Dancing Into Parenthood with Dr. Divina Lopez: Recent Episodes
Dr. Divina Lopez
In this episode of My Autistic Experience, Aaron opens up about his personal experiences with meltdowns—what triggers them, how they feel in the moment, and what actually helps him calm down. Dr. Divina Lopez, pediatrician and autism expert, leads the conversation to help parents and listeners better understand the difference between meltdowns and tantrums, why autistic kids experience them, and how to provide the right support.
💡 Key Topics in This Episode:
What a meltdown actually feels like from Aaron’s perspective
Common triggers and how to recognize them
What helps Aaron calm down vs. what makes things worse
How parents and teachers can support autistic kids during a meltdown
The importance of tracking behaviors to find patterns and solutions
🎧 This episode is a must-listen for autism parents, educators, and anyone who wants to better understand sensory overload and emotional regulation.
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📝 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:
✨ The Tiny Mighty Autism Parent Planner – The ultimate tool for parents to track behaviors, identify meltdown triggers, and develop strategies for better emotional regulation. Get yours now at www.drdivinalopez.com!
🔗 Website & Blog: Visit www.drdivinalopez.com for more autism parenting resources, expert advice, and tools to help your child thrive.
📲 Follow Dr. Divina Lopez on Instagram: @drdivinalopez for daily insights and parenting tips.
🎙 Subscribe to the Podcast: Never miss an episode! Follow My Autistic Experience on your favorite podcast platform.
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💬 Join the Conversation!
Have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover? DM us on Instagram!
Share this episode with another autism parent who might find it helpful.
Leave a review if you enjoyed this episode—it helps more families find us!
“My Autistic Experience” is a heartfelt and enlightening podcast hosted by 12-year-old Aaron and his mom, Dr. Divina Lopez, a pediatrician and autism expert. Together, they share Aaron’s unique journey growing up on the autism spectrum—from his early toddler years to his life as a preteen.
With honesty, humor, and warmth, Aaron opens up about his sensory experiences, emotions, passions (like animatronics!), and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Dr. Lopez offers insights as both a mom and a professional, making this podcast a valuable resource for autism parents, professionals, and anyone curious about life on the spectrum.
Each episode dives into topics like managing meltdowns, navigating school, building friendships, and finding joy in the everyday. Whether you’re seeking support, inspiration, or a new perspective, My Autistic Experience invites you to celebrate the beauty of neurodiversity, one story at a time.
Join Aaron and Dr. Lopez for engaging conversations, practical advice, and the occasional laugh as they shine a light on the power of understanding and connection.
Get your Tiny Mighty Autism Parent Planner today: https://drdivinalopez.com/shop/the-tiny-mighty-autism-parent-planner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdivinalopez/
“My Autistic Experience” is a heartfelt and enlightening podcast hosted by 12-year-old Aaron and his mom, Dr. Divina Lopez, a pediatrician and autism expert. Together, they share Aaron’s unique journey growing up on the autism spectrum—from his early toddler years to his life as a preteen.
With honesty, humor, and warmth, Aaron opens up about his sensory experiences, emotions, passions (like animatronics!), and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Dr. Lopez offers insights as both a mom and a professional, making this podcast a valuable resource for autism parents, professionals, and anyone curious about life on the spectrum.
Each episode dives into topics like managing meltdowns, navigating school, building friendships, and finding joy in the everyday. Whether you’re seeking support, inspiration, or a new perspective, My Autistic Experience invites you to celebrate the beauty of neurodiversity, one story at a time.
Join Aaron and Dr. Lopez for engaging conversations, practical advice, and the occasional laugh as they shine a light on the power of understanding and connection.
Get your Tiny Mighty Autism Parent Planner today: https://drdivinalopez.com/shop/the-tiny-mighty-autism-parent-planner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdivinalopez/
Dive into the world of genetic testing for ASD, where science becomes the ultimate detective, uncovering the hidden clues of autism. By decoding the genetic mysteries behind ASD, doctors can craft personalized treatment plans like tailor-made suits, boosting the chances of success. Not only that, but this genetic sleuthing can also unveil any sneaky sidekicks that might be tagging along with ASD, leading to a more holistic care plan.
Early detection means early action, paving the way for a brighter future for those with ASD. And hey, let’s not forget about the families – genetic testing can be a beacon of clarity and comfort, guiding them through the maze of uncertainty and aiding in making informed decisions. As research gallops ahead, genetic testing is set to become an even more powerful ally in the fight against ASD, promising a world where every individual can shine bright like a star in the sky.
Our special needs children are capable. They possess unique strengths and abilities that deserve to be recognized and celebrated. With the right support, encouragement, and resources, our special needs children can achieve incredible things and make meaningful contributions to the world around them. It is important to provide them with a nurturing and inclusive environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential. Let us embrace their differences, celebrate their successes, and empower them to shine brightly in their own way. Our special needs children are not only capable, but they are also extraordinary in their own right.
Stay tuned for our excited new release that was created by Dr. Lopez just for special needs parents!
As always you can connect with me on my website: www.drdivinalopez.com
Follow me on Instagram @drdivinalopez
In this episode of Dancing Into Parenthood, my son Aaron talks about his experience growing up with autism. He shares his good and bad memories when it came to school, his peers, and the teachers.
These days, I know I have to communicate a lot with his teachers so they can understand he is not trying to manipulate. My son is curious, and because of that, he can be misunderstood.
If you’re a single parent, new parent, you’re struggling with parenting, or you’re the parent to a special needs child, I invite you to learn more about my group parenting sessions!
Receive tips, advice, and personalized support as you navigate your parenting journey. Learn more today!
LEARN MORE!
Are you following along on Instagram? @drdivinalopez is a page strictly dedicated to giving you ALL the parenting tips / tricks. Make sure to follow along and share with any expecting parents!
You can always reach me at www.drdivinalopez.com or follow me on Instagram @drdivinalopez
Thank you so much for being a part of everything we do,
Dr. Divina Lopez
In Part 2, Linelly and I talk about the level of denial in the Latino community when it comes to autism. They also talk about the key to success when it comes to therapies and tips when it comes to picky eaters and food textures.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
23:38 What are some of the tips you give to parents when it comes to picky eaters?
Listen to Part 2 of my conversation with Linelly and check out Part 1 here: https://youtu.be/1AxJXjVziOI
If you’re a parent to a child with autism or special needs, I invite you to learn more about my group parenting sessions. These sessions will provide education on navigating the school and healthcare system, tips, and support from myself and other parents going through the same journey. Learn more here: https://drdivinalopez.com/shop/parent-sessions/
I’m so excited to have Linelly on this episode of Dancing Into Parenthood: Entre La Familia! Linelly is a Speech Language Pathologist with a two year old son who was diagnosed with autism. She shares how his diagnosis affected her career path, her experience and advice when advocating for your child, and the importance of teaching functional language at an early age.
Listen to Part 1 of my conversation with Linelly and stay tuned for Part 2!
If you’re a parent to a child with autism or special needs, I invite you to learn more about my group parenting sessions. These sessions will provide education on navigating the school and healthcare system, tips, and support from myself and other parents going through the same journey. Learn more here: https://drdivinalopez.com/shop/parent-sessions/
Timestamp
00:00 Intro
05:10 – Do you feel like [having a child with autism] makes your practice better?
08:00 – Can you share the story of where your love for doing your work came from?
29:55 – Can you talk about the importance of functional language and goal setting for children with autism?
On this episode of Dancing Into Parenthood, I’m joined by Francis Lora!
This is the first father I’ve had on in the Entre La Familia series! Francis is a licensed social worker and father to a son with autism. He talks about his experience with medical doctors before his son was diagnosed, how autism is shown in modern pop culture, and how machismo has played a part in his fatherhood journey.
If you’re a parent to a child with autism or special needs, I invite you to learn more about my group parenting sessions. These sessions will provide education on navigating the school and healthcare system, tips, and support from myself and other parents going through the same journey. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/eXaUemN3
Timestamps
00:00 Intro
12:29 – What were some of the first signs and symptoms you noticed in your son?
21:55 – How old was he when he was diagnosed?
36:42 – What are your thoughts on parenting as a neurodiverse individual?
39:28 – As a father, can you share your opinion on machismo?
On this episode of Dancing Into Parenthood, I’m joined by Marlene Soto!
Marlene is a huge advocate for her son AJ, who was diagnosed with autism at age 7. Marlene knew her son had autism within the first few months of his life. She shares all of the signs she noticed in her son, the power of community, how her son’s diagnosis impacted her marriage, and so much more.
If you’re a parent to a child with autism or special needs, I invite you to learn more about my group parenting sessions. These sessions will provide education on navigating the school and healthcare system, tips, and support from myself and other parents going through the same journey. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/eXaUemN3
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
06:36 – What was the beginning of your journey like?
10:40 – During your pregnancy, did the ultrasounds show he was smaller in size?
19:32 – In his first year, was he receiving any support?
42:15 – I want to talk a little bit about how this affected your family.
53:00 – How has this changed you?
56:02 – What are some of AJ’s special talents?
In this episode, we hear from Alexandra, a neurotypical sibling! She talks about her relationship with her brother, Austin, who was diagnosed with autism.
Alex shares how her and Austin learned to communicate, how good Austin is with setting boundaries, and how they took care of each other when the other was uncomfortable.
She emphasizes how growing up in a Latino household influenced their childhoods and what the future looks like for both her and Austin.
Listen to this episode now and listen to their mother Jessica’s story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDvb6M5xZSM&t=171s
00:00 Intro
02:47 – From your perspective, what was it like growing up as a neurotypical sibling?
06:15 – So, you both figured out how to communicate with one another?
07:50 – Do you think you understand him more than other people?
26:42 – Growing up, did you ever feel guilty that you were able to live this normal life & have milestones that he wouldn’t be able to do?
29:44 – How has all of this helped you as a person?
47:38 – Do you plan to be able to step in [and take care of Austin] when you need to?
In Part 2, sisters Janira and Jeannie share more of their journeys as mothers to children with autism. They share the realities of relationships, the power of community, and special talents their kids have.
Listen to Part 1 of episode 4 to hear more about the signs and symptoms they both noticed in their children. Jeannie is also the first mom I’ve interviewed who has a daughter with autism!
30:36 [To both] Share some of the resources you’ve used and any special talents that your children have.
On Episode 4 Part 1 of the Dancing Into Parenthood Podcast, we’re joined by sisters, Janira and Jeannie! Listen in as they share their stories, each raising children with autism. Jeannie is also the first mom I’ve interviewed with a daughter with autism! Hear them share the up’s and down, and how their children changed their perspective on life.
Join us for Part 2 next week! If you’re a parent to a child with autism, learn more about my group parenting sessions here: https://forms.gle/3sxMP2PRb8Uho8Le7
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
2:22 [To Janira:] What are some of the signs or concerns you had about your son early on?
4:24[To Janira:] Did he have a speech delay?
6:18 [To Janira:] Is your husband Latino?
8:20 [To Jeannie:] What were the first signs and symptoms you noticed in your daughter?
29:30 [To Janira:] Go into detail with some of the things you noticed that clued you in on Jeannine’s daughter having autism.
33:08 [To Janira:] How did the diagnosis impact your marriage?
35:11 [To Janira:] So, eventually he got on board?
On this episode of Dancing Into Parenthood, we’re joined by Kenia Nunez! She is a small business, entrepreneur coach, she is a curriculum creator for culturally responsive programs, best selling author, award-winning self care strategist, yoga teacher, and mother!
She shares her motherhood journey to her son Markem, including:
– His diagnosis at age 7
– Navigating the school system and IEP meetings
– The importance of labels
– The lack of opportunities in the workforce
– How Faith played a part in her journey
Listen to Kenia’s inspiring story now!
2:40 – What were the initial concerns you had with your child? Did the doctor tell you first or did you notice?
5:36 – Was he speaking any words?
6:27 – When you went in for checkups, did the doctor do any screenings or development tests?
7:06 – You enroll him in daycare, they tell you about the concerns, & they ask you to get him evaluated? How did you seek an evaluation?
8:45 – How long did it all take? From the initial concerns at daycare to getting some services started?
16:10 – You said at first he didn’t receive a diagnosis of autism?
38:43 – I know that you are heavy in your faith with God, what role did that play in your life?
42:03 – Can you share your method for self care?
49:48 – What were some of the things you were able to do for your other children?
51:17 – Tell us a little bit about where he is at now.
Listen to Jessica Casillas share her story with us on her motherhood journey to her now 26-year-old son. She shares the signs and symptoms, her families reactions, obstacles they faced along the way, and so much more!
2:23 – What were the early signs [of autism] you noticed in your son?
9:42 – How old was Austin when you first noticed regressions?
13:10 – Did he pediatrician ever have concerns about his development?
18:33 – How did the [autism] diagnosis affect your relationship with your husband?
31:41 – How did Austin’s diagnosis affect your daughter?
46:58 – What is Austin up to now?
In Part 3, Theresa gets real with us on her other son’s feelings towards his brother’s autism diagnosis and how its shifted his perspective while growing up. She also shares her outlook on her son’s future, and the future of all children with autism.
Listen to all 3 parts of Theresa’s story now! Next week, we’ll hear from another mom on her experience parenting a child with autism.
2:41 – What is Abram’s experience [with his brother’s diagnosis]?
10:16 – Did you find support [groups] for Abram?
45:01 – Theresa’s closing message
In Part 2, Theresa shares more of her motherhood journey. Her son, Diego, was diagnosed with autism at age 3. She shares the obstacles he overcame, navigating the school system & IEP meetings, and where Diego is now.
Listen to part 1 & Part 2 of Theresa’s story now! Stay tuned for Part 3 coming soon!
1:50 Can you share some of the thing [Diego] has overcome?
3:28 Is your son good at negotiating?
7:25 Was he in an integrated classroom?
8:54 How did you feel in the IEP meetings?
25:17 Is [college] something you thought would happen for him?
Listen to Theresa share the story of her motherhood journey to her son, Diego. In Part 1, she shares the initial signs and symptoms of autism she first noticed in her son, how the initial diagnosis initiated new programs, and how everything impacted her marriage.
Listen to her story now and stay tuned for Part 2 coming soon!
8:38 What were the first signs & symptoms you first noticed in Diego?
15:22 How old was [Diego] when the pediatrician started noticing?
15:53 Did the pediatrician use the “Wait & Watch” method?
18:56 Did you bring it up to your pediatrician when you first noticed the symptoms?
20:13 Once he was diagnosed, did the specialist tell you about the available programs?
21:41 What services did the EPI specialist provide?
23:17 So, this was basically training for parents?
33:25 It looks like you & your husband were on the same page with everything, how did the diagnosis make you feel?
39:17 Do you think your marriage suffered in any way or was made stronger?
Many new parents are focused on the baby and forget to prioritize their own self -care. Did you know that neglecting your own care can have significant impacts on your health, mental health—and even the well-being of your baby? This is why counselor Vanessa De Jesus Guzman and I decided that this podcast was a must to produce for you! We’ll give you the tips to taking care of yourself in this new parenthood season!
Every parent wants to know what exactly happens to their baby in the nursery. In this episode of the podcast, I reveal exactly what goes on behind the scenes in the nursery. Delivery day is a day full of excitement and between labor and delivery so much goes on in the minutes’ right after birth. You’ll learn what a baby experiences in the nursery after delivering at a hospital.
In this episode we're discussing the 5 most frequently asked questions that I get from expecting dads about pregnancy and about moms. As a matter of fact, some of them are pretty provocative! So, stay tuned because this is a pretty interesting episode, lol. If you are a dad and have questions submit them directly on my website: https://drdivinalopez.com/. I love hearing from you, and I am always at your service!
You can still be a team player when it comes to pregnancy, mama does not want to do this alone. Nothing makes a new mom happier than witnessing how excited her partner is for this new adventure. Your role is to provide support and be her cheerleader, and yes you got this! Stick to the 15 ways partners can support a pregnant mama, and she will be forever grateful to have such a great partnership with you! Remember that she is looking for validation and love from you. Her body is changing almost daily, and she no longer feels like herself, so make her transition to mamahood as seamless as possible.
To get ready for the delivery and birth of your baby I highly recommend you read The Ultimate Dad’s Guide to the Delivery Room in The Dancing Into Parenthood Program. This will be your best tool to prepare you for the wild ride of Delivery Day! Register today: https://drdivinalopez.com/digital-program/
15 things that you should be doing before your baby arrives. This is a fantastic episode that will get you prepared for the fourth trimester. Dr. Lopez loves to help parents prepare and plan for the arrival of their baby, and you will learn exactly what you need to do in this episode to make the transition from hospital to home as smooth as possible! For more guidance from Dr. Lopez visit her website: https://drdivinalopez.com/digital-program/
Need babyproofing tips? Use our babyproofing checklist to make sure your home is ready for baby's arrival. Download your checklist at www.drdivinalopez.com and use it to ensure that your home passes inspection when it comes to your baby and safety.Watch, listen and learn important safety measures you can take to babyproof your home. In week two of the Dancing Into Parenthood Digital Course for new and expecting parents, you learn how to avoid the most common mistakes that new parents make. Week two of the course will save you from visits to the emergency room with your infant.Dr. Lopez spills the tea over the most frequent emergencies that she has taken care of in the ER and in Urgent Care. Dr. Lopez says that most injures are preventable and most of the time parents were just not aware.To register for the digital course, click here: https://drdivinalopez.com/digital-program/
In this podcast episode Dr. Lopez explains why as a caregiver, it is so important to understand our own attachment styles. Your baby’s first relationship is with you. We all want our babies to have healthy relationships in their lives, but we must understand our responsibility in this milestone. As parents we have to provide three things for our child to feel loved, secure and confident. Pay attention to this very powerful episode! You can always connect with Dr. Lopez on www.drdivinalopez.com and sign up today for the weekly newsletter!
In this episode of Dancing Into Parenthood we are going to dive in a little deeper to help you understand why I consider this such important work for me to do. Everything starts with the family, doesn't it? If you think about your own life, think about your past, everything that had a big impact on you most likely came from your family. That's regardless of whether you were brought up with your biological parents or not. So many adult wounds and traumas that we talk about often come from childhood. This is called the parent wound. When we become parents ourselves, we don't want to inflict those same parent wounds onto our own children. When you know better it's time to do better. Don't forget to follow me for more on IG: @drdivinalopez. I am always at your service and if you want to work with me then let's connect at https://drdivinalopez.com/
Hola Parents! In this very personal episode I share the story of how Dancing Into Parenthood became my passion project. It was through my life experiences that I decided to virtually support parents. It started with a podcast, then a digital course and now a monthly membership. Everything I create for you is a labor of love. You know that I am at your service to inspire and prepare you for your baby! I do this by creating fun educational content, by reminding you that you need to take care of yourself first in order to take care of another human being and by simply supporting you in this new chapter of your life. I got your back, no need to do this alone, click here to get more support now: https://divinalopez.thinkific.com/collections
About Dr. Catricia Tilford: Dr. Catricia is a successful board-certified pediatrician, fellowship trained in pediatric urgent care medicine, parent coach, speaker and blogger.
She has been practicing medicine for over 10 years. She bilingual in English and Spanish. Her professional passions include public health disparities, early childhood development, newborn care, pediatric asthma and maternal mental health.
As a parent coach, she empowers single moms of faith, with small children, to take back control of their life and calm the chaos, so they can cultivate their dreams and walk in confidence.
Visit Dr. Catricia's website: https://www.drmomsageadvice.com/
Hi, I'm Doctor Evka!
I’m a board-certified family physician and the mother of a young child who fed very reluctantly! Yet very few individuals believed the extent of the problem or knew how to really help!
I started this website when I realized there is an enormous gap in knowledge and resources not only on the different aspects of early childhood feeding especially when feeding is hard but also in how caregivers and their young children get the appropriate help.
Because of my medical experience, my book knowledge, my various feeding-related certifications, and my day-to-day experience with feeding therapy, I grew to have an actionable knowledge base. With what we implemented, my child now likes to feed, and I have so much more of my life back.
Visit Doctor Evka’s website: doctorevka.com
About Rosalia
Hi, I’m Rosalia Rivera, Consent Educator, Sexual Literacy Advocate, Speaker, change agent, founder of CONSENTparenting, host of the AboutCONSENT Podcast, creatrix of CONSENTwear and child sexual abuse survivor turned thriver.
I help child sexual abuse survivors who are now parents learn how to educate their children on body safety, boundaries and consent so that they can empower their child to prevent abuse.
Unlike safety education programs by non-survivors that can’t relate to the struggle, fears, and triggers of survivor parents; I offer sensitive, empowering and non-fear action & implementation based how-to-courses with guided support.
Rosalia Rivera is certified in CONSCIOUS PARENTING MASTERY with Dr. Shefali Tsabary, Ph. D., as well as the Canadian Centre for Child Protection COMMIT TO KIDS- Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training Program.
Visit Consent Parenting’s website: https://www.consentparenting.com/
Hi, I’m Eileen, an educator, mom of two, and proud Boricua! Here on “MommyTeaches,” you’ll receive real insight from a teacher of more than 15 years and a mother of two boys who love to explore the world around them. But “Mommy Teaches” isn’t just the name of the blog, it’s my life! I’m teaching every single day, whether in the classroom or at home with my own kids. As mothers, we know just how important our role is, as we become our child’s first teacher. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I find myself not to be a city girl, that’s the reason I relocated to Hudson Valley, NY in 2017. I enjoy reading, writing, sunsets, and spending time with my boys in the simplest way possible. I love the zoo, the park, and any chance I get I am incorporating academics as well. I strongly believe parental involvement is the key to a child’s success and I am proof of it. I have a son who is diagnosed with a mild case of Asperger’s and I work with him thoroughly, as I do with all of my school children to make sure they succeed. Here on “Mommy Teaches,” I blog about my experiences in the classroom, strategies that work for me, issues that may take place, as well as my blessings of being a mother, some trials and tribulations that mothers may go through, book reviews of my favorite books, and the everyday world of Eileen. I love what I do and I hope to be of some comfort, help, and guidance to other mothers all over the world! Thank you for sticking with me through this adventure. Visit Eileen’s page: https://www.mommyteaches.com/ Eileen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eileenccampos/ Eileen’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/EileenCCampos Eileen’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MommyT3aches/
Cameron is originally from Ashtabula, Ohio, and currently resides in Columbus, Ohio. He is a high school counselor and creator of the blog Supportive Fathers. He created Supportive Fathers as a way to help explore topics other dads encounter in everyday life. Cameron is very passionate about being a father to a two-year-old daughter as well as being the husband to his wife. Visit Cameron’s blog at: https://supportivefathers.com/
Bonnie Barrios has spent the last 10 years organizing people’s homes, lives, and helping them get rid of clutter. As the “go-to gal” behind B-Organized B-Inspired, she is one of New York City’s most sought after organizational experts. With passion and drive, she helps, inspires, and empowers people to live their most authentic lives. With B.A.s in both Psychology and Theater, she quickly understands her clients and gets to the heart of the matter. She then creatively provides functional and aesthetically satisfying solutions to any organizing needs. Bonnie has been featured in NBC Weekend Today, Mom Talk Radio, El Diario La Prensa, Military Spouse Magazine and the websites MamasLatinas, and Barista Kids Montclair, where she has helped countless parents organize both themselves and their children. Bonnie’s can-do attitude is contagious, motivating you to make the choices that will change your life. Her mantra is “Release, Release, Release – to let in the new.”
Disha Gehani is a Certified Instructor of Infant Massage (IAIM – International Association of Infant Massage) and Educator on nurturing touch and bonding for new and expectant parents. She is the Founder of TinyTouch, and works towards educating parents and caregivers on the importance of nurturing touch and secure attachment for newborns and toddlers. She conducts sessions for expectant and new parents in private as well as group settings. At TinyTouch, we believe babies are aware human beings who deserve respect, tenderness, warmth & above all a listening heart. We believe in supporting parents in the love for their babies. For more information or enquiry: Email: tinytouchjc@gmail.com Call: +1 2015657001 Instagram: https://instagram.com/tinytouchjc
Tracey Jedrzejek is the author of the illustrated book “Latch Baby”. She is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and offers virtual and phone consultations nationwide, as well as home visits in the San Francisco Bay Area. In this podcast she explains how moms should prepare before the baby arrives, and offers tips such as what to do in case breastfeeding is too painful or the baby is having trouble latching, suggestions for diet while nursing, and much more! Tracey Jedrzejek is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant in Silicon Valley. After teaching preschool and doing product development in the toy industry, she found her true passion as a Lactation Consultant after successfully breastfeeding her own two children. She has worked with hundreds of moms and babies in the hospital setting, running support groups, teaching prenatal breastfeeding, and mostly through her private practice, Tracey Lactation. Her book, Latch Baby is a concise, practical, non-judgmental and illustrated guide to breastfeeding. She hopes that the colorful, easy-to-read format will help support and empower sleep-deprived mom throughout their personal breastfeeding experience. When Tracey isn’t helping new moms and babies, she enjoys reading, cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family, including her two fur babies. Tracey is available for virtual and phone consultations nationwide, as well as home visits in the San Francisco Bay Area. Visit her website www.traceylactation.com for more information. Her book is available on Amazon. Follow her on Facebook at @traceylactation and on Instagram at @latchbabybook.
When it comes to sexual life in the couple, most parents have no clue about what’s to come during pregnancy and after the baby arrives. Issues such as lack of time and energy, or simply not knowing how to resume sexual life with your partner can lead to great struggles in a relationship. Family Therapist Gidget Smith offers some valuable guidance as she explains how most advice revolves around motherhood but little is addressed towards sex, even during pregnancy. About Gidget Smith: She is the owner & Clinical Director of Etsah Solutions LLC. Gidget is a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She provides comprehensive mental health counseling services to adults, children, couples, and families. In addition, she is a Career Coach Strategist that assists clients in identifying personal goals, developing leadership skills, planning career moves, in which she provides feedback on resumes or cover letters while coaching her clients in strategizing for successful job interviews. Gidget believes in the power of resilience and human connection when overcoming adversity. Connect with her on Instagram Etsah Solutions.
Certified Sleep Consultant Nicole Cannon remarks that babies don’t always follow a sleep pattern, which is biologically normal, and gives practical advice on what to do to set yourself up as a parent for success once the baby starts to outgrow the newborn stage. She discusses factors such as the environment, timing and setting up a bedtime routine.
From her years of experience as a pediatrician, Dr. Lopez understands the fears and anxiety parents face when it comes to vaccinating their child. Are vaccines effective? Are there any side effects? In this podcast, she approaches the subject of vaccines from the point of view of history and science and clears up some common doubts parents have.
Shontaye Glover is a speech pathologist who serves the NY/NJ area. She can be found on her website www.havingoursay.org and on Instagram at @havingoursay. In this podcast, Shontaye addresses some of the biggest questions and concerns parents have regarding language development of their child. She also explains the role of parents and offers tips for each stage of the kid's growth.
With over 16 years of experience in education and counseling, board-certified counselor Vanessa De Jesus Guzman explains what mindfulness means and clears up some common misconceptions around it. She also suggests different ways to incorporate mindfulness into your lifestyle, have a growth mindset and better connect with yourself and with your child.
Zurishaddai ‘Zuri’ Ruiz is a certified Vinyasa Yoga Teacher and FRC Mobility Specialist. She completed her Yoga Teacher Training in 2015. In 2017, she completed additional training to become a Prenatal Yoga Teacher. Her encounter with Yoga came after a dark period in her life which caused her to search for change and therapy. After experiencing the benefits of Yoga, Zuri felt that sharing and informing others about this mindfulness practice was her calling. She teaches Prenatal Yoga, Hatha Yoga & Mobility Classes in Jersey City.
With over 15 years of dental experience and practice in New York City, dental hygienist Julissa Gonzalez explains the link between oral health and overall well being, and how poor oral care could lead to preterm labor. She offers dental advice and clears misconceptions related to dental care during pregnancy.
Dr. Kimberly Hollywood, a board certified pediatric dentist in Nutley, NJ, explains what makes her decide to become a dentist and how she connects with her little patients. In this podcast, she offers dental advice for new parents and when they should bring in their babies for their first dental visit.
About Dr. Kimberly Hollywood: Dr. Hollywood is a board certified pediatric dentist. This is someone whose credentials have been verified, who has successfully completed voluntary examinations, and who demonstrates specialized knowledge and skill. She is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care through a voluntary commitment to lifelong learning and expansion of her knowledge in dentistry. She attends numerous continuing education courses throughout the year so she can give her patients the most up-to-date options for dental treatment and use the most advanced materials and equipment.
Dr. Hollywood knew from an early age that dentistry was for her; in fact, if you find her sixth-grade yearbook, you will see that even then she wanted to be a dentist! Dr. Hollywood started working for a dentist during high school and then continued to work for a dentist during her college summers. Seeing these dentists work and have an amazing impact on the lives of their patients was her inspiration to join the dental profession.
She attended Lehigh University where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She continued on to dental school where she earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. While in dental school, she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, a membership that is exclusive for graduating students who have demonstrated exceptional scholarship and character. Following dental school, Dr. Hollywood completed specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.
Moreover, she is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the New Jersey Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is involved in many community service projects, notably volunteering her time with the Indian Health Service in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to help children and adults who would otherwise have no access to dental care.
Dr. Hollywood resides in Nutley, NJ, where she is close to family and enjoys Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house. Outside of the office, Dr. Hollywood enjoys being “Aunt Kiki” to her adorable nieces and nephews. She also enjoys shopping with her mom and sisters, trying new restaurants with her husband Dan, and taking barre classes to stay fit in a world where new restaurants are always popping up!
Conversation with Dr. Aura Ardon, MD, Psychiatrist and Dr. Divina Lopez, MD Pediatrician on the reality of the Baby Blues vs Postpartum Depression. Giving you advice on what it feels like to have the Baby Blues and when it progresses to Postpartum Depression and how to get help.
Transitioning from hospital to home, now that the baby is finally here, what do we do? Dr. Lopez will explain how to handle the first few weeks at home with the baby because there is definitely an adjustment for all members of the family! The reality of what no one posts on Instagram!
Have you ever wondered what exactly will happen in the hospital after you deliver? Dr. Lopez uncovers what to expect after delivering at a hospital setting. The mystery of what happens during the hospital stay is revealed.
Have you ever given any thoughts as to which kind of parent you would like to become. Envisioning yourself as a parent and an introduction to the different styles of parenting.
Advice on how to have a stress-free holiday season, featuring Counselor Vanessa Dejesus. Great tips on how to survive the holidays and have fun!
Dr. Lopez shares insider tips on how to choose the right Pediatrician for your newborn. This takes all the guesswork out and makes the process less stressful.
Dr. Lopez has a real conversation with Randy Vasquez of fitdadworks. Tips and advice from a dedicated father. A must-listen for all fathers!
Introduction to Dancing Into Parenthood Podcast, details on what got this whole idea started and why Dr. Lopez was inspired to start a Podcast for new parents.