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Why are so many children afraid of going to the doctor—and what can parents do to help?
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Hochman is joined by family physician and Playhouse MD co-founder Dr. Kaitlin to discuss why medical visits can feel so overwhelming for children and how parents and healthcare providers can make them less intimidating.
They talk about the developmental reasons behind medical anxiety, the powerful role of parental emotions, how honesty builds trust, and practical ways to prepare children for vaccines, blood tests, and doctor's appointments through play, books, and age-appropriate conversations.
They also discuss simple techniques like giving children choices, using distraction thoughtfully, and helping kids build confidence rather than trying to eliminate fear altogether.
Dr. Kaitlin also shares the inspiration behind PlayhouseMD, a company creating playful medical products designed to make everyday healthcare experiences easier for children and parents.
Dr. Kaitlin Wiseman is a family physician, mom of two, and co-founder of PlayhouseMD. Together with her sister, Sydney Wiseman, an award-winning toy creator, she's on a mission to make children's healthcare experiences less scary and more playful.
Learn more about PlayhouseMD:
PlayhouseMD products are available at Target, Amazon, Babylist, TikTok Shop and directly through PlayhouseMD.
For Your Child is Normal listeners, use code DRJESSICA15 to receive 15% off of PlayhouseMD products. To redeem, go to their website:!http://playhousemd.com/ (limit 1 per customer).
Instagram:
@playhousemd
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.
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Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube: Ask Dr Jessica
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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 conditions or formulate treatment plans for specific individuals. If you have a concern about your child's health, be sure to call your child's health care provider.
