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

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

Ever finally get a “yes” from your teen to hang out… and then sit there awkwardly wondering, “Now what?”If you’ve found yourself unsure what to do with teens once you’re actually together, this episode will walk you through it step by step. This is part two of our series on teen connection. Last week we covered how to get your teen to hang out with you. This week is about what to do with teens once you're there. From creating comfort to avoiding conversation-killers, we’re focusing on strategies that work in real life. I’ll share exactly how to strengthen your parent teenager relationship in small but powerful ways—and how to avoid the traps that turn hangouts into tension.Whether you're wondering how to connect with your teenage son or daugher, or need ideas for fun things to do with teenagers, I’ll walk through clear, actionable strategies you can try today.In this episode, you’ll learn:The #1 mistake parents make when deciding what to do with teens—and how to flip the scriptMy 3-step formula for hangouts that actually build your parent teenager relationship, not drain itWhy Starbucks, TikTok, and silence might be the best bonding tools for your parent teenager relationship—and how to use them wellHow to avoid sabotaging the moment (hint: this matters whether you're figuring out how to connect with your teenage son or daughter)The one thing teens wish you knew when you plan fun things to do with teenagersYour time with your teen doesn’t need to be magical—it just needs to be intentional. And yes, even a 10-minute drive-thru run can be a meaningful step forward in your parent teenager relationship.If you’re struggling with how to connect with your teenage son, or you want to do more than just coexist with your daughter, this episode is packed with the guidance you’ve been craving.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!

One of the most common questions those parenting teens and tweens ask is "should I force my teenager to spend time with me?" or what to do when your teenager shuts you out?If you’ve felt the sting of rejection when your once-chatty child turns into a quiet, phone-absorbed teen, you’re not alone. In this episode, I break down how to connect with your teenage son or daughter when they seem more interested in hanging out with their friends than with your parent teenager relationship. I’ll share why this is a totally normal part of parenting teens and tweens —and how you can make the most of it.In this episode, I cover:What to do when your teenager shuts you out – Why teens can seem disconnected, and how to decode what they’re really trying to tell you.Should I force my teenager to spend time with me? – How to balance encouraging connection without pushing them away.How to connect with your teenage son – What to do if he’s barely looking up from his screen and avoiding conversation.How to connect with your teenage daughter – How to build your parent teenager relationship and trust during a time when she might be craving independence.Parent teenager relationship – Tips for building a strong connection that lasts beyond the teen years.Ready to strengthen your parent teenager relationship and create moments of real connection? Listen to this episode for practical, research-backed advice on how to connect with your teenage daughter or son, even when they seem to be pushing you away.And, don’t miss next week’s episode, where I’ll share practical strategies for parenting teens and tweens, and what to do when you actually get your teen to hang out with you!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 why does my child get hyper at night… just when you’re ready to wind down? If you’ve ever felt like your kids have had an espresso right before bed, you’re not alone. Those bedtime zoomies – when kids suddenly start bouncing off the walls – can make creating a bedtime routine for kids feel impossible. But what if I told you that this chaos has a reason? In this episode, I’m joined by pediatric occupational therapist Emma Wilking Ghelber to break down why bedtime zoomies happen and share calming activities for kids before bed to help your evenings run more smoothly.Emma shares the science behind bedtime zoomies and offers simple ways to help kids shift from high-energy to wind-down mode. If your current bedtime routine for kids feels like a wrestling match every night, these tips can make a big difference.In this episode, we cover:Why does my child get hyper at night? – The surprising reasons your child might be getting more energized as the evening wears on.Bedtime zoomies – What they really mean, and why your child isn’t just trying to drive you crazy.Calming activities for kids before bed – Three simple, effective strategies to help kids settle down without adding to your stress.How to adjust your bedtime routine for kids to set the stage for better sleep, fewer battles, and a calmer home.Ready to ditch the chaos and make bedtime smoother for everyone? Listen to the full episode for expert-backed strategies, calming activities for kids before bed and a bedtime routine for kids you can start using tonight.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 EMMA AND FOUNDATIONS PEDIATRIC THERAPY:WebsitePhone number: 713-999-5358 Email: [email protected]

If you’re struggling with what to do when your child hits you or wondering why does my child hit me when they’re upset, this episode is for you. As a clinical psychologist and a mom, I’ve seen firsthand how confusing and frustrating it can be when your little one lashes out physically. Understanding how to stop a child from hitting starts with knowing why it happens in the first place and setting clear, loving boundaries that keep everyone safe. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real reasons behind childhood aggression, why it’s not okay to let it slide, and the most effective consequences for hitting that actually work.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why does my child hit me? – The surprising reasons why even well-adjusted kids can get aggressive and how to respond in the moment.How to stop a child from hitting – The simple but powerful steps you can take to set clear boundaries and keep everyone in your home safe.Consequences for hitting that work without damaging your relationship – Why some common discipline strategies backfire and what to do instead.How to deal with aggressive child behavior without losing your cool – Plus, what you should never do when your child lashes out.How to stay calm when you’re the one on the receiving end – Because kids learn emotional regulation by watching you.If you’ve been wondering what to do when your child hits you or feeling guilty for setting boundaries, this episode is full of practical advice and real-life examples for how to deal with aggressive child behavior with confidence.Listen now to get expert-backed strategies for how to stop a child from hitting and keep your parent-child bond strong, even through the hardest days.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!

Explaining death to a child and navigating the loss of a grandparent while parenting is one of the hardest emotional tightropes many of us will ever walk. In this episode, I sit down with licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Liz Ross to talk about how to help a child grieve the loss of a grandparent, all while managing your own grief at the same time.Whether you're dealing with an unexpected death or a long illness, this conversation is here to offer you real, compassionate guidance on explaining death to a child. We talk through the developmental stages of understanding death, how kids process loss at different ages, and what to expect emotionally, in your kids and in yourself.Dr. Ross and I also share personal stories from our own lives and offer practical strategies for how to talk to kids about death in ways that are developmentally appropriate, emotionally supportive, and actually helpful.In this episode, we cover:Why your child might seem "fine" after the loss of a grandparent at first—and what that really means (And why you might be surprised when questions about death show up weeks or months later.)How to talk to kids about death without overexplaining—or leaving them with scary gapsThe developmental stages of understanding death—and what kind of questions are totally normalWhat helps when your child is grieving the loss of a grandparentWhy taking care of your own grief is part of explaining death to a childIf you're wondering how to help a child grieve the loss of a grandparent, or you're struggling with how to talk to kids about death in a way that doesn’t scare or confuse them, this episode is for you.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramWant more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox!Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!CONNECT WITH DR. LIZ ROSS:Coping Resource CenterInstagramFacebookLinkedIn

Does your morning routine with kids end in tears—yours or theirs?If mornings feel more like survival mode than connection time, you’re not alone. That’s why in this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the real emotional chaos behind the morning routine with kids before school. Whether it’s you hiding tears in the carpool line or your child having a meltdown about missing shoes, I’ve been there—and I want to help.As both a professional and a parent, I’ve seen firsthand how hard getting kids ready for school can be—especially when you’re committed to parenting without yelling but still find yourself shouting over toothbrushes and backpacks.This episode will help you create a calmer, more connected morning routine with kids—even when things go sideways.We’ll cover:What I learned from a terrible morning (and a brutally honest 5-year-old)The one thing I started doing that made the biggest difference in our morning routine with kidsHow your mood (yes, yours) shapes the entire vibe of getting kids ready for schoolWhy reframing your child’s “uncooperative” behavior could be your secret weapon in parenting without yellingThree simple strategies you can start using tomorrow to shift your morning routine with kids before schoolBecause here’s the truth: chaotic mornings don’t mean you’re failing. They mean you’re human.But with the right tools and mindset, you can trade power struggles for connection—and actually like the way your mornings feel.Listen now to hear what finally helped me stop losing it before drop-off.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Calm and Connected ProgramLET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramWant more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox!Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!

Wondering if your child’s school is still the right fit? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not overreacting. In this episode, I’m sitting down with two of Houston’s top educational consultants to unpack the real, research-backed factors to consider when choosing a school for your child.Whether you're dealing with daily meltdowns, academic frustrations, or just a gut feeling that something is off, we’ll help you figure out what’s going on—and what to do about it. We’ll walk through the emotional and academic signs to look for, how to evaluate your current school, and how to start the process of choosing a school for your child with confidence (not overwhelm).I’m joined by Dee Dee Halpin and Julie Blumberg of Houston School Options, two seasoned experts who’ve helped countless families navigate the maze of choosing schools—from public and private to therapeutic and specialized programs. With decades of experience and deep roots in the Houston area, they’re also the go-to team for finding the best schools in Houston based on each child’s unique needs.In this episode, we’ll cover:The top three emotional and academic red flags that might mean it’s time to start choosing schools more intentionallyWhat the process of choosing a school for your child really looks like—minus the online overwhelm and mom-guiltHow to trust your gut and evaluate the most important factors to consider when choosing a school for your childWhy the “right” school can change over time—and what that means for how to choose a school for your child at different agesA local expert’s inside look at the best schools in Houston—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all answerIf you’ve ever Googled “how to choose a school for your child” at 11 p.m. while spiraling about a bad teacher conference, this one’s for you.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramWant more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox!Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!CONNECT WITH HOUSTON SCHOOL OPTIONS:Houston School Options WebsiteInstagram

Is one of your kids always in the spotlight? Whether it’s sports, academics, or a lead role in the school play, these moments can create tension at home. In this episode, I’m joined by Becca Wallace, a fellow therapist and experienced mom of five, to unpack how to deal with sibling jealousy—with compassion, clarity, and practical steps that actually work.We talk about what really happens when one child is constantly celebrated, how to support your other kids through it, and why confident parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. If you’ve ever found yourself caught in the push-pull of parenting siblings, this conversation is for you. We share actionable sibling rivalry solutions that help every child feel seen, valued, and supported.In this episode, we cover:Why traditional advice falls short when you're navigating how to deal with sibling jealousy—and what works insteadThe one simple exercise that helps you identify and honor each child’s strengths when parenting siblings (even if they’re not the “star”)How a “family team” mindset can transform your approach to parenting siblingsWhy even the kid in the spotlight needs more than praise—and how to give it to themReal-world, therapist-backed sibling rivalry solutions to help your family stay emotionally connectedNo one prepares you for what happens when one child’s success accidentally sidelines the others. But you’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong. Tune in to learn how to deal with sibling jealousy in a way that strengthens your whole family.Listen now for grounded insights, gentle humor, and confident parenting tools you can use tonight.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramWant more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox!Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!CONNECT WITH BECCA WALLACE:Learn more about BeccaSchedule a call here!

When your child walks in the door after school and says they had a bad day, do you know what to say next? If you’ve ever felt unsure, anxious, or like you fumbled the moment, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not failing. In this episode of Educated Parent, I’m sharing positive ways to talk to your child that help them feel heard, supported, and connected—even when emotions are running high.I’m Dr. Leah Clionsky, licensed clinical psychologist, parenting expert, and real-life mom of two little kids. In this first full episode, I’ll introduce you to the mission of this podcast, how my professional training and real-world parenting collide, and why I believe every parent deserves parenting help that’s rooted in science—not social media opinions.You’ll learn how to respond with calm and clarity when your child tells you about a hard day, using positive ways to talk to your child that work even if their story is messy, emotional, or confusing. I’ll walk you through exactly how to listen so your child will talk, why your timing matters more than your “fix,” and how to build the kind of relationship where your child wants to keep opening up.Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:Why kids don’t always make sense when they’re upset—and how to help a child with big emotionsThe exact 4-step strategy I use for how to listen so your child will talkWhy some “helpful” reactions can shut kids down (and what to do instead)How to use positive ways to talk to your child to build emotional safety and trustSimple, expert-backed parenting tips for parents to handle everyday challenges with confidenceHit play to learn how to help a child with big emotions, discover parenting tips for parents that actually work, and finally feel confident in how to listen so your child will talk.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramWant more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox!Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!

If you’ve been overwhelmed by conflicting parenting advice and just want real, expert-backed parenting help, you’re in the right place. I’m Dr. Leah Clionsky—a licensed clinical psychologist, child behavior specialist, and mom of two—and I created Educated Parent to give you the evidence-based parenting support I wish every parent had.Here’s the truth: It’s not fair that I can text a network of child psychologists, pediatricians, and therapists anytime I need parenting tips—and you’re left scrolling Instagram or asking Google. So, I’m bringing that expert network to you.Today, I’m sharing the story behind the podcast and what you can expect each week: real evidence-based parenting strategies, practical parenting tips, and expert advice on parenting that actually works.Whether you're dealing with tantrums, big emotions, or just want to raise thriving kids, Educated Parent is here to deliver the kind of parenting help you’ve been looking for.If you’re ready for evidence-based parenting strategies and real-world advice on parenting, hit play and let’s get started. I’m so glad you’re here.LET'S CONNECT:Thriving Child CenterPCIT ExpertsInstagramWant more parenting tips? Join our newsletter for expert advice straight to your inbox!Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!