Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Laura’s Video Podcast
Today, I talked about something that’s really close to my heart – how our immune system and brain development are connected, especially in kids. You know what’s crazy? About one in three kids these days isn’t developing quite the way they should, and as a mom and doctor, that really gets me thinking.
I shared some fascinating stuff about how a mom’s health during pregnancy can shape her baby’s brain development. It’s not about pointing fingers – it’s about understanding how everything is connected. The most interesting part? I had this incredible conversation with a mom who had this “aha moment” about how our crazy-busy lives (you know, always being on our phones, running from one thing to the next) might be affecting our kids’ brains.
Let me tell you something that really blew my mind – did you know that crawling isn’t just some cute baby thing? It’s actually really important for brain development! That’s why I created this free app called Connect My Brain where parents can track all the important milestones. It’s like having a roadmap for your child’s development right in your pocket.
In this episode, we also talked about stress (because who isn’t stressed these days, right?), and how it affects both parents and kids. When we’re stressed, it actually changes how blood flows to our brain, which impacts everything from how we handle emotions to how we make decisions. But here’s the good news – it’s never too late to make changes that can help our brains work better.
Whether you’re thinking about having kids someday, expecting a little one, or already in the parenting trenches, this episode is packed with practical tips to help create the best environment for your child’s brain to thrive. And remember, small changes can make a big difference – we just need to take that first step!
The best part? You don’t need a medical degree to understand this stuff. It’s all about making small, meaningful changes that can help our kids (and us!) feel and function better. Because at the end of the day, isn’t that what we all want for our families?
Topics covered in this episode:
- Both inflammation and immune system responses that can affect the baby, especially during the second trimester
- The importance of motor development milestones, particularly crawling around 8 months of age
- How modern lifestyle habits, especially constant phone use and overscheduling, are affecting children’s brain development
- The effects of chronic stress on the frontal lobe of the brain, explaining how it affects crucial functions like emotional regulation, empathy, and decision-making in both children and adults
- How your child’s brain development isn’t just about hitting milestones – it’s about HOW they get there. Each developmental stage serves a purpose
Resources mentioned:
- Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play (it’s free!)
- Learn more about Courses & Resources at Connect My Brain!
- Download Dr. Laura’s guide to Developmental Milestones
- Connect with Dr. Laura on Instagram and Facebook
- Liking the show? Write a review!
More about Connect My Brain:
Why is this happening to my kid and what can I do about it? If you are the parent of a developmentally delayed child then you’ve probably asked this question more than once. That’s where I come in! I’m Dr. Laura Hanson and I specialize in identifying the “why” and telling you the “what.” Join me every Thursday for a deeper look at how our brains are wired and how to get the most out of your mind. Are you looking to break negative patterns, overcome mood disorders, or optimize your potential? Maybe your child struggles with ADHD, OCD or other learning difficulties. Tune in to Connect My Brain, where I explain concepts like biofeedback and neurofeedback, brainwave frequencies, and much more. Let me help you change your life by changing your mind! Contact me HERE.
