Episode #21: Ear Infections + Speech Development — What Parents Should Know with Dr. Anjuli Gans
If your toddler has had multiple ear infections, you’re not alone—and if you’ve ever wondered how those infections might impact their speech or language development, this episode is for you. We’re joined by Dr. Anjuli Gans, a board-certified pediatrician with over a decade of experience, an attending physician at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Assistant Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania. She’s also the creator of Resilient Rascals, where she shares evidence-based, down-to-earth advice on pediatric health—and she’s a mom of two. We’ve learned so much from Dr. Gans over the years and are thrilled to have her on the podcast. But first, Katie shares her personal story of navigating chronic ear infections with her son, how it affected his early development, and what happened after getting PE tubes. In the episode we discuss why toddlers are especially prone to ear infections, how ear infections can impact speech and language development, and what’s really going on when there’s fluid in your child’s ears. You’ll learn how fluid affects hearing, when antibiotics are necessary (and when they might not be), and how to know if it’s time to see a pediatric ENT. We also explain what pressure equalization (PE) tubes are and when they can be helpful. Most importantly, we share what to do if you’re feeling stuck or worried about your child’s communication—because you’re not alone, and there are ways to help. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by ear infections, unsure of the next step, or concerned about your toddler’s speech and language, we hope this episode helps you feel a little more informed—and a lot more supported. Resources Mentioned: Get our free Toddler Milestone Checklist to track your child’s communication skills Wee Talkers programs to support families How Recurring Ear Infections Affect Speech Development Connect with Dr. Gans: Visit Dr. Gans' website: resilientrascals.com Follow Dr. Gans on Instagram: @resilientrascals More information about Ear Infections from Dr. Gans Connect with us: 💛 Wee Talkers Website 🎧 More episodes of Talk It Out📱 Follow us on Instagram
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Episode #20: Why Is My Toddler So Frustrated? (And What Can I Do to Help?)
In this episode of Talk It Out, Carly and Katie are tackling a topic that so many families face: toddler frustration—especially when it’s linked to speech and language delays. If you’ve ever watched your child melt down because they can’t quite say what they’re trying to express, you are far from alone. This episode explores why late talkers tend to show more frequent or intense frustration and how parents can both understand and support them. Carly and Katie, pediatric speech language pathologists, explain the natural mismatch that often happens in toddlers who understand more than they can say—and how this gap can lead to outbursts, shutting down, or behaviors like hitting and biting. They share practical ways to recognize when frustration is rooted in communication challenges and offer clear, compassionate guidance for what to do in the moment and outside the moment to help. You’ll learn how to model simple language, use sign support, validate emotions, and create more calm and connection—while still holding important boundaries. Carly and Katie also talk about why dysregulation makes language harder, and how showing up as a calm, responsive presence can go a long way. Reminder for you: if your toddler is struggling, it’s not your fault—and there’s so much you can do to help. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Speech + Language Milestone Checklist, a helpful resource for understanding what’s typical at each stage of toddler development, and how to know when it might be time for extra support. You can download it at weetalkers.com/toddler. Social emotional book recommendations – Bookshop.org | Amazon Songs+Stories Membership – A high-quality screen-time option that encourages language and literacy through engaging storytime videos. TalkToddler Course – Help your toddler say more words and improve their communication.
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Episode #19: Thumb Sucking – What Parents Need to Know
Thumb sucking super common and a very natural things for babies to do—but when is it time to start guiding them away from it? In this episode, we’re covering: The pros and cons of thumb sucking How prolonged thumb sucking can affect speech and tooth development Gentle, practical strategies to help your child break the habit when they’re ready Carly’s personal experience with her daughter’s thumb-sucking journey If you’re wondering when or how to support your child through this transition, this episode will give you ideas you can tailor to your family’s approach—without making it a battle. Key Takeaways: Most kids stop thumb sucking on their own between ages 3 and 6. Gradual changes—like keeping hands busy, offering alternatives, and reducing triggers—can help. A child-led approach often leads to smoother, more lasting success. If you’re concerned about speech or dental development, check in with a professional. At the end of the day, thumb sucking is just one small piece of your child’s development, and you know them best. However this journey looks for your family, you’re doing an incredible job supporting them every step of the way. If this episode was helpful, we’d love for you to subscribe and share it with a friend who might need it. Thanks for being here—we’re so grateful for you! Thank You to our Sponsor: Lovevery: Use the code WEETALKERS15 to save $15 off your first play kit.
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Episode #18: Toddler Feeding Without the Stress with Jess and Nita from Happy Healthy Eaters
Feeding a toddler can feel like a wild ride—one minute they love broccoli, the next they won’t touch it. Sound familiar? In this episode, we’re joined by Jess and Nita from Happy Healthy Eaters—two Registered Dietitians (and fellow moms!) who make baby and toddler feeding feel a whole lot more doable. We love their work, and wanted to bring the conversation here to Talk it Out! In the episode we cover: Why toddlers suddenly get more picky What to do when they won’t eat veggies How to keep them sitting at the table Easy snack ideas Tips for handling different-aged siblings at mealtimes You’re going to feel so much more confident after this one! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Free Snack + Mealtime Guide Supporting your Toddler at the Table Guide Oat balls recipe Happy Healthy Eaters Instagram THANK YOU FOR SPONSORING THIS EPISODE, Melissa & Doug We’re longtime fans of their pretend play food sets— we’ve used them in therapy with clients and with our own kids at home. Toys that spark creativity and learning? Yes, please. Use the code WEETALKERS20 to receive 20% off sitewide (coupon valid May 26, 2025-June 1, 2025. Typical exclusions apply). Thanks Melissa & Doug for supporting this episode and for making toys that help kids play with purpose. 💛
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Episode #17: Babbling: What to Expect and How to Help
Ever wonder when your baby will start babbling—or what to do if they aren’t yet? Babbling is more than just adorable baby chatter—it’s a key milestone that lays the foundation for talking. In this episode, we’re covering: The stages of babbling and how they build toward first words Why some babies start babbling earlier than others Simple, everyday ways to encourage more babbling at home What to do if your baby isn’t babbling yet By the end of this episode, you’ll know what to expect, how to support your baby’s early language development, and when to seek extra support if needed. Resources Mentioned: Baby & Toddler Milestone Checklists – Track your child’s progress and learn what comes next: weetalkers.com/baby (for babies) | weetalkers.com/toddler (for toddlers) Talk Baby Course – A step-by-step guide to boosting your baby’s communication skills: weetalkers.com/talkbaby Wee Talkers Blog – More tips on first words and early communication: weetalkers.com/blog Thank You to our Sponsor: Lovevery: Use the code weetalkers15 to save $15 off your first play kit. If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the next one. And if you know another parent who’d love this, send it their way! Thank you so much for your support!
Helping you nurture your child’s speech and language development with confidence! Hosted by Carly and Katie, pediatric speech therapists and moms, this podcast is packed with practical tips, expert insights, and encouragement to help your child thrive in speech and language development. Whether you're wondering about milestones, curious about how to best support your child, or choosing the best books and toys, we’re here to help—without the overwhelm. Tune in for answers to your biggest questions, relatable stories, and plenty of encouragement along the way!
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