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Educated Parent: Evidence-Based Parenting Tips to Solve Everyday Parenting Problems

Dr. Leah Clionsky

You’re doing everything you can to be a great parent. You’ve read the books, followed the mommy bloggers, asked your friends—yet somehow, parenting still feels overwhelming. One person says one thing, another says the opposite, and now you’re wondering if you’re ruining your child.

It’s not you. It’s the endless, conflicting advice that’s making parenting more stressful than it needs to be.

I’m Dr. Leah Clionsky, a licensed parenting psychologist, child development expert, and real-life mom of two. As the owner of Thriving Child Center and PCIT Experts, I’ve spent over 15 years helping parents raise emotionally healthy children with evidence-based parenting strategies.

And now, I’m bringing that expertise—and my network of trusted parenting experts—straight to you.

Welcome to Educated Parent, the podcast that gives you real answers to everyday parenting dilemmas. No guilt. No guesswork. Just expert-backed parenting tips to help you feel confident in raising emotionally healthy, thriving kids.

If you’re tired of second-guessing yourself and just want to know what actually works, you’re in the right place.

It’s time to ditch the stress and step into confident parenting—together.

LET'S CONNECT:
Thriving Child Center → https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/thrivingchildcenter
PCIT Experts → https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/pcit-experts
Instagram → https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/instagram
Want more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox! → https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/newsletter
Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! → https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/provider-newsletter

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#74
Tuesday · 25 min
How to Take Care of Yourself With a Baby at Home - The Counterintuitive Advice That Works with Elyse Traverse
Bringing a new baby home can be joyful, exhausting, isolating, and completely overwhelming. Suddenly you're responsible for this tiny person while trying to figure out when you're supposed to sleep, shower, eat, or have a moment to yourself. And all that pressure to do everything "right" can create some serious mom guilt. In this episode, pediatric nurse practitioner and lactation counselor Elyse Traverse joins me to share practical advice for new moms that might sound counterintuitive but can make those early months a whole lot easier. We talk about why taking care of yourself doesn't mean neglecting your baby, how finding the right postpartum support can make new motherhood less isolating, and why you don't need to entertain your baby every second they're awake. From creating simple baby "stations" around your home to leaving a perfectly happy baby alone, these strategies can give overwhelmed parents permission to meet their own needs without feeling like they're doing something wrong. In this episode, we cover: Practical advice for new moms who aren't sure how to meet their own needs with a baby at home Why mom guilt makes parents feel like they should constantly entertain or stimulate their baby How finding a community of parents in the same stage of life can provide valuable postpartum support How overwhelmed parents can take care of themselves while still giving their babies what they need More advice for new moms about doing everyday activities while your baby is awake instead of waiting for naps How letting go of mom guilt can benefit both you and your baby Why community and postpartum support can make such a difference during an isolating season You don't need to spend every waking moment entertaining your baby to be a good parent. For overwhelmed parents, giving yourself permission to shower, get something done, or simply enjoy a few quiet minutes while your baby is happy can be good for everyone. Letting go of some mom guilt and building the right postpartum support around you can help you feel more like yourself while caring for your new baby. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! Have a parenting question or a topic you'd love to hear on the podcast? Submit your question here! CONNECT WITH ELYSE TRAVERSE: Email - elissetravers@gmail.com Mom’s Group Meeting - South Boston Community Health Center - Every Wednesday at 1pm in the Community Room on the 3rd floor
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#73
August 18 · 21 min
How to Help Your Child (and Yourself) With Back-to-School Anxiety
One of the biggest transitions of the year is here: back to school. New teachers, new classrooms, new routines, and plenty of unknowns can create back-to-school anxiety for kids and parents alike. In this episode, I’m sharing what to say when your child starts worrying about the new school year, including how to validate feelings without accidentally reinforcing their fears. We’ll also talk about how confident parenting can help children face uncertainty instead of avoiding it. You’ll learn why repeatedly promising that "everything will be fine" isn’t always helpful, how to use logic and past experiences to work through worries, and why rescuing kids from uncomfortable situations can actually make anxiety stronger. We’ll also discuss the difference between typical school-year nerves and signs and symptoms of childhood anxiety that may mean your child needs additional support. In this episode, we cover: Why back-to-school anxiety is a normal response to change, uncertainty, and new situations How to validate feelings when your child tells you they’re worried about school How confident parenting teaches kids that they can handle uncomfortable feelings and difficult situations The signs and symptoms of childhood anxiety that can help you recognize when worry is interfering with your child’s daily life How parents can manage their own back-to-school anxiety while helping their kids navigate theirs The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety before the first day of school. It’s to help your child recognize that anxiety is a normal feeling, understand that they can handle hard things, and know that you’ll be there to support them if something doesn’t go according to plan. Learning how to validate feelings while resisting the urge to over-reassure is an important part of confident parenting. And recognizing the signs and symptoms of childhood anxiety can help you know when ordinary worries may require additional support. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#72
August 11 · 23 min
What to Do When Your Young Child Tells You That Something Upsetting Happened (with Jenny Hughes)
One of the most frightening moments as a parent is when your young child tells you that something upsetting happened. Your mind immediately jumps to the worst-case scenario, but reacting too quickly can make it harder to understand what actually happened. In this episode, I'm joined by child psychologist and trauma specialist Jenny Hughes to discuss how to respond in a way that helps your child feel safe, heard, and supported. You'll learn how to validate feelings without making assumptions, why calm communication with children matters so much in these moments, and how positive parenting techniques can help you navigate these difficult conversations with confidence. Jenny shares a simple three-step framework: validate your child's emotions, gather more information with open-ended questions, and wait until you're calm to make a plan if needed. We also discuss why young children may unintentionally embellish details, how to avoid asking leading questions, and why preserving trust is more important than immediately finding every answer. In this episode, we cover: Why how to validate feelings is the first step when your child shares something upsetting How communication with children can help you gather information without leading them Why open-ended questions are more effective than yes-or-no questions How positive parenting techniques strengthen trust during difficult conversations Practical insights from trauma specialist Jenny Hughes on helping children feel safe and heard If you've ever wondered how to validate feelings, improve communication with children, and use positive parenting techniques when your child shares something upsetting, this episode with Jenny Hughes will give you a practical framework you can use the next time your child opens up to you. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH JENNY HUGHES: Website YouTube Instagram LinkedIn
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#71
August 4 · 25 min
How to Make Back-to-School Mornings Painless (with Whitney Fosco)
Back-to-school mornings can quickly become the most stressful part of the day. If you're constantly reminding your child to get dressed, brush their teeth, pack their backpack, or put on their shoes, you're not alone. In this episode, I'm joined by child psychologist Dr. Whitney Fosco to share a simple system that helps kids become more independent while making mornings calmer for the whole family. If you're looking for parenting help before the school year begins, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can start using right away. We discuss why so many children struggle with morning routines, especially those with executive functioning challenges, and how a personalized visual schedule paired with effective rewards for kids can reduce conflict, increase independence, and make school mornings run more smoothly. You'll also walk away with actionable positive parenting tips that are easy to implement, even if you've tried similar systems before. In this episode, we cover: Why a consistent morning routine for kids can reduce stress for the whole family How to use rewards for kids to motivate without constant reminders Common reasons visual schedules fail and how to troubleshoot them Positive parenting tips for encouraging independence instead of power struggles Practical parenting help to make back-to-school mornings calmer and more successful If you're preparing for a new school year and want a morning routine for kids that actually works, this episode will give you practical parenting help, effective rewards for kids, and realistic positive parenting tips to help your family start each day with less chaos and more confidence. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH WHITNEY FOSCO: Website
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#70
July 28 · 13 min
What to Do When Your Kid Says, "I Hate You!"
One of the hardest moments in parenting is hearing your child say, "I hate you." Those words can feel deeply personal, but they're usually not saying what you think they are. In this episode, I explain what's really happening beneath those painful words and how to respond in a way that protects your relationship while teaching respectful communication. If you've ever wondered how to deal with an emotional child, this conversation will give you a practical framework you can use in the moment. You'll learn why kids often say hurtful things when they're overwhelmed, how to respond without making the conflict worse, and how to turn one of parenting's most painful moments into an opportunity for connection and growth. Whether you're navigating frequent child emotional outbursts or this has only happened once, these strategies can help you respond with confidence. In this episode, we cover: Why a child says I hate you when they're overwhelmed with emotion What your child is really trying to communicate beneath those hurtful words Common mistakes parents make that can unintentionally escalate the conflict How communication with children can strengthen trust, even during conflict Tips for handling child emotional outbursts without damaging your relationship If you're looking for practical ways to improve communication with children, understand how to deal with an emotional child , and know exactly what to do the next time your child says I hate you, this episode will give you tools you can start using today. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#69
July 21 · 19 min
The Three Things I Do When My Own Kids Are Struggling
If you've noticed your child having more meltdowns, becoming unusually clingy, fighting more with siblings, or reacting in ways that seem out of character, they may be trying to tell you something. Recognizing the signs of emotional distress in a child isn't always easy, but knowing what to do next can make all the difference. In this episode, I share the three simple steps I use when my own children are struggling, and how they've helped me build a stronger parent-child connection while responding with calm and confident parenting. We'll talk about why behavior changes are often the first clue that something is wrong, how daily "special time" can strengthen your relationship, and why checking in with yourself is just as important as checking in with your child. You'll also learn about practical parenting resources that can help you support your child through difficult seasons with confidence and consistency. In this episode, we cover: Common signs of emotional distress in children that parents often overlook How daily special time strengthens parent-child connection Why curiosity is the first step toward confident parenting Practical parenting resources for supporting children through difficult seasons How changes in routine can affect your child's behavior Why strengthening parent-child connection often reduces challenging behaviors The importance of checking in with yourself as part of confident parenting How to recognize the signs of emotional distress in children before behaviors escalate If you're noticing the signs of emotional distress in a child, looking for trusted parenting resources, hoping to strengthen your parent-child connection, and grow in confident parenting, this episode will give you a simple framework you can start using today. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#68
July 14 · 18 min
How to Respond When Your Child Overreacts
If your child melts down over the smallest inconveniences, you're not alone. Whether they're devastated that their sibling's cookie is slightly bigger, upset because the toothpaste ran out, or furious about something that seems insignificant, it can be hard to know how to respond. In this episode, we explore how to build emotional resilience without dismissing your child's feelings, why different children have different ways of expressing emotions, and the parenting skills that help kids learn to regulate without making every upset feel like an emergency. You'll learn how to validate feelings without reinforcing overreactions, why reasoning with an emotional child often backfires, and how to strike the balance between empathy and helping your child develop independence. These practical strategies will help you respond calmly, support your child's emotional growth, and reduce power struggles when big emotions show up over little things. In this episode, we cover: How to build emotional resilience when your child overreacts Practical parenting skills for responding to everyday emotional outbursts How to validate feelings without treating every problem like an emergency Why children develop different ways of expressing emotions Why logic usually doesn't work in the middle of a meltdown The balance between empathy and teaching emotional resilience Simple parenting skills that encourage self-regulation over time How to validate feelings while giving your child the space to calm themselves If you're looking to strengthen your child's emotional resilience, better understand different ways of expressing emotions, learn how to validate feelings, and build practical parenting skills, this episode will give you strategies you can use the very next time your child overreacts. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Ep. 66: How to Co-Regulate With Your Toddler (So It Actually Works) with Emma Girard LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#67
July 7 · 19 min
Why Your Child Won't Take Responsibility (and What to Do About It)
If your child hides mistakes, blames others, or insists they did nothing wrong, you're not alone. Many parents worry when their child seems to avoid responsibility, wondering if it reflects their character or values. In this episode, I explore why children often struggle with taking responsibility, what is really happening beneath the surface, and how effective parenting can create an environment where honesty feels safe instead of scary. We'll talk about the concept of psychological safety, why kids often hide mistakes to avoid discomfort rather than because they're dishonest, and the parenting tips that encourage accountability without shame. You'll also learn how modeling your own mistakes and responding with curiosity instead of lectures can help your child become someone who is willing to admit when they've messed up and make things right. In this episode, we cover: Why children often avoid responsibility after making a mistake How effective parenting creates psychological safety at home The connection between taking responsibility and lifelong relationships Simple parenting tips for encouraging honesty instead of defensiveness Why curiosity works better than lectures when kids make mistakes How modeling taking responsibility helps children develop accountability Practical effective parenting strategies that reduce shame and build trust Why praising honesty is one of the most powerful parenting tips you can use If you're looking for practical parenting tips, want to help your child stop trying to avoid responsibility, and encourage taking responsibility through effective parenting, this episode will give you strategies you can start using today. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#66
June 30 · 29 min
How to Co-Regulate With Your Toddler (So It Actually Works) with Emma Girard
If your toddler's meltdowns leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or unsure what to do next, you're not alone. During toddler tantrums, many parents have heard they should practice co-regulation, but few know what that actually looks like in the moment. In this episode, Dr. Emma Girard joins me to explain why toddlers are not melting down to manipulate you, how their brains process big emotions differently, and how positive parenting techniques can help both you and your child move through those difficult moments together. We break down what co-regulation really means, why your own emotional state matters first, and how the CARES framework gives parents practical parenting help they can use during everyday meltdowns. You'll learn why your job isn't to fix your toddler's feelings, but to help them feel safe enough to work through them while building emotional regulation skills over time. In this episode, we cover: Why toddler tantrums are different from older children's tantrums What co-regulation actually looks like during a meltdown How positive parenting techniques help toddlers develop emotional regulation Practical parenting help for staying calm when emotions run high Why regulating yourself is the first step in successful co-regulation How to respond to toddler tantrums without giving in or becoming punitive The CARES framework and other positive parenting techniques you can use today Simple parenting help for supporting your toddler through big emotions while maintaining healthy boundaries If you're navigating daily toddler tantrums, trying to better understand co-regulation, or looking for practical positive parenting techniques and parenting help, this episode will give you tools you can start using with your toddler today. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: CARES Handout LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH EMMA GIRARD: Website
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#65
June 23 · 17 min
Should You Panic?! When to Take Your Child to the ER Urgently with Dr. Kailey Buller
If you've ever found yourself staring at your child wondering whether you should rush to the emergency room or wait it out, you are not alone. Many parents struggle with child health concerns, especially when their child is sick, injured, or acting differently than usual. In this episode, emergency physician Dr. Kailey Buller joins me to break down exactly when to take your child to the ER and when you can safely monitor things at home. We talk about the signs that truly require urgent medical attention, the situations that cause unnecessary panic, and how parents can feel more confident navigating common child health concerns. Dr. Buller shares practical parenting help for recognizing emergencies, understanding normal childhood illnesses, and knowing when healthy children may actually need immediate medical care. In this episode, we cover: The biggest child health concerns that send parents to the emergency room How to know when to take your child to the ER versus waiting to see the pediatrician Why changes in behavior can be more important than symptoms alone The difference between a sick child and a child who is no longer acting like healthy children Practical parenting help for evaluating fevers, dehydration, and breathing concerns Why trusting your instincts matters when deciding when to take your child to the ER Common child health concerns that are scary but often not emergencies How parenting help from medical professionals can reduce unnecessary anxiety Whether you're dealing with a fever, breathing issues, dehydration, or simply wondering if something feels off, this episode offers clear parenting help for understanding child health concerns, recognizing signs of normally healthy children becoming seriously ill, and knowing when to take your child to the ER without second-guessing yourself. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH KAILEY BULLER: Website Instagram TikTok
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#64
June 16 · 17 min
How to Help Your Kids Talk About Hard Things: The Counterintuitive Way to Get Them to Open Up
If you know your child is struggling but every attempt to talk about it seems to make them shut down, you are not alone. Many parents can see when something is wrong, but getting kids to open up about difficult emotions is often much harder than it seems. In this episode, I share practical parenting skills that therapists use to help children feel safe enough to talk, along with positive ways to talk to your child that reduce pressure and increase connection. We’ll explore why direct questioning often backfires, how kids develop different ways of expressing emotions, and why strong communication with children starts with listening rather than interrogating. Whether your child is struggling with friendships, school transitions, anxiety, or something they simply cannot put into words, these strategies can help create conversations that feel natural and supportive. In this episode, we cover: Why direct questions can sometimes shut down communication with children Simple positive ways to talk to your child without making them feel pressured How different kids develop different ways of expressing emotions The role of strong parenting skills when children are struggling emotionally Why silence can be one of the most powerful tools in communication with children How to use storytelling as one of your positive ways to talk to your child What therapists understand about ways of expressing emotions that many parents miss How effective parenting skills help children feel safe enough to open up If you are looking for positive ways to talk to your child, want to strengthen communication with children, better understand different ways of expressing emotions, and build stronger parenting skills, this episode will give you practical tools you can start using right away. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#63
June 9 · 17 min
Why Kids Swear (and How to Make It Stop)
If your child suddenly starts repeating a curse word over and over again, you are not alone. Whether they heard it from you, a sibling, a friend, or somewhere else, toddler swearing is surprisingly common. The challenge is that many parents accidentally make the behavior worse without realizing it. In this episode, I share a funny story about my own child, explain the psychology behind attention-seeking behavior, and walk through what actually works when kids start using inappropriate language. We’ll talk about why strong reactions often reinforce toddler swearing, how positive parenting techniques can help reduce the behavior, and why staying calm is one of the most powerful forms of parenting help you can give yourself. If you have ever felt embarrassed, frustrated, or unsure how to respond when your child starts repeating bad words, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why toddler swearing is often driven by attention-seeking behavior Why strong reactions make attention-seeking behavior more likely to continue The role of positive parenting techniques when addressing inappropriate language Practical parenting help for responding calmly and consistently What an extinction burst is and why toddler swearing may temporarily get worse before it gets better How positive parenting techniques help shift attention toward appropriate behavior Why understanding attention-seeking behavior can make parenting feel less stressful If you are looking for practical parenting help, want to better understand attention-seeking behavior, or need strategies for handling toddler swearing, this episode will show you how positive parenting techniques can help make the behavior stop without power struggles. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#62
June 2 · 25 min
How to Help Your Teen Choose a Career (Without Increasing Their Anxiety) with Jocelyn Abrams
If your teen feels overwhelmed about the future, you are not alone. Between college applications, social pressure, and constant conversations about success, many families are struggling with intense academic stress. In this episode, Dr. Jocelyn Abrams joins me to talk about how parents can offer real career guidance for teens without accidentally increasing anxiety. We also discuss how thoughtful, supportive conversations and strong positive parenting techniques can help teens feel more confident and understood during this stage of life. Dr. Abrams shares practical parenting resources and explains why helping teens explore their strengths and interests is often far more effective than pushing them toward a specific path. We talk about how academic stress impacts both teens and parents, why curiosity matters when offering career guidance for teens, and how positive parenting techniques can create an environment where teens feel safe exploring different possibilities for their future. In this episode, we cover: Why academic stress is affecting teens earlier than ever How to provide healthy career guidance for teens without creating more pressure The role of positive parenting techniques in helping teens feel supported Why strong parenting resources can reduce conflict around future planning How academic stress impacts confidence and self-esteem Ways to use career guidance for teens that focus on strengths and interests Why positive parenting techniques help teens feel seen and heard The value of using trusted parenting resources when navigating college and career conversations If your family is navigating academic stress, struggling with career guidance for teens, or looking for better parenting resources, this episode will help you use positive parenting techniques that support your teen without increasing anxiety. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Episode 15: Should You Keep Pushing Your Child to Succeed or Back off? With Kristin Mervich, LCSW LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH JOCELYN ABRAMS: Website
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#61
May 26 · 20 min
Natural Consequences Are Overrated: How to Set Fair Consequences for Kids
Watch the full video episode HERE! If you’ve ever felt guilty for giving your child a consequence that was not perfectly “natural” or “logical,” you are not alone. Parents are constantly told that natural consequences are the best way for kids to learn, but as a parenting expert, I want to challenge that idea. Sometimes the real-world outcome is far too harsh, and sometimes kids are simply not developmentally ready for it. That is where safe, consistent, age-appropriate consequences come in. In this episode, I break down why natural consequences are often overrated and how to think about safer, more effective types of discipline that actually help children learn. We’ll talk about why parent-created consequences are not harmful when used appropriately, how to choose age-appropriate consequences, and what a parenting expert really wants parents to understand about discipline. If you have ever felt confused about consequences or worried that you are doing it wrong, this episode will help you feel more confident. In this episode, we cover: Why natural consequences are not always safe or appropriate for children How to create age-appropriate consequences that actually teach skills Different types of discipline and why they do not need to be perfectly “logical” What a parenting expert wants parents to understand about consistent consequences Why some natural consequences are far harsher than parent-created consequences How age-appropriate consequences protect children while helping them learn Why effective types of discipline should be predictable, calm, and non-violent How a parenting expert approaches consequences without shame or fear If you have ever struggled to figure out the “right” consequence, this episode will help you rethink natural consequences, feel more confident using age-appropriate consequences, understand healthier types of discipline, and approach discipline with the clarity of a parenting expert. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#60
May 19 · 13 min
How to Handle Sibling Fighting in the Car (Without Losing Your Mind)
Kids fighting in the car can turn even a short drive into a stressful experience fast. In this episode, I’m sharing practical, evidence-based strategies to help you handle sibling conflict in the back seat without yelling, losing your patience, or feeling completely overwhelmed. From simple snacks to smart distractions and behavior systems that actually work, these effective parenting strategies can make car rides calmer for everyone. If you’ve been searching for realistic travel tips for kids, better car activities, and ways to survive sibling arguments while driving, this episode will give you tools you can start using immediately. In this episode, we cover: Why kids fighting in the car happens so much more often during stressful transitions, and what most parents miss about it The surprisingly powerful role snacks, boredom, and overstimulation play in sibling conflict, and how small travel tips for kids can completely shift the mood Easy car activities that redirect attention before arguments spiral out of control How to use simple, effective parenting strategies to encourage cooperation instead of constant fighting What to do when sibling conflict becomes more serious, and when it may be time to seek professional support If you’re exhausted by kids fighting in the car and want realistic, research-backed solutions that actually help, this episode is for you. Listen now and learn how small changes can create calmer car rides, less stress, and more connection with your kids. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#59
May 12 · 26 min
What to Do When Your Kid Says, “I’m Bored” (With Rachel Currie-Rubin and Cassandra Golding)
If your child constantly says “I’m bored” and expects you to fix it immediately, you are not alone. Knowing what to do when kids are bored can feel overwhelming, especially when it turns into a daily struggle. The good news is that boredom is not actually a problem. It is an opportunity to build independent play and creativity using the right positive parenting techniques. In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Currie-Rubin and Cassandra Golding to break down exactly what to do when kids are bored without turning yourself into the entertainment director. We talk about why boredom matters, how to encourage independent play, and how to use simple, practical bored kids activities that actually work. You will also learn how to respond in the moment using positive parenting techniques so your child can move from frustration to creativity on their own. In this episode, we cover: Why what to do when kids are bored starts with not jumping in to solve the problem How boredom supports creativity and builds independent play skills Simple bored kids activities that help kids get started without needing you How to use positive parenting techniques to stay calm and not take over Why independent play is harder for some kids and how to support it How to create easy, go-to bored kids activities ahead of time What positive parenting techniques look like when your child resists How to confidently handle what to do when kids are bored without screens If you are tired of constantly solving boredom for your child, this episode will help you shift your approach using positive parenting techniques, build stronger independent play skills, and feel confident in what to do when kids are bored with simple, effective bored kids activities. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Learn more about our upcoming conference on May 15, 2026. Click here to REGISTER. Get 10% off with code DRLEAH10 LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH RACHEL & CASSANDRA: Website
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#58
May 5 · 14 min
What to Do Tonight After You Snap at Your Kids (And Feel Guilty About It)
If you’ve ever snapped at your kids and immediately felt that wave of guilt, you are not alone. That moment where you wish you could take it back is something every parent experiences, and it’s exactly where effective parenting skills really matter. The good news is that what you do after matters more than the mistake itself. In this episode, I walk you through exactly how to apologize to your child in a way that actually repairs the relationship. We’ll talk about what real accountability looks like in different parenting styles, how to use positive parenting techniques to reconnect, and how to move forward without staying stuck in guilt. If you’ve ever struggled with what to say after you lose your patience, this episode will give you a clear, practical path rooted in effective parenting skills. In this episode, we cover: Why snapping happens even when you’re using strong effective parenting skills Exactly how to apologize to your child in a way that builds trust What positive parenting techniques look like after you’ve yelled How different parenting styles approach repair and accountability Why learning how to apologize to your child is a critical life skill to model How effective parenting skills include taking responsibility without blaming your child Ways positive parenting techniques help you reconnect quickly after conflict How your parenting styles influence how your child experiences your apology If you’ve been stuck in parent guilt after yelling, this episode will help you strengthen your effective parenting skills, learn how to apologize to your child, use positive parenting techniques, and show up in a way that aligns with the kind of parenting styles you want to model. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Read the full show notes HERE! LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#57
April 28 · 14 min
What to Say After Your Child Messes Up (Without Shaming Them)
If your child does something wrong and you are not sure what to say next, you are not alone. These moments are where effective parenting really matters, but they are also the hardest to navigate. You want to teach, not shame. You want to correct behavior while still building strong parenting skills that support your child’s confidence. In this episode, I am breaking down how to respond after your child messes up using positive discipline strategies that actually work. We will talk about how to approach these conversations in a way that strengthens your parenting skills, helps you stay grounded in effective parenting, and supports how to get your child to listen without damaging your relationship. If you have ever struggled with what to say in the moment, this episode will give you a clear path forward. In this episode, we cover: Why effective parenting after mistakes is more about teaching than punishing How to build strong parenting skills when emotions are running high What positive discipline strategies look like in real-life situations How your response impacts how to get your child to listen in the future Why effective parenting includes separating your child from their behavior How positive discipline strategies help your child learn without shame Ways to strengthen parenting skills so conversations feel calmer and clearer How to approach how to get your child to listen through connection, not fear If you have ever felt stuck after your child messes up, this episode will help you lean into effective parenting, strengthen your parenting skills, apply positive discipline strategies, and improve how to get your child to listen in a way that actually works. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Episode 13: How to Help an Angry Child Calm Down Without Losing Your Cool: The Key to Connection Before Correction LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#56
April 21 · 15 min
Why Kids Push Your Buttons (And Why Yelling Makes It Worse)
If your child seems to know exactly how to get a reaction out of you, you’re not imagining it. When kids engage in attention-seeking behavior in children, it can feel intentional, frustrating, and hard to ignore, especially when it looks like child testing boundaries in real time. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really going on underneath attention-seeking behavior in children and why kids rely on it to get positive attention. We’ll talk about how to respond when your child is child testing boundaries, what it looks like to stay grounded in confident parenting, and why your reaction matters more than you think. You’ll also learn how to shift your approach so that positive attention reinforces the behaviors you actually want to see. In this episode, we cover: Why attention-seeking behavior in children is normal and often tied to a need for positive attention What’s happening when your child is testing boundaries and looking for a reaction How confident parenting helps you respond without escalating the situation Why giving positive attention at the right time reduces attention-seeking behavior in children How to handle moments of child testing boundaries without reinforcing the behavior What positive attention looks like when you feel triggered or frustrated How increasing positive attention can decrease attention-seeking behavior in children over time When frequent child testing boundaries might signal a deeper need for connection and positive attention If you’re stuck in a cycle where attention-seeking behavior in children and child testing boundaries lead to bigger reactions, this episode will help you shift into confident parenting and use positive attention in a way that actually works. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!
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#55
April 14 · 26 min
Why Smart Kids Still Struggle With Studying: 4 Tips from Evan Weinberger on How to Help Your Child Study
If your child is bright but still struggling with studying, you’re not alone. I see this all the time in my practice, where kids have the ability but not the study skills for students or the time management for kids that actually help them succeed. And that can be incredibly frustrating for both parents and kids. In this episode, I sit down with Evan Weinberger to talk about why even smart kids struggle and what we can actually do about it through confident parenting. We break down what’s missing when it comes to study skills for students, how time management for kids plays a huge role in academic success, and how to support your child without turning studying into a constant battle. Evan Weinberger shares practical strategies you can use right away to help your child build independence, confidence, and stronger habits. In this episode, we cover: Why smart kids often lack study skills for students even when they understand the material How poor time management for kids leads to last-minute stress and inconsistent performance What confident parenting looks like when your child resists studying How Evan Weinberger approaches building study skills for students in a way that actually sticks The role of time management for kids in reducing homework battles How to shift into confident parenting instead of nagging or constant reminders Simple systems Evan Weinberger recommends to improve studying at home Why building study skills for students and improving time management for kids creates long-term success If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of reminders, frustration, and your child avoiding work, this episode will help you take a confident parenting approach while building the study skills for students and time management for kids your child actually needs, with guidance from Evan Weinberger. LET'S CONNECT: Thriving Child Center PCIT Experts Calm and Connected Program Instagram Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways—delivered straight to your inbox every week. Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! CONNECT WITH EVAN WEINBERGER: SAOTG Client Challenge Facebook Instagram Pinterest LinkedIn Binder system for students Reach out (713-665-4263 or info@saotg.com) to discuss any additional support needs for academic tutoring and/or executive function coaching
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