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Exploring the Science Behind Autism: What We Know and What We’re Learning

Host Holly Wayment interviews this highly experienced pediatric psychiatrist .  Dr. Boddapadi  explains that autism has no single cause — it’s multifactorial, involving strong genetic risks and environmental factors.  Vaccines have been ruled out as a cause, and  evidence  shows a very weak association with Tylenol.

The conversation emphasizes taking care of maternal health, discussing medications with clinicians, following evidence-based guidance, and the importance of early identification and support for children with autism. 

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

Tics vs. Twitches: What Every Parent Should Know

Learn how to recognize tics, when to see your pediatrician, and why most tics are harmless and treatable. Videotaping movements and getting the right diagnosis are key first steps.

Dr. Sheldon Gross explains common motor and vocal tics, their impact on a child’s well-being, and when referrals to specialists may help. The focus is on support, evaluation, and simple steps parents can take.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

What Causes Autism? An expert Explains the Latest Science

Host Holly Wayment interviews this highly experienced pediatric psychiatrist.  Dr. Avinash Boddapati, MD explains that autism has no single cause — it’s multifactorial, involving strong genetic risks and environmental factors such as certain medications, maternal health conditions, and infections. Vaccines have been ruled out as a cause, and  evidence  shows a very weak association with Tylenol.

The conversation emphasizes taking care of maternal health, discussing medications with clinicians, following evidence-based guidance, and the importance of early identification and support for children with autism. Parents are reassured that it is not their fault and encouraged to seek professional advice.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

Can Watching A Porcupine Chomp on a Pumpkin Help My Teen With Anxiety and Stress?

Its back! Host and Executive Producer Holly Wayment interviews Jacklynn Ware of Project YES, a free, evidence-based online mental health resource for teens with short, anonymous modules that cover mood, anxiety, body image, safety planning, and more.  Its back, better than ever, right when teens need it more that ever.  And that includes the option of watching a video of the "World's Most Adorable Porcupine" chomp on a pumpkin.

Accessible on phones, tablets, and computers, it includes crisis check-ins for warning signs and creates action plans at the end of modules. Designed for teens but useful for parents, schools, and caregivers, it’s available at tribeprojectyes.org/utth.  

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitos what parents need to know

Join Host Holly Wayment and UT Health San Antonio and University Health's Infectious disease specialist Dr. Deena Sutter.   They discuss recent Chikungunya outbreaks, how mosquito-borne viruses (chikungunya, dengue, Zika) spread, and who is most at risk. Dr. Sutter explains symptoms—especially Chikungunya’s debilitating joint pain—and severe outcomes for newborns and the elderly.

Dr. Sutter reviews practical prevention: remove standing water, use EPA‑approved repellents (DEET or picaridin) appropriately, wear long sleeves when needed, keep screens and air conditioning, and maintain flea prevention for pets to avoid flea‑borne typhus. She also advises when to see a doctor for fever, rash, or concerning exposures.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

How to Teach Self-Compassion to Teenagers

Join Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now as she delves into the transformative power of self-compassion with expert Dr. Karen Bluth. Discover how self-compassion can help teens combat anxiety, depression, and stress, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Dr. Bluth shares insights from her extensive experience, and practical tools for parents and educators to support teens, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness. This episode highlights resources available for those looking to explore self-compassion further, making it a vital listen for anyone involved in teen development.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

When your child just seems off-how to spot sepsis early

Join Holly Wayment and Dr. Ted Wu on Pediatrics Now for Parents as they delve into the critical topic of sepsis, a potential risk for children following viral infections. Dr. Wu, a seasoned pediatrician and father, who works in the pediatric ICU, discusses the progression of this serious condition and its symptoms, often resembling the flu or a cold. He emphasizes the importance of early detection, citing signs like altered mental status, decreased urine output, and prolonged fever.

The episode highlights the balance between appropriate antibiotic use and prevention strategies, advocating for vaccinations to significantly reduce bacterial infections that may lead to sepsis. Dr. Wu also bridges personal experiences, stressing the crucial role of parents in recognizing their child’s unwellness and communicating effectively with healthcare providers. Tune in for insights that could help save young lives.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

Preventing drowning and advancements in reducing brain damage with Dr. Ted Wu

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Ted Wu, a seasoned pediatric critical care physician, to discuss crucial topics surrounding child safety and health. With nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Wu shares insights on the importance of prevention, particularly in avoiding accidental injuries in children.

The conversation delves into water safety, highlighting the significant risks associated with drowning, and emphasizes the need for vigilant supervision around pools and bodies of water. Dr. Wu underscores the role of preventive measures, like wearing life jackets, in safeguarding children.

Furthermore, Dr. Wu provides an overview of innovative treatments for children who have experienced near-drowning incidents, explaining how therapeutic hypothermia can aid in reducing brain injury following a lack of oxygen. The episode also touches on the humanistic side of pediatric healthcare, emphasizing the resilience of children and the collective efforts of medical professionals and families in achieving positive outcomes.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

Unlocking Immunity Vaccines for Kids in the COVID Era

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment explores essential vaccine insights with infectious disease expert, Dr. J.B. Cantey, who is also a father of three. Discover updated COVID-19 and flu vaccination recommendations for children, understand the significance of the three-dose COVID vaccine regimen, and learn why both flu and COVID vaccines should be prioritized for your kids' health. Dr. Cantey shares the science behind vaccines, the benefits of cross-vaccine strategies, and how these preventive measures can boost lifetime immunity. Tune in for a concise yet informative discussion aimed at equipping parents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about immunizations for their children.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

Measles Update: What Every Parent Should Know

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, hosted by Holly Wayment and the department of Pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio and University health new women’s and Children’s Hospital , we discuss the pressing topic of measles, which is on the minds of many parents. Joining the discussion is Dr. Jason Bowling a leading expert in infectious diseases with 15 years of experience, who provides a deep dive into the current measles outbreak in Texas, particularly in the Gaines County area.

Bowling and Wayment explore the severe neurological condition SSPE that can develop years after measles recovery, the risks of pneumonia in children post-measles infection, and the importance of maintaining a high vaccination rate for herd immunity. They also address the complications of measles infections in healthy children and those with pre-existing conditions.

The discussion highlights the significant outbreak in Texas, with 717 confirmed cases, and the tragic loss of two children. 
Dr. Bowling emphasizes the ongoing risk of losing measles elimination status in the U.S. due to decreasing vaccination rates, and offers insights into symptoms, testing, and prevention measures. 

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

 

 

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