Kids & FamilyParentingEducationHow ToSociety & CultureRelationships

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

Play

Open in

30 episodes
weekly
Avg 21 min
English

Episodes 30

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

#83
Tuesday · 15 min
How to Back Down When You’re the One Escalating the Conflict
Have you ever snapped at your child, gotten upset with their reaction, and then realized you were the one who started the conflict? Even child psychologists make parenting mistakes, and I recently had one of those moments with my seven-year-old daughter. In this episode of Educated Parent, I'm sharing what happened when my frustration over a missing phone turned into an unnecessary argument. We'll explore how to apologize to your child, why taking responsibility matters, and how better communication with children can help repair a difficult moment. In this episode, we cover: How to recognize when your own frustration is behind your child's behavior The difference between holding a fair boundary and making parenting mistakes that escalate conflict How to apologize to your child without expecting an apology in return Why taking responsibility teaches kids how to repair relationships Three steps to reset an argument and improve communication with children We can't avoid every disagreement, but we can show our kids how to recover from one. parenting mistakes become opportunities for growth when we practice taking responsibility, model healthy communication with children, and learn how to apologize to your child in a way that rebuilds connection. 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!
- Transcript
#82
October 20 · 23 min
How to Make Leaving the House Less of a Battle with Daniel Katz, Psy.D.
Getting your kids out the door shouldn't feel like an Olympic event! But between missing shoes, endless distractions, and constant reminders, even a simple morning routine for kids can turn into a battle. In this episode, I'm joined by psychologist Daniel Katz, Psy.D., to explore why child behavior makes everyday transitions challenging and how communication with children can help. We share morning routine for kids that builds executive functioning skills, encourages independence, and makes getting ready less stressful. In this episode, we cover: Why a morning routine for kids can be so difficult when children are still developing planning and organizational skills How understanding child behavior helps parents recognize what's behind delays and resistance Simple positive parenting techniques that help kids stay focused without constant reminders How narrating your thoughts strengthens communication with children and teaches kids to think through everyday tasks Why involving kids in problem-solving can make a morning routine for kids more cooperative The goal isn't to eliminate every distraction or struggle. It's to understand child behavior and use positive parenting techniques that teach skills rather than simply demand cooperation. With better communication with children, getting out the door can become less of a battle and more of a team effort. 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 DANIEL KATZ: Website Instagram Facebook TikTok
- Transcript
#81
October 13 · 17 min
Why Instagram Is the Scariest Place for Parents and How to Know Who to Trust
Have you ever opened Instagram after your kids go to bed and suddenly found yourself wondering if everything you're doing as a parent is wrong? One reel tells you the phrase you should never say to your child. Another warns that something seemingly harmless could damage your relationship forever. Before you know it, your parenting anxiety is through the roof, the mom guilt has kicked in, and you're second-guessing decisions you felt perfectly fine about 10 minutes ago. In this episode, I'm talking about parenting and social media, specifically why so much parenting content online feels terrifying. As a child psychologist and a parent, I see how fear-based advice affects families, and I've even felt that anxiety myself. So, I'm sharing a framework for separating genuinely helpful information from content that's designed to scare you, sell to you, or convince you there's one magic formula for effective parenting. In this episode, I cover: How parenting anxiety can make us especially vulnerable to advice that promises one simple solution Why mom guilt can skyrocket when we're constantly told that one wrong phrase or decision could damage our children Why nuance matters when evaluating advice about effective parenting, and why “always do this” or “never say that” should make you cautious Why navigating parenting and social media requires becoming a more cautious consumer, even when the person you're watching seems to understand your exact struggle If Instagram leaves you feeling like you're failing your kids, remember that feeling anxious doesn't mean the content you're consuming is accurate. Good advice should help you understand your child and make thoughtful decisions, not send your parenting anxiety spiraling or pile on more mom guilt. There isn't one perfect phrase or magic formula for effective parenting. Real children, real families, and real relationships are much more nuanced than that. And when it comes to parenting and social media, you are allowed to question what you're seeing, look at who's giving the advice, and decide that some content simply isn't worth consuming. 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!
- Transcript
#80
October 6 · 29 min
How to Find a New School for Your Child: With Julie Blumberg and Dee Dee Halpin
Realizing your child may need a new school can feel incredibly overwhelming. Where do you even start? How many schools should you consider? And how do you know whether a school that sounds great on paper will actually be the right fit for your child? In this episode, I’m joined by Julie Blumberg and Dee Dee Halpin of Houston School Options to break down how to choose a school for your child without getting lost in all the possibilities. We talk about changing schools, what parents should look for during a school search, and why the right school environment can have such a significant impact on a child’s happiness, confidence, and life at home. This is one of those parenting resources that brings together parenting and education in a really practical way. In this episode, we cover: How Julie Blumberg and Dee Dee Halpin recommend beginning your search, including researching schools, talking to other families, and exploring different educational approaches Why figuring out how to choose a school for your child requires looking beyond what worked for your friend’s child or what people recommend in a Facebook group Why changing schools can affect much more than academics, especially when a child’s current environment is affecting confidence, behavior, or happiness at home Why applications, testing, interviews, tours, and deadlines can make parenting and education decisions feel like a second job Why some of the best parenting resources provide an outside perspective when emotions make it difficult to evaluate your options objectively If you’re considering changing schools, start exploring before you feel like you’re in a crisis. Julie Blumberg and Dee Dee Halpin remind us that learning how to choose a school for your child is about understanding your individual child and family, exploring what’s actually available, and tuning out some of the outside noise. When it comes to parenting and education, having trustworthy parenting resources and a clear process can make an overwhelming decision feel much more manageable. 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 JULIE AND DEE DEE: Website Instagram Facebook
- Transcript
#79
September 29 · 19 min
How to Prevent Meltdowns on Your Next Family Outing
Have you ever planned a fun family outing only to spend the entire time dealing with whining, disappointment, tantrums, and meltdowns? You get home exhausted and wonder, “Wasn’t this supposed to be fun?” In this episode of Educated Parent, I’m sharing one of my favorite positive parenting techniques for making family outings go more smoothly: talk about expectations before you leave. So much of challenging child behavior comes from a simple disconnect between what we think is going to happen and what our kids have already imagined will happen. A little communication with children ahead of time can prevent a lot of frustration once you’re actually there. In this episode, I cover: Why unexpected disappointment can help explain how to deal with tantrums before they even begin Why good communication with children doesn’t mean giving kids everything they want How setting expectations in advance is one of the simplest positive parenting techniques for helping kids handle hearing “no” How consistency affects child behavior, including why giving in after you’ve already said no can lead to bigger tantrums next time Why understanding how to deal with tantrums also means following through on the expectations you’ve set If you’re wondering how to deal with tantrums without avoiding fun family experiences altogether, start by getting everyone on the same page before you go. Clear communication with children, realistic expectations, and consistent follow-through are positive parenting techniques that can build trust while helping you respond to challenging child behavior with 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! Have a parenting question or a topic you'd love to hear on the podcast? Submit your question here!
- Transcript
#78
September 22 · 27 min
“He’s So OCD” - When Should Parents Be Concerned? with Dr. Chad Brandt
We hear people say things like, “He’s so OCD” or “I’m so OCD” all the time. But what does OCD actually look like in a child? And how can you tell when your child simply likes things a certain way versus when their behavior might be driven by something more serious? In this episode of Educated Parent, I’m joined by psychologist Dr. Chad Brandt, who specializes in treating severe OCD in children and adolescents. Dr. Brandt is trained in the Bergen four-day treatment for OCD and has been providing full-day intensive treatment since 2020. We talk about how ordinary routines and repetitive behavior can differ from OCD, the warning signs parents should pay attention to, and why understanding parenting and child development can help us avoid both over-pathologizing normal behavior and overlooking a child who needs support. It’s exactly the kind of nuanced conversation I want more parenting podcasts to have. In this episode, we cover: What OCD in children actually looks like and how obsessions, compulsions, fear, and interference with daily life fit together How to distinguish normal childhood preferences and repetitive behavior from rituals that are driven by anxiety or fear Why Dr. Chad Brandt looks at how much time OCD consumes when considering the severity of a child's symptoms How letting children experience manageable discomfort instead of immediately fixing it connects parenting and child development with building confidence and resilience If you're sorting through repetitive behavior and wondering whether it's simply part of your child's personality or could be OCD in children, this conversation with Dr. Chad Brandt can help you know what to watch for and when to seek an expert evaluation. Among parenting podcasts, I hope Educated Parent can give you the evidence-based information you need to feel more confident navigating parenting and child development when your child is struggling. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: International OCD Foundation Website 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 DR. CHAD BRANDT: Website
- Transcript
#77
September 15 · 19 min
Feeling Touched Out? It’s Okay to Set Limits with Your Kids
Have you ever felt completely touched out by the end of the day, but guilty for wanting your child to just stop touching you? I want you to know that needing physical space doesn't make you a bad parent, and setting limits around your body isn't harmful to your child. In this episode of Educated Parent, I'm talking about why parenting boundaries around physical touch are not only okay, but important for our kids to learn. I'll explain why I don't believe children need unlimited access to our bodies in order to regulate, how setting limits teaches bodily autonomy and consent, and why respectful parenting means that your comfort and safety matter, too. I'm also sharing practical parenting tips you can use when your child climbs on you, pulls your hair, jumps on you, or keeps touching you after you've had enough. In this episode, I cover: Why being touched out is a valid reason to set limits around how and when your child touches you How parenting boundaries teach your child about bodily autonomy, consent, personal space, and respecting other people's bodies How respectful parenting includes modeling that everyone, including parents, gets to decide how their body is touched My practical parenting tips for clearly explaining a boundary, offering your child an alternative, following through when they ignore the limit, and praising them when they respect it How setting limits when you're touched out can help your child learn other ways to regulate instead of always relying on another person's body Why practicing parenting boundaries at home can help kids understand personal space and physical safety with friends, teachers, and other people You don't have to sacrifice your own physical comfort to be a loving parent. These parenting tips are about using respectful parenting to teach your child that their body matters, other people's bodies matter, and everyone deserves to have their boundaries respected. So if you're feeling touched out, remember that setting clear parenting boundaries can be good for you, good for your child, and good for your relationship. 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!
- Transcript
#76
September 8 · 29 min
How To Get Your Kid to Actually Try a Vegetable Tonight (with Jennifer Anderson From Kids Eat in Color)
Getting your child to eat vegetables can turn dinner into a nightly power struggle. You serve the broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower; your child refuses, and suddenly you're negotiating over every bite. If you've ever wondered how to get kids to eat vegetables without making everyone miserable, registered dietitian Jennifer Anderson of Kids Eat in Color has a surprisingly simple approach. In this episode of Educated Parent, I talk with Jennifer about taking the pressure, guilt, and morality out of feeding kids. We discuss why picky eaters often become even more resistant when they sense pressure, what healthy eating for kids can look like without forcing bites, and practical parenting tips that can make dinner feel more relaxed and connected. In this episode, you'll learn: Why learning how to get kids to eat vegetables starts with letting go of the idea that your success as a parent depends on what your child eats Why telling picky eaters they "have to try it" can actually make them more resistant to unfamiliar foods Why modeling the behavior you want is one of the simplest parenting tips you can try at dinner tonight Why laughter, jokes, and connection at the dinner table can support a less stressful approach to healthy eating for kids You don't need another complicated dinner strategy or a new way to convince your child to take "just one bite." Jennifer's approach to how to get kids to eat vegetables is about changing the environment instead of controlling the outcome. These parenting tips can help you take the pressure off picky eaters while building a more positive approach to healthy eating for kids - one toothpick, laugh, and low-pressure meal at a time. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Feed Them Well by Jennifer Anderson 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 JENNIFER ANDERSON: Website Instagram TikTok
- Transcript
#75
September 1 · 25 min
Why Parenting Feels Harder During Perimenopause - and What to Do (with Elisabeth Netherton)
Parenting has always been demanding, but what happens when you suddenly feel more anxious, irritable, overwhelmed, or forgetful than you used to? For many moms, these changes can feel like a personal failure when they may actually be perimenopause symptoms. And because we don't talk nearly enough about hormone changes in women, it can be difficult to recognize what's really going on. In this episode, I talk with reproductive psychiatrist Elisabeth Netherton about perimenopause, parenting, and women's mental health. We explore why anxiety, sleep problems, mood changes, and brain fog in women can affect everything from keeping track of your child's schedule to responding calmly when your kid pushes your buttons. In this episode, you'll learn: Why perimenopause symptoms can show up years before you might expect them How hormone changes in women can influence mood, anxiety, sleep, attention, and the way you respond to your kids Why brain fog in women can make managing school schedules, activities, work, and family responsibilities suddenly feel much harder How struggles with women's mental health during perimenopause can be mistaken for simply "not handling things well" If you've been wondering why parenting suddenly feels harder, this conversation may help you see your experience differently. Understanding perimenopause symptoms, recognizing brain fog in women, and talking more openly about women's mental health and hormone changes in women can help replace guilt and shame with information, self-compassion, and a clearer path toward getting the support you need. 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 ELISABETH NETHERTON: Website LinkedIn
- Transcript
#74
August 25 · 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
- Transcript
#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!
- Transcript
#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
- Transcript
#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
- Transcript
#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!
- Transcript
#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!
- Transcript
#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!
- Transcript
#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!
- Transcript
#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
- Transcript
#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
- Transcript
#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!
- Transcript

Showing 1–20 of 30 episodes