Healthy Beginnings Podcast

Are people who participate in medical research being used as “guinea pigs”? Before a new medicine, vaccine, treatment, or medical procedure can become part of healthcare, researchers need evidence that it works and that its risks are understood. But for many people, the idea of medical research—particularly research involving human participants—can create fear and suspicion. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains what medical research actually is, how it is carried ...

How do you prepare for pregnancy—and are you really ready for life with a newborn? From choosing the right supplements and medical tests to understanding breastfeeding, vaccinations, and postpartum recovery, preparing for a baby involves much more than packing a hospital bag. In this special episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba is joined by private midwife Aude Kaze for a practical conversation about what every expectant parent should know before welcoming a child. Whether you're ...

When your child becomes sick, do you know where to seek medical care? Should you visit a clinic, a health center, or go straight to the hospital? Making the right choice can save valuable time, reduce unnecessary costs, and help your child receive the right level of care as quickly as possible. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains how the healthcare system works and helps parents understand which health facility is appropriate for different medical situations. In ...

Why won't my baby stop crying? Why do they spit up after every feed? Why won't they sleep through the night? Every new parent has questions—and many wonder whether their baby is developing normally. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba answers some of the most common questions submitted by parents of newborns. From infant colic and reflux to newborn sleep patterns and feeding concerns, this episode explains what is normal, what deserves closer attention, and when it's time...

My child doesn't respond when I call their name. They avoid eye contact. They seem overwhelmed by sounds, textures, or changes in routine. Should I be worried? In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba helps parents understand autism spectrum disorder in a clear, compassionate, and evidence-based way. We explore the early signs of autism, explain why every autistic child is different, and discuss how parents can seek support without fear or stigma. Whether your child has recent...

Are screens affecting your child’s developing brain? Phones, tablets, cartoons, and educational videos have become part of everyday childhood—but many parents are left wondering: how much is too much? In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explores the relationship between screen time, sleep, behavior, and early childhood development. We discuss what science says about screen exposure, why sleep is essential for growing brains, and how parents can create healthier routines w...

Can your baby tell when you're stressed? Many parents work tirelessly to protect their children while ignoring one important part of their child's wellbeing—their own mental health. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explores how caregiver mental health shapes a child's emotional development from infancy. From postpartum depression and anxiety to parental burnout and the pressure to be the "perfect parent," we discuss why caring for yourself is one of the most important ...

Can babies and young children experience mental health challenges? Many parents assume mental health is something that only affects teenagers and adults. But emotional wellbeing begins much earlier—starting in infancy. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explores children's mental health and emotional development, helping parents understand how early experiences shape emotional wellbeing, behavior, resilience, and long-term mental health. We discuss how to distinguish nor...

Why does your skin change so much after giving birth? Many mothers expect sleepless nights and exhaustion—but few are prepared for the rashes, itching, eczema flare-ups, skin irritation, and other unexpected changes that can appear after pregnancy. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains why postpartum skin changes happen, what's considered normal, and when they may signal a deeper health issue. From hormonal shifts and stress to breastfeeding-related skin irritation...

Why does eczema keep coming back? Many parents assume eczema is simply dry skin—but eczema is much more complex than that. It can affect a child's sleep, comfort, confidence, and quality of life. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains what eczema really is, why some children develop it, and what parents can do to reduce flare-ups and better manage symptoms. From genetics and environmental triggers to bathing routines and moisturizers, this episode gives parents prac...

Why do babies get rashes so easily? From heat rash and diaper rash to baby acne, drool rash, and allergic reactions, skin problems are one of the most common reasons parents worry about their children. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains why baby skin is different from adult skin, why rashes happen so often, and how parents can tell the difference between a harmless rash and one that needs medical attention. In this episode we discuss: • Why newborn skin is more ...

Why are some infections becoming harder to treat? Antibiotic resistance is growing around the world—and everyday habits like self-prescribing antibiotics, reusing old medicine, and sharing antibiotics with family members are part of the problem. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains what antibiotic resistance actually means, how it develops, and why the misuse of antibiotics is becoming a major threat to child health. Many people believe antibiotics can cure almost...

Antibiotics save lives—but are we using them too much? In many homes, antibiotics have become the go-to treatment for almost everything: coughs, colds, fever, sore throats, and stomach illnesses. But antibiotics do not cure every infection—and overusing them can create serious long-term problems. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explores the growing culture of antibiotic misuse, especially in African communities, and explains why antimicrobial resistance is becoming on...

If vaccines work, why do vaccinated children still get sick? It’s one of the most common questions parents ask—and one that often causes confusion and doubt. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains how vaccines actually work, why no vaccine is 100% perfect, and why vaccinated children can still develop some illnesses. Vaccines are designed to protect children from the most dangerous infections and complications—not necessarily every cough, fever, or illness. Understa...

Can you vaccinate your child when they’re sick? What happens if you miss a vaccine? And when should you worry about fever after vaccines? These are some of the most common—and most important—questions parents ask. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba breaks down real-life vaccine concerns that families face every day. From mild illness and missed doses to fever after vaccination, this episode gives you clear, practical answers grounded in evidence. In this episode we discu...

Are childhood vaccines really necessary? Are they safe? And are babies getting too many too soon? In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba answers the most important—and most difficult—questions parents have about early childhood vaccines. Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools in modern medicine, preventing millions of deaths every year. But confusion, fear, and misinformation continue to shape how parents think about them. This episode breaks down the science clearly, h...

Is my baby too fat? It’s a question many parents quietly worry about—especially when their baby looks bigger than others. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains how to understand baby weight and growth in a healthy and balanced way. From growth charts to feeding patterns, this episode helps parents separate normal variation from real concerns. Many babies go through periods of rapid weight gain, and what may look like “too much” is often part of normal development. ...

My child refuses to eat. Is this normal? Fussy eating—also known as picky eating—is one of the most common concerns parents face. It can be frustrating, stressful, and sometimes worrying. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains why some children become picky eaters, what is actually happening during this stage of development, and what parents can do to support healthy eating habits. Many feeding struggles are not about the food itself—but about development, behavior,...

When should you start weaning your baby—and how do you do it properly? Weaning is one of the biggest transitions in early childhood, and many parents feel unsure about when to begin, what foods to introduce, and how to do it safely. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains how to approach weaning with clarity and confidence. From timing and nutrition to common mistakes and misconceptions, this episode breaks down what parents really need to know. Healthy Beginnings of...

When can I give my baby cow’s milk? It’s a common question—and getting it wrong can affect your child’s nutrition and health. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains when it is safe to introduce cow’s milk, why timing matters, and what parents should understand about infant nutrition in the first year of life. Many families introduce cow’s milk too early, not realizing the risks. This episode breaks down the science clearly, helping you make confident and informed de...

I’ve chosen to give my baby formula. Does that make me a bad mother? Few topics in parenting carry as much pressure, judgment, and confusion as feeding decisions. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explores the realities of breastfeeding and formula feeding—what the science says, what matters most for your child, and how parents can make informed decisions without guilt. Healthy Beginnings offers clear and evidence-based conversations about children’s health, family well...

My baby keeps coughing. Should I give antibiotics? It’s one of the most common questions parents ask when their child has a persistent cough. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains what a cough in babies and young children actually means, what causes it, and when antibiotics may—or may not—help. Many childhood coughs are caused by viral infections, meaning antibiotics won’t work and can sometimes do more harm than good. Understanding the difference can help parents ...

Is my child growing normally? It’s one of the most common—and most worrying—questions parents ask. In this episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explains how to understand your child’s growth beyond the chart. From height and weight to nutrition, development, and environment, we explore what healthy growth really looks like—and when to be concerned. This episode is designed to help parents and caregivers understand growth clearly, without anxiety—grounded in science and real-life c...

Health decisions don’t start in hospitals—they start at home. In this first episode of Healthy Beginnings, Dr. Edgar Kalimba explores what a truly healthy start in life means for children and families. From early childhood development and prevention, this episode lays the foundation for lifelong health. Healthy Beginnings offers clear and evidence-based conversations about children’s health, family wellbeing, and the systems that shape our lives. New episodes every Monday Have a q...