Dr. Dana Suskind: World-Class Pediatric Surgeon, Social Scientist, and Best-Selling Author
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Dr. Dana Suskind, a pediatric otolaryngologist and founder of The Thirty Million Words Initiative, is dedicated to helping children reach their full potential. In her conversation with Guy Kawasaki, she discusses the state of the art of cochlear implants and the need for specialized surgeons. Dr. Suskind also addresses the misalignment between the values we claim to have as a country and the support we provide for children and families, emphasizing the importance of aligning policies and actions.
She explains that the human brain has the potential for greatness from birth but requires input and interaction from caregivers during the first three years of life to reach its full potential. Dr. Suskind highlights the need for society to support parents during this critical period and cites studies showing that children exposed to more conversations have better language skills and brain activity.
Dr. Suskind acknowledges the challenges faced by parents and emphasizes the need for societal support and enrichment. She encourages individuals to advocate for better support for parents and the next generation.
She also discusses the importance of responsive interaction between adults and children for building a child's brain, highlighting the potential benefits of video chats if the adult responds in a responsive manner.
Dr. Suskind envisions a society that prioritizes children and families and starts a national discussion on the importance of the early years. She suggests designing the best Family Fringe Benefit Plan for employees, including paid parental leave, support for childcare, and flexibility in work schedules.
Overall, Dr. Suskind emphasizes the importance of supporting children and families, aligning policies and actions, and advocating for better support and enrichment for parents.
Dr. Dana Suskind, a pediatric otolaryngologist and founder of The Thirty Million Words Initiative, i