Welcome to the very first episode of the Dear Parents podcast! In this episode, Dr. Boucher goes beyond the "nuggets" of social media to provide deep context on the topics that matter most to parents.

We explore the transition to solid foods without the stress of rigid rules, how to handle big emotions in toddlers and elementary-aged kids using a helpful framework, and the current landscape of pediatric vaccines.

In This Episode:

1. Starting Solid Foods: An Evolutionary Approach

Starting solids should be fun, not a chore. Dr. Boucher breaks down why many "rules" are actually part of the "anxiety industry" and how to follow your baby’s lead.

Readiness Cues: Look for the ability to sit up (with some support), interest in your food, a diminished tongue thrust reflex, and bringing objects to the mouth.

Purees vs. Baby-Led Weaning: It’s a false dichotomy; most parents do a mix of both.

Early Allergen Introduction: Early and frequent introduction of peanuts and eggs (around 6 months) can significantly reduce the risk of developing allergies.

The "No" List: Avoid honey for babies under 12 months (due to botulism risk) and obvious choking hazards.

Gagging vs. Choking: Gagging is loud and common; choking is silent and requires immediate action.

2. Responses to Rage: The LEAP Framework

When a child is dysregulated, they aren't being defiant—they are developing. You cannot regulate a child if you are also dysregulated. Dr. Boucher introduces the LEAP acronym to help parents stay calm and effective:

L – Listen: Observe body language and consider the context (hunger, tiredness, screen time).

E – Empathize: Validate their feelings so they feel understood, even if you don't agree with the behavior.

A – Acknowledge the Problem: Frame the issue as a shared problem to solve rather than the child being "the problem".

P – Propose a Solution: Offer a bridge forward (e.g., "Do you want to listen to the song in the car?").

3. The New Vaccine Landscape

Dr. Boucher addresses the confusion surrounding new January recommendations and risk-based strategies.

Risk-Based vs. Universal: Why "risk-based" recommendations for viruses like RSV and Rotavirus are difficult, as many hospitalized children were previously healthy.

Shared Decision-Making: Dr. Boucher advocates for a practice policy that focuses on trust and education rather than rigid requirements.

Insurance & Availability: Why vaccine access is likely to remain unchanged despite ideological shifts.

Links and Resources:

Dear Parents Substack: dearparents.substack.com – The best place to submit your questions for future episodes.

Moving Through Meltdowns Workshop: https://learn.pbmd.co/meltdownworkshop - A deep dive into handling difficult moments and transitions.

ADHD Profile and Compass: https://drphilboucher.com/adhdcompass - An online assessment to understand your child's ADHD across four key domains: hyperactivity, inattention, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.

Skylight Calendar: myskylight.com - Use code DRBOUCHER for 15% off at checkout to help offload your "mental load" and keep the family organized.