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ADHD is one of the most common concerns parents bring up—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. What does ADHD really mean? How is it diagnosed? And what actually helps kids who struggle with focus, organization, or impulsivity?

In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with ADHD specialist Shirley Hershko, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent of children with ADHD. Together, they explore:

• What ADHD looks like in the brain (and why dopamine plays such a big role)
• Why girls are often missed or misdiagnosed
• How to think about diagnosis when symptoms feel “subjective”
• Medication vs. non-medication options—what parents should know
• Practical behavioral tools and environmental supports for kids
• How to reframe ADHD as not just a challenge, but also a source of creativity, empathy, and resilience

Resources & Apps Mentioned in This Episode:

• Google Calendar
  – for scheduling and time management
• Trello
  – for visual task management and organization
• MyHomework
  – homework planning app to keep assignments on track

Book & Website:

• ADHD Is Our Superpower: The Amazing Talents and Skills Behind the Symptoms by Dr. Shirley Hershko
  
  
• Learn more at drshirleyhershko.com

Whether you’re just starting to wonder if your child may have ADHD or you’re already navigating daily life with it, this conversation is full of insight and reassurance.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

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Dr. Navidi is a GI psychologist and on this episode, he discusses the connection between GI disorders and psychology in children. Dr. Navidi explains that many GI issues in children, often fall under disorders of gut-brain interaction. He emphasizes the effectiveness of treatments like clinical hypnosis and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) over traditional dietary changes like the FODMAP diet. Dr. Navidi also discusses the potential side effects of restrictive diets and the potential benefit of positive expectancy and mindfulness techniques in managing GI disorders. The episode offers a potential effective treatment for children experiencing chronic stomach pain.

Dr Ali Navidi is a licensed clinical psychologist and the co-founder of GI Psychology, a clinic dedicated to helping children and adults with . His expertise lies in disorders of gut-brain interaction, where he works with children experiencing functional abdominal pain, IBS, constipation, and other GI-related concerns, helping families find safe and effective alternatives to restrictive diets.

You can learn more about his work at www.gipsychology.com

00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview

00:10 Meet Dr. Ali Navidi: GI Psychologist

00:16 Understanding Gut-Brain Interaction

00:47 Tiny Health: At-Home Microbiome Testing

01:30 Starting the Conversation with Dr. Navidi

02:42 Common GI Disorders in Children

03:11 Dr. Navidi's Journey into GI Psychology

05:14 Effective Treatments for GI Disorders

08:16 The Role of Diet in GI Disorders

12:54 The Brain-Gut Axis Explained

15:42 Hypnotherapy and Psychological Tools

19:56 Telehealth and Hypnosis Success

22:12 Challenges in Treating Difficult Patients

22:46 Integrating Hypnosis and CBT

23:23 Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

24:09 Addressing Patient Concerns with CBT

25:47 Meditation and Breathing Techniques

30:03 The Power of Positive Expectancy

35:32 Collaborative Approach in Treatment

36:55 Normalizing Tummy Complaints in Children

40:30 Accessing GI Psychology Services

43:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

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In this podcast episode, a pediatric gastroenterologist, Pediatric GI expert Dr. Victoria Martin joins me to demystify milk intolerance in babies—what FPIAP and cow’s milk protein intolerance really mean, why these diagnoses are tricky, and how families can find practical, evidence-based solutions.shares her expertise on milk intolerances in infants.

Dr. Martin emphasizes the importance of supporting breastfeeding mothers, addressing misconceptions about milk allergies, and the potential benefits of early allergen exposure. Additionally, Dr. Martin and the host discuss the role of lactose intolerance, and nutritional considerations for infants.

Dr. Victoria (Tori) Martin is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, Co-Director of the Pediatric Gastroenterology Section of the Food Allergy Center at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, and Associate Program Director of the MGHfC Pediatric GI Fellowship. Her research focuses on early-life GI health, food antigens, and the infant microbiome.

Key takeaways

• “Lactose intolerance” is not a typical infant diagnosis; infant concerns are usually protein related.
• Microscopic stool blood alone has limits—treat the baby, not just the test.
• For breastfed infants with visible blood and discomfort, consider short, targeted milk-protein elimination, then a re-challenge in ~1 month to confirm diagnosis and avoid unnecessary long-term restriction.
• Hypoallergenic formulas are an option; prioritize growth, feeding comfort, and family well-being.
• Early, safe introduction of other allergens (e.g., peanut, egg) should still proceed on schedule unless otherwise directed by your clinician.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

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Feeding kids well is foundational to health—but real-life meals can feel hard. Pediatrician Dr. Reshma Shah, co-author of Nourish: The Definitive Plant-Based Nutrition Guide for Families, joins Jessica to share simple, evidence-based ways to make family meals more nourishing and less stressful. We cover how to “add in” plants without power struggles, realistic swaps kids accept, why fiber is the real gap for most children, what actually keeps kids full (protein + fat + fiber), and a no-drama take on supplements (B12 for vegan kids, vitamin D for many, calcium via fortified milks, DHA/EPA considerations, and using iodized salt). Plus: how to stop feeding anxiety at the table and play the long game with picky eaters.

Dr. Reshma Shah is a pediatrician, parent coach, and co-author of Nourish: The Definitive Plant-Based Nutrition Guide for Families (with Brenda Davis, RD. To stay in contact with her, and for her free plant-based starter guide, recipes, please check out her website: reshmashahmd.com (free plant-based starter guide, recipes, and parent resources).

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

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In this episode, we welcome Dr. Bianca Edison, a pediatric sports medicine and orthopedic physician, to discuss the critical issues surrounding youth sports. Dr. Edison shares her journey into sports medicine and emphasizes the importance of balancing athletic activities for young athletes. The discussion covers overtraining, the significance of rest and recovery, the impact of burnout, and practical advice for preventing common sports injuries in children. We also dive into the importance of sleep, quality nutrition, and healthy exercise habits. This episode offers valuable insights for parents, coaches, and young athletes aiming for long-term health and enjoyment in sports.

Dr. Bianca Edison is a pediatric sports medicine and orthopedic physician at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Clinical Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at USC’s Keck School of Medicine. She received her MD from Baylor College of Medicine, completed pediatrics internship and residency at UCLA (where she served as Chief Resident), and pursued a sports medicine fellowship at CHLA. Bianca’s clinical work focuses on overuse injuries, injury prevention, dance medicine, and concussion—helping young athletes stay healthy and love movement for life.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

Send us a text

Rethinking ADHD: Diagnosis, Treatment, and What Families Should Know - A Conversation with Paul Tough

In this special 200th episode, Paul Tough discusses his recent article on ADHD that has sparked significant debate. Paul explores questions like whether we're over-diagnosing ADHD, the rising diagnosis rates, and the nuances of treatment. Highlighting both the benefits and limitations of stimulant medications and the potential of environmental changes, this conversation offers valuable insights for parents and clinicians. Tune in as Paul and the host, a pediatrician, delve into the complexities of attention issues, the importance of a tailored approach, and the impact of societal and technological changes on ADHD. Don't miss this in-depth discussion that aims to provide a balanced perspective on ADHD and how families can navigate it.

00:53 Interview with Paul Tough: ADHD Insights

01:32 Understanding ADHD Diagnosis Trends

03:05 Challenges in Diagnosing ADHD

05:07 The Role of Environment in ADHD

19:13 Personal Stories and ADHD

21:58 Alternative Learning Approaches

22:24 Innovative Classroom Environments

23:18 The MTA Trial: Key Findings

25:04 Long-Term Effects of ADHD Medication

28:46 Rethinking ADHD Diagnoses

32:04 Understanding ADHD Medication

39:59 Behavioral Interventions and Environmental Changes

43:06 Final Thoughts on ADHD

Draft YouTube description

Rethinking ADHD: Diagnosis, Treatment, and What Families Should Know - A Conversation with Paul Tough

In this special 200th episode, Paul Tough discusses his recent article on ADHD that has sparked significant debate. Paul explores questions like whether we're over-diagnosing ADHD, the rising diagnosis rates, and the nuances of treatment. Highlighting both the benefits and limitations of stimulant medications and the potential of environmental changes, this conversation offers valuable insights for parents and clinicians. Tune in as Paul and th

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

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Car accidents are the leading cause of death for kids, teens, and young adults — but so many are preventable. In this episode, I sit down with my dad, pediatrician Dr. Andrew Matthew (and the safest driver I know!), to talk about what parents and teens can do to stay safe on the road.

Using information from this recent article:

Motor Vehicle Crash Prevention, New England Journal of Medicine, Vol 393, Issue 5 (July 31 2025)

We discuss:

• Why car accidents are the #1 cause of death for ages 5–29
• How texting while driving raises your crash risk 23-fold
• Practical tips for teaching teens to drive safely
• The truth about speeding, tailgating, and road rage
• When technology helps — and when it hurts
• Smart ways to talk to kids about car safety

If you’ve got a new driver at home, carpool often, or just want to be more mindful behind the wheel, this episode is full of practical, potentially life-saving tips.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...

Send us a text

In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Jessica Hochman, MD, talks with Amy Chinian, founder of My Hair Helpers, about the truth behind lice—what they are, how they really spread, and why they have nothing to do with hygiene. Together, they bust common myths (spoiler: you can stop bagging stuffed animals for two weeks), explain the most effective ways to check for lice, and share safe, non-toxic treatment options. Whether you’ve been through a lice outbreak or just want to be prepared, this conversation will help you.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

-For a plant-based, USDA Organic certified vitamin supplement, check out : Llama Naturals Vitamin and use discount code: DRJESSICA20

-To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...