How Vision Problems Show Up in the Classroom (And Get Misdiagnosed)
As a pediatric ophthalmologist — and a mom — I’ve seen how easily vision problems can be mistaken for inattention, learning differences, or even behavior issues. In this episode, I share my own son’s story and what I’ve learned from nearly two decades of caring for children, so parents and teachers can recognize the subtle vision signs that may be holding a child back in the classroom.
Why Eye Exams Should Be Step One for Kids With Learning Differences
Your child might not tell you they can’t see clearly—because they may not even realize it.
As a pediatric ophthalmologist and a mom, I’ve seen it time and time again: kids adapt. They squint, they compensate, they find workarounds. But those quiet signs? They matter.
Here’s what I want every parent to know about the subtle ways vision problems show up—and how to catch them early.
From Preemie to First Eye Exam: What NICU Parents Should Know
I’m breaking down why even NICU babies with healthy-looking retinas still need follow-up eye exams. I’ll walk you through common issues like farsightedness, amblyopia, and strabismus—and why that six-month checkup is so important for catching delays in visual development early, when treatment works best.
Pregnancy & Your Eyes: What Hormones Are Really Doing to Your Vision
I sat down with Dr. Amanda Horton, a board-certified OBGYN, to talk about how pregnancy can affect your vision. From dry eyes and light sensitivity to blurry vision, she breaks down what’s normal, what’s not, and why it’s best to avoid LASIK or new glasses during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We also cover the vision changes that could be warning signs of more serious conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
When To Worry About Your Preemie Baby's Eyes
In this episode, I’m diving into Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)—what it is, how we detect it, and the latest treatment options. I’ll walk you through what parents really need to know, from the importance of follow-up care to the questions you should be asking your baby’s medical team. Early detection makes all the difference when it comes to protecting your child’s vision.
What No One Tells You About the NICU: A Mom’s Honest Story of Strength and Survival
In this episode, I’m joined by Kathryn Whitaker—SiriusXM radio host, podcaster, and fellow NICU mom—as we talk through the emotional and medical rollercoaster of having a premature baby. Kathryn shares her family’s powerful story, including her son’s 14-week NICU stay, and what she learned along the way. It’s a conversation filled with honesty, hope, and real-world advice for anyone walking a similar path.
Does My Baby Need Glasses?
As a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus surgeon, I’m often asked: Does my baby need glasses? In this episode, I break down how vision develops in the first year, key milestones, how we test vision in babies, and when glasses—or a referral—might be needed. Perfect for new parents, pediatricians, or anyone curious about infant vision.
What Parents Need to Know About Nearsightedness in Kids (Myopia)
As a pediatric ophthalmologist and mom of three, I break down what every parent should know about nearsightedness, screen time, and protecting your child’s vision. Backed by research and real-life experience, this episode makes kids’ eye health easier to understand—and act on.
Eye Floaters: What They Are, When to Worry & What Actually Works
Have you ever noticed tiny specks, squiggles, or cobweb-like shadows drifting across your vision? Do they move when you try to focus on them? Are they just annoying, or could they be a sign of something serious?
Snow And Sunglasses: Protecting Your Eyes This Winter
Do you really need sunglasses in the snow? What about on cloudy days? In today’s episode, Dr. Rupa Wong, ophthalmologist, is sharing why sunglasses are a must in winter—yes, even when the skies are overcast. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, which can double your UV exposure and increase your risk of serious eye damage.