Podcast appearances and mentions of Melanie Cole

A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner Susanmeissnerauthor.com Amazon.com 1956, Malibu, California: Something is not right on Paradise Circle. With her name on the Hollywood blacklist and her life on hold, starlet Melanie Cole has little choice in company. There is her next-door neighbor, Elwood, but the screenwriter's agoraphobia allows for just short chats through open windows. He's her sole confidante, though, as she and her housekeeper, Eva, an immigrant from war-torn Europe, rarely make conversation. Then one early morning Melanie and Eva spot Elwood's sister-in-law and caretaker, June, digging in his beloved rose garden. After that they don't see Elwood at all anymore. Where could a man who never leaves the house possibly have gone? As they try to find out if something has happened to him, unexpected secrets are revealed among all three women, leading to an alliance that seems the only way for any of them to hold on to what they can still call their own. But it's a fragile pact and one little spark could send it all up in smoke…About the author Susan Meissner is the USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction with more than three-quarters of a million books in print in eighteen languages. Her novels include The Nature of Fragile Things, starred review Publishers Weekly; The Last Year of the War, a Library Reads and Real Simple top pick; As Bright as Heaven, starred review from Library Journal; Secrets of a Charmed Life, a 2015 Goodreads Choice award finalist; and A Fall of Marigolds, named to Booklist's Top Ten women's fiction titles for 2014. She is also RITA finalist and Christy Award and Carol Award winner. A California native, she attended Point Loma Nazarene University and is also a writing workshop volunteer for Words Alive, a San Diego non-profit dedicated to helping at-risk youth foster a love for reading and writing.

It's your worst nightmare. Your child throws a tantrum in a public place. You're stressed out and are ready to have a tantrum of your own.How can you deal?The most difficult -- yet most important -- thing to do is to ignore your child during the temper tantrum. See if the tantrum dies down.If that doesn't work, divert your child's attention. Remove him from the environment. This may be tough because you're pressed for time and are in a public place for a purpose. Leaving that environment shows him that you mean business.You may have to physically move your child. There could be thrashing and resistance. Try hugging him to calm him down. Talking to him might not work until he is calm.Don't make false promises or threats. Uphold your rewards and consequences so your child knows your promises have integrity.Maintain your composure. Enlist the help of your spouse or partner. Make sure you're both on the same page with rewards and consequences.The good news is that kids tend to outgrow the tantrum phase. If the tantrums are greatly stressful for you as a parent, speak with a professional.Listen as Dr. Naveen Mehrotra joins Melanie Cole, MS, to advise on dealing with temper tantrums in this encore episode from March 2017.

Learn how to survive the dreaded temper tantrum.It's your worst nightmare. Your child throws a tantrum in a public place. You're stressed out and are ready to have a tantrum of your own.How can you deal?The most difficult -- yet most important -- thing to do is to ignore your child during the temper tantrum. See if the tantrum dies down.If that doesn't work, divert your child's attention. Remove him from the environment. This may be tough because you're pressed for time and are in a public place for a purpose. Leaving that environment shows him that you mean business.You may have to physically move your child. There could be thrashing and resistance. Try hugging him to calm him down. Talking to him might not work until he is calm.Don't make false promises or threats. Uphold your rewards and consequences so your child knows your promises have integrity.Maintain your composure. Enlist the help of your spouse or partner. Make sure you're both on the same page with rewards and consequences.The good news is that kids tend to outgrow the tantrum phase. If the tantrums are greatly stressful for you as a parent, speak with a professional.Listen as Dr. Naveen Mehrotra joins Melanie Cole, MS, to advise on dealing with temper tantrums in this encore episode from March 2017.

Even the cleanest children get lice. Those little bugs tend to nest in certain colors and textures of hair, which is why some people get repeat visits.Lice are bugs that crawl from one scalp to another. They can crawl from combs, brushes, and clothing onto a fresh scalp. The bugs look like sesame seeds, and their eggs stick to the hair shaft.A louse will only live one to two days when not on a scalp. Eggs don't hatch if they aren't in a warm environment. Of course, you should still vacuum and clean linens. It can take up to two weeks for eggs to hatch. It's better to be cautious.It takes four to six weeks for itching to start because of the lice saliva. When the note comes home with your child, the lice have had plenty of time and opportunity to spread.You can check your child for lice at home with a couple of sticks, sifting through the hair. Your pediatrician can also check the scalp, make recommendations, and provide prescriptions as needed.Lice are treated with over-the-counter medications like Nix (permethrin) and Rid (pyrethrum). Nix is used on wet hair and can kill eggs. Be sure not to use a conditioner before application. Rid is used on dry hair but doesn't kill eggs. Consider the life cycle of the eggs. You should repeat treatment on day nine, and perhaps once more. Follow your pediatrician's recommendation for the right medication.In this encore episode from March 2017, Listen as Dr. Corinn Cross joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how to get rid of lice.

You child comes home with the dreaded note: the class has lice. What do you do?Even the cleanest children get lice. Those little bugs tend to nest in certain colors and textures of hair, which is why some people get repeat visits.Lice are bugs that crawl from one scalp to another. They can crawl from combs, brushes, and clothing onto a fresh scalp. The bugs look like sesame seeds, and their eggs stick to the hair shaft.A louse will only live one to two days when not on a scalp. Eggs don't hatch if they aren't in a warm environment. Of course, you should still vacuum and clean linens. It can take up to two weeks for eggs to hatch. It's better to be cautious.It takes four to six weeks for itching to start because of the lice saliva. When the note comes home with your child, the lice have had plenty of time and opportunity to spread.You can check your child for lice at home with a couple of sticks, sifting through the hair. Your pediatrician can also check the scalp, make recommendations, and provide prescriptions as needed.Lice are treated with over-the-counter medications like Nix (permethrin) and Rid (pyrethrum). Nix is used on wet hair and can kill eggs. Be sure not to use a conditioner before application. Rid is used on dry hair but doesn't kill eggs. Consider the life cycle of the eggs. You should repeat treatment on day nine, and perhaps once more. Follow your pediatrician's recommendation for the right medication.In this encore episode from March 2017, Listen as Dr. Corinn Cross joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how to get rid of lice.

The slowness of winter and the stress of the holidays can be a lot, even for our children. Hilary Bowers, MD, is the Director of Behavioral and Mental Health Services and a board-certified pediatrician providing care through the Children's Primary Care Medical Group (CPCMG). She is also a member of the UC San Diego Health Physician Network, and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP).She chats with Melanie Cole, MS, about the continued trends in mental health issues we've been seeing since the COVID-19 pandemic started, red flags parents can look out for in their kids in the wintertime, and how we get our kids up and moving in the cold, dark days of winter.

The slowness of winter and the stress of the holidays can be a lot, even for our children. The slowness of winter and the stress of the holidays can be a lot, even for our children. Hilary Bowers, MD, is the Director of Behavioral and Mental Health Services and a board-certified pediatrician providing care through the Children's Primary Care Medical Group (CPCMG). She is also a member of the UC San Diego Health Physician Network, and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP).She chats with Melanie Cole, MS, about the continued trends in mental health issues we've been seeing since the COVID-19 pandemic started, red flags parents can look out for in their kids in the wintertime, and how we get our kids up and moving in the cold, dark days of winter.

Watching your child play sports is exciting. You can support your child as an organized sports participant both emotionally and physically.Benefits of Organized Sports weight control time management organization skills better bone density improved mental health social skills feeling of competence Listen to this encore episode from September 2019 as Dr. Kelsey Logan joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how all children can participate and benefit from organized sports.

Find out the best ways to support your child's participation in organized sports.Watching your child play sports is exciting. You can support your child as an organized sports participant both emotionally and physically.Benefits of Organized Sports weight control time management organization skills better bone density improved mental health social skills feeling of competence Listen to this encore episode from September 2019 as Dr. Kelsey Logan joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how all children can participate and benefit from organized sports.

Today's children grow up immersed in digital media, which can have both positive and negative effects on healthy development. And it can be difficult to know when your child should have a phone of their own. Well, to help you out, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and AT&T have teamed up to launch a new, free PhoneReady Questionnaire and a free, enhanced Family Media Plan tool to help parents and caregivers create healthy digital habits for their families.Dr. Suzy Tomopoulos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and a member of the AAP Council on Communications and Media. She joins host Melanie Cole today to discuss cell phone use in children, monitoring what they use their devices for, and deciding the right time for your child to get a phone.

Today's children grow up immersed in digital media, which can have both positive and negative effects on healthy development.Today's children grow up immersed in digital media, which can have both positive and negative effects on healthy development. And it can be difficult to know when your child should have a phone of their own. Well, to help you out, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and AT&T have teamed up to launch a new, free PhoneReady Questionnaire and a free, enhanced Family Media Plan tool to help parents and caregivers create healthy digital habits for their families.Dr. Suzy Tomopoulos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and a member of the AAP Council on Communications and Media. She joins host Melanie Cole today to discuss cell phone use in children, monitoring what they use their devices for, and deciding the right time for your child to get a phone.

Let's face it, your child learning to drive can be very stressful for you as a parent. You want them to gain independence while still keeping them safe.The most important investment you can make in terms of the safety of your driving teen is giving them a structured experience behind the wheel. The biggest single risk factor for teens is their lack of driving experience. Introduce them to safe but stressful situations while you're in the car, like interstate driving and country roads. Be clear about driving restrictions for the first few months your child has a license.Before that learner's permit is in your child's hand, you can be a good role model as a driver and avoid distractions.Consider implementing the Parent-Teen Driver Contract provided by the AAP.Listen as Dr. Brian Johnston joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from July 2019 to discuss safe driving for teens.

Let's face it, your child learning to drive can be very stressful for you as a parent.Let's face it, your child learning to drive can be very stressful for you as a parent. You want them to gain independence while still keeping them safe.The most important investment you can make in terms of the safety of your driving teen is giving them a structured experience behind the wheel. The biggest single risk factor for teens is their lack of driving experience. Introduce them to safe but stressful situations while you're in the car, like interstate driving and country roads. Be clear about driving restrictions for the first few months your child has a license.Before that learner's permit is in your child's hand, you can be a good role model as a driver and avoid distractions.Consider implementing the Parent-Teen Driver Contract provided by the AAP.Listen as Dr. Brian Johnston joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from July 2019 to discuss safe driving for teens.

If your child is having trouble at school, your pediatrician may be able to help.If your child is having trouble at school, your pediatrician may be able to help. Risk factors or difficulties during pregnancy or early life could contribute to a learning difficulty.First, speak with your child's teacher and/or principal. Ask questions about what's happening inside and outside the classroom. Get more information on your child's school life.Next, speak with your pediatrician. As possible sources are eliminated, ask your pediatrician what else could be causing the difficulty.Then, ask your child what kind of help you can provide to assist in learning. They may prefer help from a tutor instead of your watchful eye.All children want to succeed.Listen as Dr. Laura McGuinn joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how your pediatrician can help with learning challenges.

If your child is having trouble at school, your pediatrician may be able to help.If your child is having trouble at school, your pediatrician may be able to help. Risk factors or difficulties during pregnancy or early life could contribute to a learning difficulty.First, speak with your child's teacher and/or principal. Ask questions about what's happening inside and outside the classroom. Get more information on your child's school life.Next, speak with your pediatrician. As possible sources are eliminated, ask your pediatrician what else could be causing the difficulty.Then, ask your child what kind of help you can provide to assist in learning. They may prefer help from a tutor instead of your watchful eye.All children want to succeed.Listen as Dr. Laura McGuinn joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how your pediatrician can help with learning challenges.

The AAP released updated recommendations on breastfeeding a few months ago, which have been a bit controversial.The AAP released updated recommendations on breastfeeding a few months ago, which have been a bit controversial because they call for supporting moms who breastfeed 2 years or beyond (from the previous recommendation of 1 year.)Our goal is to normalize breastfeeding in the U.S. and help women achieve whatever breastfeeding goals they have surrounding feeding their babies. So today, Dr. Lauren Crosby joins our host Melanie Cole to discuss the new guidelines, giving our newborns the best nutrition in those early days & weeks, and how we can get rid of stigmas surrounding breast & bottle feeding moms. Dr. Lauren Crosby is a nationally recognized parenting expert and pediatrician.  She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and is an Official Spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is a Pediatric Expert for television news, serves on the Board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, is a medical reviewer for What to Expect, and is a Founding Member of Hope in A Suitcase.

The AAP released updated recommendations on breastfeeding a few months ago, which have been a bit controversial.The AAP released updated recommendations on breastfeeding a few months ago, which have been a bit controversial because they call for supporting moms who breastfeed 2 years or beyond (from the previous recommendation of 1 year.)Our goal is to normalize breastfeeding in the U.S. and help women achieve whatever breastfeeding goals they have surrounding feeding their babies. So today, Dr. Lauren Crosby joins our host Melanie Cole to discuss the new guidelines, giving our newborns the best nutrition in those early days & weeks, and how we can get rid of stigmas surrounding breast & bottle feeding moms. Dr. Lauren Crosby is a nationally recognized parenting expert and pediatrician.  She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and is an Official Spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is a Pediatric Expert for television news, serves on the Board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, is a medical reviewer for What to Expect, and is a Founding Member of Hope in A Suitcase.

This is not a discussion any parent wants to have with their kids. We don't even wanna think about it but think about it we must.This is not a discussion any parent wants to have with their kids. We don't even wanna think about it but think about it we must. Our kids have a unique issue that we did not have.They must be prepared for school shootings, mass attacks, and gun violence in a way that we never did. I hate that we even have to talk about this, but. We have to do this because it is incumbent on us to bring these issues out into the open so that parents can have these discussions. Joining our host Melanie Cole, MS for this critical conversation is Dr. Lois Lee, she's an attending pediatric emergency medicine physician at Boston Children's Hospital and an associate professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine at Harvard Medical.In this episode, Melanie and Dr. Lee discuss the humbling statistics of gun-based deaths, teen suicide, how to discuss safe gun storage with your child's friends' parents, and teaching kids to be aware and alert to what they see on social media.

This is not a discussion any parent wants to have with their kids. We don't even wanna think about it but think about it we must.This is not a discussion any parent wants to have with their kids. We don't even wanna think about it but think about it we must. Our kids have a unique issue that we did not have.They must be prepared for school shootings, mass attacks, and gun violence in a way that we never did. I hate that we even have to talk about this, but. We have to do this because it is incumbent on us to bring these issues out into the open so that parents can have these discussions. Joining our host Melanie Cole, MS for this critical conversation is Dr. Lois Lee, she's an attending pediatric emergency medicine physician at Boston Children's Hospital and an associate professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine at Harvard Medical.In this episode, Melanie and Dr. Lee discuss the humbling statistics of gun-based deaths, teen suicide, how to discuss safe gun storage with your child's friends' parents, and teaching kids to be aware and alert to what they see on social media.

Play is important to child development.Play is important to child development. It should be a priority in children's lives.Why Play is Priority Play with caregivers, peers and teachers affects brain structure and function. Playful learning is a fundamental part of healthy development. Play helps develop the safe, nurturing relationships with parents and caregivers to mitigate toxic stress and promote resilience. Fifty percent of parents don't go outside to play with their children. Thirty percent of kindergartens don't have recess--a sacrifice made in order to focus on testing skills. Unsafe outdoor conditions often lead children to stay indoors with screens.Toys are fantastic for developing problem-solving ability. Parents may limit the child's interactions by telling the child how to play. You can ask prompting questions if the child seems stuck, but let the youngster resolve the toy.Listen as Dr. Michael Yogman joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the importance of play.

Play is important to child development.Play is important to child development. It should be a priority in children's lives.Why Play is Priority Play with caregivers, peers and teachers affects brain structure and function. Playful learning is a fundamental part of healthy development. Play helps develop the safe, nurturing relationships with parents and caregivers to mitigate toxic stress and promote resilience. Fifty percent of parents don't go outside to play with their children. Thirty percent of kindergartens don't have recess--a sacrifice made in order to focus on testing skills. Unsafe outdoor conditions often lead children to stay indoors with screens.Toys are fantastic for developing problem-solving ability. Parents may limit the child's interactions by telling the child how to play. You can ask prompting questions if the child seems stuck, but let the youngster resolve the toy.Listen as Dr. Michael Yogman joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the importance of play.

Grandparents step into parents' shoes when necessary. Grandfamilies are presented with unique challenges.Millions of children across the United States are being raised by their grandparents.Grandparents have always played a role in children's lives, but their involvement in raising the children has increased in the past twenty years. Their involvement can go beyond serving as a sitter or providing care while the parents are working.Grandfamilies are often formed under stress. Grandparents typically step in as primary caregivers because of a crisis. Relearning how to parent in modern times with today's challenges means a learning curve for grandparents.Listen as Dr. Andrew Adesman joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from January 2019 to discuss how grandfamilies are formed and resources available to families to manage the new commitment and responsibilities these grandparents have.

Grandparents step into parents' shoes when necessary. Grandfamilies are presented with unique challenges.Millions of children across the United States are being raised by their grandparents.Grandparents have always played a role in children's lives, but their involvement in raising the children has increased in the past twenty years. Their involvement can go beyond serving as a sitter or providing care while the parents are working.Grandfamilies are often formed under stress. Grandparents typically step in as primary caregivers because of a crisis. Relearning how to parent in modern times with today's challenges means a learning curve for grandparents.Listen as Dr. Andrew Adesman joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from January 2019 to discuss how grandfamilies are formed and resources available to families to manage the new commitment and responsibilities these grandparents have.

The stereotype stepparents we saw in the movies growing up are outdated.The stereotype stepparents we saw in the movies growing up are outdated. Step-parents of all genders, blended families, co-parenting, and more are becoming more the norm.Elizabeth Meade is a pediatric hospitalist, the Medical Director of Patient Safety for Pediatrics at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, and a step-parent herself!She joins Melanie Cole in this encore episode from August 2020 to talk about the journey of introducing a new parent figure to children, how and when to discipline as a step-parent, and tips to settle disputes.

The stereotype stepparents we saw in the movies growing up are outdated.The stereotype stepparents we saw in the movies growing up are outdated. Step-parents of all genders, blended families, co-parenting, and more are becoming more the norm.Elizabeth Meade is a pediatric hospitalist, the Medical Director of Patient Safety for Pediatrics at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, and a step-parent herself!She joins Melanie Cole in this encore episode from August 2020 to talk about the journey of introducing a new parent figure to children, how and when to discipline as a step-parent, and tips to settle disputes.

In our ninth episode of Unsolved Canadian Mysteries, Kenton de Jong and Dylan Fairman discuss the murder of Frank Smith on May 20, 1935, the subsequent multiple trials of his wife Mary Smith, and the disturbing visions that haunted her afterward. The research for this episode was done by Melanie Cole of melaniecole.com

You can be a cool parent by knowing what to do if your child wants a tattoo or piercing.Tattoos and body piercing are gaining popularity as a form of personal expression. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommendations for your child's safety with these body modifications.Basic Guidelines:- Know that each state has a set of rules and regulations for minimum age. Proper identification is needed and so is parental accompaniment in some cases.- Look for a clean and sanitary establishment.- Watch someone else undergo a tattoo or piercing at your chosen establishment.- Meticulous guidelines for care of the wound is important.- It's expensive to get a laser tattoo removal and it isn't covered by insurance. Consider long and hard before getting a tattoo. A temporary or henna tattoo is a smart first step.- No tattoo artist or piercer will do a procedure on someone under the influence.- Make sure tetanus, hepatitis and other immunizations are up to date.- If the procedure site is red, hurts more than the initial needling, red streaking above or below, pus or fever, contact your doctor immediately.Speak with your child's pediatrician if he is considering a body modification. She can share risks and complications if your child is passionate about getting a tattoo or piercing.Listen as Dr. Cora Breuner joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from 2018 to share how to make sure your child is safe when getting a body modification.

You can be a cool parent by knowing what to do if your child wants a tattoo or piercing.Tattoos and body piercing are gaining popularity as a form of personal expression. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommendations for your child's safety with these body modifications.Basic Guidelines:- Know that each state has a set of rules and regulations for minimum age. Proper identification is needed and so is parental accompaniment in some cases.- Look for a clean and sanitary establishment.- Watch someone else undergo a tattoo or piercing at your chosen establishment.- Meticulous guidelines for care of the wound is important.- It's expensive to get a laser tattoo removal and it isn't covered by insurance. Consider long and hard before getting a tattoo. A temporary or henna tattoo is a smart first step.- No tattoo artist or piercer will do a procedure on someone under the influence.- Make sure tetanus, hepatitis and other immunizations are up to date.- If the procedure site is red, hurts more than the initial needling, red streaking above or below, pus or fever, contact your doctor immediately.Speak with your child's pediatrician if he is considering a body modification. She can share risks and complications if your child is passionate about getting a tattoo or piercing.Listen as Dr. Cora Breuner joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from 2018 to share how to make sure your child is safe when getting a body modification.

How do you talk to kids about dangerous internet and TikTok challenges?Just when it seems like these challenges are out of the news, something else pops up.Social media rewards outrageous behavior. No one is getting “likes” for cleaning up their bedroom.Teens are impulsive. Their brains haven't developed enough to fully grasp the consequences of dangerous behaviors.How do you talk to kids about these dangerous challenges?If it says "challenge," it's probably a horrible idea. There are exceptions, like the ALS ice bucket challenge. But, as a general rule, they should avoid things labeled as challenges.Encourage your kids to try to freak you out with the most shocking thing they've encountered. You've seen some things in your day. The trick is not to freak out when they tell you the crazy thing that happened. Help them build the skill of judging risk by talking about what they witnessed and what could happen next in a similar situation. They have to learn how to think through these things for themselves.Listen as Dr. David Hill joins Melanie Cole, MS in this encore episode from 2018, to discuss how to help your kids develop the judgment to keep them away from dangerous behaviors.

How do you talk to kids about dangerous internet and TikTok challenges?Just when it seems like these challenges are out of the news, something else pops up.Social media rewards outrageous behavior. No one is getting “likes” for cleaning up their bedroom.Teens are impulsive. Their brains haven't developed enough to fully grasp the consequences of dangerous behaviors.How do you talk to kids about these dangerous challenges?If it says "challenge," it's probably a horrible idea. There are exceptions, like the ALS ice bucket challenge. But, as a general rule, they should avoid things labeled as challenges.Encourage your kids to try to freak you out with the most shocking thing they've encountered. You've seen some things in your day. The trick is not to freak out when they tell you the crazy thing that happened. Help them build the skill of judging risk by talking about what they witnessed and what could happen next in a similar situation. They have to learn how to think through these things for themselves.Listen as Dr. David Hill joins Melanie Cole, MS in this encore episode from 2018, to discuss how to help your kids develop the judgment to keep them away from dangerous behaviors.

Simple tips to show your children that you love them on each and every day.It seems straightforward to show love to your kids. But, every parent and every child is different.First, your words have an impact. Sarcasm and mocking can be upsetting to your child. Be positive and find kinder ways to communicate that don't make your child feel inferior.Second, express gratitude and respect for your child. “Please,” “thank you” and “you're welcome” are important phrases for communication. They may just help you get that smart device set aside for family time by respectfully making requests.Additionally, hugging is important. They're great for expressing love and encouraging physical closeness. Hugs can be calming for parents and children alike.Schedule family times and be sure to keep them. Give your children the time they need. You're cultivating the way they succeed in their future relationships.Listen as Dr. Naveen Mehrotra joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from 2018 to share how you can demonstrate your love for your child.

Simple tips to show your children that you love them on each and every day.It seems straightforward to show love to your kids. But, every parent and every child is different.First, your words have an impact. Sarcasm and mocking can be upsetting to your child. Be positive and find kinder ways to communicate that don't make your child feel inferior.Second, express gratitude and respect for your child. “Please,” “thank you” and “you're welcome” are important phrases for communication. They may just help you get that smart device set aside for family time by respectfully making requests.Additionally, hugging is important. They're great for expressing love and encouraging physical closeness. Hugs can be calming for parents and children alike.Schedule family times and be sure to keep them. Give your children the time they need. You're cultivating the way they succeed in their future relationships.Listen as Dr. Naveen Mehrotra joins Melanie Cole, MS, in this encore episode from 2018 to share how you can demonstrate your love for your child.

accidental overdose, what to do if they do get into your edible stash, and how to talk to teens about marijuanaIt's imperative to encourage reading in your family.Reading to your young child can boost vocabulary and reading skills before entering school. Cultivating a love of reading in your older children can open up a world of imagination and opportunity.Time spent reading with your infant is actually conversation time. You can still read the words in the board book but interact with your child by talking about the pictures.Make time to read as a family. Younger children will enjoy the tale. Look up information about topics with older children to learn more about the story.Build excitement for reading by taking your child to get a library card. Encourage older children to belong to a book club. Share books that are meaningful to you so you can discuss them. Make reading important in your home.Listen as Dr. Corinn Cross joins Melanie Cole, MS in this encore episode from August 2017, to share how you can create lifelong readers.

Human milk has been shared since the olden days. Informal milk sharing takes place when one mother has a surplus of breast milk and another has a need. These moms get together so their babies both receive sufficient nourishment.Formal milk sharing or milk banking takes place when moms donate their surplus breast milk to a profit or non-profit agency. That agency then screens, pasteurizes, and distributes the milk.With informal milk sharing, there are some risks. The health of the donors is the primary concern. Moms should be in good health after a healthy pregnancy. Blood testing is valuable to prevent the passing of hepatitis B or C or HIV. Current eating habits, smoking, and alcohol consumption are also concerns. Toxin exposure, regular medications, and supplements are good to know. How is the milk expressed and stored? The milk should contain no additives (like cow's milk) or be watered down. You want your baby to have the safest, best possible sustenance.If you are considering informal milk sharing, an in-person conversation with the donor mother should help you assess her fit as a donor for your child.The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has a policy statement for pre-term infants in a hospital setting, strongly endorsing the use of pasteurized donor milk. There isn't currently a policy statement regarding informal milk sharing for healthy infants in the home setting. The AAP doesn't currently endorse the practice, but it is common. You should discuss it with your pediatrician if you are considering participation in informal milk sharing.High-risk infants have an immature immune system and are at high risk for infection. Pre-term infants should stick to pasteurized donor milk from a milk bank where donors are screened.Listen as Dr. Margaret Parker and Dr. Michelle Brenner join Melanie Cole, MS in this encore episode from 2018, to share their best advice for milk sharing.

It's imperative to encourage reading in your family.It's imperative to encourage reading in your family.Reading to your young child can boost vocabulary and reading skills before entering school. Cultivating a love of reading in your older children can open up a world of imagination and opportunity.Time spent reading with your infant is actually conversation time. You can still read the words in the board book but interact with your child by talking about the pictures.Make time to read as a family. Younger children will enjoy the tale. Look up information about topics with older children to learn more about the story.Build excitement for reading by taking your child to get a library card. Encourage older children to belong to a book club. Share books that are meaningful to you so you can discuss them. Make reading important in your home.Listen as Dr. Corinn Cross joins Melanie Cole, MS in this encore episode from August 2017, to share how you can create lifelong readers.

Herbal supplements worked for your friend's kid, but should you give them to your child?Parents want to help kids feel great. Many look to herbal supplements to aid health and performance. How do you know these supplements are safe?First, the health supplement industry is not regulated. They could potentially be contaminated with something unsafe. There can also be potency irregularities on the shelf.However, many companies self-regulate. Check the label for evidence of screening by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). This means it isn't contaminated and potency matches the label.Additionally, tell your providers what products you're giving your child. Some herbal products react poorly to medications. Your provider can prescribe medications with full awareness of your child's supplements.A healthy diet and enough sleep go a long way to support your child's wellness.For children on antibiotics, probiotics can nurture good bacteria. Start probiotics at the same time you begin antibiotic treatment.Zinc reduces the duration of respiratory symptoms by three to four days. Start zinc within 24 to 48 hours of the start of infection. It can cause the loss of a sense of smell in some people, so zinc supplements are not recommended on a regular basis.Fish oils or omega-3s are often lacking in the foods we eat. They promote better mental health and can support the efficacy of psychiatric medication.Be wary of anecdotal recommendations. Just because it worked for your friend doesn't mean it will work for you.Listen as Dr. Cora Breuner joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss which supplements you can share with your child and when, and which supplements it's better to avoid in this encore episode from November 2018.

Dating can be thrilling for teens. However, some young relationships can become violent.Dating can be thrilling for teens. However, some young relationships can become violent.As teens try to figure out how the world works, they may endure emotional, mental, and physical abuse in the name of “love.”Red flags can include social media control, sexting stalking, cyberbullying, and bruisesOpen conversation with your child to find out who is being texted and how young relationships are going. Don't pass judgment but ask questions and listen. You have to be an ally if your teen needs help leaving a bad relationship.Call 1-800-SAFE or text Love Is Respect at 22522 for help.Listen as Dr. David Hill joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss teen dating violence in this encore episode from February 2019.

Life sometimes takes us down an unpredictable path. Find your financial footing once your primary earning years have passed.Millions of people in their 50s and 60s find themselves facing job and financial insecurity. Financial wellness can be defined as the amount that makes you feel grounded and content. You have to find a textured and meaningful life on a modest income. As you age, you may not be considered for jobs that pay as much as the last job you left. Consider taking a freelance position or two in order to generate income. Short consultancies, subletting rooms in your home and driving for a ride share service are options. Things beyond your control may have landed you in your current financial state. You can learn from past mistakes, but the economic state of the country doesn't boost your savings. Listen as Elizabeth White joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how to find your financial footing over 50.

Yoga is a fantastic way to improve mobility while taking it easy on your joints.When you reach a certain age, finding the right low-impact fitness can be a challenge. Yoga is a great option for middle-aged individuals to strengthen muscles and maintain mobility. Mid-life is roughly defined as ages 45 to 65. It's a peak time for career-minded individuals, and the hustle and bustle of running a household is also a challenge. Yoga encourages stress reduction and mindfulness. Listen as Dennis and Kathy Lang join Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how yoga can benefit you in mid-life.

Men face specific challenges as they grow older.Men 50 and over have a lot of opportunity ahead of them. The trick is to be healthy to enjoy them. Older men often become more sedentary and neglect their health. Oftentimes, partners have to motivate them to get necessary screenings and make lifestyle changes to live longer.Tips for Men in Middle Years Get to know what's most important in your life. Work to enhance those relationships. Eat sensibly. Cut out vices like smoking and alcohol. Get a good night's sleep. Learn to adapt as you age and your body's skills decline in certain areas. For partners, it's ideal to be supportive and encourage longevity. However, you sometimes have to take control so the life-preserving actions can happen. Listen as Louis Bezich joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss how to find fulfillment as you grow older.

What's the deal with perimenopause?Menopause ends the female reproduction window. Perimenopause is like adult puberty, the transition from regular menstrual cycles to one year without periods. Perimenopause is tough to define. Symptoms can occur for three to five years or longer. Menopause occurs when the ovaries have fully retired. Heavy or light periods, irregular bleeding, vaginal dryness, hot flashes and night sweats may pop up as the ovaries wind down their work. Until the ovaries shut down completely, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Progesterone may be prescribed by your provider to even things out. Some over the counter products like black cohosh may provide some relief from symptoms. Listen as Dr. Mary Jane Minkin joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what to expect from perimenopause.

Celebrate the joys of diverse cultures through Americanized food.Different cultures contribute to our culinary melting pot. The flavors of American foods alter with these new contributions, influencing generations to come. What was once known as “foreign” food eventually becomes adopted and Americanized. It's inevitable that food changes as it mixes with American cultures. Lack of unique ingredients and brushing up against other cultures gives food a new identity. Americans are spoiled, as we can enjoy a panoply of flavors every day. The strength of our country is in our differences and should be celebrated. Be adventurous and try something new. Listen as Chef Edward Lee joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how Americanized foods are worthy of celebration.

It can be tough when your children move away. You're not alone.Parents can feel an emotional upheaval when their children venture off to find their fortunes. Empty nest syndrome is legitimate. From the moment the child is born, the focus of a parent becomes the best survival of that child. While watching out for the next milestone, personal activities and relationships can fall away. Start asking yourself what you'd like to be doing. What is fun for you? Re-engage with those things. Find time for yourself before your child leaves the nest so you can start to reclaim friendships and discover new interests for yourself. Listen as Samantha Lewis joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how to prepare yourself for and survive empty nest syndrome.

Find out how to endure difficult and toxic people in time for the holidays.It's not uncommon to have at least one person in your life who stresses you out. Holidays can force interactions with toxic family members. First, don't take their toxicity personally. It's often not about you. They may misdirect upset from other aspects of their own lives. You don't have to have this person in your life regularly. If you are upset with someone, acknowledge the different viewpoint. “Interesting point-of-view; I have this point-of-view.” Unexpressed to the source of stress, this can help you handle their opinions. Repeat to yourself until you don't feel as charged up about it. Additionally, you can be a kind and caring person without a toxic person in your life. It is a kindness to let them go. Be good to yourself and live your life without this person as a regular participant in it. Listen as Doris Schachenhofer joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how you can interact with toxic individuals... or not.

Aside from personal safety, a significant concern when leaving an abuser is financial well-being.Victims of abuse (physical, sexual, verbal) are often fearful of leaving the abuser for a number of reasons. Aside from personal safety, a significant concern is financial well-being. Many times, the "bread winner" of the household is the abuser, making it problematic for the abused to leave the relationship. Rosemary Lombardy is a financial advisor with over 35 years of experience. Although her professional expertise is in financial matters, her perspective on marital abuse, divorce, and recovery is deeply heartfelt and holistic, having gone through her own abusive situation.Rosemary has some helpful tips for anyone who is in a dire situation and needs to seek help: Personal safety is the number-one priority. If you believe physical abuse is imminent, you have to protect yourself and your children. Never leave your children behind. This could be considered abandonment or be perceived as the abused falsifying accounts of the abuse. Before you leave or alert your partner you're filing for divorce, set aside cash and get a credit card in your name only. Transfer half of any jointly-held funds to another account, and have those bank statements sent to a PO Box or an address that is not your home. Make copies of bank statements or any other important documents. Store this "evidence" somewhere safe outside the home. Prepare a go-to bag, with cash, driver's license/passport, clothes, toys for kids, birth certificates, marriage certificate, medical and immunization records, prescriptions, insurance information, legal documents, and a restraining order if you have one. Document the abuse, take photos, and write down the name of any law enforcement officers you speak with. Keep "incriminating" emails, such as threats from your abuser or evidence of infidelity. If you're unable to afford legal help, shelters often provide a lot of assistance, such as free or reduced cost legal counsel, therapy, and job assistance if you've been out of the workforce. If you can, Rosemary suggests getting the advice of a financial expert in addition to your attorney.Listen in as Rosemary joins host Melanie Cole, MS, to learn more about the "right" way to get out of a bad situation and additional resources for those who are suffering abuse.

Find out why warming up and cooling down are so important.Warming up and cooling down are both important parts of any workout. People want to get to the meat of the workout, skipping these necessary parts. The warmup gets the muscles warm and pliable, making them ready for a complete workout. It also helps focus the mind on the work that's to come. Blood flow is increased to the muscles and other parts of the body.  Tailor the warmup to the activity you're about to undertake. Do the warmup close to the time you'll be engaging in the activity so your body doesn't cool off before you begin. The cooldown helps your heart settle down. It gives the lactic acid from the workout a chance to clear out a bit. If your head is above your heart during the main workout, the blood is pushed to the lower body. Cooling down allows the blood to return to other parts of the body, reducing lightheadedness after exercise. Listen as Dr. Brian Parr joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the importance of warming up and cooling down.

Make the most of your dates to find your mate.What conversations should you have with your potential mate to know your love will last a lifetime? If conversations start out harsh, the relationship will often break down into loneliness and unhappiness for both parties. Conversations where each partner discusses the positive things they need tend to go smoother. You don't have to hook up with your clone. In fact, someone a little different from you makes it interesting. You can learn from each other. Here are the topics that make a date easy and enjoyable, while giving you the information you seek quickly: Trust Conflict Sex and intimacy Work and money Family and children Fun and adventure Sacred beliefs and values Dreams for life Discussing the history, experiences and preferences with each of these topics will help both of you see if this is a relationship worth pursuing. Listen as Dr. John Gottman joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how to have the conversations for a lasting love.

Men can navigate the modern landscape of relationships.The modern man can redefine himself. “Man up” no longer applies, because men's roles have changed over the past century. Men need to create safe spaces in their relationships. Communication is key. They also need to practice self-care and express their feelings to their partners. The journey of manhood doesn't end. You can be any man you want as long as you stick to your truth. Listen as John Kim joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how men can embrace manhood while maintaining integrity.

What happens when you enter menopause?Women of a certain age go through a transition from child-bearing possibilities to menopause. Menopause is declared when one has gone a full year without a period. Menstrual irregularity is common, but when related to perimenopause it kicks in between age 35 and 60. Hot flashes, night sweats and sleeping disturbances are normal American female complaints during perimenopause. If it's been a year since your last period and you experience vaginal bleeding, contact your gynecologist. Make sure you feel comfortable with your health care provider so you can discuss your menopausal concerns openly. Listen as Dr. Mary Jane Minkin joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what to expect when you reach menopause.

Find out how to help yourself heal from trauma.Trauma is subjective. It's hard to measure and understand. Its effects can be physical or mental. Yoga has been proven to assist in healing from trauma. It promotes mindfulness and can help people let go. A simple start you can do anywhere is focusing on your breath. Put your hand on your belly and concentrate on your breath. Your diet impacts your mental health and ability to heal. Eat foods that support gut health. You may notice some of the physical symptoms associated with trauma subside. Listen as Liz Arch joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how to help yourself heal from trauma.