Staying Engaged When the Answer Is “Wait” with Dr. Miki Zilnicki

In this episode, Denise is joined by Dr. Miki Zilnicki for a thoughtful conversation about what parents can do when they’re told to “wait and see” — and how families can stay engaged, informed, and empowered during that waiting period.

Together, they explore why waiting is sometimes recommended, what it does and doesn’t mean, and how parents can advocate for their child’s visual development without feeling adversarial or overwhelmed. The discussion also touches on the importance of seeking additional opinions, understanding differences in professional perspectives, and recognizing when it’s appropriate to ask deeper questions.

Denise also introduces an emerging idea she’s developing — using music and movement as a supportive, complementary way to help families stay connected to their child’s visual development. While not a replacement for clinical care, this approach reflects Denise’s background in music education and her belief that gentle, rhythmic movement can help parents remain engaged and aware while they’re navigating next steps.

This episode is especially relevant for parents who feel stuck in uncertainty, unsure whether to wait, act, or seek additional guidance.

Topics Covered

• What doctors usually mean when they tell parents to “wait”
• Why children are sometimes considered “too young” for certain interventions
• How parents can stay actively involved during a waiting period
• The role of patient and parent advocacy in vision care
• When and how to seek additional professional opinions
• Navigating conflicting advice without losing confidence
• Why awareness and connection matter — even before therapy begins
• Introducing music and movement as a supportive, non-clinical tool for families

Who This Episode Is For

• Parents who have been told to “wait and see” and feel unsure what to do next
• Families navigating mixed messages in vision care
• Listeners interested in patient advocacy and informed decision-making
• Parents who want ways to stay connected to their child’s development during periods of uncertainty

Key Takeaway

Waiting doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Staying informed, asking questions, and remaining connected to your child’s experience can make a meaningful difference — even before any formal intervention begins.

Dr. Zilnicki's website and Vision is more than 20/20 podcast: https://twinforksoptometry.com/vision-is-more-than-20-20-podcast/

Questions for Dr. Zilnicki? Here's her email: drzilnicki@twinforksoptometry.com

Join the Healing our Sight Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063570817348

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