What’s it like to be a parent? PBS science series NOVA just premiered a new digital series, Parentalogic, focused on the science behind parenting. The series launched in partnership with PBS Digital Studios and has its own YouTube channel.
Parentalogic is here to help you navigate the ups and downs of parenting from tantrums to fevers to sleepless nights. Co-hosted by Dr. Alok Patel, pediatrician and on-camera medical news expert, and Bethany Van Delft, comedian and mother of two, the episodes address common parenting conundrums with humor and honesty. Packed with useful health and science research, the series is a great resource for science fans and expecting and current parents everywhere.
“Having kids can bring so much joy, but it can also—at moments—cause panic,” says Julia Cort, NOVA Co-Executive Producer. “Together with PBS Digital Studios, we’re delighted to provide parents with some much-needed relief and support. Parentalogic is the perfect opportunity to do what we do best— bring evidence-based clarity to otherwise mystifying challenges.”
The first episode breaks down the science behind tantrums. Dr. Alok Patel discusses the ways children develop control over their emotions, and our best understanding of the brain processes that culminate in what we see as meltdowns. Bethany Van Delft approaches the topic from the perspective of a parent who has experienced firsthand the mayhem of a tantrum. We gain insight into what is going on in a child’s mind when tantrums occur, and get expert advice on how best to handle them.
“We’re very excited to partner with NOVA on this digital series. Parents are juggling more than ever right now, including an infinite amount of information and misinformation available online,” says Brandon Arolfo, Head of PBS Digital Studios. “With Dr. Patel and Bethany Van Delft as trustworthy guides, Parentalogic is timely programming that explores the art and science of modern-day parenting through a very informative, relatable, and entertaining lens
Other episodes in the series will be posted bi-weekly to the Parentalogic YouTube channel. They will aim to tackle the complex and often taboo questions parents are confronted with. How do you decide between breastfeeding, formula, or a combination of both? Where do allergies come from, and does exposure to allergens make a child more or less likely to develop allergies later? Why do fevers happen? How do you know if a child’s bathroom habits are okay?
“Parentalogic is proof we can deliver high-quality information about a serious topic in an engaging and lighthearted fashion. I’m thrilled to be working with Bethany, an all-star, Renaissance mom who can dance circles around me when it comes to raising children. This juxtaposition comes across on camera and it’s hilarious,” said Dr. Alok Patel, Parentalogic Co-Host. “This show is a blend of intricate medical physiology, practical knowledge, and humor. It doesn’t feel like a lecture, it feels more like a conversation you could have with someone at a bar—assuming you were talking about poop, sleep training, and vaccines, of course.”
“Growing up, I was a big fan of NOVA, especially how easily they explained complex science and how they were consistently trustworthy,” said Bethany Van Delft, Parentalogic Co-Host. “I hope Parentalogic helps lessen the chaos and uncertainty of the Internet from parenting by providing science, and clear, evidence-based answers. I also hope it offers parents confidence, a little relief, and some laughs, and sets an example for a respectful relationship between a doctor and a parent.”
—Jennifer Swartvagher
Featured photo: NOVA
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