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Physician and psychologist Heidi Feldman is a pioneer in the field of developmental behavioral pediatrics who says that the world’s understanding of childhood disability is changing and so too are the ways we approach it. Where once institutionalization was common, today we find integrative, family-centered approaches, charting a more humane, hopeful path forward. For example, for children born prematurely with increased likelihood of disability, increasing skin-to-skin contact – what is called “kangaroo care” – can literally reshape that child’s brain development, she tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces guest Heidi Feldman, professor of pediatrics at Stanford University.
(00:03:26) Path to Developmental Pediatrics
Heidi’s journey from education to developmental-behavioral pediatrics.
(00:05:10) The Emergence of Developmental Pediatrics
How developmental disabilities entered the medical mainstream.
(00:07:30) Common Disorders in Children
The most prevalent disabilities seen in practice and diagnostic trends.
(00:09:46) Preterm Birth and Disability Risk
Why premature birth is a major risk factor for developmental challenges.
(00:13:53) Brain Connections and Outcomes
How white matter and brain circuitry impact development.
(00:17:09) Kangaroo Care’s Potential
How skin-to-skin contact positively influences brain development.
(00:21:30) Inclusive Family and Community Support
Why integrated care and inclusive classrooms benefit all children.
(00:23:37) Social and Economic Upsides
Cost savings and increased independence from inclusive care.
(00:24:33) Transitioning to Adult Care
Gaps and opportunities in supporting disabled youth into adulthood.
(00:27:12) Using AI to Improve Care Quality
AI models help track whether care guidelines are being followed.
(00:31:00) Conclusion
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