recognition, compassionate support, and the importance of a multidisciplinary treatment team. She offers practical advice for parents on fostering healthy body image and creating a supportive home environment. Kristen also highlights the need for open conversations about food and body image, and recommends resources like the National Eating Disorders Association for further help.

What you’ll learn:

• Overview of eating disorders and their prevalence in various demographics.
• Discussion of three common types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
• Signs and symptoms associated with each type of eating disorder.
• Physical and emotional effects of eating disorders on individuals.
• Importance of early recognition and intervention for better outcomes.
• Role of control and distorted self-image in the development of eating disorders.
• Treatment options, including multidisciplinary approaches and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Guidance for parents on supporting children with eating disorders and promoting healthy body image.
• Strategies for creating a positive home environment that fosters healthy eating habits.
• Resources for further help, including the National Eating Disorders Association.

Pre-order My New Book:
Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen discusses the challenges parents face during family holiday gatherings, such as unsolicited advice, criticism, and boundary-pushing relatives. She shares practical strategies for handling difficult family dynamics, protecting children’s emotional well-being, setting boundaries, and maintaining peace and sanity. Through relatable anecdotes and expert advice, Kristen empowers parents to navigate holiday stress, advocate for their kids, and prioritize their own mental health, reminding listeners that it’s okay to set limits and focus on what matters most—the well-being of their family.

What you’ll learn:

• Navigating family dynamics during holiday gatherings
• Dealing with unsolicited parenting advice from relatives
• Setting and maintaining boundaries with difficult family members
• Protecting children's emotional well-being in challenging situations
• Strategies for managing criticism of parenting styles
• Handling relatives who undermine children's behavior or choices
• Addressing controversial topics and avoiding conflict during gatherings
• Teaching children about gratitude and handling unwanted gifts
• Managing expectations and stress during family events
• Prioritizing mental health and self-care during the holidays

Pre-order My New Book:
Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this episode of MomDoc Talk, host and pediatrician Kristen Cook explores ADHD in children. She explains how to recognize ADHD symptoms, the importance of thorough medical evaluation, and evidence-based treatment options, including medication and behavioral strategies. Kristen also discusses how schools can support children with ADHD through IEPs and 504 plans, and debunks common myths about diet and hyperactivity. She offers practical advice for parents on managing ADHD at home and encourages advocacy and understanding, emphasizing that with the right support, children with ADHD can thrive.

What you’ll learn:

• Overview of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children
• Importance of proper medical evaluation for ADHD
• Treatment options for ADHD, including medication and behavioral strategies
• Role of schools in supporting children with ADHD through IEPs and 504 plans
• Common myths about ADHD related to diet (red dye, gluten, sugar)
• Developmentally appropriate behavior in toddlers and preschoolers
• Symptoms of inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive ADHD
• Process of diagnosing ADHD and ruling out other conditions
• Lifestyle management strategies for children with ADHD
• Advocacy for children with ADHD in educational settings

Pre-order My New Book:
Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this special 50th episode of Mom Doc Talk, host Kristen celebrates reaching this podcast milestone and shares the journey behind her upcoming book, Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child’s Behavior to Help Them Thrive. Kristen discusses the challenges of writing and publishing, the importance of perseverance, and her hopes for the book’s impact on families. She offers an overview of the book’s science-based approach to parenting, covering child development, emotional intelligence, discipline, and practical strategies. Kristen encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and thanks them for their ongoing support.

What you’ll learn:

• Celebration of the 50th episode milestone of the podcast.
• Discussion on the significance of reaching 50 episodes in the podcasting world.
• Introduction of the upcoming book titled "Parenting Redefined" and its launch date.
• Personal journey and challenges faced in writing and publishing the book.
• Themes of perseverance, resilience, and determination in parenting and writing.
• Overview of the book's content, including parenting philosophy and strategies.
• Exploration of child development topics such as neurocognitive and emotional development.
• Discussion of parenting styles and effective discipline strategies.
• Importance of play and temperament in child development.
• Encouragement for parents to pursue their passions and believe in themselves.

Pre-order the Book:

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

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In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen, a pediatrician and mom of two, shares practical Halloween safety tips for families. She covers costume and candy advice, supervision strategies, and age-appropriate guidelines for toddlers, school-aged kids, and teens. Kristen also addresses how to support children with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences. Her goal is to help parents reduce stress, keep kids safe, and create meaningful Halloween traditions. The episode encourages parents to focus on connection, fun, and realistic expectations for a joyful holiday experience.

What you'll learn:

• Halloween safety tips for different age groups: toddlers, preschoolers, school-aged children, and teenagers.
• Practical advice for costume selection, emphasizing comfort and safety.
• Strategies for pumpkin carving and related activities with young children.
• Tips for managing candy consumption and addressing food allergies.
• Suggestions for creating family traditions and community engagement during Halloween.
• Considerations for children with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences.
• Importance of supervision and structured activities for school-aged children.
• Guidance on setting expectations and safety measures for teenagers.
• Recommendations for post-Halloween recovery and managing sugar intake.
• Emphasis on creating joyful and meaningful experiences while ensuring safety.

Podcast Disclaimer

The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE

Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/

Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/
https://twitter.com/momdoctalk
https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en