Help! I Have Kids!

Miracle League: Where Every Child Gets to Play

Send us Fan Mail What if the thing a child was once told they might never do became the moment they found belonging, confidence, and a team cheering them on? In this episode, we explore the heart of Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League baseball—a place where every child gets the opportunity to play, bat, run the bases, and score. Through modified equipment, supportive buddies, and flexible rules, the league creates a joyful and inclusive environment for children with different abilities. Our conversation covers the emotional journey families may experience after a diagnosis, the power of seeing a child participate in sports, and the way Miracle League brings entire families together. We also discuss how older players become mentors, how siblings become part of the cheering section, and how families find connection with others who understand their experiences. You’ll hear why Miracle League is about much more than baseball. It is about community, confidence, leadership, celebration, and making sure every child has a place to play. Celebrate 20 years of Miracle League: RSVP for the 20-year celebration 🎉: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=HGEbHejQOEmZmKFFwS4-CZUzRBG1ceVLpPLYByCo2MBUMk9YNVhEMzRJM0ozRjk5VjkyNlRFVkkwSi4u Learn more: Miracle League website: https://bgml.org/ Connect with us: Our social media: @HelpIHaveKidsPodcast Marshall Pediatric Therapy social media: @MarshallPediatricTherapy ​ Support the show

After-School Meltdowns: What’s Happening to Your Child’s Nervous System?

Send us Fan Mail Are you picking up a happy child from school, only to have them explode into a massive meltdown the second you walk through the front door? You aren’t doing anything wrong—your child is experiencing After-School Restraint Collapse! In this episode, Pam Marshall (Occupational Therapist and mom of 5) breaks down exactly what is happening to your child’s nervous system after holding it together all day at school. She shares relatable, practical OT tips to help your child co-regulate, reset, and transition smoothly from school to home without the daily after-school battle. ✨ CONNECT US: Instagram: @helpihavekidspodcast Facebook: Help! I have Kids Podcast 👇 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW: If this episode spoke to your mom heart, please give us a thumbs up, subscribe, and share this with a fellow mom who needs some encouragement today! Support the show

Navigating Medical Motherhood: Parenting a Child with a Rare Genetic Condition with Abbigale Stewart

Send us Fan Mail If you are in a hard season of motherhood, feeling overwhelmed by a tough medical diagnosis, or struggling to catch your breath—this episode will speak right to your heart. Mama to four little ones, Abbigale Stewart joins us to share her story of navigating life with her sweet two-year-old son, John-Baylor. From open-heart surgery at just two weeks old to a rare genetic diagnosis (PMM2-CDG), Abbigale knows the terrifying feeling of being on an isolated island. But she also knows what it feels like to reach the other side of that fear. In this episode, Abbigale gives moms permission to feel the hard emotions, trust their maternal instincts, and give themselves grace. She shares how leaning into faith, leaning on family, and taking things "one day, one appointment, and one milestone at a time" helped her trade dark, uncertain moments for days filled with joy, progress, and hope. Abbigale also breaks down the game-changing power of intensive therapy—how pushing through three weeks of hard work helped John-Baylor sit up independently, bear weight, and build momentum toward walking. Tune in for an honest, encouraging conversation that will remind you that you are never alone and that brighter days are truly ahead. Episode Links & Resources: Curious about the intensive therapy program Abbigale mentioned in this episode? Listen to our full episode with her intensive therapy team, Meredith and Chloe, here: https://youtu.be/5bTyBY7YRWg Support the show

Why isn't my baby crawling? Infant Development Explained with a Pediatric PT

Send us Fan Mail Does it wake you up at night wondering, "is my child doing what they need to be doing?". In this episode, we address a common and often stressful concern for parents: Is my baby developing on track? Pediatric physical therapist Julia Wood joins us to dive into the importance of trusting your "mom gut" and seeking early intervention instead of the "wait and see" approach. You will get expert advice on building core stability, avoiding "container syndrome," and creative ways to make tummy time fun and functional using items already in your home, like couch pillows and kitchen counters. Whether your baby is hitting every mark or getting a little "stuck," this episode helps you identify the right next step for your child's growth. Resources Mentioned in This Episode CDC Milestone Tracker: https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/resources/videos.html — Provides fantastic developmental videos for various ages (e.g., 18 months) so you can see exactly what your child should be doing. Marshall Pediatric Therapy: https://marshallpediatrictherapy.com/assessment— Offers a free developmental screener where you can enter your child's age to receive an assessment of their progress. Pathways: https://pathways.org/milestones — A resource noted by experts for having excellent developmental research. Kentucky Early Intervention System (KEYS): https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dcbs/dcc/Pages/parents.aspx — Formerly known as First Steps, this is an educational coaching model for children aged 0–3 that provides support in the home or daycare. Pediatricians: Always reach out to your pediatrician or a nurse to discuss concerns and request a referral for a therapy evaluation. Support the show

Conquering Picky Eating & Starting Solids: Expert Advice from a Pediatric Feeding Therapist

Send us Fan Mail If dinner with your kids currently feels like an extreme sport, take a deep breath—you are not doing it wrong, and you are definitely not alone. In this episode of Help, I Have Kids, host and pediatric OT Nicole Haney sit down for an honest chat about one of the most stressful parts of parenting: feeding our little ones. From the anxiety of starting solids to the toddler stage where suddenly only goldfish and fruit roll-ups are accepted, we’re unpacking what’s actually normal and how to get through it without losing your mind. What we're diving into: Starting Solids Without the Panic: How to handle purees, table foods, and the difference between normal gagging vs. choking. Winning the Picky Eating Battles: Real-life OT tricks to get your toddler to tolerate new foods (without forcing "just one more bite"). Ending the Power Struggles: Why kids use food for control and how simple boundaries like the "Division of Responsibility" bring peace back to the table. Practical Mealtime Hacks: Fun ways to present food, avoiding the "grazer" trap, and why screen-free meals are worth the effort. Knowing When to Call in Support: Red flags to look for and how feeding therapy can help your family thrive. Put down the third plate of rejected nuggets you just warmed up, hit play, and let’s turn mealtime meltdowns into small wins! Connect with Us & Get Extra Support: Need hands-on feeding support? If you're in the Lexington area and want individualized help for your child, reach out to Nicole and the expert feeding team at Marshall Pediatric Therapy. Visit them online at marshallpediatrictherapy.com to learn more or schedule an evaluation. Follow the Pod: Stay connected for more practical parenting tips by following us on Instagram @helpihavekidspodcast. Follow Marshall Pediatric Therapy: Get daily pediatric OT, PT, speech, and feeding tips by following @marshallpediatrictherapy on Instagram. Support the show

Confused About Sleep Training? With Pediatric Sleep Consultant Malama Mama

Send us Fan Mail If you’re a tired mom sitting with a cold cup of coffee, listening to the baby monitor, and wondering how to finally get some rest—this episode is for you! Host Pam Marshall sits down with Jenna Clarke, certified pediatric sleep consultant and founder of Mālama Mama Sleep Consulting. Jenna works with families with children ages 0 to 5 to help problem-solve sleep, navigate controversies, and clear up the endless noise on social media. From AAP guidelines to safe bed-sharing alternatives, Jenna breaks down how to tailor a sleep plan that honors your family's unique lifestyle and values. In this episode, you’ll learn: Sleep Conditioning vs. Sleep Training: Why 0–4 months requires a different approach than 4+ months. Decoding Sleep Regressions: What’s happening at 4, 9, 12, and 18 months—and how to survive them. The Truth About Popular Methods: A realistic look at the Ferber (check-and-console) method and why it’s more responsive than you think. Toddler Bedtime Battles: Practical tools for 3-to-5-year-olds who refuse to stay in bed. Sensory & Environmental Hacks: How lights, TV screens, and even linear vs. vertical motion impact your child's sleep hygiene. Whether you want to follow strict AAP guidelines, explore contact napping, or teach independent self-settling, Jenna reminds us that there’s no single "right" way—only the way that brings peace to your heart and home. 👉 Connect with Jenna Clarke: Visit malamamama.com to learn more about her virtual and in-home sleep consulting services. Support the show

The True Cost of Medicaid Cuts: Brittany’s Story of Advocating for Her Son

Send us Fan Mail As parents, we know that every single milestone our kids hit is a victory—and no one understands the fight to protect those milestones quite like another mom. In this episode, we sit down mom-to-mom with Brittany True to talk about her son, Weston, and what Kentucky’s Medicaid funding decisions really mean at home. While lawmakers recently put a temporary, one-year pause on proposed Medicaid cuts, Brittany breaks down why a pause isn't enough to give parents peace of mind. To keep our pediatric therapy clinics open and our favorite therapists funded, we need real rate increases—not just a pause. Grab a cup of coffee and join us for an honest, encouraging conversation on navigating healthcare, protecting our kids' routines, and how everyday moms can raise their voices to create real change. Support the show

IEP vs. 504 Plan: Which One Does Your Child Actually Need?

Send us Fan Mail Is your child struggling in school, but you aren’t sure what kind of support to ask for? Hearing terms like 504 Plan, IEP, RTI, and educational evaluations can feel overwhelming—especially when you just want your child to succeed. In this episode of Help I Have Kids, host Pam Marshall (pediatric OT with 35+ years of experience) sits down with special education teacher, BCBA, and mom Jill to break down everything parents need to know about navigating 504 plans and IEPs. Whether you’re just starting the evaluation process or wondering why a medical diagnosis wasn't enough to get school services, this episode gives you the exact tools and legal timelines you need to advocate with confidence. 💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The Core Difference: Accommodations (504 Plan) vs. Specialized Instruction (IEP) and how to know which one your child qualifies for. The 10-Day Rule: How to make a formal parent request for special education testing (and the strict timeline schools must follow). Medical vs. Educational Diagnosis: Why a doctor’s diagnosis doesn’t automatically guarantee an IEP at school—and how to bridge the gap. Re-evaluations & Timelines: What happens during 3-year IEP re-assessments and what checklist items parents can request. How to build a strong partnership with your child's homeroom teacher to get data collected faster. Support the show

7 Back to School Tips as a Mom of 5 and Pediatric OT

Send us Fan Mail Are you dreading the first day back to school because of the hard transition between summer and school schedules? Believe me, I understand! As a mom of 5 and pediatric OT I have had many years to perfect the process of getting out of the door on the first day of school. Each year brings new challenges as my kids change and we just learn to adapt! You know your child best, I'm just hear to give you my personal experience and clinical expertise to help you make the best decisions for your household! In this episode, we talk about routines, visual schedules, skills your child can master before the start of school, appropriate shoes and backpacks, and tips to make the first day of school easier for everyone in the house! Check out our other episodes to prepare you for back to school! - Backpacks, Routines & School Prep Tips from an OT Mom: https://youtu.be/IKRpDXSF0PY - Mentally Preparing for Back-to-School With an Anxious Child: https://youtu.be/91YCg8ZMyrg - Navigating 504 Plans, IEPs, and classroom accommodations: https://youtu.be/OWSLr1kBsN8 Support the show

Neuroanimation: Therapy That Grows the Brain

Send us Fan Mail Have you hit an invisible wall with your child’s therapy? If you are a mom navigating the beautiful, exhausting, and sometimes overwhelming world of raising a child with ADHD, autism, a traumatic brain injury (TBI), or stroke recovery, you know what it feels like to plateau. You’ve done the speech therapy, the occupational therapy, the physical therapy—yet you’re left asking, "What now?" In this deeply personal, solo episode, Pam Marshall speaks directly from her heart to yours. Sharing the hard-won truths she wishes someone had told her years ago, Pam delivers a message of profound hope and a massive breakthrough that quite literally fell into her lap. Pam is introducing Neuroanimation—a revolutionary, science-backed therapy born out of groundbreaking research by neuroscientists at Johns Hopkins University. By using immersive, high-dose stimulation to spark the brain's natural ability to rewire itself (neuroplasticity), Neuroanimation is helping children and adults break through growth plateaus when traditional methods have stalled. Even better? Pam is bringing this world-class technology right here to Lexington, Kentucky. If you are ready to stop feeling stuck and want to explore a new path forward for your child, this episode is your invitation. Tune in to hear the science, feel the hope, and find out how you can book a free tour of the new Lexington facility to see the technology in action and get all your questions answered. Your child's next chapter of growth starts here. Check out the research and schedule a consult! https://www.neuroanimation.com/landing-page-ads-pediatrics-v2/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23970382074&gbraid=0AAAABDlzrDEUtLtr3oOZ550ei4NuDueju&gclid=Cj0KCQjw39zSBhDhARIsANammDs6dGxcqruU_XB-xIZaYmKCSU_D5Jp5Ysfk17iH3kvUkMyCerq3qecaAhrpEALw_wcB Support the show

What Is AutPlay Therapy? A Mom's Guide to Autism-Affirming Play Therapy

Send us Fan Mail Play therapy gets thrown around a lot — but most moms have no idea what it actually looks like, or whether it's even an option for their neurodivergent child. In this episode, Pam sits down with Allison, a marriage and family therapist working toward her Registered Play Therapist credential, who's also certified in AutPlay Therapy — a neurodiversity-affirming approach designed specifically for autistic and neurodivergent kids. Allison breaks down what a real play therapy session looks like, how it's different from talk therapy, how she reads a playroom, and why "meeting the child where they are" — not changing them — is the whole point. In this episode: - What play therapy actually is (and isn't) - Why play is how kids process their world, long before they can talk about it - What AutPlay Therapy is and how it supports autistic and neurodivergent kids specifically - What a typical session looks like, and how long treatment usually takes - How to know therapy is working - Pam's honest question every mom asks: "Is it really worth it?" - How to find the right play therapist for your child — and what to ask them Support the show

Will a Therapy Break Cause Regression? Caregiver Burnout & Therapeutic Breaks

Send us Fan Mail Don't skip this episode because you hear "break in therapy" and think… "not for us." Stay with us for a minute. We see you. You're the nurse, the therapist, the caregiver, and the mom — all before lunchtime, most days. You've been white-knuckling it through every session for months, maybe years, and quietly wondering if you have anything left to give. But the second the word "break" comes up, something in you panics. What if my kid loses everything we've worked for? What if we lose our spot? What if I'm the reason they don't progress? So you keep going. Even when you're running on empty. Even when your kid is tired of it too. Even when some small, quiet part of you just wants permission to stop for a minute. This week, Pam sits down with Heather Anderson, PTA, who works with some of the most medically complex kids in the field — and she gently dismantles every fear you've been carrying about stepping back. In this episode: Why a therapeutic break almost never means starting from scratch — and what the research actually shows What to do (and who to call) if you do see regression, so you're never stuck waiting How to ask for a break without losing your therapy spot or your therapist The burnout that's just as real for you as it is for your child — and why it matters Simple ways to keep the progress going at home, even without a weekly session You are the nurse, the therapist, the caregiver, and the mom — and you are allowed to rest. Your child is allowed to just be a kid for a season. This episode is the permission slip you didn't know you needed. Support the show

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Is It Sensory or Behavior? A Pediatric OT Explains Sensory Seeking, Picky Eating & Summer Meltdowns

Send us Fan Mail Is your child's behavior actually sensory? Pam sits down with Kelly, OTD from Marshall Pediatric Therapy to break down sensory seeking vs. sensory avoiding, the real link between picky eating and sensory processing, why "shy" kids may actually be overwhelmed, and why summer makes it all worse. You'll get simple, no-equipment sensory strategies that help your child actually work through their sensory challenges — not just avoid them — plus a clear answer to one of the most common parenting questions: is this sensory or just behavior? If you have a sensory-seeking child, a picky eater, a shy kid, or a kiddo who melts down every afternoon this summer — this one's for you. 🎙️ 💜 New episodes every Wednesday. Share this with a mom who needs it. Support the show

Does My Baby Need a Helmet? Tight Neck & Flat Head

Send us Fan Mail New Mamas! Before you spend thousands on beautiful nurseries and plastic baby gear, listen to this episode! Pediatric Occupational Therapists Pam and Kelly discuss how modern "baby containers" might be contributing to tight neck muscles and flat heads in newborns. Learn how to trust your mom gut, get easy home exercise tips (HEPs), and find out why a simple laundry basket might be your new secret weapon for healthy infant development. 🍼💪 If any of this sounded a little too familiar today, don't panic—just reach out! Connect with us at Marshall Pediatric Therapy to chat with a pediatric therapist who can answer your questions and give you the tools you need. We’re here to help your family thrive! Support the show

Can My Child with Autism Do Virtual Therapy?

Send us Fan Mail If you’ve ever wondered, "Can my child with autism actually do virtual therapy?" you are not alone. It’s one of the biggest questions parents ask when considering telehealth. In this episode of Help! I Have Kids, guest host and speech-language pathologist Beth Blankenship teams up with special guest Liz, a mom to two sons with autism, to look at virtual therapy from both sides of the screen. Liz shares her honest journey from being a total telehealth skeptic to watching virtual sessions become a major contributing factor to her son's progress. Together, they dive into why telehealth at Marshall Pediatric Therapy is a total game-changer. Beth breaks down how virtual therapy allows families to completely skip long clinic waitlists, avoid the stress of missed appointments, and use the comfort of home to unlock big breakthroughs. Tune in to find out how virtual therapy can deliver the exact same high-quality care as an in-person clinic, right from your living room! Join Our Community! You don’t have to figure this out alone! Join our Help I Have Kids Facebook Community to connect with other moms, ask questions, and get expert insights in a supportive space. Subscribe to the podcast, follow us on YouTube at @HelpIHaveKidsPodcast, and share this episode with a friend who needs a little less stress in her life. We’re all in this together! Support the show

Navigating Your Child’s Health Insurance: Tips for All Parents

Send us Fan Mail Does opening a medical bill give you an immediate pit in your stomach? 💸 It shouldn’t have to. For many parents, navigating health insurance feels like a second full-time job—one that's confusing, stressful, and full of hidden rules. But here is the secret: Knowledge is your best defense. When you understand how your plan works, you can stop worrying about "surprise bills" and start focusing on your child’s progress. In this episode, host Pam Marshall sits down with Kathleen, a Patient Account Specialist at Marshall Pediatric Therapy, to demystify the world of healthcare billing. Whether you are wondering why your bill changed in January or what to do when a claim gets denied, Kathleen is here to give you the "detective tools" every mom needs. In this episode, we’re breaking down: - The January Shift: Why your benefits might change even if your ID card stays the same. - The "Receipt" for Your Calls: Why you must ask for a Reference Number every time you call insurance (and how it holds them accountable!). - Diagnosis Pointers: The technical reason your claim might be stuck and how specificity saves you money. - The 3-Step Plan for Bills: What to do when a confusing bill arrives at your door. - Provider vs. Payer: Understanding the partnership between your therapist and your insurance company. Don't let "insurance exhaustion" stand in the way of your child’s care. You are the leader of your child’s team, and today, we’re helping you lead with confidence! Join Our Community! You don’t have to figure this out alone! Join our Help I Have Kids Facebook Community to connect with other moms, ask questions, and get expert insights in a supportive space. Subscribe to the podcast, follow us on YouTube at @HelpIHaveKidsPodcast, and share this episode with a friend who needs a little less stress in her life. We’re all in this together! Support the show

Bumblebees in My Head: Navigating ADHD/Autism as a Neurodivergent Mom

Send us Fan Mail “Mommy, it feels like I have bumblebees in my head.” 🐝 In this powerful and moving episode, host Pam Marshall (Pediatric OT) sits down with Sarah and Carolyn, two moms who are navigating the beautiful, "spicy," and often complex world of parenting neurodivergent children while being neurodivergent themselves. We’re diving deep into the advocacy it takes to trust your "mom gut" when professionals say "she’ll grow out of it," the relief of finally finding a name for why your child feels different, and how to find grace for yourself when the household motor just won't stop running. As a special tribute for Mother’s Day, Sarah and Carolyn also share heartwarming stories of their own mothers. This episode is a masterclass in parenting with empathy, setting boundaries for self-care (like the "20-minute rule"), and learning to dance through the meltdowns. Whether you are navigating a new autism diagnosis, struggling with emotional regulation at home, or realizing your own neurodiversity as an adult, this conversation will equip you to be the confident leader of your child’s medical team. Join Our Community! Don't navigate this journey alone! We want to hear your "Help!" moments and your wins. Subscribe to the podcast, join our community of Courageous Mommas on social media at @HelpIHaveKidsPodcast, and visit our website for practical freebies and therapist-approved resources. You’re doing a great job, Mom—let’s do this together! Support the show

Teen Mental Health Part 3: Depression & Suicidal Thoughts | with Heather Whitis, LMFT

Send us Fan Mail In this important episode, licensed therapist Heather Whitis returns to help us navigate one of the most difficult topics a parent can face—teen depression and suicidal thoughts. If your teen seems withdrawn, hopeless, unusually quiet, or like they've just lost interest in things they used to love, this episode will help you recognize and respond appropriately. Heather brings her expertise as both a therapist and a mom to offer honest, grounded guidance on how depression differs from typical teenage moodiness, how to recognize warning signs of suicidal thinking, and how to respond in a way that keeps the door open instead of pushing your teen further away. She also walks through how to have the hard conversations—calmly, clearly, and with compassion—even when you're scared. This episode will remind you that asking the hard questions doesn't plant dangerous ideas—it shows your teen they're not alone, and that you're a safe place to land. This is part 3 of our teen mental health series: Part 1: How to Know When Your Teen is Struggling Part 2: Understanding Anxiety in Teens Part 3: Recognizing and Responding to Depression & Suicidal Thoughts ✨ Follow us on all socials and join your mom community! https://linktr.ee/helpihavekidspodcast Support the show

Teen Mental Health Part 2: Understanding Anxiety in Teens | with Heather Whitis, LMFT

Send us Fan Mail In this encouraging episode, licensed therapist Heather Whitis joins us to talk about teen anxiety and what it can really look like in everyday life. If your teen seems overwhelmed, easily frustrated, avoidant, or constantly worried, this episode will help you better understand what may be going on beneath the surface. Heather shares her perspective as both a therapist and a mom, offering practical insight into how anxiety shows up in teens, how to support your child through it, and how to respond in a way that builds trust instead of pressure. She also walks through ways to create safe, supportive conversations—especially when your child has a hard time opening up. This episode will remind you that anxiety is common, support is available, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. This is part 2 of our teen mental health series. Stay tuned for the final episode: Part 1: How to Know When Your Teen is Struggling Part 2: Understanding Anxiety in Teens Part 3: Recognizing and Responding to Depression & Suicidal Thoughts ✨ Follow us on all socials and join your mom community! https://linktr.ee/helpihavekidspodcast Support the show

Teen Mental Health Part 1: Identifying & Addressing When Your Teen is Struggling | with Heather Whitis, LMFT

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt episode, licensed therapist Heather Whitis joins us to talk about teen mental health and how parents can recognize early warning signs that something might be off. If you’ve ever felt caught off guard by your teen’s mood swings, withdrawal, or changes in sleep, appetite, or school performance, this episode is for you. Heather shares her experience as both a therapist and a mom, giving practical advice on trusting your gut, starting supportive conversations, and knowing when to seek help. She reassures moms that noticing changes and asking questions isn’t overreacting—it’s caring. This is the first episode in our teen mental health series. Stay tuned for the next episodes: Part 1: How to Know When Your Teen is Struggling Part 2: Understanding Anxiety in Teens Part 3: Recognizing and Responding to Depression & Suicidal Thoughts ✨ Follow us on all socials and join your mom community! https://linktr.ee/helpihavekidspodcast Support the show