
Securely Attached
425 episodes — Page 4 of 9
Ep 273Q&A: How do I rekindle my friendships after being so mom-focused for years now?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - It can be tricky to maintain relationships when you're in different stages of life from your friends and it's common for some to atrophy after you become a parent. - Unpacking all the feelings you may have about this: fear, guilt, grief, and more! - Practical strategies for creating a simple routine that is easy for you to maintain, but will also allow you to keep these relationships from going too long without any checkins. - When you are changed by motherhood, you may slip into black-and-white thinking with regard to your friendships. We offer you a perspective shift you can use to challenge that. - How to check in with yourself so you can understand the root of your desires for connection, which will help you create realistic anchors that will actually meet your needs. - Time management and scheduling hacks that can help you be intentional about protecting the time you do have. - How to repair bonds with friends who may feel hurt, slighted, or abandoned by you. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the science of "mom-rage" with Diana Winston 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about identifying and managing your triggers with Dr. Amber Thornton 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about finding balance with Chelsi Jo 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about overcoming parental burnout WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 272Maternal health, dyadic work, and IFS: Why specialized mental healthcare providers matter with Rebecca Geshuri and Paige Bellenbaum
Discover how maternal mental health care is evolving and why specialized support is critical for mothers with Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW, PMH-C and Rebecca Geshuri, LMFT, PMH-C. In this episode we explore: - What dyadic work is and how this can be especially beneficial for mothers and birthing people for developing a bond with their child. - How Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can support mothers in addressing their inner "mom parts" that contribute to feelings of failure and overwhelm. - How polarized parts and perfectionism can create distress in motherhood and how embracing a "both-and" mentality can offer relief and self-compassion. - The questions to ask when looking for a provider to ensure they're trained in maternal mental health and understand the complexities of this life stage. - Why it's so important for pediatricians, OBGYNs, or anyone who often comes into contact with birthing parents to have even a basic understanding of this transformative experience. Whether you're a mother seeking support, a professional working with birthing parents, or simply someone invested in breaking the stigma around mental health and motherhood, this episode is filled with practical insights you won't want to miss. REGISTER FOR THE TRAINING ON FEB. 27: Go to upshurbren.com/IFSTraining to register for this 3-hour workshop designed to teach professionals how to integrate Internal Family Systems concepts into maternal mental health services to provide improved support for moms. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MOTHERHOOD CENTER: https://themotherhoodcenter.com/ LEARN MORE ABOUT REBECCA: https://www.rebeccageshurilmft.com/get-to-know-me ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: Postpartum Support International Ghosts in the Nursery: A Psychoanalytic Approach to the Problems of Impaired Infant-Mother Relationships LISTEN TO PAIGE & REBECCA'S PAST EPISODES: 🎧 Using Internal Family Systems to emotionally support mothers with the creators of The Mothercentric Approach 🎧 Preventing tragedy and shining a light on postpartum psychosis: What it is, what it's not, and how to find support for yourself or a loved one with Paige Bellenbaum
Ep 271Q&A: When switching daycares, should I transition my toddler in steps or all at once?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - How to best approach daycare transitions and is there a right or a wrong answer to this question? - The most important questions to ask yourself to determine which of these scenarios will be easiest for your unique child. - Is it better to have a single, potentially steeper transition or a slower, more incremental transition? - The key things to consider (like sleep habits, separation anxiety, etc.) to help you determine which is best for your individual situation. - Zooming out to see how this change will impact the entire family system and adding these factors into your decision making process. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 📚 Transitioning to a new daycare ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about turning parenthood into a career asset with Lauren Smith Brody 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping child with separation anxiety 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about being a working parent with Daisy Dowling WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 270Breaking free from "girl-boss" culture: Balancing career, family, and fulfillment with Neha Ruch
Neha Ruch is sharing strategies for embracing flexibility as you balance, shift, and grow in both your career and parenthood. In this episode we explore: - How to redefine what "career" means to you at this stage of life and navigate the evolving roles of being a working or stay-at-home parent. - Why downshifting your career can be a valuable smaller step if you're not ready to take a full pause. - Preparing for this transition to feel less overwhelming—emotionally, financially, and in terms of your shifting identity. - Supporting women in feeling validated and respected in their choices to dial up or down in their careers. - How motherhood can be a time to foster creativity and the importance of staying connected to what brings you joy—whether it's for work or personal fulfillment. - A good first step for moms who don't know where to begin in making this shift. - What a "family administration" meeting is and how to evaluate what's working and what's not—giving yourself permission to let go of what isn't serving you. Don't miss this episode that will help you redefine what career means to you! LEARN MORE ABOUT NEHA: https://www.motheruntitled.com/ READ NEHA'S NEW BOOK: 📚 The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids--and Come Back Stronger Than Ever ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 🎧 Listen to Neha's first Securely Attached episode, Redefining what it means to be a stay-at-home parent with Neha Ruch 📱 I sang my sister's praise in this episode! Check out @mychicnest to follow along with her interior design account. CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Going back to work after baby: Maintaining a healthy and secure attachment bond Q&A with Dr. Emily Upshur 🎧 Turning parenthood into a career asset for working moms and dads with The Fifth Trimester's Lauren Smith Brody 🎧 What it means to be a working parent today: Challenging parental guilt, managing your time, and setting effective boundaries with Daisy Dowling
Ep 269Q&A: How do I get my young kids to stop swearing?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - Unpacking your own feelings about swearing (or any undesirable behaviors) your child is engaging in. - How to teach your child to attune to their environment and know when and where certain behaviors are appropriate and when and where they are not. - Zooming out to identify what your child's intention is when they are swearing (to test boundaries, in anger, in silly moments, etc.) to help you know how to respond. - When and how to use strategies that have the greatest likelihood of getting this behavior to stop. - A playful script that can defuse the tension and keep you from feeling triggered. - The big differences to the approaches you may want to try based on who is the recipient of inappropriate or hurtful language. - How to get your children to disengage from each other's negative behaviors, instead of being fueled by each other. - How Dr. Sarah and Dr. Emily handle swearing in their own homes with their kids. - The benefits of swearing that may surprise you. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: Swearing may be a sign of a higher intelligence Cursing can increase pain tolerance ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about what to do when kids say they hate themselves 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about what to do when kids say they hate you 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about enforcing consequences that teach WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 268A deep dive on parental burnout: What it is, why it happens, and how to overcome it
A deep dive on combating parental burnout to start off 2025 with more balance. In this episode I dive deep into… - Understanding what parental burnout actually is and how it is different from regular "stress" in parenthood? - The pros and cons of the rise of the "Parenting Industrial Complex." - The output/input formula that will inevitably lead to depletion, and why parents of sensitive children are more susceptible to an imbalance in this equation. - An exercise you can use to address (and flip!) your personal output/input equation to create more balance for yourself. - Taking a Family-Systems approach to addressing and treating parental burnout. - How parental burnout can impact the parent-child relationship, leading to more dysregulated behaviors from our kids, us losing our cool, and creating a self-perpetuating negative feedback loop. - Why traditional self-care strategies don't work for combatting parental burnout, and my recommendations for practical, realistic, and attainable strategies that actually do! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. SARAH BREN: https://drsarahbren.com/ FOLLOW DR. SARAH ON INSTAGRAM: @drsarahbren ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: The Surgeon General Report: Parental Mental Health & Well-Being In one study, Parents whose children experienced anxiety or ADHD had two to four times higher risk of experiencing parental burnout (anxiety: OR, 2.54; ADHD: OR, 4.41) compared with those whose children had no anxiety or ADHD. [1] Addressing systemic problems with Raena Boston, Lauren Smith Brody, and Alexis Barad-Cutler Encouraging your child to engage in independent play CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Quit the never-ending to-do list: How to find balance in the home, at work, and in parenthood with Chelsi Jo 🎧 Is fun the antidote to burnout? How play could be the key to mental health and well-being with Dr. Mike Rucker
Ep 267Q&A: My 5-year-old says she doesn't want a sibling but I want to have another baby. What do I say?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... - Translating the question: I don't want a sibling may actually just mean, "I miss you." - Zooming back to assess the environmental factors that may be taxing your child, especially when there are a lot of transitions and changes going on. - How to change the narrative in your young child's mind so they don't associate losing quality time with Mommy and Daddy to having more siblings. - When to simply validate your child's feelings and when to know if it's time to try to make some changes. - A script of exactly what you can say to help your child feel more contained and regulated in these moments. - Why helping your child feel seen in the moment can foster their secure attachment, which may end up indirectly solving the problems you're experiencing. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about secure attachment and growth mindset with Melinda Wenner Moyer 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to work with the brain rather than fight against with Dr. Dan Siegel 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about whether it's bad to "baby" the baby WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 266Emotion regulation through play: Turning everyday moments into growth opportunities with Dr. Abbré McClain and Dr. Jacqueline Salazar
Discover how to use the power of play to strengthen your child's emotional regulation and foster meaningful connection, with Dr. Abbré McClain and Dr. Jacqueline Salazar. In this episode, we explore: - How play and relationships can be foundational elements for teaching kids emotional regulation skills. - Why coregulation doesn't have to be so serious and can be employed through play and playfulness. - The therapeutic function of play interventions and how they work in play therapy. - How to adapt play strategies for different developmental stages and unique children. - Why playing with your kids is different from entertaining them, and how child-led play can be less exhausting for parents. - Quality over quantity: How even small moments of playfulness can make a big difference in strengthening parent-child bonds. If you're looking for practical ways to build emotional regulation skills while bringing more joy and connection into your family's life, this episode is filled with actionable insights to get you started! LEARN MORE ABOUT: Dr. Abbré McClain Dr. Jacqueline Salazar READ THEIR BOOK: 📚 The Self-Regulation Workbook for 3- to 5-Year-Olds: Play-Based and Creative Activities to Build Coping Skills and Handle Big Emotions FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: 📱@chicago.wellness.center 📱 @drsarahbren ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 👉🏻 Download my free guide, Strengthen Your Child's Emotion Regulation Skills Through Play, to help your child learn to calm their brains and bodies. CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Understanding parental dysregulation: How to identify and manage your triggers with Dr. Amber Thornton 🎧 Supporting our children's emotional regulation and sensory processing experiences: With occupational therapist Laura Petix 🎧 The psychology behind dysregulation with Cara Goodwin 🎧 Teaching children emotion regulation skills through coregulation with Dana Rosenbloom
Ep 265Q&A: My husband and I had a big fight in front of our kids, how do we make sure this doesn't negatively impact them?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - Breaking down the different strategies you'd use with kids whether this is a single one-off big fight, or if conflict is more prevalent in your home. - What a conversation with your child might sound like and how to adapt it to be most authentic to you. - Specific things to do in order to lessen the negative impact of parental conflict on your kids. - How to help your child make sense of what happened in a narrative that allows them to understand they are safe and the fight wasn't their fault. - A developmentally appropriate way to share with your child that sometimes the people we love the most are the ones that we get into the biggest arguments with. - How to reassure and repair with a baby ore very young child who is still too little to understand your words. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about creating a thriving partnership with Dr. Suzanne Burger 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about understanding parental dysregulation with Dr. Amber Thornton 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about resolving conflicts with Dr. Rick Hanson WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 264The hidden dangers of EdTech: How technology in schools impacts learning, child development, and mental health with Andy Liddell
Discover the impacts of EdTech in schools and how parents can advocate for their children's education with technology attorney Andy Liddell - What EdTech is and how technology like iPads and Chromebooks are being integrated into classrooms. - The hidden dangers of screens on the learning experience, what is at risk when hands-on learning is replaced by more passive educational experiences, and how to optimize information retention, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. - The role of big tech in surveillance capitalism, persuasive design, and selling children's data. - How much control do schools have over blocking and restricting content on school-issued devices? (Spoiler: Most technology comes with no restrictions in place.) - How tech in classrooms is displacing social interactions, interfering with relationship development, overstimulating vulnerable children, and putting stress on an already fragile system. - What parents can do to teach media literacy, advocate for their child's privacy, and push for more thoughtful use of technology in schools If you're concerned or just curious about the influence of technology on your child's learning and development, this conversation is packed with strategies and insights to help you navigate these challenges with confidence and purpose. LEARN MORE ABOUT ANDY & EDTECH LAW CENTER: https://edtech.law/ REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: Read the research on EdTech conducted by Jared Cooney Horvath, PhD, MEd Social Media Victims Law Center Wait Until 8th Fairplay Everyschool Social Studies Documentary CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Regulation, reward systems, and rest: Rewiring the way our kids interact with screens with Alé Duarte 🎧 The battle over screen time: Helping our children form a healthy relationship to technology with Emily Cherkin/ 🎧 Have phones displaced our ability to play and have fun? How to be intentional with your tech use with Catherine Price
Ep 263Q&A: How do I respond to my daughter's "mean girl" behaviors? Is she a bully?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... - Bullying is often an expression of pain, so leading with compassion for your child is often your best entry point. - How to readjust your goal, rather than just trying to shut down your child's behaviors, for a higher likelihood of getting through to them. - Examples of real-life scenarios that middle school girls may be experiencing and how to navigate them. - The most common reasons middle schoolers act this way, so you can help you identify what the root cause may be to help you get to the heart of the matter. - Conversation starters you can use to prevent your child from getting defensive and shutting down. - At some point, this moves beyond exploring your child's feelings and these behaviors simply need to stop - when and how to transition to this point. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about peer rejection in toddlerhood 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about peer rejection in early adolescence 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping your child learn to foster secure friendships with Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to talk to your teen with Elizabeth Bennett WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 262Unifying mothers in a post-election America: Advocating for Women's Rights through bipartisan reform with Erin Erenberg
Motherhood comes with immense challenges, but when mothers come together, they can spark transformative change. In this inspiring episode, Erin Erenberg, founder of Totum Women and co-founder of the Chamber of Mothers, shares her journey becoming a powerful advocate for maternal rights. In this episode, we explore: - Erin's personal and professional journey that inspired her to empower and support mothers. - The Chamber of Mothers mission: Uniting mothers as advocates to create a better America. - How this bipartisan group is working to include "point of view diversity" and bridge mothers across all sides of the aisle. - How the Chamber of Mothers plans to work with the upcoming administration to continue fighting for the rights of all mothers in America. - What is galvanizing the people who are still motivated, and how to fight any feelings of dread people may be experiencing. - Strategies for accessing accurate information and taking care of ourselves in an overwhelming time of political divide. Learn how to join a movement that's not only advocating for mothers but creating a brighter future for the next generation! LEARN MORE ABOUT ERIN ERENBERG: https://www.totumwomen.com/blogs/news/more-on-our-founder LEARN MORE ABOUT CHAMBER OF MOTHERS: https://chamberofmothers.com/ JOIN A LOCAL CHAMBER: https://chamberofmothers.com/local-chapters/ FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Chamber of Mothers: @chamberofmothers Dr. Sarah Bren: @drsarahbren ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: Moms Demand Action - https://momsdemandaction.org/ Vote Mama - https://www.votemama.org/ National Women's Law Center - https://nwlc.org/ CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Motherhood as advocacy: A conversation about paid family leave, abortion access and gun reform with Raena Boston 🎧 Turning parenthood into a career asset for working moms and dads with The Fifth Trimester's Lauren Smith Brody 🎧 The pressures of motherhood in our society: And how we can come together to feel less alone with Alexis Barad-Cutler
Ep 261Q&A: Can my kid also get dysregulated from positive emotions, like excitement?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... - Dysregulation isn't just a result of negative emotions, kids can also become dysregulated from positive emotions too. - Embracing your child's excitement before you help them start to down-regulate can be a more successful (and fun) strategy. - Specific strategies for transitioning your child from those big, exciting moments into calming down in a way that is targeted to their development and nervous system. - The key questions to ask yourself to help you determine exactly how to pick and choose your parenting battles when it comes to family gatherings. - The difference between structured and unstructured playtime - and the pros and cons of each. - Our mom-tips for an activity that is helpful and containing for kids who have "buzzy energy" in these situations. - How to "pre-regulate" your child before they become dysregulated. REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 🎧 How do I stop my child from picking up his friend's bad behaviors? 🎧 Why are birthday parties so hard for my kid? ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the psychology of dyregulation with Cara Goodwin 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about coregulation with Dana Rosenbloom 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how Polyvagal Theory teaches us to calm our nervous system with Seth Porges WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 260Neurodiverse brains and sleep: How to modify traditional sleep strategies with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown
Joining me today is Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown to share the science behind why sleep is so essential, how to adapt sleep strategies for those with neurodiverse brains, and practical tips for tackling common sleep challenges. In this episode, we explore: - The science of why sleep is so important and foundational for children (spoiler: it's tied to growth, brain development, immune system regulation, emotion management, and more!) - The inadvertent mistake many parents make (that even Dr. Funke made with her own son) when they don't properly understand the different phases of childhood sleep. - What the research reveals about the sleep architecture and the quality of sleep for kids with neurodiverse brains. (And why it's not just about quantity.) - Behavioral cues and environmental strategies you can use to shift your child's circadian rhythm. - Why "catching up on sleep" during the weekend actually works against your child. - Breaking down the R.I.S.E. U.P. Protocol to help both kids and parents wake up easier and stop feeling the urge to hit snooze one more time. - The association of ADHD with mouth breathing during sleep and whether or not you should consider physical therapy for mouth breathers. - When you may want to consider getting a sleep evaluation for your child and what you can expect from a sleep test. Don't miss this deep dive into the science of sleep, actionable tips for better rest, and strategies to help your whole family thrive! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. FUNKE: https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/ READ DR. FUNKE'S BOOK: 📚 Beyond Tired: A Sleep Physician's Guide to Solving Your Child's Sleep Problems for Good WATCH DR. FUNKE'S YOUTUBE VIDEOS: 💻 RestfulSleepMD FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: 📱@restfulsleepmd and @drsarahbren ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: The sunrise clock Dr. Sarah uses to make waking up easier for her CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 How to make mindfulness more "user-friendly" for parents with ADHD with Dr. Lidia Zylowska 🎧 ADHD and attachment security: How to connect with and support your neurodiverse child with Dr. Norrine Russell 🎧 Parenting with the "Whole-Brain": How to work with the brain rather than fight against with Dr. Dan Siegel
Ep 259Q&A: How do I know if I'm giving in too much and becoming permissive?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - A quick breakdown of Baumrind's 4 parenting styles: Authoritative, Authoritarian, Permissive, and Neglectful. If you want to learn more, check out episode 39 where we dive deeper into parenting styles. - How to use "high love and high limits" as your compass for helping you know how to raise healthy kids. - Why the pattern so many parents find themselves in is: authoritative ➡️ permissive ➡️ authoritarian (and how to break this cycle!) - Knowing the difference between being permissive and making a conscious and intentional choice not to pick this battle. - The subtle shift in how you frame an intentional pivot to your child so your actions are still authoritative when you are "giving in." - How to change your mind without teaching your child that they can get you to cave and that your limits are unreliable. - When your child refuses to take a bath, brush their teeth, wants more water after bedtime, and asks for candy before breakfast - how to be authoritative in all of these situations. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 What can I do when all the "rules" for setting limits don't work for my sensitive kid? 🎧 How to move out of power struggles and into cooperation with Jen Lumanlan 🎧 How to use the principles of attachment science to make parenting easier WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 258Are vaccines safe? Common questions answered by pediatrician Dr. Caity Gilman
Pediatrician Dr. Caity Gilman is here to shed light on the facts surrounding vaccines and address common concerns and questions she hears most often from parents in her practice, like: - Does the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine cause autism? (Spoiler: No, vaccines do not cause autism.) - Do I need to vaccinate my child based on my pediatrician's suggested schedule? - What are the risks of stopping administering vaccines to children? - If vaccines are so good, why don't we have them for more things, like the common cold? - Is it really necessary to get a flu shot every year? - Are people given the actual disease when they get a vaccine? If so, then why not just get the illness itself and let my immune system learn to fight it? - Should you give your baby Tylenol before a vaccine so the shot hurts less? If you've ever had questions or felt unsure about vaccines, this episode is packed with helpful, expert-driven insights. Dr. Gilman's thoughtful, research-backed approach is sure to leave you feeling more informed and empowered! SHOW NOTES: (link) ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: American Academy of Pediatrics: Immunizations American Academy of Pediatrics :Examine the Evidence CDC: Vaccines for Children CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 How mold, Lyme, pesticides, and other toxins may be impacting your child's physical and mental health with Dr. Pejman Katiraei 🎧 How to ease your childs anxiety for doctors visits with pediatrician Dr. Rachel Geronemus
Ep 257Q&A: How do I get my 3-year-old to stop screaming at me whenever she gets frustrated?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... - How to incorporate the parenting knowledge you've acquired without losing sight of your own gut instincts. - Understanding what your job as a parent is when your child feels thwarted (and why making them stop yelling might not be your true end goal) - Unpacking the underlying question of: What do I do if my child is screaming volitionally as a manipulation tactic? - Whether your child is in a full-blown tantrum or just slightly dysregulated, the key strategies for addressing their underlying struggle. - How to respond to the behaviors (like yelling, eating, spitting, etc.) that you have no true control over. - How to find that middle space between not making your child feel responsible for your feelings without having to abandon all your own needs. 👉🏻 GET MY ON-DEMAND COURSE FOR COMBATTING TANTRUMS: Learn exactly how to reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of your child's tantrums in my self-paced course, The Science of Tantrums. 📚 READ Rebecca's book on managing your child's tantrums, The Tantrum Survival Guide WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT DYSREGULATION: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the difference between a tantrum and a meltdown 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about parenting a "threenager" 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode with a step-by-step guide for changing your child's behavior 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode answering the question: does teaching my kid to punch a pillow when they're mad make them more aggressive? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 256Project-Based Learning: Teaching kids to think critically, creatively, and collaboratively with Kim Mishkin
Kim Mishkin is here to shed light on Project-Based Learning, an education model that encourages kids to explore, problem-solve, and collaborate in ways that tap into their natural curiosity and interests. In this episode we explore: - What Project-Based Learning (PBL) is and how it differs from the standard American education model. - The origins of the PBL model and what current research reveals about its efficacy for educating kids? - Why allowing children to help shape the direction of their curriculum reinforces their motivation to learn and fosters curiosity. - How core academic subjects like reading, writing, and math are covered with a PBL approach. - Will kids who have been educated in a PBL elementary and middle-school be able to successfully transition to a standard American academic high-school or college environment? - Ways parents can integrate elements of the PBL approach into everyday life, helping to build critical thinking and curiosity in their children, even outside a PBL school. If you're curious about alternative education models or looking for ways to inspire a love of learning in your child, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss! LEARN MORE ABOUT HUDSON LAB SCHOOL: https://www.hudsonlabschool.com/ ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 👉🏻 PBL Works 📚 Project Based Learning (PBL) Starter Kit 🎥 Most Likely to Succeed CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Debunking the myth of learning styles: What the research actually says are the best ways to teach our children with Dr. Dan Willingham 🎧 The hidden dangers of an achievement centric approach with Jennifer Breheny Wallace 🎧 Fostering independent play and a love of learning with Lizzie Assa
Ep 255Q&A: How do I stop my child from picking up his friend's bad behaviors?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - Is it developmentally appropriate for my 3-year-old to start to mimic their friends' behaviors? - How to approach differences when our kid's friends or our family friends have different rules and limits than we do. - A conversation you can have with your child after they spend time with their friend and you start to see behaviors that you do not allow in your house - and how these can lead to larger conversations about peer pressure as they get older. - Zooming back to determine what your larger goals are will help you know what to focus on and what to let go of. - If you've ever wondered, "How can I get my kid to listen to me, especially in a highly exciting situation?" we'll give you a precursor that you may be skipping that could help! - Dr. Rebecca shares her #1 golden rule of all child playdates. - Dr. Sarah shares her 4 S's for how to make playdates most successful. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about appropriate consequences when your child doesn't listen to you 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about using consequences intended teach, not punish your child WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 254Back by popular demand: Attachment theory and fostering secure attachment relationships
Let's revisit the foundation of raising securely attached kids! I'm bringing back one of my first ever episodes to help parents understand the basics of how a secure attachment bond impacts children's resilience, confidence, and overall well-being. Tune in to hear: - What secure attachment is and how it plays a key role in nurturing a child's confidence, curiosity, and ability to handle life's ups and downs. - The powerful influence of feeling safe and seen on a child's ability to be honest, adaptable, and resilient. - Practical strategies for fostering secure attachment, no matter the age of your child. - How attachment affects a child's development into a compassionate, kind individual who can build meaningful relationships throughout their life. This episode offers science-backed insights and actionable tips and is a must-listen for all parents! SHOW NOTES: (link) INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT ATTACHMENT SCIENCE? Click HERE to download my free guide, The Four Pillars of Fostering Secure Attachment, helping you parent with a focus on attunement and trust. LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. SARAH: https://drsarahbren.com/ FOLLOW DR. SARAH ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/drsarahbren/ CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Breaking the cycle of insecure attachment: How to support your child's secure attachment even if you didn't grow up with it with Dr. Miriam Steele 🎧 Secure attachment is optimal, but insecure attachment may not be as bad as we think with Dr. Or Dagan 🎧 Can my kid be securely attached to me if I'm insecurely attached in my adult relationships?
Ep 253Q&A: What is your take as a psychologist on making kids do chores?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... - Unpacking what you consider to be a "chore" versus what is just an expectation of your child as a member of the household. - How do you teach your child to do chores (and why you may need to remind them to do it over and over and over again!) - At what age is it appropriate to expect your child to be able to accomplish tasks like chores? - How to take advantage of routines when it comes to setting expectations and creating habits with your child. - Being intentional about looking for opportunities where your child can help out that are aligned with your family values. - Will giving chores decrease your child's intrinsic motivation? (And why it's not so black and white) ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about unlocking motivation with Dr. Ellen Braaten 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about balancing the load of parenthood with Lauren A. Tetenbaum 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode that busts positive parenting myths with Tracy Gillett WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 252Secure attachment and growth mindset: The science behind raising well-adjusted kids with Melinda Wenner Moyer
Get science-backed strategies to raise kids who are compassionate, kind, and successful in today's chaotic world with Melinda Wenner Moyer. In this episode, we explore: - How becoming a parent shifted Melinda's attention to applying science and research to answer her most pressing parenting questions - One of the most surprising and counterintuitive things Melinda learned when she started to dig into the research on parenting. - How to approach challenging topics, like race, authentically and in age-appropriate ways without needing a "script." - Diving into Carol Dweck's research study using fixed vs growth mindset language with kids and how it affected their perseverance (Spoiler: Kids who were given fixed mindset messaging showed less resilience.) - Why kids lie, the best ways we can respond when they do, and how this can impact how likely they are to be open with us as they get older. - How attachment security impacts our kid's ability to be confident, curious, flexible, and compassionate If you're looking to raise kind, resilient kids who feel safe being honest with you, this conversation is filled with insights to help you make that happen! LEARN MORE ABOUT MELINDA: https://www.melindawennermoyer.com/ READ MELINDA'S BOOKS: 📚 How to Raise Kids Who Aren't Assholes: Science-Based Strategies for Better Parenting--from Tots to Teens 📚 Hello, Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times JOIN MELINDA'S SUBSTACK: 📖 Is My Kid the Asshole? FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: 📱@melindawmoyer and @drsarahbren ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE: Read more about Carol Dweck Watch the Instagram reel we talk about: Teaching my boomer mom about gentle parenting CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Raising conscious kids: A thoughtful exploration of bias, cultural identity, and diversity with Dr. Dana E. Crawford 🎧 The hidden dangers of an achievement centric approach with Jennifer Breheny Wallace 🎧 Raising emotionally intelligent sons: Parenting boys to combat "toxic masculinity" with Ruth Whippman 🎧 Debunking the myth of learning styles: What the research actually says are the best ways to teach our children with Dr. Dan Willingham
Ep 251Q&A: How can I encourage my shy child without making them feel like being shy is bad?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - Unpacking what "shy" really means and exploring the space between shyness and social anxiety. - When to encourage your child and push them out of their comfort zone versus when it's better to respect their boundaries. - Thinking of shyness as a feeling and not a character trait - plus a script for how to articulate that distinction to your child. - Why young children may act more shy around other kids, especially in environments like a playground. - The different levels of support you can use to stretch your child with specific real-world examples of how this may sound and play out. - Saying hello is a common struggle many "shy kids" face. We're discussing whether or not you should force them to say hello. - Different parenting approaches and strategies to try based on your child's age. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about temperament and personality with Dr. Koraly Pérez-Edgar 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about why birthday parties may be challenging for your child WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 250How to make mindfulness more "user-friendly" for parents with ADHD with Dr. Lidia Zylowska
In honor of ADHD Awareness Month, we're talking about how mindfulness can reduce symptoms of ADHD with Dr. Lidia Zylowska. In this episode we explore: - Does having ADHD make it harder to engage in mindfulness and meditation practices? (Spoiler: Yes, but there are things we can do about that!) - What the research reveals about mindfulness in teens and adults with ADHD and the science of how a mindfulness practice strengthens neurological deficits in the brain. - Parenthood requires so much executive functioning, sensory stimulation, and stress, so often this is when the strategies we've been using to manage symptoms of ADHD fall apart. - Concrete strategies, like the best time of day, introducing aspects of physicality, and logistical considerations for how to incorporate mindfulness practice into your life when sitting still feels too difficult or daunting. - Tips for identifying what helps you personally feel less flooded that can serve as your go-to's when things start to feel scattered, stuck, or overwhelming. - The importance of self-compassion in mindfulness and how this is an often overlooked, yet key piece of mindfulness practices. If you're curious about how mindfulness can make a real difference for those with ADHD, this episode is a must-listen! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. LIDIA: https://lidiazylowska.com/ READ LIDIA'S BOOKS: 📚 The Mindfulness Prescription for Adult ADHD: An 8-Step Program for Strengthening Attention, Managing Emotions, and Achieving Your Goals 📚 Mindfulness for Adult ADHD: A Clinician's Guide WATCH LIDIA'S YOUTUBE VIDEOS: 💻 MindfulRxADHD ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 👉🏻 ADDitude 👉🏻 Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) 👉🏻 Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) GET MORE SUPPORT: 👉🏻 Go to upshurbren.com if you're interested in resources for you or your child with ADHD, including individual, group, parenting support, and neuropsychological evaluation services tailored to your unique needs. CHECK ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 The benefits of mindfulness: How to use this practice for ourselves and our children with Diana Winston 🎧 The science of "mom-rage" and how to use mindfulness as a as a tool for being less reactive with Diana Winston 🎧 ADHD and attachment security: How to connect with and support your neurodiverse child with Dr. Norrine Russell 🎧 How do I help my child with ADHD utilize school support systems without feeling embarrassed or self-conscious?
Ep 249Q&A: Do you think virtual therapy would be helpful for my postpartum challenges?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - What are the advantages of telehealth appointments and the ability to do virtual sessions from anywhere. - Do the full range of emotions and subtle nuances get lost when you're talking through a screen? (Spoiler: Our brains fill in so much it often feels like we're in the same room.) - What to consider to determine if virtual therapy may not be the best option for you. - The different levels of interventions and the types of support that can match up with each. - If you are doing virtual therapy, how to maximize the experience and specific strategies to implement to make your sessions most effective. - What is the difference between therapy and mental health coaching and what are the different rules for each based on the state you live in. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 👉🏻 If you're interested in exploring our therapy and coaching support services, feel free to reach out to us at Upshur Bren Psychology Group for a free 15-minute consultation so we can suggest a treatment plan for your unique needs. ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about newborn sleep with Greer Kirshenbaum 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about staying mindful in postpartum and early parenthood with Dr. Kira Bartlett 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about going back to work after maternity leave with Lauren Smith Brody WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 248Preparing for pregnancy and postpartum with twins or triplets with doula and newborn care specialist Kristin Revere
Here to talk about the unique challenges that come from pregnancy and postpartum with multiples is the founder of Gold Coast Doulas, Kristin Revere. In this episode we explore: - What exactly is a doula and how can doulas be helpful for expecting and postpartum parents, especially for those with multiples? - Understanding the emotional, physical, and logistical stress associated with having twins or triplets. - Resources that are available and insurance coverage options broken down for those seeking access to doula care (whether you're having one baby or more). - A framework—including the most important questions to ask—when looking for a doula that can meet your family's unique needs and best support you. - The difference between a night nurse and a postpartum doula and what to consider to determine what type of care would be best for your family. - Baby registry tips, postpartum strategies, and what an average day with a doula supporting multiples may look like. If you've ever wondered what a doula does and how they can help, especially if you're expecting multiples, this conversation is for you! SHOW NOTES: (link) LEARN MORE ABOUT KRISTIN & GOLD COAST DOULAS: https://www.goldcoastdoulas.com/ READ HER BOOK: 📚 Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby by Kristin Revere and Alyssa Veneklase LISTEN TO HER PODCAST: 🎧 Ask The Doulas Podcast ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: Fertility, birth, and postpartum insurance and care resources: - Carrot - Progyny - Maven - Tricare - MomsBloom 🤳 DOWNLOAD my free postpartum mental health checklist 💻 WATCH my free workshop, Confident Parenting from the Start, to get tools and strategies that you can put into practice right away to challenge self-doubt, put an end to your panic-Googling, and finally find the ease and enjoyment in early parenthood! 👉🏻 JOIN ME in The Authentic Parent, my comprehensive self-paced course that takes my workshop to the next level and teaches you everything you need to know (that no one tells you ahead of time) for how to confidently move through your first year of parenthood. CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Maternal mental health throughout pregnancy and parenthood with birth doula Carson Meyer 🎧 Rethinking the birth plan: How to create a plan with your OBGYN that supports resilience and reduces anxiety with Dr. Shieva Ghofrany 🎧 NICU survival guide: Establishing a secure attachment even when your child is in the hospital with the founders of NICU Nook 🎧 Beyond postpartum depression: A breakdown of all PMADs 🎧 Becoming a grandparent: Embracing the complicated identity shifts that come when your baby has a baby with Carol Merle- Fishman
Ep 247Q&A: How can I tell if my child is ready for sleep-away camp?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - Dr. Rebecca shares how she made the decision of whether or not to send her own two children to sleep-away camp. (Spoiler: She chose to send her older child, not her younger son.) - The logistical and financial pointers to think of that can potentially buy you some extra time to make this decision. - Is it better to send them when they're not ready, or hold them back for a year and risk the potential consequences? Dr. Sarah and Dr. Rebecca share what they suggest parents do if you're on the fence. - The developmental milestones and skills you want to look for to help you decide if your kid may be ready for camp. - Should you send your kid to sleep-away camp? It all boils down to a simple-single answer (a Beyond the Sessions first!) WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 246Turning parenthood into a career asset for working moms and dads with The Fifth Trimester's Lauren Smith Brody
Join me for an inspiring conversation with Lauren Smith Brody, author and founder of The Fifth Trimester, as we explore the realities and challenges of being a working parent. In this episode we discuss: - The one thing that Lauren has observed to most galvanize people to stand up for their needs and their family's needs in the workplace. - Dr. Sarah shares the oh-so-relatable working-mom struggle that led her to be 8 months pregnant, crying alone in a coffee shop. - How to step back and identify if the "rules" aren't working for you and how you can start to feel more empowered to break them (even when it's hard!) - A simple strategy for making it easier for your work to say yes to your requests (Hint: The first step is understanding why it's an economically good decision for your boss to make the accommodations you're requesting.) - What a small business owner can do to support working parents when they don't necessarily have the financial resources to do all the big-ticket items they wish they could. - How employers can help their teams "resentment-proof" their career and their lives with solutions for the future. Tune in for a conversation packed with insights on how to empower working moms and transform workplace culture! LEARN MORE ABOUT LAUREN SMITH BRODY: https://www.thefifthtrimester.com/ READ LAUREN'S BOOK: 📚 The Fifth Trimester: The Working Mom's Guide to Style, Sanity, and Success After Baby LEARN MORE ABOUT CHAMBER OF MOTHERS: https://chamberofmothers.com/ VOTE LIKE A MOTHER: https://chamberofmothers.com/vote-like-a-mother/ ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 🎧 LISTEN to my podcast interview with fellow Chamber of Mothers member Alexis Barad-Cutler 🎧 LISTEN to my podcast interview with fellow Chamber of Mothers member Raena Boston 📚 READ The R.O.I. of Caregiving Benefits white paper
Ep 245Q&A: Diving deep into how vital parental support is on this World Mental Health Day
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... - What are the barriers we are grappling with as a society in terms of parental mental health? - The energy, resolve, and 'all-emcompassingness' of parenthood has long been ignored and undervalued in our society. - Is it okay for moms to make themselves a priority, even over the long list of your child's needs? - Our answer may (but hopefully won't) surprise you. - Is the "parenting industrial complex" causing parents to feel more shame, fear, and dependency? - How to tune into your instinct and feel empowered knowing you're the expert on your own kid. - Getting through the misinformation and noise to help you take some of the pressure off your shoulders. - What parents (and everyone) can do to support parental mental health! REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 📚 U.S. Surgeon General Issues Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 244Understanding parental dysregulation: How to identify and manage your triggers with Dr. Amber Thornton
Join me for a deep dive into the essential aspects of emotional regulation in parenting with clinical psychologist, Dr. Amber Thornton. In this episode we explore: - Cognitive, emotional, physical, and physiological regulation - the differences between all four and how this knowledge can help you feel more grounded. - Dr. Amber shares her PCR Method that parents can use to identify and manage their own dysregulation. - How to understand your parenting triggers (because we all have them!) so you can use more effective strategies tailored to your unique nervous system. - Gain practical approaches for reparenting yourself to meet the needs of your younger self. - Why being an imperfect parent is actually beneficial, and even optimal, for your child's development! - How understanding the scientific principles of attachment theory can help reduce fear and lower the stakes we feel in parenthood. Discover practical strategies to help you navigate the challenges of parenthood while fostering a healthier connection with your children. LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. AMBER: https://www.dramberthornton.com/ READ DR. AMBER'S BOOK: 📚 A Parent's Guide to Self-Regulation: A Practical Framework for Breaking the Cycle of Dysregulation and Mastering Emotions for Parents and Children WATCH DR. AMBER ON YOUTUBE: 💻 https://www.youtube.com/@dramberthornton ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 👉🏻 Click HERE for my workshop, Be the Calm in Your Child's Storm: How to Keep Your Cool When Your Child Loses Theirs, to get the exact therapeutic interventions I use with my patients that can change the way your brain and body interprets your child's dysregulation to help you stay cool in the heat of the moment. 👉🏻 Click HERE to download my free guide, The Four Pillars of Fostering Secure Attachment, helping you parent with a focus on attunement and trust. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: @dramberthornton @drsarahbren CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 The psychology behind dysregulation with Cara Goodwin 🎧 Teaching children emotion regulation skills through coregulation with Dana Rosenbloom 🎧 What to do before, during and after we lose our cool: Helping parents navigate their own big feelings with Dr. Cindy Hovington
Ep 243Q&A: How can I help my child overcome a phobia?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - What is a phobia, and how can it show up (like, for this 7-year-old who developed a fear of vomiting after having a stomach bug) in kids? - How to recognize when your child's phobia or anxiety might require additional support versus when soothing and comfort may be enough to help them through their discomfort. - When to treat child anxiety or phobias with CBT and when to use a SPACE approach - and how to determine the best fit for your child. - What a supportive statement is and how it can be a powerful first step to helping your child manage their fears (plus, why mastering it can mean your job as a parent is done!) - A counterintuitive approach: how reframing our own responsibility to focus on our responses and behaviors rather than trying to change our child's behavior can take a huge weight and pressure off a parent's shoulders. - The biggest mistake that Dr. Sarah and Dr. Emily see parents make when they try to implement a SPACE approach - and how to avoid this pitfall. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 📚 Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD: A Scientifically Proven Program for Parents by Eli R. Lebowitz, PhD 👉🏻 If you're interested in exploring support options for your child's anxiety, including SPACE small groups and one-on-one interventions, feel free to reach out to us at Upshur Bren Psychology Group for a free 15-minute consultation so we can suggest a treatment plan for your unique needs. WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CHILDHOOD ANXIETY: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the creator of SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) Dr. Eli Lebowitz 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about using SPACE to treat ARFID with Dr. Yaara Shimshoni 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about when it may be time for a mental health intervention to help your child manage their anxiety symptoms 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about navigating your child's anxiety with Dr. Terri Bacow WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 242Have phones displaced our ability to play and have fun? How to be intentional with your tech use with Catherine Price
After the birth of her daughter, Catherine Price noticed a disconnect—her baby was looking up at her, while she was looking down at her phone. This sparked her interest in understanding why our phones are so hard to put down, what that's doing to our memory, creativity, and overall lived experience, and how we can break free from the grip of technology to live more intentional lives. In this episode we explore: - Catherine's definition of fun: The overlapping of playfulness, connection, and flow. Plus, how understanding each can help us experience genuine fun that refills our buckets. - When our jobs don't have a clear start time and end time, it can become addicting to staying connected 24/7. Tune in for specific strategies to intentionally combat this. - Catherine coaches Dr. Sarah through the relatable struggles she and so many parents experience when attempting to put down the phone (Sneak peek: it's taken her 6 months to plug in the alarm clock she bought instead of using her phone next to her bed.) - An easy first step people can take to cut the cord with their phone. - Strategies for when and how to communicate with your kids about screen time (that don't cause them to shut down or feel defensive). Plus, how to break down the process of getting your kid their first phone into smaller steps that usher them more gradually into the digital world. - Setting appropriate tech boundaries that honor your family's values while also taking into consideration how much of kids' social lives are facilitated through technology today. Listen now for insights and actionable tips to help you free yourself from your screens to have more fun! LEARN MORE ABOUT CATHERINE PRICE: https://catherineprice.com/ READ CATHERINE'S BOOKS: 📚 The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again 📚 How to Break Up with Your Phone: The 30-Day Plan to Take Back Your Life JOIN CATHERINE'S SUBSTACK: 📖 How to Feel Alive with Catherine Price ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 👉🏻 Click HERE to sign up for Dr. Sarah's newsletter to find out if she is able to complete Catherine's challenge to take her phone out of her bedroom for the weekend! 🤳 Opal - The app Dr. Sarah said she uses to help her manage her screen time. 📱 ScreenZen, Brick, and Unpluq- Products Catherine recommends to help people manage their screen use. 📺 Watch Diane Sawyer's ABC News report, Screen Time 📳 Pinwheel, Gabb, and Troomi - Kid and teen phones Catherine mentions in the episode. 📚 Read The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt and the The New York Times essay, Gen Z Has Regrets by Jonathan Haidt and Will Johnson CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Regulation, reward systems, and rest: Rewiring the way our kids interact with screens with Alé Duarte 🎧 How play could be the key to mental health and well-being with Dr. Mike Rucker 🎧 What are the do's and don't for introducing screens to my toddler? 🎧 Helping our children form a healthy relationship to technology with Emily Cherkin
Ep 241Q&A: How can I help my child with separation anxiety for a smoother daycare drop off?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - Understanding the basics of your child's cognitive development can help inform what you do to soothe them when they have a hard time transitioning to daycare each morning. - How important your own calm nervous system is for helping your child feel safe. - What to do in the moment at drop off when your child is crying, struggling, or having a hard time settling in. - What you can do outside the heat of the moment to build your child's ability to separate from you and relieve some of the stress surrounding going to daycare that they feel. - What a warm handoff looks like and how you can work with the daycare providers to create an environment that makes it easier for your child to say goodbye. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 📚 Read my blog for helping your child transition to a new daycare 🎶 Listen with your child to the Daniel Tiger song, Grownups Come Back 🎧 Tune in to my podcast interview with Eileen Henry on getting toddlers to stay in their own bed at night WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 240Processing birth trauma: How to make sense of, heal, and move forward after a difficult birthing experience with Dr. Sterling
Dr. Sterling, ObGyn and founder of Sterling Parents, dives deep into the complex relationship between stress, trauma, pregnancy, and birth. In this episode we explore: - The impact of stress and anxiety on fetal development and pregnancy outcomes. - What birth trauma is, how frequently it occurs, and common symptoms people may feel (and may not even realize is trauma). - Dr. Sterling shares her own deeply personal and inspiring experience struggling with and working to heal from the trauma she experienced after the birth of her first child. - Why so many women downplay and minimize their symptoms, and how this can inadvertently be a block to their healing. - Practical tips for what you can do during pregnancy to reduce the potential risk of experiencing birth trauma. - Steps you can take immediately after birth, or even years later, to begin healing from trauma. - You do not have one shot at having an empowering birth - how to make meaning of what happened to you so you can shift your birth trauma into a positive experience for yourself! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. STERLING: https://sterlingparents.com/about-us/ JOIN DR. STERLING'S MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: https://sterlingparents.com/waitlist/ ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 🤳 DOWNLOAD my free postpartum mental health checklist 🎧 LISTEN to my first interview with Dr. Sterling about the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and postpartum 🎧 LISTEN to an episode about using Internal Family Systems to emotionally support mothers with the creators of The Mothercentric Approach WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PARENTING COACHING AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY? 👉🏻 If you're interested in exploring support options, feel free to reach out to us at Upshur Bren Psychology Group for a free 15-minute consultation so we can suggest a treatment plan for your unique needs.
Ep 239Q&A: How can I support my child's self-confidence when she calls herself dumb?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - The urge may be to talk your child out of thinking they're "dumb," but it can be helpful to stay with this feeling and lean into being curious about her experience. - How to zoom out and determine if your child is speaking out of frustration and is just emoting or if they actually have internalized that they think they aren't smart. - How to talk with your child in a way that helps build back their confidence in themself when they are struggling to learn something new, like reading. - We also want to try not to catastrophize this situation either - just because your child is saying this doesn't mean they will permanently have a poor self-image. - You can boost your child's self-confidence by feeling confident in their ability to handle the challenges they face. - How to get clear with your kid about what they think "smart" and "dumb" means, and building flexibility around those ideas. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 👉🏻 If you're interested in exploring whether your child could benefit from a Neuropsychological Evaluation, CLICK HERE to learn about what we offer at Upshur Bren Psychology Group or SCHEDULE A FREE CALL to learn more about the available resources for your unique needs. 📚 BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity by Ruth Whippman 🎥 Inside Out and Inside Out 2 WANT TO LISTEN TO MORE EPISODES ON THIS TOPIC: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about what to do when your child says "I hate myself" 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about learning styles and what the research reveals are the best methods for teaching children with Dan Willingham 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the hidden dangerous and pressures of achievement centered systems with Jennifer Breheny Wallace WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 238Temperament, personality, and parenting: What you do (and don't) have control over as a parent with Dr. Koraly Pérez-Edgar
How can you honor who your child is while still equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in our fast-paced world? That's exactly what I'm talking about with my guest, McCourtney Professor of Child Studies and Professor of Psychology at Penn State, Dr. Koraly Pérez-Edgar. In this episode, we dive into: - What temperament actually is from a psychological standpoint (it's probably not what you think it is!) and the factors professionals use to measure and map it out. - What impact temperament has on the way sensitive, shy, or explosive children regulate their emotions and respond to their environment. - How parents can create opportunities for their child to become self-actualized and why focusing on self-actualization is the precursor to helping them achieve and thrive. - Inhibited versus exuberant - how finding the right niche for a child's unique temperament can define their success, even if it doesn't align with traditional expectations. - How to find that middle ground between pushing your child when they need a bit of encouragement and nurturing them when they need more support and scaffolding. Tune in for valuable insights that will help you navigate the complexities of parenting with more confidence and compassion! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. KORALY PÉREZ-EDGAR: https://www.catlabpsu.com/our-team-1 CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 How understanding your child's sensory sensitivities can strengthen their emotional intelligence with Alyssa Blask Campbell 🎧 Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) with Dr. Eli Lebowitz of the Yale Child Study Center 🎧 Debunking the myth of learning styles with Dr. Dan Willingham
Ep 237Q&A: Why are birthday parties so hard for my kid?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... - How there is a lot of weight put on attending all the birthdays your child gets invited to, and hear us share a permission-granting reframe you can tell yourself when you feel that pressure. - How to work toward identifying the aspect of birthday parties that are overwhelming for your child - and what the most common triggers are (like transitions, loud sounds, lots of kids) to help you get started. - Why it actually makes sense that this is so hard for parents when kids struggle with birthday parties. What social stakes are at play, and how to balance those with what is best for your kid. - How to celebrate the birthday boy or girl in a manner that is more realistic for your child, but that allows them to still feel included and fosters their peer relationships. - What you can do before the birthday party to help prepare your child for what they can expect and how to navigate their dysregulation if they get overwhelmed once you're there. - Two psychologist-mom's recommendations of exactly how to respond (when to nurture them and when to push them) when your child gets clingy at a birthday party. WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SIMILAR TOPICS: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about understanding your child's sensory sensitivities with Alyssa Blask Campbell 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping your child form strong friendship bonds with Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about what you can do when your child experiences peer rejection in elementary school WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 236Rethinking discipline: How to get through to your sensitive child and teach them lessons that will stick with Dr. Vanessa Lapointe
I'm joined by Dr. Vanessa Lapointe to discuss effective discipline strategies and how to approach those tough parenting moments with warmth, compassion, and understanding - for yourself and your child. In this episode, we dive into: - The profound impact of coregulation and why it's a crucial first step we don't want to skip if we want the discipline and lessons we're trying to teach our kids to stick. - How to navigate those "bad behavior" moments by rethinking the entire framework of discipline (Spoiler Alert: It starts with a mindset shift to help you understand how there is actually no such thing as "bad" behaviors.) - The up-side of having a more sensitive, reactive, or explosive kid - and how to nurture their more sensitive side to bring out their best qualities and help them manage their big emotions so they are more in control of their behaviors. - The powerful role of connection in discipline, including how to create a safe space where your child can learn and grow, even in the midst of challenging behaviors. - Strategies for parents struggling to keep their cool, working through feelings of guilt or shame, and understanding that it's never too late to implement new parenting approaches. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by traditional discipline methods or wondered how to discipline your child in a way that strengthens your bond, this episode is for you! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. VANESSA LAPOINTE: https://drvanessalapointe.com/ READ DR. VANESSA'S BOOKS: 📚 Discipline Without Damage: How to Get Your Kids to Behave Without Messing Them Up 📚 Parenting Right From the Start: Laying a Healthy Foundation in the Baby and Toddler Years INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT DISCIPLINE? Click HERE to download my free guide on effectively disciplining your child with strategies that don't utilize shame or guilt - but still work to get your child to behave! CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Positive parenting isn't permissive parenting: How to integrate effective discipline that prioritizes emotional and mental health with Sarah R. Moore 🎧 How to move out of power struggles and into cooperation with Jen Lumanlan 🎧 Busting positive parenting myths to help you authentically foster secure attachment and connection with Raised Good's Tracy Gillett
Ep 235Q&A: How can I prepare for an IEP or 504 meeting after my child receives an ADHD diagnosis?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... - Who can assess, evaluate, and diagnose neuropsychological diagnosises like ADHD, dyslexia, autism, etc., and how to go about getting one for your child if you don't have a formal diagnosis yet. - The benefits of a comprehensive evaluation, when your child might not need such an in-depth approach, and how to determine which is right for your unique child. - Navigating the school support system and what they are required to provide for you and your child after you make a formal request. - The basic differences between an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) versus a 504 plan. ✨✨✨Want more details?: CLICK HERE to read a blog article that breaks this all down for you.✨✨✨ - What are soft-building services and how your child's teacher can implement these tools to help your child thrive. - It can be helpful for parents to work with an advocate in this process - this can reduce anxiety and to allow you to have a dedicated person with a deep understanding of this process and your child's rights to advocate on their behalf. - What to do when the recommendations from your child's evaluation don't correspond with the services your child's school provides - and when to bring in a professional to help translate this jargon for you. - Never apologize for advocating for your child! It can help you feel more comfortable and empowered to go into these meetings with action items and knowing what you're asking for. - Working to come together to create a collaborative environment with your school system, your child's teachers, and your mental health professional. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 👉🏻 If you're interested in exploring more personalized support options, reach out to us at Upshur Bren Psychology Group for a free 15-minute consultation so we can suggest a treatment plan for your unique needs. WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SIMILAR TOPICS: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about parenting a child with Autism with Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping your child feel comfortable utilizing school supports without feeling self-conscious 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about creating a secure attachment with your neurodiverse child with Dr. Norrine Russell WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 234Parenting with the "Whole-Brain": How to work with the brain rather than fight against with Dr. Dan Siegel
Is your child explosive? Do you struggle to keep your own emotions in-check, then feel guilty after you lose your cool? We're all working with the same equipment and understanding the basics of what is happening in our kid's brains and our own brains when we get dysregulated can have a huge impact on how often we're able to stay calm in the face of life's chaos. I am honored to be joined once again by Dr. Dan Siegel to explore: - The "window of tolerance" - what it is and how to use it to help you and your child stay grounded, even during stressful moments. - Dan performs a visceral Yes/No Exercise that listeners can follow along with to become a more effective regulator of your own threat response. - There is no such thing as being perfect, real secure attachment boils down to proper repair after you lose your cool. We cover the most effective strategies and tools for facilitating repair in your relationship with your child. - Everyone has innate temperament and personality traits (like sensitivity, intensity of their reactions, and their response to novelty), but do those proclivities become intensified by our attachment relationships? - How to apply these strategies to kids who don't fit the mold - who are sensitive, explosive, neurodiverse, or quick to become dysregulated. - Dan's views as a psychiatrist on how medication and clinical interventions can be properly used with children. - How to look at any diagnosis from the perspective of integration versus disintegration - and by looking at it this way, what that means for treatment. LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. DAN SIEGEL: https://drdansiegel.com/ A FEW OF DAN'S BOOKS FOR PARENTS TO GET STARTED WITH: 📚 Parenting from the Inside Out 📚 The Whole-Brain Child 📚 The Power of Showing Up 📚 No-Drama Discipline CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 The neuroscience of mindfulness with Dr. Dan Siegel 🎧 How to use mindfulness for ourselves and our children with Diana Winston 🎧 How to support your child's secure attachment even if you didn't grow up with it with Dr. Miriam Steele
Ep 233Q&A: How can I get my child to cooperate without using threats?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 3:49 - How a child's developmental ability to conceptualize time is different than adults' and how this gets in the way of them sharing our sense of urgency. 6:58 - Kids often have trouble transitioning to things they don't want to do, we'll talk through strategies for helping them tolerate this better. 8:10 - The difference between a bribe and a positive reward, and when to use each. 10:45 - How integrating moments into the routine that promote autonomy and help your child feel a deeper sense of control can make a big difference. 12:25 - How Dr. Sarah adds elements of playfulness and gamification into the routine with her own kids. 18:55 - There is a huge tradeoff to our kid's mental health if they are obedient because they are are afraid of us - but that doesn't mean it wouldn't make parenting easier. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: ⏰ Kids Visual Timer or Sand Timers to help your child learn about time 📖 My FREE workbook with 6 games to help you incorporate playfulness while teaching your child emotion regulation skills WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOPIC? 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode that covers a 10-step framework for getting your child to change their behavior in just 3 weeks 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about what to do when your child doesn't listen to you 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about bribery WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 232Lessons from a crisis negotiator: Utilizing conflict resolution strategies in your parenting with Karleen Savage
In this episode, I'm sitting down with hostage and crisis negotiator Karleen Savage to share practical strategies to help you manage conflict and family dynamics. In this episode, we explore: Crisis Negotiation at Home: How to apply professional conflict resolution techniques to everyday parenting challenges. Encouraging Accountability: A framework for structuring conversations with your child that fosters honesty, responsibility, and effective communication skills. The Role of Playfulness in Discipline: The surprising power of levity and humor in diffusing tense situations and helping kids learn from their mistakes. Mantras for Success: How to meet your children where they are emotionally, helping them navigate conflicts while feeling understood and supported. Building Resilience: Practical tips for creating an environment that promotes self-awareness, confidence, and problem-solving skills in your kids. Tune in to get tools you can use to turn conflicts into growth opportunities for your whole family! LEARN MORE ABOUT KARLEEN SAVAGE: https://www.karleensavage.com/ READ KARLEEN'S BOOK: 📚 The Confident Teen Blueprint CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL RELATED EPISODES: 🎧 How to resolve conflict, prioritize our needs, and set appropriate boundaries with Dr. Rick Hanson 🎧 How to talk so your teen will listen with Elizabeth Bennett 🎧 Fostering deep, authentic and connected conversations with your kids with Rebecca Rolland
Ep 231Q&A: How can I build my toddler's assertiveness skills?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 4:38 - What Dr. Sarah says about assertiveness skills that causes Dr. Rebecca to have a major eye-roll moment. 6:08 - The assertiveness skills that you can expect to see at different stages of your child's development - and how to allow these things to shift, change, and be fluid. 7:02 - Understanding what is happening in your toddler and young child's brain as they grow, so you can be mindful of leaning into patterns that create neural connections that can serve them best throughout their life. 11:15 - Exactly when and how to step in when you observe an interpersonal conflict that supports your child while still allowing them to build their own problem-solving skills. 16:15 - How to build assertiveness skills outside the heat of the moment. And why these can also impact skills related to sharing, flexibility, and resilience. 22:43 - Strategies for parenting in a world where we have so much access to always be monitoring our kids - when it's helpful and when it becomes a hindrance for us and for them. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 📚 All Mine by Terrific Toddlers WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SIMILAR TOPICS? 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping your toddler learn to share 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping your toddler feel seen, validated, and understood with the co-authors of the Terrific Toddlers series 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about having a healthy relationship with technology with Emily Cherkin WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 230Busting positive parenting myths to help you authentically foster secure attachment and connection with Raised Good's Tracy Gillett
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all the conflicting parenting advice out there? In this episode, I'm joined by Raised Good's Tracy Gillett to discuss how one simple guiding principle can serve as your parenting compass. In this episode, we explore: - How the attachment relationship comes into play when our kids are "pushing our buttons" and what we can do to decrease how often they test the limits. - What rupture and repair is and how this can be an underrated and incredibly impactful strategy to utilize in to strengthen your connection with your child. - The empowering mindset shift you need to start "breaking the rules" and trusting your gut, plus how to get past the anxiety that can come with making these decisions. - The single overarching question you can use as your guiding compass (spoiler alert: it's all about connection) to inform every single parenting question and choice you're faced with throughout your child's life. - The trap we can find ourselves in between authenticity and attachment, and how to help our kids avoid those same pitfalls we may have experienced in our own childhoods. - The misconception that you must choose between connection and discipline, and exactly how we can effectively discipline our kids. - Practical strategies for building your parenting toolbox, like how and when to "bank connection," where to incorporate playfulness, and much more! Whether you're new to parenting or looking to deepen your connection with your kids, this conversation will offer valuable insights and practical tips on how to parent with intention and authenticity. LEARN MORE ABOUT TRACY GILLETT: https://raisedgood.com/ REGISTER FOR THE FREE RAISED GOOD ONLINE SUMMIT: The 2024 Raised Good Online Summit LEARN MORE ABOUT TIMEOUTS AND EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE: 📚 READ Tracy's blog post 🤳 DOWNLOAD my free effective discipline guide 🎧 LISTEN to my podcast interview with Sarah R. Moore CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 How to support your child's secure attachment even if you didn't grow up with it with Dr. Miriam Steele 🎧 How nurturing shapes our child's brain and sets them up for lifelong mental health with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum 🎧 How to use the attachment relationship to help your toddler fall and stay asleep with Eileen Henry
Ep 229Q&A: A 10-year-old's take on starting a new school year, navigating friendships, and what he wants every parent to keep in mind
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, me, and and a very special guest talk about... 2:48 - The changes a 5th grader, Henry, is expecting are in store for him before the start of a new school year and how he feels about them. 4:22 - What it feels like to meet new people and how a kid views making new friends. 5:13 - The one thing Henry thinks would help him feel ready for the start of school, and what he thinks all parents should know would help your own kids. 8:04 - The most helpful tools and strategies he uses that help him stay focused in the classroom and how he talks to his teachers to get them to understand why these things are useful for him. 11:05 - How he calms his nerves during the summer before he knows who his teacher is, the other kids who will be in his class, and what he can expect in the fall. 13:38 - What makes him feel supported most by his parents when a kid at school is mean to him and what Henry thinks are the best thing other parents can do with their own kids. 19:26 - Managing technology, navigating group texts, and what his group of friends do during their in-person hang outs. WANT TO LISTEN TO SIMILAR PODCAST EPISODES: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about helping our kids form strong friendships with Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about handling peer rejection in early adolescence with Dr. Emily Upshur 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about talking to your child, tween, and teen in a way that helps them truly hear you with Elizabeth Bennett WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 228A deep dive into potty learning: Everything you need to know to successfully potty train your child
Is potty training causing your stress or anxiety? I'm unpacking everything you need to know to help your child learn to use the potty with more confidence and ease. In this episode, we explore: - Readiness Signs: What to look for physically, behaviorally, and emotionally to know if your child is ready to start potty training. - Setting the Stage: What to do before you start potty training to create a supportive environment that encourages independence and reduces pressure around the potty. - How to Potty Train: Practical tips and personal stories of how to actually start potty learning once you've determined your child is ready. - Navigating Accidents and Setbacks: How to stay calm and empathetic during the inevitable ups and downs, and when taking a break might be the best next step. - Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Why reward systems might not be the best approach, and what to do to foster intrinsic motivation instead. Whether you're just starting or already in the thick of it, this episode offers you a compassionate and realistic approach to getting your child to start using the bathroom. CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL RELATED EPISODES: 🎧 A conversation about pediatric pelvic health with Quiara Smith 🎧 How to use the attachment relationship to help your toddler fall and stay asleep with Eileen Henry
Ep 227Q&A: My kid's hands are always in their pants, how do I set a boundary without shaming them?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 3:40 - As a culture, we don't often talk about the way the body works and it can be shocking for parents when we see our young child have an erection or explore what feels good to them. 4:50 - Finding that in-between space between understanding that this isn't sexual at this age and also acknowledging that this feels good. 7:38 - When, where, and how it's best to have these conversations with your child. 9:22 - Understanding that kids sometimes touch their private parts as a way for self-soothing can help you identify if they are doing that in public as a means to regulate and how you can support that need in a more appropriate manner. 13:55 - We don't want to infuse shame in exploring your body, but hand-in-hand with that comes addressing safe and healthy boundaries. 17:58 - Understanding the nuances of privacy. WANT TO LEARN MORE THIS TOPIC? 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about sexual abuse prevention and teaching body safety to children with Feather Berkower 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about raising your child to be sex positive with Dr. Holly Richmond WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 226Pelvic care, energetic healing, and body wisdom: Taking a holistic approach to women's health with Tami Lynn Kent
What if the key to unlocking your full potential lies in a part of your body that's often overlooked and misunderstood? This week we're diving into the transformative world of holistic pelvic care with Tami Lynn Kent. In this episode, we explore: Integrating Eastern and Western Approaches: The importance of integrating both physical therapy for the pelvic floor as well as energetic practices, like breath work and meditation to help women connect with their pelvic regions. Addressing Gaps in Female Healthcare: Highlighting significant gaps in female healthcare and the importance of understanding the anatomy of the pelvic bowl to empower women. Supporting Mothers: What it means to "mother from your center" and how to tap into this in your parenting. Feminine versus Masculine Energy: The importance of understanding and balancing feminine and masculine energy within ourselves. Practical Tips for Pelvic Health: Practical advice for integrating holistic pelvic care into your daily life, emphasizing the importance of tuning into your body and harnessing your innate wisdom. Join us for this enlightening episode as we delve into the vital topic of pelvic health and discover how to better support and honor our bodies. LEARN MORE ABOUT TAMI LYNN KENT: https://www.wildfeminine.com/ PICK UP A COPY OF TAMI'S BOOKS: 📚 Wild Feminine: Finding Power, Spirit & Joy in the Female Body 📚 Wild Creative: Igniting Your Passion and Potential in Work, Home, and Life 📚 Wild Mothering: Finding Power, Spirit, and Joy in Birth and a Creative Motherhood CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL RELATED EPISODES: 🎧 Cycle syncing, restorative practices, and natural rhythms with Dr. Jessica Plancich Shinners 🎧 The neuroscience of mindfulness with Dr. Dan Siegel 🎧 Bridging ancient wisdom and modern science with yoga therapist Nicole Katz
Ep 225Q&A: What do I do if my child would never stop eating unless I restrict them?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 3:02 - The combination of a child who loves eating and a mom's anxiety about how much she is eating can be tricky. 4:04 - Strategies for slowing down mealtimes to build your child's ability for "tuning into their belly" versus just enjoying the taste of the food. 5:29 - What types and methods of restrictions are appropriate and which ones do you want to try to avoid. 10:42 - Understanding what is your job as a parent and what is your child's job, from the division of responsibility principles from Ellyn Satter's work. 12:14 - Limiting foods that are highly enhanced to make the flavors so rewarding that hunger/fullness cues are easily drowned out by the desire for more dopamine hits. 16:51 - Zoom out and look at meals of the week versus each individual meal. 17:44 - If your child does eat too much and feels uncomfortable from being too full, that can help them learn too. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 📚 Child of Mine: Feeding with Love and Good Sense, Revised and Updated Edition by Ellyn Satter WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MEALTIMES AND FOSTERING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS TO FOOD: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about cultivating your child's healthy relationship with food with registered dietician & nutritionist Katie Thomson 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about picky eating and ARFID with Dr. Yaara Shimshoni 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about diet culture with Amelia Sherry WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!
Ep 224Unlocking motivation: Helping kids who seem stuck with Dr. Ellen Braaten
Are you worried about your child's lack of motivation or their constant struggle to keep up? This week I'm diving into the complexities of child motivation with Dr. Ellen Braaten. In this episode we explore: 👉🏻 Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic's role in exacerbating motivational challenges and what we can do to combat it. 👉🏻 Attachment Myths: Common misconceptions about attachment and the importance of separating parental anxieties from a child's development. 👉🏻 Fostering Responsibility: Practical strategies for helping children develop a sense of responsibility and self-efficacy without excessive pressure. 👉🏻 Balancing External and Intrinsic Motivation: How to encourage intrinsic motivation in children while appropriately using external rewards. 👉🏻 Rediscovering Pleasure: The importance of integrating pleasure into daily tasks for both parents and children, and how it influences motivation. Join us for this enlightening and practical episode as we uncover the keys to unlocking motivation and supporting the well-being of our children! LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. ELLEN BRAATEN https://www.ellenbraatenphd.com/ GET DR. ELLEN BRAATEN'S NEWEST BOOK: Bright Kids Who Couldn't Care Less: How to Rekindle Your Child's Motivation CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL RELATED EPISODES: 🎧 The hidden dangers of an achievement centric approach with Jennifer Breheny Wallace 🎧 Debunking the myth of learning styles with Dr. Dan Willingham 🎧 Is fun the antidote to burnout with Dr. Mike Rucker