Episodios

  • How to Talk with Kids About Disasters, Illness, and Other Tough Topics

    How to Talk with Kids About Disasters, Illness, and Other Tough Topics
    Jul 9 2025

    In the wake of recent flooding in Central Texas, Katie Taylor—child life specialist and mom—pauses the regularly scheduled episode to speak directly to parents navigating uncertainty and grief. Whether you're facing a natural disaster, a scary news event, illness, or another tough moment, Katie offers a compassionate and practical framework to help guide difficult conversations with your child.

    Drawing from both her professional experience and personal moments with her own daughter, Katie walks you through a 5-step process to ensure these talks are grounded in safety, emotional connection, and honest, age-appropriate communication.

    Questions, media or collaborations? Reach out to us at hello@childlifeoncall.com

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • Why regulating yourself is the first step to supporting your child

    • How to assess what your child knows or believes about an event (and correct misconceptions)

    • Strategies for explaining complex topics in clear, simple ways

    • How to validate emotional reactions, even when you don’t have all the answers

    • The importance of ending with a bonding activity to reinforce connection and security

    Katie’s 5-Step Framework:

    1. Regulate yourself

    2. Assess what your child knows

    3. Explain complex information simply

    4. Validate their emotions and responses

    5. Close with connection and bonding

    🤝 Resources Mentioned:

    🔗 Child Life Disaster Relief (CLDR) – Supporting families and professionals during crisis situations: https://www.childlifedisasterrelief.org
    📚 Flooding & Crisis Resource Hub for Parents and CCLS: https://childlifeoncall.com/hillcountryfloods

    • [00:00] – Welcome & why this episode matters right now (Texas flooding)

    • [01:00] – The emotional toll on parents and the importance of self-regulation

    • [02:00] – Personal reflection: Katie shares how she coped this weekend

    • [03:00] – Step 1: Why regulating yourself is step one in helping your child

    • [04:00] – Step 2: Two ways tough conversations begin (reactive vs. planned)

    • [05:00] – Creating a safe environment: timing, tone, and physical comfort

    • [06:00] – Step 3: Assessing what your child knows and clearing up misconceptions

    • [07:00] – Example: When Katie’s daughter feared the pool would flood their home

    • [08:00] – How to explain complex topics like weather in simple, honest language

    • [09:00] – Step 4: Reading your child’s cues and inviting collaboration

    • [10:00] – When kids ask heartbreaking questions (e.g. “Did kids die?”)

    • [11:00] – Validating your child’s emotions and offering honest responses

    • [12:00] – Step 5: How to close the conversation with a bonding moment

    • [13:00] – Simple ideas: drawing together, taking a walk, or reading a book

    • [14:00] – What to do when you don’t have the answers to their questions

    • [15:00] – Why the message of safety, love, and presence matters most

    • [16:00] – Acknowledging the incredible work of Child Life Disaster Relief (CLDR)

    • [17:00] – Where to find resources: childlifeoncall.com/hillcountryfloods

    • [18:00] – Final encouragement: You can do this—and your words matter less than your presence
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    14 m
  • When your Child is Diagnosed with Leukemia: Wisdom from a Cancer Parent (260)- Laura's Story

    When your Child is Diagnosed with Leukemia: Wisdom from a Cancer Parent (260)- Laura's Story
    Jun 25 2025
    When Laura's daughter was diagnosed with leukemia, her world stopped. What followed was a powerful journey through fear, resilience, and fierce advocacy. In this episode, Laura DeKraker Lang-Ree—a lifelong educator and now author of The Cancer Parent’s Handbook—opens up about the most terrifying day of her life, how she transformed pain into purpose, and why parent-to-parent support is critical in the childhood cancer community. Her reflections are raw, heartfelt, and offer wisdom for every parent facing a medical diagnosis with their child. 🗝️ 5 Key Topics in This Episode: Diagnosis day & emotional impact Finding empowerment through peer support Practical coping strategies for parents Giving kids agency during treatment Long-term reflection, gratitude & growth ⏱️ Timestamps with Details: 00:00] Introduction to Child Life On Call + meeting Laura Katie welcomes listeners and introduces Laura, an educator and mother of three, who shares her personal journey through her daughter’s cancer diagnosis. [02:00] Life before diagnosis and early warning signs Laura describes her daughter Cecilia’s vibrant personality and the subtle symptoms—like fatigue and pallor—that signaled something was wrong. [04:30] Diagnosis day: from classroom to clinic Laura recounts the moment she received the devastating call while teaching choir class and the whirlwind that followed as her daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. [06:30] The emotional toll and the beginning of advocacy Facing fear and uncertainty, Laura begins to advocate for her daughter’s care while navigating the shock and grief that comes with diagnosis. [07:45] Camp experience and the danger of living “in cancer” Laura reflects on a pivotal moment at a childhood cancer camp where she recognized the importance of not letting cancer define her family’s entire future. [09:00] Collaborating with doctors + writing the handbook Inspired by the gaps in communication, Laura begins collaborating with her care team and eventually writes The Cancer Parent’s Handbook to empower other families. [11:45] The moment she knew she had to advocate fiercely After a doctor’s offhand comment about potential cognitive decline, Laura took matters into her own hands and became a determined voice for her daughter’s future. [14:00] Giving children power during treatment Laura explains how offering simple choices helped her daughter feel more in control and less fearful during difficult medical procedures. [16:30] Coping skills and caring for the caregiver She shares the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and creating a support system to survive the marathon of long-term treatment. [21:00] Practical ways to normalize medical trauma Through routines, honest conversations, and using Child Life services, Laura found ways to help her daughter feel safe and empowered during medical care. [26:00] Empowerment through routine and consistency By incorporating rituals like bike rides and post-procedure treats, Laura created a sense of predictability that helped her daughter manage weekly treatments. [28:00] The unexpected gifts of reflection and gratitude Laura opens up about how practices like gratitude journaling helped her find peace and moments of beauty during even the darkest days. [30:00] About The Cancer Parent’s Handbook + where to get it Laura shares her motivation for writing the book and how it’s now available for parents everywhere seeking guidance through their own childhood cancer journey. 📚 Resources from Laura: 📖 The Cancer Parent’s Handbook Website 🛒 Purchase the Cancer Parent Handbook here! 🌍 Follow the CancerParentHandbook on Instagram 🙌 Help Us Grow & Stay Connected If this episode touched your heart or helped you feel more prepared on your cancer parenting journey, we’d be so grateful if you could: 🌟 Rate and review the Child Life On Call Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it helps more parents and professionals find these powerful stories. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode filled with guidance, support, and hope. 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it today. 🎈 For more resources on supporting children through medical experiences — including expert articles and downloadable tools — visit ChildLifeOnCall.com. 📲Download the SupportSpot App today for Child Life Tools in your pocket 🌟Interested in sharing your story? Reach out to lyndsey@childlifeoncall.com Together, we’re making child life support more accessible to families everywhere. The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a ...
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    35 m
  • Navigating Childhood Loss Through Storytelling (259)-B.R.'s Story

    Navigating Childhood Loss Through Storytelling (259)-B.R.'s Story
    Jun 18 2025
    This episode is dedicated to Katie’s dear friend Joe, who recently passed away, leaving behind his wife and two young sons. Joe’s story reminds us to live in alignment with our purpose and to cherish the people we love. In this heartfelt episode of the Child Life On Call podcast, Katie Taylor speaks with B.R. Duray, an author, filmmaker, and storyteller whose debut children's book, The Mood Swing, is rooted in his experience of losing his father at the age of 10. With it being Father’s Day this past weekend, this conversation takes on even deeper meaning. B.R. shares how grief has shaped his creative life, the ways it resurfaces during important life moments, and how his book can help both children and adults find healing together. Whether you're a parent, a grieving adult, or a healthcare provider, this episode provides validation, comfort, and hope. 5 Key Takeaways from this Episode: ✅ Grief grants both pain and power B.R. explains how losing his dad gave him heightened emotional sensitivity and a creative voice to express and process those feelings. ✅ Grief resurfaces in different stages of life He shares how emotions from his childhood resurfaced 20 years later during his engagement, reinforcing that grief evolves with us. ✅ Reading about grief helps parents, too Though The Mood Swing was written for children, it often evokes emotional responses from adults who find healing in its message. ✅ The Mood Swing originated as a film The story began as a poem and animated concept, but eventually took form as a children’s book—and later inspired a short film. ✅ Parents can model healthy grief Katie and B.R. discuss how parents showing emotions in front of children teaches them it’s safe to feel and process grief together. 📍Episode Highlights: ⏱️ [3:00] – Katie dedicates the episode to her late friend Joe and reflects on how his life reminds us to live with purpose. ⏱️ [4:00] – B.R. shares how his father’s death shaped his creativity and opened his heart to telling meaningful stories. ⏱️ [10:30] – Discussion around how grief reemerges during milestones like engagements and weddings. ⏱️ [16:30] – The story behind The Mood Swing, how it began as a movie concept, and why B.R. shifted to a book format for a deeper connection. ⏱️ [22:00] – B.R. reflects on the emotional reactions he’s received from adults who have read The Mood Swing and how grief connects us all. ⏱️ [24:00] – Katie and B.R. talk about the importance of parents being open with their grief in front of children to foster healthy emotional expression. 📘 About The Mood Swing The Mood Swing follows Peter, a young boy navigating the highs and lows of emotion on a magical swing that helps him find balance through physical sensation and presence. Inspired by B.R.'s childhood grief, the book supports kids through big emotions without directly referencing death—making it a versatile tool for many types of emotional challenges. 🌐 Resources & Links from today’s episode: Buy The Mood Swing on Amazon Visit moodswing-media.com – View the book trailer, film, or donate a copy 📲 Stay Connected: Follow @childlifeoncall on Instagram Subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform Share this episode with a friend, parent, or provider who needs it today The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.
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    29 m
  • How a Nurse Practitioner Faced Her Daughter’s Tetralogy of Fallot Diagnosis (258)- Sarah's Story

    How a Nurse Practitioner Faced Her Daughter’s Tetralogy of Fallot Diagnosis (258)- Sarah's Story
    Jun 11 2025
    We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to our episode sponsor, reStickity®. Their innovative, mess-free reusable sticker sets allow families to personalize hospital spaces with familiar photos and comforting images, helping bring a sense of home to the hospital. To learn more, visit their website and use code CLOC10 for an exclusive discount available to our listeners. In this inspiring episode, we meet Sarah Michelle Boes—nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, and mom to Meadow, who was diagnosed in utero with Tetralogy of Fallot and multiple congenital heart defects. Sarah brings a powerful trifecta of perspectives: as a medical provider, mental health advocate, and dedicated heart mom. We cover: ✅ Meadow’s life-saving heart surgeries and long ICU stays ✅ How Sarah navigated new motherhood with OCD and anxiety ✅ The emotional toll of being both a medical provider and a parent ✅ Creating a connection through medical play to ease doctor visits ✅ How Sarah turned survival into purpose through national advocacy Whether you're a fellow medical parent, healthcare provider, or mental health professional, this episode will leave you with real insight into the raw challenges and unexpected joys of raising a child with complex medical needs. Key Topics & Highlights [00:00] – Meet Sarah Michelle Boes Nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, and heart mom Her daughter Meadow’s surprise diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot at 36 weeks ⏱️ [03:00] – From Business Success to Medical Crisis Selling her business weeks before Meadow’s diagnosis The shock of learning Meadow had four heart defects ⏱️ [05:00] – Learning to Navigate as a Medical Parent How Sarah’s medical background helped (and complicated) her parenting Teaching her husband how to advocate medically alongside her ⏱️ [07:00] – Mother’s Intuition & Switching OBs Sarah felt something was wrong during pregnancy but was dismissed A new ultrasound revealed her daughter's heart looked “weird” ⏱️ [10:00] – NICU Rollercoaster Begins Meadow intubated within hours of birth due to medication side effect Sarah and her husband find strength in teamwork ⏱️ [14:00] – Advice for New Heart Parents The overwhelm of tracking vitals and data post-discharge Feeling more like Meadow’s nurse than her mom ⏱️ [17:00] – The Unexpected Second Surgery & Major Setbacks Meadow’s patch failed, requiring emergency open-heart surgery Her chest remained open for a week due to complications ⏱️ [21:00] – A Brain Bleed Diagnosis & Mental Health Spiral Sarah shares how uncertainty triggered her OCD Emotional trauma of seeing Meadow cold, still, and open-chested ⏱️ [25:00] – Living in the ICU Full-Time How Sarah and her husband made the hospital their home The benefits of being physically present 24/7 ⏱️ [28:00] – Discharge Shock & OCD Diagnosis Meadow is stable—but Sarah’s anxiety peaks post-discharge Diagnosed with OCD just 10 days after coming home ⏱️ [32:00] – Healing Through Gratitude & Giving Back Family vacation sparks the idea for a donation The heart institute is named in Meadow’s honor with a mural ⏱️ [36:00] – Sarah’s Ongoing CHD Advocacy Work Advocating for the Congenital Heart Futures Act Raising awareness for adult congenital cardiology and research needs ⏱️ [40:00] – The Power of Medical Play Meadow's echos improved after doing medical play at home Sarah incorporates play to help her daughter cope with appointments ⏱️ [43:00] – Reflections & Advice for Other Parents Learning how strong her partnership with her husband is Why having the right support person changes everything ⏱️ [45:00] – Where to Follow Sarah & Continue the Journey Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, and more Connect with Sarah Michelle Boes 📲 Website & Heart Mom Resources: www.sarahmichelleboes.com 📷 Instagram: @sarahmichelleboes 💼 LinkedIn Community & Advocacy Writing: Connect on LinkedIn ❤️ Share This Episode Know a heart mom, Tetralogy of Fallot parent, or healthcare professional who supports families with congenital heart defects? Share Sarah’s courageous story to raise awareness, foster mental health advocacy, and connect families navigating similar journeys. 🧠 This episode also sheds light on the mental health challenges parents face—especially postpartum OCD—bringing compassion and visibility to an often-misunderstood diagnosis. 🎙️ Subscribe & Review: Help other heart families and caregivers discover this story by subscribing and leaving a review. 📩 Contact us: lyndsey@childlifeoncall.com 🎧 Listen Now and Honor the Strength of Heart Moms Like Sarah #TetralogyOfFallot #HeartMom #CHDAwareness #OCDawareness #MaternalMentalHealth #ChildLifeOnCall #ParentingThroughCHD The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including ...
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    48 m
  • The NICU Dad Experience: A father’s view from the NICU [REPOST] (257)-Alex’s Story

    The NICU Dad Experience: A father’s view from the NICU [REPOST] (257)-Alex’s Story
    Jun 4 2025
    What happens when your world changes with a single phone call? In this powerful reposted episode, NICU dad and advocate Alex Zavala shares his emotional journey of fatherhood after his daughter was born at just 27 weeks. From the emergency C-section and NICU stay to the emotional toll of the "NICU dad shuffle," Alex opens up about the lesser-heard experience of dads navigating medical trauma, guilt, and resilience. As the host of the NICU Dad Podcast, Alex continues to amplify the voices of fathers facing similar experiences. This conversation is an essential listen for NICU families and healthcare professionals alike, reminding us of the often unseen emotional weight fathers carry and how vital their perspective is in family-centered care. Key Takeaways from this week’s episode: Premature birth can happen suddenly Fathers experience trauma too The “NICU dad shuffle” is real Life after the NICU is still challenging Community and storytelling are healing for fathers Timestamps & Key Topics [00:00] – Welcome & Episode Intro Alex’s story as a NICU dad begins with two premature daughters[04:00] – The NICU Numbers That Stay With You 27 weeks. 2 lbs. 5 oz. 67 days in the NICU—numbers you never forget[06:00] – A High-Risk Pregnancy & Sudden Crisis Despite a stable pregnancy, a 9:00 AM phone call changes everything[10:00] – The Emergency C-Section Racing to the hospital, trauma in the OR, and feeling helpless[15:00] – A Whirlwind of Fear & Responsibility Trying to stay strong for his wife and unborn child amid chaos[20:00] – The NICU Dad Shuffle Begins Managing hospital visits, home life, and caring for the rest of the family[27:00] – The Guilt of Having to Choose The emotional strain of not being able to be everywhere at once[33:00] – First NICU Visit & Early Trauma Walking into the NICU for the first time—alone, overwhelmed, and unsure[38:00] – Life After the NICU: It Gets Harder Why going home with a medically fragile baby brought even more pressure[40:00] – Dads Carry Trauma Too Postpartum stress, partner support, and being the emotional anchor[42:00] – Healing Through Storytelling Why sharing his story and connecting with other NICU dads has been life-changing[44:00] – Where to Find Support 💪 Join the NICU Dad Push-Up Challenge!NICU dads carry an invisible weight—emotionally, mentally, and physically. The "Built For This" Push-Up Challenge is a powerful way to honor that strength. Complete 100 push-ups a day for the number of days your child spent in the NICU, share your journey on social, and tag fellow NICU dads to join. This isn’t just a fitness challenge—it’s a movement to raise awareness and spotlight the resilience of NICU fathers. 🔗 Use hashtags: #musclesandmiracles #pushwithpurpose #thenicudadpushupchallenge Resources & Links from today’s episode 📌 Follow Alex & The NICU Dad Community: Website Podcast Instagram 🎧 More episodes: Child Life On Call Share This Episode Know a NICU dad, partner, or healthcare team that would benefit from hearing a father's perspective? Share this powerful story to spark compassion, awareness, and connection. 🎙️ Subscribe & Review: Help more families find these stories by subscribing and leaving a review. 📩 Contact us: lyndsey@childlifeoncall.com 🎧 Listen Now and Honor the Stories of NICU Fathers Like Alex The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.
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    48 m
  • Helping Kids Swallow Pills:Tips and tricks for Parents from a Child Life Specialist (256)-Adina's Story

    Helping Kids Swallow Pills:Tips and tricks for Parents from a Child Life Specialist (256)-Adina's Story
    May 28 2025

    Learning to swallow pills can be a major milestone—and a big challenge—for many kids. In this episode, certified child life specialist Adina Levitan joins host Katie Taylor to break down the myths, fears, and best practices behind teaching children how to confidently swallow pills.

    From her clinical expertise to creative solutions like affirmations, games, and candy "pill" practice, Adina walks us through her unique approach to supporting kids and parents through this skill-building process. Whether you're a caregiver, clinician, or a parent trying to help your child at home, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical steps you can start today.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:


    ✅ Why pill swallowing is a learned skill that takes time and practice


    ✅ Tools and strategies to make learning fun and pressure-free


    ✅ How to create a pill-swallowing kit and step-by-step plan


    ✅ Creative tricks like affirmations, bingo, and candy practice


    ✅ Why early, low-stress practice is key—and how to know when to ask for more help

    Timestamps & Key Topics

    [00:00] – Meet Adina, CCLS
    Child life journey and hospital experience in surgery and oncology

    [06:00] – The First Pill Swallowing Consult
    How a simple Facebook post launched a new resource

    [08:00] – Why It’s Not a One-and-Done Skill
    Building confidence over weeks, not minutes

    [09:00] – The Candy Ladder
    Using sprinkles, Nerds, and Tic Tacs as practice tools

    [11:00] – The Birth of a Resource
    How Adina’s workbook was created for families and clinicians

    [12:00] – Unrealistic Hospital Expectations
    Why pill swallowing consults need more time and less pressure

    [14:00] – Every Kid Is Different
    There’s no one-size-fits-all technique—just trial, error, and support

    [15:00] – Ideal Ages and Proactive Practice
    Why second grade and up is a great place to start

    [16:00] – What’s in the Pill Swallowing Workbook?
    Affirmations, tools, weekly trackers, tips & tricks, and more

    [20:00] – Setting Up for Success
    When to practice, how long, and how to keep stress low

    [22:00] – Suggested 6–7 Week Practice Plan
    Why taking your time is key to success

    [23:00] – Incentives & Bingo
    Making pill practice feel like play

    [24:00] – How to Get the Resource
    Details on accessing the workbook for families

    Resources & Links

    📌Illuminate Child Life Website


    📥 Pill Swallowing Workbook

    📲 Download the SupportSpot app to get support for procedures and resources today!

    🎧 More episodes: https://www.childlifeoncall.com/podcasts

    Share Your Thoughts

    Has your child struggled to swallow pills? What strategies worked for you? Share your story or tag us with your own tips on Instagram.

    🎙️ Subscribe & Review: Help more families discover these tools by leaving a review.


    📩 Contact us: lyndsey@childlifeoncall.com

    🎧 Listen Now and Learn How to Make Pill Swallowing Easier for Kids

    The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided.
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    29 m
  • A Microtia Atresia Diagnosis: Hearing Aids, Surgery and a Journey of Hope [REPOST] - Kim's Story(255)

    A Microtia Atresia Diagnosis: Hearing Aids, Surgery and a Journey of Hope [REPOST] - Kim's Story(255)
    May 21 2025
    “You make the best decision for yourself and your family—and you stick with it.”- Kim Pena What happens when you’re handed unexpected news at your child’s birth—and there’s no clear roadmap ahead? In this reposted episode, educator and mom Kim Pena shares her powerful journey as the parent of a child born with Microtia Atresia, a rare congenital condition affecting the ear. Kim was one of Katie’s very first guests on the Child Life On Call podcast, and her story is still a listener favorite to this day. In this repost, Katie kicks off the episode by giving us a quick update about Kim’s son. From discovering her son’s diagnosis at birth to making emotional, high-stakes decisions about surgery and hearing aids, Kim walks us through her family’s deeply personal experience with compassion, clarity, and humor. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ What Microtia Atresia is and how it affects children ✅ How Kim and her husband navigated hearing loss, reconstructive surgery, and insurance battles ✅ Why early intervention with hearing aids changed everything ✅ What recovery and long-term care looked like for their son ✅ How to find trusted resources and support if your child is diagnosed Kim’s story offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and a reminder that joy often shines through the hardest moments. Timestamps & Key Topics ⏱️ [00:00] – Introduction: Meet Kim and Thomas Kim’s background as an educator, and how her son’s birth revealed an unexpected diagnosis ⏱️ [02:00] – What Is Microtia Atresia? Definition and how it affects the outer and middle ear Kim learns about the condition immediately after birth ⏱️ [04:00] – Family History and Diagnosis Challenges The connection to Kim’s brother-in-law Why this condition wasn’t caught on ultrasound ⏱️ [07:00] – Building a Support System How Kim’s relationship with her father-in-law became essential Finding emotional and logistical support from someone who’s been there ⏱️ [09:00] – First Surgeries and Hearing Tests Understanding Thomas’s hearing loss The process of getting tested, hearing aids, and early therapy ⏱️ [11:00] – Choosing the Right Surgery Exploring different surgical options, including rib graft and Medpor Why Kim’s family chose a single-surgery approach ⏱️ [13:00] – Surgery Day and Recovery A 13-hour surgery and the emotional toll Why recovery in California brought unexpected connections ⏱️ [16:00] – Post-Surgery Life & Daily Care What healing looked like in the months after Kim’s advice on establishing trust, prepping a toddler, and using distraction ⏱️ [20:00] – The Bittersweet Nature of Change Letting go of “his little ear” Gratitude for what the journey has taught their family ⏱️ [22:00] – Research, Advocacy & Making Confident Choices The role of online communities and navigating defensiveness Why Kim recommends aiding early—and being unapologetic about your choices ⏱️ [27:00] – A Life-Changing Hearing Aid Moment The first time Thomas could hear clearly—how it changed their world Why Kim wishes she had recorded that moment ⏱️ [29:00] – Final Reflection: Raising a “Joy Boy” Despite everything, Thomas’s joy and resilience shine through Why Kim’s journey is one of perspective, peace, and purpose Resources & Links 📌 Learn More About Microtia Atresia: microtia.net – Up-to-date education & support earcommunity.org – Parent-led advocacy and insurance help microtiasurgery.com – Thomas’s surgeon with videos and guides pediatricent.com – Additional surgical resource (Dr. Bonilla, San Antonio) 📲 Connect with Kim: Instagram Share Your Thoughts! Know someone raising a child with Microtia Atresia? Share this episode to let them know they’re not alone. 💬 Leave a comment or tag us on Instagram: @childlifeoncall 🎙️ Subscribe & Review: Help more families find these stories by leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. 📩 Contact us: lyndsey@childlifeoncall.com The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, ...
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    41 m
  • Blended Tube Feeding for G-tube fed Kids & Adults: How a dietician empowers families through food - Hilarie’s Story (254)

    Blended Tube Feeding for G-tube fed Kids & Adults: How a dietician empowers families through food - Hilarie’s Story (254)
    May 14 2025
    What if blending real food could transform your child’s tube feeding experience—and your entire family’s daily routine? In this inspiring episode, registered dietitian and new mom Hilarie shares how her career in pediatric nutrition led her to create Blended Tube Feeding, a platform and supportive community designed to help families explore real food options for children with feeding tubes. Hilarie and Katie have an insightful conversation about doing what works best for your family and how it is not an all-or-nothing approach when it comes to tube feeding. From clinical frustrations to practical breakthroughs, Hilarie’s story is packed with insight, empathy, and encouragement for families navigating complex feeding needs. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What blenderized tube feeding is—and how it helps with digestion, connection, and flexibility ✅ How Hilarie’s work in a neurodevelopment clinic inspired her mission ✅ Common fears and how to overcome them when shifting from formula to real food ✅ How to start slowly and safely with blended meals (even using store-bought purees!) ✅ Where to find affordable support, recipes, and a welcoming online community Whether you’re new to tube feeding or ready to explore new options, this episode offers knowledge, support, and a hopeful outlook for the journey ahead. Timestamps & Key Topics ⏱️ [00:00] – Meet Hilarie: Registered Dietitian, New Mom, Real Food Advocate How her love of cooking, gardening, and clinical work intersected in her passion project Why food is central to her family and her mission ⏱️ [04:00] – The “Aha” Moment Behind Blended Tube Feeding Real families, real frustrations, and real improvements How small changes led to big results in digestion and quality of life ⏱️ [06:00] – Formula Isn’t the Enemy: Finding What Works Why Hilarie supports a nonjudgmental approach Blended food can be part-time, full-time, or not at all—it’s about what’s right for your child ⏱️ [08:00] – What Getting Started Looks Like Step-by-step tips: from single-ingredient purees to homemade blends Why slow is better—and how to build confidence without overhauling everything ⏱️ [11:00] – Real Fears, Real Parents Why many parents worry about “rocking the boat” What success looks like when routines become manageable and joyful ⏱️ [13:00] – Why Aren’t Dietitians Taught This? The history behind formula becoming standard How schools and hospitals are starting to reintroduce food-based tube feeding ⏱️ [14:00] – Hilarie’s Virtual Support Programs Online courses, a private community, and flexible coaching Affordable access to evidence-informed resources—starting at just $37/month ⏱️ [17:00] – Motherhood Perspective Shift How becoming a parent deepened her empathy for families Why accessibility, flexibility, and simplicity matter more than ever ⏱️ [19:00] – A Favorite Success Story One family’s journey from 2-hour feeds and fear of leaving the house—to freedom, flexibility, and Panera bread - How small wins can transform daily life ⏱️ [21:00] – Where to Start: Free Resources & Community Instagram, blog articles, recipes, and real-life advice Why you don’t have to figure it all out alone Resources & Links Get Free Resources: Starter tips, recipes, and blog articles: www.blendedtubefeeding.com Research on Blenderized Tube Feeding Links to Commercial Real Food Products 📲 Follow Hilarie on Instagram: @blendedtubefeeding 💬 Join the Community Group: Month-to-month access to guides, support, and connection Share Your Thoughts! Are you considering blenderized tube feeding for your child? Have you tried it already? We'd love to hear your story! Comment below or tag us on social. 🎙️ Subscribe & Review: Help more families discover these powerful conversations. 🔗 Follow us on Instagram: @childlifeoncall 📩 Contact us: lyndsey@childlifeoncall.com The Child Life On Call Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. The content shared in each episode, including stories, discussions, and interviews, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Child Life On Call Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Child Life On Call. Child Life On Call does not endorse any specific medical treatments, procedures, or opinions shared in the podcast. If you or your child are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that Child Life On Call and its affiliates are not responsible for any decisions...
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