By: Jaime Rafferty
Known as “America’s Pediatrician” and a best selling author, Dr. William Sears made a visit to Owensboro to discuss Top Health Tips for All Ages. While visiting he sat down with Owensboro Parent Magazine to discuss the successes and issues that face parents and children today.
Q. What motivation did you have to go into pediatrics?
A. I felt like the field of medicine offered me the biggest opportunity to make the most difference. It’s called the “helper’s high.” I could make a difference in generations to come.
Q. In your 40+ years of practice is there one constant you have seen as it relates to parenting?
A. So much has changed, but parents continue to love their children and children are still being supported by their parents.
Q. Have you seen a shift in parenting since you began practicing medicine?
A. Yes, for the better. Mothers are much more prepared for the birth outcomes. Medical care has become superior to the past. More and more mothers are breastfeeding. Families are becoming more conscious of nutrition in the home and healthy food options are being served. There has been an increase in baby wearing (close to mother in slings), contrary to some studies, this actually creates independence and is encouraged.
Q. What medical needs have arisen that need to be addressed in our society today?
A. Nutritional Deficit Disorder – not feeding our family real foods (we don’t know what is in processed foods, yet we eat them and feed them to our children) has resulted in learning and behavioral issues. Many think we have an obesity problem, but it’s more of a real food problem. Feed the kids real foods and the obesity problem lessens.
Q. How can families stay healthy both physically and mentally?
A. Go outside! We should be playing alongside our kids. In addition, we need to eat our fruits and vegetables and serve them at mealtime.
Q. If you could leave our readers with one piece of parenting advice, what would it be?
A. Parenting is a series of reactions – get behind the eyes of your child. How would I want my mother/father to react? You will have your answer.
Together with his wife Martha, Dr. Sears has written more than 30 best selling-books and numerous articles on parenting and childcare issues. He currently serves as a medical and parenting consultant for Baby Talk and Parenting magazines. For more information about him and his positive lifestyle and parenting message please check him out at www.drsears.com.