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

If you’ve ever wondered whether your child is just learning at their own pace or truly a child struggling to read, this episode is for you. Questions about early reading can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what’s typical and what might require support from a dyslexia psychologist.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Dyanna Villesca, a dyslexia psychologist, to talk about what’s really going on when a child struggling to read isn’t making progress. We break down what to look for in early reading, how specialists think about how to diagnose dyslexia in a child, and when it might be time to seek guidance from a dyslexia psychologist. If you’ve been unsure about your child’s early reading development, this conversation will give you clarity and next steps.In this episode, we cover:What’s typical in early reading, and when to start paying closer attentionHow a dyslexia psychologist evaluates a child struggling to readEarly indicators that may point toward the need for how to diagnose dyslexia in a childWhat parents should understand about how to diagnose dyslexia in a child and the evaluation processWhy early reading struggles don’t always mean something serious, but shouldn’t be ignoredHow a dyslexia psychologist supports families through the assessment processThe emotional experience of a child struggling to read and how to support themWhen to take the next step toward how to diagnose dyslexia in a childIf you’re concerned about a child struggling to read, this episode will help you better understand early reading, what a dyslexia psychologist looks for, and how to approach how to diagnose dyslexia in a child with confidence.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DYANNA VILLESCA:WebsiteInstagramFacebook

Is your child not listening in public, making every outing feel stressful? You are not alone. So many parents struggle with this, especially when expectations aren’t clear, and behavior quickly unravels. Often, the issue isn’t your child being difficult; it’s a mismatch in child expectations from parents that hasn’t been clearly communicated.In this episode, I’m breaking down how to get your child to listen in public settings using simple, practical strategies that actually work. When you clearly communicate child expectations from parents ahead of time and consistently use positive reinforcement for kids, you’ll see a major shift in behavior. Instead of reacting to your child not listening, you’ll be setting your child up for success before you even walk into the store.In this episode, we cover:Why a child not listening often comes from unclear child expectations from parentsHow to get your child to listen by setting clear expectations before entering public spacesThe role of positive reinforcement for kids in improving cooperation and behaviorWhat to do in the moment when your child not listening starts to escalateHow clear child expectations from parents reduce confusion and prevent power strugglesHow to get your child to listen without yelling or threatening consequencesHow to consistently use positive reinforcement for kids to reinforce the behavior you wantWhy understanding a child not listening is key to long-term successIf you’ve been frustrated with your child not listening, this episode will help you figure out how to get your child to listen by setting clear child expectations from parents and using positive reinforcement for kids in a way that feels calm, confident, and effective.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 29: Why Praising Children Matters More Than You Think with Julia LairLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

If you’ve ever wondered how to talk to your kids about sex without feeling awkward, overwhelmed, or unsure what to say, you are not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get from parents, and it’s something every parent will eventually face.In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Goldberg Mintz, a clinical psychologist and parenting expert, to walk you through how to approach age appropriate sex talk in a way that feels natural, supportive, and aligned with your values. We break down what sexual education for kids can actually look like in real life and how to use this moment as powerful advice on parenting that strengthens your relationship with your child. Instead of avoiding the conversation, this episode will help you feel more confident about how to talk to your kids and make age appropriate sex talk an ongoing, comfortable dialogue.In this episode, we cover:How to talk to your kids about sex in a way that feels calm, confident, and aligned with your valuesWhat age appropriate sex talk actually looks like at different developmental stagesHow sexual education for kids can be guided by your child’s questions instead of a one-time “big talk”Practical advice on parenting to help you feel more comfortable having these conversationsWhy sexual education for kids should be ongoing and not just a single conversationHow to use age appropriate sex talk to build trust and open communication with your childWhy learning how to talk to your kids about hard topics sets the foundation for future conversationsInsights and strategies from Melissa Goldberg Mintz on making these conversations easier and more effectiveLearning how to talk to your kids about sex doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right approach, age appropriate sex talk becomes a natural part of parenting and a powerful way to connect. This kind of advice on parenting helps ensure that your child receives accurate sexual education for kids directly from you, in a way that supports both their understanding and your relationship.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Has Your Child Been Traumatized? How to Know and What to Do to Promote Healing and RecoveryLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 MELISSA GOLDBERG MINTZ:WebsiteInstagram

If you’ve ever wondered how to get kids to listen, you’re not alone. Parents often feel like they are repeating themselves over and over, asking their child to put on shoes, clean up toys, or get ready for school. In this episode, I share simple strategies that can dramatically improve how to get kids to listen by making small changes to the way we communicate with our children.In my clinical work, I often see that the issue isn’t that kids refuse to cooperate. Instead, the problem is that our instructions for kids are unclear, indirect, or overwhelming. When parents focus on clearer instructions for kids and strengthen positive communication with your child, cooperation becomes much easier. These simple shifts can make a huge difference in how to get kids to listen during everyday routines.In this episode, I talk about:Why kids sometimes ignore directions and what parents misunderstand about how to get kids to listenHow clearer instructions for kids can increase cooperation and reduce frustrationThe role of positive communication with your child in helping kids respond the first timeWhy vague directions often fail, and how better instructions for kids solve the problemHow strengthening positive communication with your child can reduce yelling and power strugglesWhy are strategies like these frequently discussed on the best parenting podcasts focused on practical parenting toolsHow improving positive communication with your child helps children understand expectations more clearlyIf you enjoy learning practical strategies from the best parenting podcasts, this episode will give you simple tools you can use immediately to improve cooperation at home. Conversations about how to get kids to listen are common across the best parenting podcasts, because small communication changes can transform everyday parenting moments.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Do you really have to talk to your kids about sex?In this episode, I sit down with psychologist Melissa Goldberg Mintz to talk about one of the parenting topics people avoid the most: having an age appropriate sex talk with your children. Melissa is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, and assistant clinical professor at Baylor College of Medicine who specializes in helping parents navigate difficult conversations. Together, we discuss why sexual education for kids is so important and why choosing to talk to your kids about sex is one of the most important pieces of advice on parenting we can offer.In this episode, we discuss:• Why parents often feel uncomfortable starting an age appropriate sex talk• How sexual education for kids helps protect children and build healthy boundaries• Why choosing to talk to your kids about difficult topics builds trust and communication• The risks of children learning about sex from the internet, friends, or misinformation• Practical advice on parenting for creating a safe space where kids can ask tough questionsIf you've ever wondered whether you really need to talk to your kids about sex, this conversation will help you understand why an age appropriate sex talk and honest sexual education for kids are such important parts of modern advice on parenting.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Has Your Child Been Traumatized? How to Know and What to Do to Promote Healing and RecoveryLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 MELISSA GOLDBERG MINTZ:WebsiteInstagram

In this solo episode of the Educated Parent Podcast, I’m talking about what to do when your child does something that feels intentionally “naughty.” From peanut butter in the hair to Sharpie on the walls, moments of child misbehavior can feel personal, frustrating, and completely overwhelming.I know how easy it is to assume our kids are doing these things on purpose. In the moment, naughty behavior can feel like sabotage. But what if most child misbehavior is not defiance at all?In this episode, I walk through why kids misbehave from a developmental perspective and explain how our reactions can either escalate conflict or turn the situation into a teaching moment. I share how curious parenting has helped me respond more effectively and why regulating ourselves first is the most important step.In this episode, I cover:• Why kids misbehave even when they are not trying to cause problems• How developmentally appropriate behavior can look like naughty behavior• How I calm myself before responding to child misbehavior• How curious parenting helps prevent power struggles• How to turn frustrating moments into opportunities for growthIf you have ever felt personally attacked by your child’s behavior or wondered why kids misbehave in ways that create chaos at the worst possible time, this episode will help you approach child misbehavior with more calm, clarity, and confidence.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

When it comes to supplements for kids, most parents are left asking the same questions: Are they safe? Are they regulated? And how do I know what’s actually inside the bottle?In this episode of The Educated Parent Podcast, Dr. Leah Clionsky sits down with board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Shetal Amin to unpack what every parent needs to know about supplements for kids and pediatric supplements.With shelves full of gummies, powders, and capsules promising better sleep, improved focus, calmer behavior, and stronger immunity, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Many families turn to supplements for kids as a first step before considering prescription treatment. But are all pediatric supplements created equal?Dr. Shetal Amin explains:• Why supplements for kids are not regulated the same way as prescription medications are• How to evaluate the safety and quality of pediatric supplements• What third-party testing actually means• Why “natural” does not automatically mean safe• How marketing and social media influence decisions about supplements for kids• The red flags to watch for when evaluating pediatric wellness productsYou’ll also learn how to avoid common pitfalls, including proprietary blends and products that sound too good to be true. If you’ve ever felt uncertain about choosing pediatric supplements, this episode will help you approach the process with clarity and evidence in mind.Most importantly, this conversation is about confident parenting. Making informed decisions about supplements for kids requires asking good questions, understanding the science, and knowing when to involve your pediatrician. Dr. Shetal Amin shares practical guidance so you can practice confident parenting without fear, pressure, or guilt.Whether you’re considering a multivitamin, a sleep aid, or another type of pediatric supplements, this episode will give you the tools you need to make thoughtful, informed choices.Tune in to learn how to navigate supplements for kids safely and confidently.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DR. SHETAL AMIN:Website

When your child is angry, it can trigger something deep inside of you. You might want to defend yourself, shut it down, or react quickly. In this episode, I walk you through how to respond in those heated moments using evidence-based parenting strategies that protect your relationship instead of escalating the conflict. I also explain how to calm a child down when angry while staying calm and confident, even when the words coming at you feel sharp.In this episode, I cover:• Why it is developmentally normal when your child is angry, and what anger is actually communicating• Exactly how to respond when your child is angry without invalidating their emotions• The difference between allowing anger and allowing disrespect• Practical steps for how to calm a child down when angry without losing your authority• How to stay calm and confident so you can model emotional regulation• How these strategies reflect true evidence-based parenting and build long-term emotional skillsLearning how to respond when your child is angry is one of the most powerful shifts you can make. When you approach these moments with evidence-based parenting, and practice staying calm and confident, you teach your child exactly how to calm a child down when angry in healthy ways for the rest of their life.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 37: Teaching Kids Emotions and Identifying Feelings for Fewer Blow UpsLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Watching your teen experience their first heartbreak can feel absolutely gut-wrenching as a parent. You want to fix it. You want to make the pain disappear. And at the same time, you may be flooded with memories of your own teenage breakup experiences that still live in your nervous system. In this episode, we talk about how to show up in a way that actually supports healing instead of creating more distance.I’m joined by teen mental health specialist Charity Chaffee to talk honestly about why a first heartbreak hits teens so hard, why a teenage breakup can feel world-ending, and how parents can support teen mental health without minimizing feelings or becoming overinvolved. This conversation is all about learning how to stay connected through pain, using validating emotions as the foundation for trust and emotional safety.In this episode, we cover• Why a first heartbreak is developmentally intense and why teens experience a teenage breakup differently than adults• How to support teen mental health without rushing the healing process or trying to fix the pain• The difference between dismissing feelings and validating emotions in a way that builds long-term resilience• Common parenting reactions that unintentionally make a teenage breakup harder to process• How validating emotions helps teens feel safe opening up instead of shutting down• What parents can model to support teen mental health after a first heartbreakIf your teen is struggling after a teenage breakup, this episode will help you understand what they actually need from you and how validating emotions can strengthen your relationship during one of the most vulnerable moments of adolescence. Supporting teen mental health through a first heartbreak is not about fixing the pain. It is about staying present, steady, and emotionally available when it matters most.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!Episode 13: How to Help an Angry Child Calm Down Without Losing Your Cool: The Key to Connection Before CorrectionLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 CHARITY CHAFFEE:InstagramSkoolWebsiteTeens Uncharted Website

Play dates are supposed to be fun, but so many parents tell me the same thing: play dates are stressful. You worry about how your child will act, whether they’ll feel left out, or if things might go sideways in front of another parent. In this episode, I wanted to give you concrete tools to help play dates feel calmer, smoother, and actually enjoyable for everyone involved.I’m joined by Maria Hammond, Ph.D., a specialist in communication development and parent-child relationships. Maria runs social skills groups for young children and brings a thoughtful, practical lens to helping kids build social skills through everyday interactions. Together, we talk about why successful play doesn’t mean perfection and how small shifts in preparation can make a big difference.In this episode, we cover:Why play dates are stressful for both kids and parents, and how anxiety can shape expectationsHow to build social skills by planning play dates witha clear structure and realistic goalsWhy going into a play date with a “mission” helps kids feel more confident and engaged in successful playHow environment and expectations impact successful play, especially for shy or sensitive kidsWhen and why it’s better to leave a play date while it’s still going wellHow parents can support build social skills without hovering or overcorrectingIf play dates have ever left you feeling tense, discouraged, or unsure of what went wrong, this conversation will help you reframe what success really looks like. With guidance from Maria Hammond, Ph.D., you’ll walk away with practical strategies to support successful play, reduce stress, and help your child build social skills in a way that feels manageable and developmentally appropriate.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Listen to Episode 16: How to Stop Meltdowns Before They Start By Managing Expectations and Parenting Without Power StrugglesRead the full show notes HERE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 MARIA HAMMOND, Ph.D.WebsiteEmail: [email protected]

Eating out with kids can quickly turn into a battle over screens. If your child expects a phone the moment you sit down at a restaurant, you are not alone. In this episode, I walk you through how to reset expectations, change screen time habits, and build sustainable screen time boundaries without turning every meal into a meltdown.I explain why this pattern develops, why it is so hard to undo once it starts, and how to step out of it using evidence-based, realistic strategies. This episode is full of positive parenting tips to help you feel more confident and prepared the next time you go out to eat with your child.In this episode, you will learn:Why screen time habits form so quickly at restaurantsHow to reset expectations before you even walk through the doorPractical ways to build and hold screen time boundaries without escalating behaviorWhat to do when your child pushes back and how to respond calmlypositive parenting tips to make restaurants less stressful and more connectedIf you are tired of relying on screens at meals and want a plan that actually works, this episode will help you take the first steps toward screen-free restaurant experiences that feel doable and respectful for everyone.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!Episode 16: How to Stop Meltdowns Before They Start by Managing Expectations and Parenting Without Power StrugglesLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

If choosing extracurricular activities leaves you feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, and stuck in constant mom guilt, this episode is for you. Many parents in a busy family feel pressure to do more, sign up for everything, and keep up with what other families are doing, even when it does not feel right. In this conversation, I want to help you step out of overschedulingand into confident decision-making that actually supports your child and your nervous system.In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Fein, a licensed child psychologist and board certified behavior analyst, to talk about how parents can prioritize extracurricular activities without burning out. Rachel Fein brings both clinical expertise and real-life parenting experience to this conversation, helping parents rethink mom guilt, pressure, and what children truly need to thrive.Together, we break down how overscheduling happens so easily in a busy family and how parents can make intentional choices that support connection, emotional regulation, and physical activity for kids without sacrificing family wellbeing.In this episode, we discussWhy overscheduling is so common in a busy family and how it quietly fuels mom guiltHow to evaluate extracurricular activities through the lens of family values instead of outside pressureThe difference between meaningful physical activity for kids and activity overloadHow to recognize when mom guilt is driving decisions instead of your child’s actual needsPractical strategies for setting boundaries around extracurricular activities without feeling selfishWhy protecting downtime matters just as much as physical activity for kidsHow confident parenting reduces overschedulingand supports healthier routines for the entire busy familyThis episode is a reminder that you do not need to do everything to be a good parent. When you let go of mom guilt, reduce overscheduling, and make values-based choices, you create more space for connection, regulation, and joy for both you and your child.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 15: Should You Keep Pushing Your Child to Succeed or Back Off? With Kristin MervichLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DR. RACHEL FEIN:InstagramWebsite

If you feel disconnected from your child, overwhelmed by behavior struggles, or unsure how to rebuild closeness without adding more to your plate, this episode is for you. I am going to show you how just 5 minutes per day can meaningfully change your relationship with your child and help you feel more grounded in confident parenting.In this solo episode, I walk you through one of the most powerful positive parenting tips I teach as a PCIT specialist. This simple daily practice comes straight from evidence-based parent-child interaction therapy and has helped hundreds of families strengthen their relationship with your child without punishment, power struggles, or long complicated routines. I also share how I use this exact strategy in my own home when things start to feel off.In this episode, we talk about:Why 5 minutes per day of focused attention can transform your relationship with your childHow this approach supports confident parenting even when behavior feels challengingWhat parents often get wrong about play and connection, and how to fix itThe specific positive parenting tips that make these five minutes actually workHow letting your child lead builds emotional safety and strengthens your relationship with your childIf you are looking for realistic positive parenting tips, want to feel more confident in your parenting choices, and are hoping to improve your relationship with your child without burning out, this episode will give you a clear place to start. Five minutes per day really can make a difference, and I want to show you how.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HEREListen to Episode 29 with Julia Lair: Why Praising Children Matters More Than You Think: How to Praise Your Child with Julia LairLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

If you have ever worried about how diet culture is shaping your child’s thoughts about food, this episode is for you. Sehrish Ali helps us understand how helping kids build a healthy relationship with food feels harder than ever when diet culture is everywhere, and child eating habits are constantly judged.In this episode, I sit down with Sehrish Ali, a psychologist and certified eating disorder specialist, to talk about how parents can protect a healthy relationship with food while raising kids in a world dominated by diet culture. Sehrish works closely with families and brings practical, compassionate insight into child eating habits, body image, and the subtle ways parents unintentionally pass down food rules. This conversation is full of real-world parenting resources you can start using immediately.In this episode, we cover:How diet culture shows up in everyday parenting and quietly influences child eating habits in ways parents often missWhat a healthy relationship with food actually looks like for kids and why perfection is not the goalThe language parents should stop using around food and bodies to support healthier child eating habitsHow to model a healthy relationship with food, even if you are still unpacking your own experiences with diet culturePractical parenting resources that help parents prioritize connection over control around mealsIf you are looking for evidence-based parenting resources, want to reduce the impact of diet culture, and hope to support long-term child eating habits that feel calm and sustainable, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. Listen to the full episode with Sehrish Ali to learn how to support a healthy relationship with food for your child and for yourself.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 SEHRISH ALI:Website

In this episode of the Educated Parent Podcast, I sit down with Kristin Mervich, a fellow clinician and parenting expert, to talk about how toxic masculinity shows up in subtle ways in families and how evidence-based parenting can help us raise emotionally healthy boys. We explore emotional literacy as a core skill for kids and parents, and why trusting yourself is essential when outside voices get loud. This conversation is grounded in evidence-based parenting, real-life experience, and confident parenting practices that support boys' emotional development without shame or fear.In this episode, I talk about:How toxic masculinity can quietly interfere with emotional literacy in boys and what parenting experts see happening in families every dayWhy trusting yourself as a parent is critical when teaching boys emotional literacy through evidence-based parentingHow confident parenting helps boys express emotions without fear and reduces the long-term impact of toxic masculinityThe role of a parenting expert in helping families apply evidence-based parenting strategies that strengthen emotional literacyHow trusting yourself and leaning into confident parenting creates space for boys to grow into emotionally aware and resilient humansIf you want practical insight from a parenting expert on evidence-based parenting, emotional literacy, and trusting yourself while raising boys in a culture shaped by toxic masculinity, this episode will leave you feeling more confident in your parenting choices and more grounded in your instincts.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 KRISTIN MERVICH:WebsiteInstagram

A pep talk for parents who feel intense pressure to create perfect holiday magic, even when things are falling apart behind the scenes. If the expectations around the holidays are making you doubt yourself, a pep talk is here to support confident parenting and remind you that real connection matters more than perfection.In this solo episode, I share a very honest parenting story from early motherhood where my attempt at creating holiday magic completely unraveled. I use that experience to offer perspective, reassurance, and positive parenting tips for parents who feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or worried that they are not doing enough. This episode is both a pep talk and a reminder that confident parenting does not require everything to go according to plan.In this episode, I talk about • Why the pressure to create holiday magic often makes parenting feel harder and more stressful • How a pep talk can help reset your mindset when a holiday moment goes wrong • What kids actually remember when parents feel pressure around holiday magic • How letting go of perfection supports confident parenting during the holidays • Simple positive parenting tips that help parents recover when plans fall apart • Why confident parenting is built in small moments, not perfect onesIf you are craving reassurance, perspective, and positive parenting tips during a season full of expectations, this episode is for you. Press play for a pep talk that helps you release the pressure of holiday magic and lean into confident parenting instead.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Holiday gatherings can feel joyful and overwhelming at the same time, and this episode will help you walk in with clarity, calm, and a strong foundation of confident parenting. When kids are navigating new environments, loud relatives, unpredictable routines, and big emotions, they need support with child emotion regulation. With the right positive parenting tips, your entire experience at holiday gatherings can feel smoother and more connected.In this conversation, I share the approach I use in my own home to prepare my kids for holiday gatherings. You will learn how to strengthen child emotion regulation, how to stay anchored in confident parenting, and how to use simple positive parenting tips to reduce stress for everyone involved. These strategies help you anticipate challenges, understand what your child needs, and protect your own emotional well-being so you can truly enjoy these moments.Here is what we will cover • How to prepare your child before holiday gatherings so they enter with stronger child emotion regulation and fewer unexpected reactions • What to say to relatives who do not understand your positive parenting tips, and how those conversations strengthen your confident parenting • How to build a calm-down kit that supports child emotion regulation even in unfamiliar settings • What to do when you feel like the overwhelmed parent, and how reconnecting to confident parenting helps you regulate in the moment • How practicing positive parenting tips ahead of time makes holiday gatherings more peaceful for the whole familyYou deserve to approach this season with steady confidence. Your child deserves the gift of child emotion regulation in environments that challenge them. These positive parenting tips will help you step into your holiday gatherings with more peace and more confident parenting.Watch the Full Episode Here LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

If you have ever wondered why big feelings seem to explode out of nowhere, this episode on emotional literacy is going to feel like a deep breath. I share a very real moment where I lost my cool with my kids and how understanding emotional literacy and identifying feelings could have prevented that blow-up. When we are teaching kids emotions early and model this ourselves, we reduce the overwhelm that leads to those out-of-control moments and help our kids grow into calmer, more grounded humans.In this episode, I walk you through how I use emotional literacy in my own parenting and why it is the most powerful antidote for any overwhelmed parent. We also talk about how to stop yelling by understanding what is happening inside your own brain and body, and how identifying feelings is the foundation of teaching kids emotions that truly stick.In this episode, we explore: • The moment I knew I needed better emotional literacy and how that changed the way I respond to stress • Why teaching kids emotions matters long before you expect it to work, and how it prevents future blow-ups • The real reason an overwhelmed parent snaps and what identifying feelings can reveal about what is happening underneath • A simple framework for how to stop yelling by using compassion and connection instead of pressure and perfectionism • Why emotional literacy grows stronger when we model our own mistakes and repair afterwardListen to this episode to learn how to build emotional literacy, support your child in identifying feelings, and reduce the overwhelm that leads to yelling. This is where calmer homes and fewer emotional blow-ups begin.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child Center: https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/thrivingchildcenterPCIT Experts: https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/pcit-expertsCalm and Connected Program: https://thrivingchildcenter.com/calm-and-connected-program-for-parentsInstagram: https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/instagramLove 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: https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/newsletterAre you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources! https://educated-parent.captivate.fm/provider-newsletter

If you are trying to prepare for parenthood and already feel like an overwhelmed parent, this episode will help you breathe again. I sit down with Dr. Kailey Buller to talk honestly about what it feels like to bring a newborn home, why even the most educated parents feel unsure, and how simple first-time parenting tips can help you feel more grounded. We cut through the noise of conflicting advice and share the kind of evidence-based parenting guidance that brings clarity back into the chaos. If you want real advice on parenting from a doctor who has delivered hundreds of babies and raised two of her own, this conversation is for you.In this episode, you will learn: • Why feeling like an overwhelmed parent is often a sign that you are trying to prepare for parenthood with care, not a sign that you are failing. • How Dr. Buller uses her experience to offer first-time parenting tips that make room for flexibility instead of perfection. • The surprising ways advice on parenting can go wrong when you take it at face value, and how evidence-based parenting helps you filter out the noise. • What new parents should know about changing medical guidance and how to stay confident while you prepare for parenthood. • How to keep going when you feel unsure, even after reading books, taking classes, or scrolling endlessly for first-time parenting tips.If you have ever felt like an overwhelmed parent, this episode will help you feel understood, supported, and far more capable than you think. Listen to the full episode to hear Dr. Kailey Buller’s three powerful pieces of advice on parenting and learn how evidence-based parenting can guide you as you prepare for parenthood.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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:WebsiteInstagramTikTok

If the thought of traveling with kids over the holidays fills you with dread, you are not alone. In this episode, I share the best strategies I have learned after years of holiday trips with my own children, including how to keep them regulated, how to plan ahead, and why starting with no screens can make the entire trip easier. I walk through the simple positive parenting tips that let you stay calm and connected even when travel throws every unpredictable challenge your way.In this episode, you will learn: • How to use the first hour of traveling with kids to set the tone for calmer holiday trips. • Why starting with no screens helps your child stay regulated and saves the best strategies for when you need them most. • How to create a simple routine for traveling with kids that combines movement, connection, and positive parenting tips. • The small mistakes that make holiday trips harder, and what you can do instead, using the best strategies that have helped my own family. • How to use positive parenting tips to stay patient when traveling with kids feels overwhelming.Whether you are getting on a plane, loading up the car, or heading out on one of many holiday trips, this episode will help you stay grounded and prepared. These are the best strategies I rely on myself, and they work even when your child is tired, overwhelmed, or begging for screens before you have decided it is time. Learn how positive parenting tips, simple planning, and purposeful no-screens time can transform the experience of traveling with kids into something more manageable.Listen to the full episode for real-life tools you can use on your next trip and discover how small shifts can make your holiday trips smoother, calmer, and much more connected.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagram 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!

How do you actually raise confident kids in a world that constantly tells them they are not enough? In this episode, I share the real strategies I use at home and in my clinical practice to help children build healthy self-confidence from the inside out. These are the same evidence-based parenting approaches I use to guide parents who want to create calm, capable, and emotionally resilient kids. You will learn how to model positive self-talk for kids and how to help your daughter see herself as capable, kind, and deeply worthy.Here is what we’ll cover in this episode: • The exact language I use to model positive self-talk for kids and how it shapes a child’s lifelong confidence • Why true healthy self-confidence starts with how you talk to yourself as a parent and what your kids overhear • How to use evidence-based parenting strategies like modeling, praise, and reflection to raise confident kids without inflating their ego • The surprising ways our culture chips away at healthy self-confidence in girls and how you can protect your daughter from it • What it means to balance kindness with self-respect so you can raise confident kids who treat others well and stand up for themselvesIf you want to understand how to build healthy self-confidence, use positive self-talk for kids, and lean on evidence-based parenting tools that actually work, this episode is for you. Listen now to learn how you can raise confident kids who believe in themselves no matter what life brings.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Watch this episode on YouTube!If your child has ever came down with a fever out of nowhere, and you’ve questioned when to take your child to the doctor (or if you can wait it out at home), this episode will give you the calm, clarity, and confidence you need.I’m joined by Dr. Ross Newman (Dr. Rossome), a board-certified pediatrician and father of six, who shares trusted pediatrician advice that helps every parent make informed, evidence-based choices. Together, we talk about how to manage parental anxiety, understand fevers in kids, and use positive parenting tips to stay grounded when your child is sick.In this episode, you’ll learn: How to know when to take your child to the doctor and what signs matter most. What every parent should understand about fevers in kids and when they become a concern. Why understanding normal illness patterns helps reduce parental anxiety when your child has a fever. The most practical pediatrician advice for hydration, fever, and common viral infections. How simple positive parenting tips can help you stay calm and confident even when things feel uncertain.Parents often struggle with parental anxiety about when to take your child to the doctor, especially when symptoms are confusing. This episode helps you trust yourself again with the right pediatrician advice, clear insight into fevers in kids, and the kind of positive parenting tips that keep your home calmer and your confidence stronger.Listen now for expert pediatrician advice and discover how to handle parental anxiety with clarity about when to take your child to the doctor and practical, positive parenting tips for real-life situations.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Read the full show notes HERE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DR. ROSS NEWMAN:WebsiteYouTubeInstagramTikTokFacebook

Do you ever wonder how to improve executive function in your child so they can stay organized and actually turn in their work? You are not alone. In this episode, I talk with Evan Weinberger, founder of Staying Ahead of the Game, about how to improve executive function at home using simple, practical strategies that really work. Together, we explore how the right homework planner, daily checklists for kids, and consistent time management for teens can reduce frustration and help children feel capable and confident.As a psychologist and parent, I know how exhausting it can be to remind, repeat, and rescue your child from the same executive functioning challenges every week. Evan and I share real solutions that make it easier to improve executive function through structure, support, and the right tools that fit your family’s routine.In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why teaching your child to improve executive function early builds lifelong skills for independence and success • How to set up a homework planner that actually gets used and helps your child manage big projects with ease • The science behind checklists for kids and how they make daily transitions smoother and calmer • The secret to using a homework planner and checklists for kids together to build strong time management for teens • How to spot the signs that your child might benefit from extra support to improve executive function at home or schoolIf you are ready to help your child feel more capable and calm, this episode gives you the tools to improve executive function, create a reliable homework planner, build lasting time management for teens, and use checklists for kids to bring more peace and confidence into your home.Listen now to learn how to improve executive function, design a homework planner that works, strengthen time management for teens, and make checklists for kids a natural part of your family’s daily rhythm. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 29: Why Praising Your Child Matters More Than You Think: How to Praise Your Child with Julia LairLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 ChallengeFacebookInstagramPinterestLinkedInBinder system for studentsReach out (713-665-4263 or [email protected]) to discuss any additional support needs for academic tutoring and/or executive function coaching

Feeling torn about letting your child join in on spooky events this October? You are not alone. In this episode, I unpack how Halloween pressure affects kids and teens, and how you can support confident, age-appropriate decision-making examples that build resilience instead of anxiety.We talk about what really happens when Halloween pressure meets social expectations and how to spot early symptoms of teenage stress before they become overwhelming. You will leave this episode with clear strategies for how to deal with peer pressure and guide your child through scary situations without conflict or guilt.In this episode, we cover: • How to recognize when Halloween pressure is crossing the line into genuine anxiety and what to do about scary situations your child might face • Practical age-appropriate decision-making examples that help your tween or teen build confidence in their own judgment • Subtle symptoms of teenage stress that parents often overlook around social events • How to model how to deal with peer pressure so your child learns self-trust through your example • A realistic framework for saying “no” to activities that do not fit your family values without isolating your child sociallyIf Halloween pressure has your household feeling stretched, this episode will help you breathe easier and parent with calm confidence. Listen now to learn how to deal with peer pressure, support age-appropriate decision-making examples, navigate scary situations, and recognize symptoms of teenage stress before they take hold.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

What if the very parenting trends you’re following to help your child are quietly making your parental relationship harder? In this episode, I unpack the viral tension between “f around and find out parenting” and gentle parenting, and share what truly works when we focus on evidence-based parenting that builds trust, connection, and calm in our homes.As both a psychologist and a parent, I’ve seen how easily we can lose ourselves in labels and online advice. That’s why I’m breaking down the real framework behind effective evidence-based parenting, how it changes the way we think about teaching kids boundaries, and why your parental relationship deserves more than another trendy parenting label.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why so many modern parenting trends confuse warmth with permissiveness, and what to do insteadThe biggest mistake parents make when applying f around and find out parenting (and how it can quietly damage your parental relationship)How evidence-based parenting helps you feel confident in teaching kids boundaries, even when emotions run highA practical way to balance warmth, limits, and self-regulation so your parental relationship actually strengthens over timeWhat to focus on when you’re overwhelmed by conflicting parenting trends, and how to return to what really mattersIf you’re ready to stop chasing the latest parenting trends and start using evidence-based parenting that helps you feel grounded, connected, and capable in teaching kids boundaries, this episode will help you reset and reconnect with your core values as a parent.WATCH THE FULL VIDEO ON YOUTUBE!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 you ever wondered if you’re doing it right when it comes to how to praise your child? So many parents second-guess the benefits of praising a child, but the truth is that the right kind of praise can completely change the tone of your home. In this episode, I talk with licensed clinical social worker and PCIT therapist Julia Lair about why praising children is one of the most powerful parenting tools we have and how to use it well.We talk about the science-backed benefits of praising a child, practical examples of how to praise a child with words, and simple ways of promoting positive behaviour that you can start using today. Julia and I also discuss the fears many parents have about “too much praise” and how those worries often get in the way of connection and growth.In this episode, we’ll explore:Why the real benefits of praising a child go far beyond good manners, and how it shapes your child’s self-worthWhat makes praising children so effective, and how to avoid the common mistakes parents make when giving praiseSimple strategies for how to praise a child with words that feel natural and genuineThe most effective ways of promoting positive behaviour through everyday interactionsHow to praise your child in a way that builds confidence and connectionIf you’ve ever hesitated about how to praise your child or wondered whether it really makes a difference, this episode will help you see why praising children is one of the best investments you can make in your relationship with your child.Listen now to learn authentic, research-based ways of promoting positive behaviour and discover the lasting benefits of praising a child.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 JULIA LAIR:Request an appointment with her HERE!

Every October, families find themselves in the same struggle: what happens when your child just can’t pick a Halloween costume? If you’ve ever had a kid switch from Elsa to Batman to Paw Patrol in the same week, you know how exhausting kids' Halloween costumes can be for the whole household.In this episode, I share how parents on Halloween can handle the indecision without losing patience, overspending, or giving in to every last-minute whim. Together, we’ll look at why costumes feel so important to kids and how you can meet their needs while still setting boundaries with kids that protect your sanity.Here’s what you’ll hear:Why it’s so hard for kids to finally pick a Halloween costumeHow much pressure kids Halloween costumes carry socially and emotionallyWhat happens when parents on Halloween feel judged by other parentsA framework for setting boundaries with kids while still allowing creativityHow to keep your child’s joy alive without buying ten costumesIf you’ve been wondering how to help your child finally pick a Halloween costume (and stick with it), this episode will give you strategies you can actually use. You’ll feel less stressed about kids Halloween costumes and more confident about what matters most for parents on Halloween.Press play now and learn how to balance connection and fun while setting boundaries with kids this Halloween season.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 16: How to Stop Meltdowns Before They Start by Managing Expectations and Parenting Without Power StrugglesLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Getting kids to brush their teeth can feel like one of those nightly battles that drains everyone. If you’ve ever wondered how to get your kids to brush their teeth without endless fights, you’re not alone. I sat down with Dr. Robert Geiman-orthodontist, dad, and author of The Tooth Bible - to talk through the real struggles parents face and toothbrushing tips that actually work.In this episode, we cover:Why toothbrushing for toddlers is so tough and how to make it less of a battleThe surprising truth about at what age should a child brush their own teethReal-life toothbrushing tips that parents can try tonight (without fancy tools or gimmicks)How to make brushing fun with silly toothpaste flavors, colorful toothbrushes, and family gamesWhat happens when even dentists have to figure out how to get your kids to brush their teeth in real lifeIf you’ve been stressing about at what age should a child brush their own teeth, or just looking for simple toothbrushing tips that actually work, you’ll find both clarity and encouragement here.This episode will help you rethink the nightly struggle, bring some ease back into toothbrushing for toddlers, and give you confidence in how to get your kids to brush their teeth in a way that sticks.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DR ROBERT GEIMAN:The Tooth Bible WebsiteChild and Adult Orthodontics Website

Have you ever wondered if there are simple child reward system ideas that actually work when your kids are melting down? As a psychologist - and a mom who’s been right there in the chaos - I’ll walk you through how to use positive reinforcement parenting in real life to turn things around quickly.When kids are screaming, refusing to listen, and pushing every boundary, you don’t need more yelling - you need child reward system ideas and a system that helps you reinforce positive behaviors in a way that’s simple, fast, and actually effective. This episode will give you the exact steps I use in my own home to get kids back on track.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:Why positive reinforcement parenting isn’t “dog training” - and why kids thrive when you clearly show them what they’re doing right.The one shift that makes all the difference in how to get your child to listen better (hint: it’s not about being stricter).My favorite child reward system ideas that require nothing more than a piece of paper and a pen.How to use this system to reinforce positive behaviors so your kids naturally want to repeat them.The secret to how to get kids to do chores without constant nagging or power struggles.Whether you’re in a tough parenting season, juggling work stress with tantrums at home, or just wondering how to get your child to listen better, this episode will give you a clear way forward. LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Does the question, “what age should a child get a cell phone?” keep you up at night? You’re not alone - and you’re not overthinking it. In this episode, I sit down with child psychologist Dr. Rupa Robbins, founder of Tech Positive Parenting, to cut through the chaos around phones for kids. Together we unpack the research, the realities, and the practical phone rules that help busy families decide not just when to say yes, but how to do it well. If you’ve wondered “should kids have smartphones?”, wrestled with all of the reason’s why not to give your child a phone yet, or need a script for setting phone rules, this conversation is your roadmap.We’ll help you decide: what age should a child get a cell phone, when to delay, and how to scaffold access. We talk about alternatives to full internet devices (yes, there’s a middle path for phones for kids), and the exact phone rules that keep your child safer while protecting family culture. In this episode, we cover:The age question, answered: what the research says about what age should a child get a cell phone - and why each year of delay matters more than you think!Smart alternatives before smartphones: how to meet safety needs with kid-safe devices and watches, so you can say “yes” to phones for kids without saying “yes” to the internetYour family’s “driver’s ed” plan: the core phone rules that make first phones feel manageableCapacity and timing: a quick gut-check for parents - because sometimes the right answer to should kids have smartphones is “not until we have bandwidth,” and that’s a valid reason for why not to give your child a phone yet.If you’ve been Googling what age should a child get a cell phone, debating should kids have smartphones, and trying to write phone rules that actually work, this episode is for you. WATCH THE FULL VIDEO EPISODE HERE!RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Sapien Labs study: Age of First Smartphone/Tablet and Mental Wellbeing OutcomesLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DR. RUPA ROBBINS:Tech Positive Parenting WebsiteInstagram @techpositiveparentingTech Positive Parenting SubstackJoin the interested list for the upcoming course: So, You're Ready for a Phone?

Do you feel a wave of mom guilt any time you even think about taking a trip without your kids? You’re not alone. If you’re like many of the parents I work with, planning time away can bring a heavy dose of mom guilt - even when you know it’s something you need.In this episode, I walk you through exactly why moms need me time, and what I do - as a clinical psychologist and mom - when I’m planning a trip without my kids. Together, we’ll unpack the emotional weight of mom guilt, why it shows up so strongly, and how to reframe it in a way that honors your needs and your family’s wellbeing.We’ll talk honestly about how to deal with mom guilt, why moms need me time, and why taking intentional time away isn’t selfish - it’s a gift to your kids, your relationships, and your mental health.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why taking a trip without your kids is a powerful reminder that moms need a break, tooThe real reason mom guilt sticks around - and how to stop letting it control your decisionsWhat I tell my kids before I travel, and how it helps me navigate how to deal with mom guilt in the momentPractical ways to plan ahead, care for yourself while you’re gone, and reconnect when you returnWhy embracing the truth that moms need me time can actually deepen your connection with your kidsWhether you're planning a girls' weekend, a work conference, or even just dreaming of time away, this episode gives you the grounded, psychologist-backed support you need so both you and your child feel more secure and connected, even while apart. And remember: moms need a break, and learning how to deal with mom guilt is part of becoming the parent - and person - you’re meant to be.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:EP 4: Tired of Losing It Before Drop-Off? How to Create a Peaceful Morning Routine with Kids Before SchoolEP 12: Involved Dads Raise Thriving Kids: Here’s How to Connect With Your Child Without Overthinking It with Dr. John Paul AbnerLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

Ever found yourself arguing in front of kids - and then spiraling about whether you’ve just done irreversible damage? You're not alone. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Laura Spiller, clinical psychologist and expert in emotionally focused therapy, to unpack what to do after arguing in front of kids, how to repair with your child, and why your response after the conflict matters just as much - if not more - than the argument itself.We get into the research, the long term effects of parents fighting, and how you can use these tough moments as teachable ones - without oversharing or sweeping it under the rug.We also talk about what happens when parents arguing in front of child repeatedly, and the subtle but serious effects of yelling at spouse in front of child - something that happens more often than we’d like to admit.In this episode, we cover:What actually happens to a child emotionally and psychologically when they witness arguing in front of kids - and what to do about itWhy “just move on” isn’t the best strategy, and how it can intensify the long term effects of parents fightingA step-by-step breakdown of how to talk to your kids after parents are arguing in front of kids, including what to say and what not to sayWhat makes yelling at spouse in front of child so distressing - and how to help your child feel secure againThe surprising way these difficult moments can actually build emotional resilience in your child (when handled the right way)Listen now to learn what to say, when to say it, and how to parent well even after arguing in front of kids.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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 DR. LAURA SPILLER:WebsiteInstagram

Ever wonder how to reconnect after a fight with your child - without the guilt, second-guessing, or endless explaining?In today’s episode, I’m sharing one of my favorite go-to strategies as a psychologist and a mom for how to reconnect with your child after conflict. It’s evidence-based. And it’s so simple you’ll wish someone taught it to you sooner.This approach isn’t just about repairing the moment - it’s a powerful tool for teaching emotional regulation and modeling empathy, even when your child is spiraling. I’ll walk you through how to calm a child down when angry, and how to actually talk about what happened... without anyone shutting down.What we cover in this episode:The reason your child resists talking about the conflict - and the story-based strategy that bypasses that wall.Why direct logic fails with little kids (and what to do instead for teaching emotional regulation)How to use storytelling as a tool for how to reconnect after a fight - without making your child feel blamed or shamedThe key mindset shift for how to calm a child down when angry and still hold your boundaryHow to reconnect with your child - while still balancing connection and limits.Listen to the full episode to learn a practical tool you can use tonight (yes, even if your kid just screamed at you). Because how to reconnect after a fight, how to calm a child down when angry, and how to reconnect with your child don’t have to be mysteries - and teaching emotional regulation doesn’t require a PhD.Hit play, take a breath, and let’s figure this out together.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 18: Transition Anxiety Is Real: Helping a Child Adjust to Change with StorytellingPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsCalm and Connected ProgramInstagramLove 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!

The start of a new school year can feel like chaos - earlier mornings, traffic, new routines, and the pressure to get everyone out the door on time. In this quick five-minute pep talk, I share my own first-week-of-school struggle (spoiler: we were late every single day until Friday!) and the simple tweak that completely changed our mornings.If you’ve got little ones who take their sweet time, especially at breakfast, this small shift might make a huge difference in your home too. I walk you through what wasn’t working, the change I made, and why it’s created calmer, happier mornings for both of us.Even as a child psychologist and a mom, I still have to figure things out by trial and error—just like you. If your mornings have been rough lately, this is your reminder that you can make small changes and see a big impact. You’ve got this. I’m on your side.

What if the missing piece in your child’s ability to manage their big emotions... is you?In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most misunderstood (and overlooked) ways to help kids build emotional regulation for kids - and it’s not a new breathing app, another feelings chart, or a gentle parenting script.It’s you. It’s your own ability to model emotional regulation in real time - teaching emotional regulation by letting your child in on what’s actually going on under your calm surface.I’ll walk you through why teaching emotional regulation starts with your own internal world - and how to pull back the curtain to help your child actually learn from you.We’ll talk about what’s missing in most conversations about emotional regulation for kids, how to model managing big emotions without over-sharing or emotionally leaning on your child, and what real-world regulation looks like during everyday parenting chaos.In this episode, I’ll cover:The surprising reason your go-to scripts and strategies aren’t working - and what your child really needs to learn how to manage their big emotionsWhy modeling is the single most powerful tool in your parenting toolbox when it comes to teaching emotional regulationA step-by-step breakdown of how to narrate your own frustration (without losing your cool) to build your child’s emotional regulation for kidsHow to recognize the line between vulnerability and oversharing - and still show up as a strong, emotionally attuned parentWhy your child may be ignoring the breathing exercises you suggest - and how showing, not telling, is the real path to how to help a child with big emotionsIf you’ve ever wondered how to help a child with big emotions - this episode is for you.Listen now to learn practical, evidence-based ways to support your child’s emotional development and feel more confident in your parenting choices - even when big emotions take over.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:EP 5: How to Talk to Kids About Death and the Loss of a GrandparentLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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!

Is your child suddenly afraid to go to sleep - and now your whole household is exhausted and on edge? If bedtime has turned into a battle, this episode is your lifeline. I’m joined by sleep expert Dr. Jessica Meers to break down what really works when your child is struggling with child sleep anxiety and nighttime fears - especially after a nightmare.Whether your child refuses to settle alone or ends up in your bed every night, we’ll guide you through proven, compassionate solutions rooted in psychology and real-life parenting. We cover exactly how to get your child to sleep in their own bed without guilt, chaos, or confusion - even if they’ve become deeply afraid to go to sleep on their own.Dr. Meers, a nationally recognized sleep psychologist and mom of twins, shares practical advice for preventing nighttime fears, responding in the moment, and rebuilding healthy sleep habits with consistency and care.In this episode, we cover:Why your child might suddenly be afraid to go to sleep - even if bedtime used to be smooth sailingThe surprising science behind nighttime fears, and how our brains (and our kids' brains) process dreamsThe truth about child sleep anxiety, and why it shows up even in high-functioning, emotionally supported kidsExpert-backed advice on how to get your child to sleep in their own bed - without making them feel abandoned or dismissedThe #1 mistake parents make after a nightmare, and how it accidentally reinforces child sleep anxietyIf you’re feeling stuck, second-guessing your parenting, or just too tired to think straight - this episode is your reset button. You’ll learn exactly what to say and do when your child is afraid to go to sleep, how to soothe nighttime fears without caving to them, and real-life strategies for tackling child sleep anxiety with confidence.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:EP 14: How to Help an Angry Child Calm Down Without Losing Your Cool: The Key to Connection Before CorrectionLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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 DR. JESSICA MEERS:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTikTok

Does your child melt down when something new is on the horizon? Whether it's starting a new school year, a big birthday, or a shift in routine, transition anxiety is real. In this episode, I share why understanding the reality of transition anxiety - and using the power of story - is one of the most effective tools for helping a child adjust to change.We dive into the science and heart behind the importance of storytelling to child development, and I walk you through my favorite storytelling formula that’s easy, even if you’re not “a creative parent.” When you learn to use stories to make sense of what’s happening in your child’s world, you also create a space for how to encourage a child to express their feelings - even if they usually shut down.In this episode, we’ll explore:Why transition anxiety often shows up when we least expect it - and how to spot it before it becomes a meltdownHow the importance of storytelling to child development shows up in everyday moments - and how to use that to your parenting advantageMy go-to 3-step strategy for helping a child adjust to change with simple, emotionally attuned storytellingHow to encourage a child to express their feelings - without forcing uncomfortable conversationsA real-world example of how I used this exact strategy with a child facing three major life transitions - and how you can adapt it for your own familyThis episode is designed to help you feel grounded and confident when your child is spiraling through transition anxiety. If you’re craving expert-backed, emotionally aware solutions for helping a child adjust to change, this is where you start. Plus, you’ll understand the real importance of storytelling to child development and how it can dramatically shift your child’s ability to cope, connect, and communicate.You’ll also learn practical ways for how to encourage a child to express their feelings, especially during emotional storms - so that you can stop second-guessing and start leading with calm, clarity, and compassion.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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!

Does your child melt down before shots? Do you feel that pang of dread when the school nurse mentions back to school shots? You are so not alone - and the good news is, it doesn’t have to be this way.In today’s episode, I’m joined by world-renowned pediatric pain expert, and the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Meg Foundation, Dr. Jody Thomas to tackle a surprisingly common parenting challenge: managing your child’s fear of vaccinations and anxiety around back to school shots. If your child is scared of needles - or you are - this conversation will change the way you approach doctor’s visits forever.Dr. Thomas brings decades of experience and actionable solutions that actually work. We talk about how to reduce fear of vaccinations, empower your child, and avoid trauma - while still getting those important vaccines. You’ll walk away with research-backed strategies that will help you confidently navigate how to make shots not hurt at all (yes, really!).In this episode, we cover:Why the fear of vaccinations affects more kids (and adults!) than you think - and how it can shape lifelong healthcare decisionsThe real science behind how to make shots not hurt at all, and the tools you can use at your next visitWhat to do instead of holding your child down - because there’s a better way to handle back to school shotsHow your child’s emotions mirror yours - and how to model calm even if you’re scared of needles yourselfThe 3-step comfort plan to reduce anxiety, lower pain, and leave your child feeling proud and empowered during back to school shotsListen now to learn exactly how to stop the struggle and fear of vaccinations for back to school shots - and what every parent needs to know about the long-term impact of ignoring pain and anxiety.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Buzzy®ShotBlocker®LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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 DR. JODY THOMAS & MEG FOUNDATION FOR PAIN:Dr. Jody Thomas WebsiteMeg Foundation WebsiteFB: @megfoundationforpainIG: @megfoundationforpainTikTok: @megfoundationLinkedIn: @meg-foundation

Wondering how to stop meltdowns before they hijack your whole day? In this episode, I break down the real causes of temper tantrums - and how to prevent them by setting clear expectations with your child. You’ll learn exactly how to handle disappointment when your child’s big dreams crash into reality, and how to approach parenting without power struggles in a way that’s practical, compassionate, and grounded in real-life experience.In this episode, I share:Why unmet expectations are one of the most common causes of temper tantrum - and how to catch them earlyThe 3-step method for how to stop meltdowns using simple conversations before the conflictWhat to do when your child’s plans are totally unrealistic - and still avoid disappointmentHow to frame hard moments as learning opportunities and practice parenting without power strugglesA surprising way to reduce the causes of temper tantrum by listening differentlyWhether you're facing birthday party drama or a meltdown in Target, you’ll walk away knowing how to handle disappointment with more ease - and how to practice parenting without power struggles in the moments that matter most. LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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!

Ever wonder how to strike the right balance between pushing your child to succeed and respecting autonomy in children? Today’s episode tackles just that - because knowing whether to step in or take a step back can feel like a balancing act.On this episode, I chat with therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Kristin Mervich about the tricky dilemma high-achieving parents face: when to keep pushing your child to succeed, when to trust autonomy in children, and how guiding a child sometimes means knowing when to back off. We dig into the effects of parental pressure on a child to succeed - for better or worse - and share a clear framework to help you make thoughtful choices that empower both you and your child.What you’ll learn:How to honor autonomy in children without dropping the ball on motivation by pushing your child to succeed - and when that’s okay.What the effects of parental pressure on a child to succeed really look like - mental health, confidence, and that inner spark. Tune in to hear Kristin’s real-life examples.Why guiding a child starts with understanding the “why” behind their resistance - and how that insight changes everything.A simple 4-question formula to decide: Should you push? Pause? Or pivot? It’s like having a parenting GPS.If you’ve ever asked: “Am I overdoing it by pushing my kid? Or am I selling them short?” - this episode is for you.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Episode 10: Is Anxiety Good for You? 3 Steps for Building Confidence in Kids When They’re Trying New Things with Ivy Ruths, PhDLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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 KRISTIN MERVICH, LCSW:WebsiteOutsmarting OCD InstagramKristin’s Instagram

In the wake of the heartbreaking tragedy at Camp Mystic this weekend, many parents are struggling to find the right words to comfort and guide their children. I created this short, unedited episode to help you navigate those difficult conversations with your children, including the script I used with my 6-year-old at home. This is a raw version of what would typically be a full Educated Parent podcast episode that I recorded quickly to meet the moment, because I know many of you are searching for guidance right now. Whether your child was directly affected or simply heard about the news, it's important to offer age-appropriate support, validate their emotions, and create a sense of safety. My heart is with everyone in Houston as we navigate this together.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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!

Ever wonder how to help an angry child calm down without turning into a volcano yourself? I’ve got you. In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly what to do in those intense parenting moments - when emotions are high and your kid is spiraling. We’re talking how to deescalate a child, fast, using the power of connection before correction.As a psychologist (and a mom of two who’s very familiar with meltdowns), I know that dealing with children’s anger can feel like walking through a minefield. But once you get how validation really works - and stop doing that thing we think is validating but actually isn’t - everything changes.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why “You’re overreacting!” never works (and what to say instead)The sneaky mistake parents make when they think they’re validatingHow connection before correction helps you keep your coolA step-by-step way for how to deescalate a child without caving or yellingReal examples for how to help an angry child calm down in everyday chaosWhether you're dealing with children’s anger over sprinkles, screen time, or stolen Legos, this episode gives you language and tools that actually work. Learn how to deescalate a child without the guilt spiral - and build real trust in the process.Hit play now to hear how connection before correction can change everything.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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!

I get asked about this advice for dads all the time: “I want to be more intentional as a dad, but I don’t know where to start.” This episode is a masterclass in advice for dads who want tangible tips for how to connect with your child - no overthinking required.I sit down with Dr. John Paul Abner to talk about why involved dads are a game-changer for child development and how to connect with your child with just a few simple shifts. Whether you’re craving more quality time, fun ideas, or just want to feel like you’re doing it “right,” this episode offers real-world guidance on how to connect with your child.In this episode, we cover:Why so many dads feel uncertain about how to build relationships with their kids - and advice for dads to shift from doubt to confident connectionThree specific activities for dads that build confidence and attachmentThe real reason rough-and-tumble play matters for dads and their kidsPractical, low-pressure tips for how to connect with your child even when time is tightExpert-approved advice for dads to strengthen your presence at home, every dayWhether you’re just starting to look for dads-specific support or want advanced advice for dads, this episode delivers. Press play and walk away with three clear, doable activities for dads that build trust and connection. If you’ve ever wondered how to connect with your child in a way that truly sticks - this is your episode.Listen now and take the first step toward becoming one of the involved dads your child will remember forever.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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 DR. JOHN PAUL ABNER:Milligan University Profile

Learning how to say no to your child can feel like walking a tightrope. We want to hold boundaries in parenting firmly, but we also don’t want to break their spirit—or ours! In today’s episode, I’m tackling this essential skill head-on. As a psychologist and mom, I know that how to say no to your child can feel like an emotional minefield. But here’s the thing: setting boundaries in parenting is crucial. Together, we’ll explore strategies for parenting without yelling and how to manage temper tantrums without losing your mind and why validating feelings is your secret weapon for those meltdown moments.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:How to set boundaries in parenting without feeling like the villain-and why those “no” moments matter more than you think.The difference between a meltdown and a tantrum-so you know exactly when to hold the line and when to comfort.A step-by-step story of how I personally handled a dessert showdown in my own kitchen (spoiler: it was a masterclass in parenting without yelling).The biggest mistake parents make when they’re trying to manage temper tantrums-and what to do instead.Validating feelings in a way that actually calms your child (and maybe even you!).If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the spiral of second-guessing or people-pleasing when it comes to your kids, you’re not alone-and you’re not failing.Tune in to this episode and learn how to say no to your child in a way that isn’t harsh-it’s about being honest, loving, and real.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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!

Is anxiety good for you? That’s the question at the heart of this week’s episode, where I sit down with Dr. Ivy Ruths, a licensed specialist in school psychology, specializing in treating anxiety, OCD-related disorders, and parenting challenges.Ivy shares three concrete steps for helping your child try new things and dealing with childhood anxiety. She also shares the hidden benefits of anxiety and how these moments (even when challenging) can be crucial for building confidence in kids.Dr. Ivy Ruths and I break down the idea that anxiety isn’t something to eliminate—it’s something to harness. And we’ll share exactly how to do it.Here’s what we’ll cover:“Is anxiety good for you?” isn’t just a question—it’s a mindset shift that can help you reframe scary moments with your child.The biggest mistake we make when dealing with childhood anxiety—and how to flip it to strengthen your child’s self-confidence.Building confidence in kids: the 3-step framework to help them try new things.How to stop accidentally sending the message that anxiety is something to avoid, and instead show your kids the benefits of anxiety.Why your role as a parent is more than just safety—it’s helping your child take small, brave steps forward, even when you’re feeling anxious too.Listen to the full episode now and learn how to turn anxiety into your child’s superpower!LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramLove 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 IVY RUTHS AND HOUSTON ANXIETY & WELLNESS CENTER:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedIn