You’ve Got This - With Zazi and Tess, Speech Therapists

This episode answers one of our listeners questions who is being GHOSTED by her own child. Zazi and Tess break down some of the reasons why children appear to not listen and ways to get around this frustrating phenomenon if it happens to you. This will be our last episode for the year, but be sure to follow us on your favourite listening platform to keep up to date with our 2026 episodes! For resources: https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis For additional content: https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

In this episode Zazi and Tess talk about managing difficult behaviour. What do you do as a parent or therapist if your child threatens to (or actually does) hit you?! It can be infuriating, hurtful and confusing but it is normal. Take a listen to learn how to be firm but fair when your child lashes out. For resources: https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis For additional content: https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

Do as they say and not as they do - in this podcast Zazi and Tess openly discuss their domestic skills and why their upbringings may not have leaned into them becoming domestic goddesses. Despite this Zazi is determined to raise her children to be house proud and understand the importance of cleaning (respectfully of course). The duo highlight some of the reasons why some children (and adults) may struggle to tidy more than others and as always, give some helpful evidence based strategies to support children in developing their independence with tidying! For resources: https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis For additional content: https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

In this episode, Zazi gets real about sharing the roles of parenting and how sometimes it can all go wrong. Whilst messy is best, sometimes messy is enough to push everyone over the edge, resulting in tears from more than just the children. Zazi and Tess chat about how gentle parenting can be used to manage even the wildest of scenarios, whilst highlighting some key language strategies. This is a little bonus episode which demonstrates some of the content soon to be released on their Patreon. This offers a safe space to get a little bit more vulnerable for Zazi, Tess & their wonderful listeners. For resources: https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis For additional content: https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

All parents, educators and therapists dread transitions at one point or another. Why on earth is finishing an activity, or leaving a space so hard?! In this episode Zazi and Tess answer a listener's question about getting her little one out of the park, meaning she's on time for work. They speak about their own experiences and give some simple, practical tips for what to do before, during and after a tricky transition. Take a listen to learn more about what you can do! For resources: https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis For additional content: https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

In this episode, Zazi shares the small wins and major losses she experiences being a mother of two. Whilst they may appear as a happy family on social media, Zazi is honest about the stress of trying to keep the peace at home (and out in the community). Frazzled and tired, she's totally got this, and you do too.

Family and friends all like to have opinions on how to raise your children, with table manners being a hot topic in the households of Zazi and Tess! Should we bite our tongues when it comes to picky eating or less than desirable fork skills? This episode explores the realities of dining with the grandparents and provides some what-to-dos and what-not-to-dos to lower the stress around mealtimes.

Play is REALLY difficult and it doesn't come natural to every parent, therapist or educator. In this episode, Zazi and Tess get real about how mundane or demanding play can be and provide real-life strategies to increase everyones enjoyment in play.

This week, we’re answering a question from Tessa’s sister-in-law, who’s raising three neurodivergent kids and asked what to do when your child completely loses it – whether it’s from not winning a game or walking out of a shop without the thing they had their heart set on. Zazi shares what it actually looks like when your kid melts down in the toy aisle (and you're just trying to hold it together), and we both talk through the messy reality of helping kids handle disappointment when it feels massive to them and exhausting for us. We’re not here with perfect scripts – just real strategies we’ve used ourselves, why these situations are so hard for kids (especially neurodivergent ones), and how to support them without giving in or feeling like the worst parent alive. Email us at [email protected] with your questions or ideas for future episodes, or reach out to us on our instagram @youvegotthispodcast

Every parent faces the question: "Is this normal?" Persistent drooling can be a source of concern, but how do you differentiate between a harmless phase and a sign of something more? Join us as we explore the developmental milestones related to drooling, the role of oral motor skills, and expert advice on when to seek help. Want to know more or have questions? Come find us on Instagram at @youvegotthispodcast

In this episode, we dig into the curious (and kind of gross) world of nail-biting. Is it just a quirky habit or a secret sign of stress? We’ll chew over the science behind why kids do it, what it might mean, and most importantly—how to help them stop without turning into the Nail Police. Come find us on Instagram at @youvegotthispodcast

Feeling the pressure about your child’s handwriting or spelling before they start school? You're not alone. In this episode, we unpack some of the biggest misconceptions in early education including what your child needs to know before going to school and why handwriting is not the holy grail of literacy. We explore how oral language is the true foundation of literacy and why forcing handwriting early can actually hold kids back. Like what you hear? Join us on Patreon or give us a follow on Instagram! https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

Your child was sleeping through, eating like a champ, chatting away... and now it feels like everything’s gone backwards. Welcome to the messy middle of childhood development: regression. In this episode, we unpack the why behind regressions in language, sleep, feeding and play. We explore what’s developmentally typical, what’s often triggered by stress, change or growth, and what might be a red flag worth following up. We’ll share real-life examples, explain why some regressions are actually a sign of progress, and offer reassurance for when things feel chaotic. Plus, we’ll give you practical ways to support your child (and yourself) through the wobbles – without panic or pressure. Because going backwards isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes it’s just a child’s nervous system asking for a little extra safety on the way forward.

Does your child climb, crash, wriggle, wrestle, fidget, or push all day long? Do they melt down when you ask them to sit still? Or act like they’re bouncing off the walls from the moment they wake up? In this episode, we’re diving into proprioception – the hidden sense that helps us know where our body is in space. It’s the one that tells us how hard to push, how gently to hug, and how much force to use when holding a pencil or walking down stairs. For some kids, the need for proprioceptive input is huge - and when they don’t get enough, it can show up as tricky behaviour, meltdowns, rough play, or what looks like ‘not listening’. We’re unpacking: What proprioception actually is (in plain English) How to spot when your child might be seeking it What behaviour has to do with it and how communication may also be affected Simple, everyday ways to support your child’s sensory needs We also chat about how this connects to regulation, focus, and that holy grail: calm. 💚 PLUS – GIVEAWAY TIME! We’ve teamed up with our faves at @ecostorenz to give away a $90 Ultra Sensitive home + body care pack - perfect for families trying to reduce sensory overload at home. Entries close Sunday 11 May 2025. Head to our latest post on @youvegotthispodcast to enter. Can't wait? Use code youvegotthis20 at ecostore.nz for 20% off their Ultra Sensitive range.

In this hilariously honest episode, we dive into the chaos of parenting—the guilt, the fails, and the constant pressure to keep all the plates spinning. From thrown sauce bottles to unlimited screen time, it's a relatable rollercoaster ride through the beautiful mess of raising kids (and trying not to lose your mind). Come find us on Instagram at @youvegotthispodcast

In this episode, we’re talking all things wees, poos, bums and farts – why kids are obsessed, what’s actually developmentally normal, and when to lean in or set a boundary. We also touch on when toilet humour crosses into sexualised behaviour, and how to tell what’s age-appropriate curiosity versus something that might need more support. We mention this brilliant resource from STOP that helps parents navigate developmentally typical sexual behaviour: 👉 stop.org.nz/tools-to-help Got a question or want to share your own toilet talk chaos? Come find us on Instagram at @youvegotthispodcast

In this episode, we tackle the big stuff - like educating five year olds on child birth, tablets which we approve to be at the table and how to finally get some much needed alone time while your child plays by themselves (yes, it's possible!). Whether you're surviving or thriving, you've totally got this. https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

In this episode we tackle the hot topic of gentle parenting. Is it really the best approach, or just another parenting trend? We’ll unpack the misconceptions, share surprising insights from our experiences with kids, and discuss whether this approach can truly make a difference. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, parent or educator, this episode is sure to spark your curiosity! https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

This podcast that takes the turbulence out of long-haul family travel. From packing snacks that won’t end up on the ceiling to mastering the art of in-flight entertainment, we share our tips, tricks, and laugh-out-loud stories to help you navigate those long hours in the sky. Whether you’re a seasoned jetsetter or preparing for your first family adventure, we’ve got your back. So buckle up, grab your snacks, and prepare for takeoff—because flying with kids doesn’t have to be a disaster (and even if it is - you will survive!). https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

In this episode, we’re talking about something that still shows up in lots of parenting advice - the idea that “just a little slap” is harmless, helpful, or even necessary. We explore: Why physical punishment (yes, even a slap on the hand) isn’t just ineffective — it can be harmful What the research tells us about physical discipline and long-term outcomes for children What respectful, effective discipline can look like How we support children’s behaviour without shame, fear, or force Whether you were smacked as a child and want to do things differently, or you’re deep in the trenches and looking for a better way - this episode is for you. You are not alone, and you don’t have to figure this out without support. Parenting support and education: 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Help – 0800 568 856 | parenthelp.org.nz 🧡 The Parenting Place – Courses, workshops, mentoring | parentingplace.nz 🌱 SKIP – Free, positive parenting resources | skip.org.nz 👣 Barnardos – Parenting support & early learning | barnardos.org.nz 🤝 Family Works – Parenting courses & counselling | familyworks.org.nz 👶 Plunket – Early parenting support | plunket.org.nz 🌿 Ngā Maia Māori Midwives – Whānau-centred care | ngamaia.co.nz Violence prevention and family safety: 🧡 Shine – 0508 744 633 | 2shine.org.nz 🏡 Women’s Refuge – 0800 REFUGE (733 843) | womensrefuge.org.nz 🧍‍♂️ Hey Bro – 0800 HEYBRO (439 276) – for men wanting help to stop violence

Kids lie—it's a fact of life. But before you start worrying that your little one is on a path to deception, let’s talk about why kids fib in the first place. In this episode, Tess and Zazi break down the developmental reasons behind lying, from imagination-fueled storytelling to fear of getting in trouble. We’ll chat about how to respond in a way that encourages honesty without creating more lies, how to avoid shame-based reactions, and what to do when your child keeps stretching the truth. Plus, we’ll share practical, respectful strategies that help kids feel safe enough to tell the truth - no guilt trips required. Whether your child is claiming they definitely didn’t eat the last biscuit (even with crumbs on their face) or telling tall tales about their day, this episode will give you the tools to navigate it with confidence. Check out our patreon for free resources, and DM us if you have a pod ep idea! https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis https://www.instagram.com/youvegotthispodcast/

Zazi and Tess are back and here to talk about screen use at meal times. Screen time is on the rise, allowing parents to have a break and eat in peace. But are our expectations of children during meal times too high? The duo discuss while giving life updates after the Christmas break.

Interoception is a sense that many don't know about, but understanding what it is and how to regulate it could be key for supporting your child's behaviour, sleep, toileting and emotions. Have a listen and be sure to follow on @youvegotthispodcast and find our resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

This episode talks about emotional signalling, and why a little one might laugh when misbehaving, or being told off. Zazi and Tess touch on how interoception (the hidden sense) might also be playing a role, and other ways to read and understand how someone might be really feeling. Have a listen and be sure to follow on @youvegotthispodcast and find our resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

We encourage children to be honest and inquisitive, but what happens when their honesty becomes insensitive, or even causes offence?! In his hilarious episode, Zazi and Tess share some brutally honest comments and questions they've been faced by children with over the years and some simple scripts to keep in mind if you find yourself in the same situation. Have a listen and be sure to follow on @youvegotthispodcast and find our resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

This episode explores signs that your little one might have a voice disorder such as vocal nodules and gives basic strategies you can do to prevent, as well as heal nodules naturally! Have a listen and be sure to follow on @youvegotthispodcast and find our resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

This episode explores the effectiveness of star charts to manage behaviour and to teach new skills, and suggests other relationship based strategies which might be better for the whole family. Have a listen and be sure to follow on @youvegotthispodcast and find our resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

This episode provides reasons for why your little one might be spitting or misbehaving despite you telling them 100 times that they shouldn't. It also gives some strategies to prevent the getting-home-from-school meltdowns which are oh so common. Have a listen and be sure to follow on @youvegotthispodcast and find our resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

In this highly candid episode, Zazi and Tess get real about how difficult it can be managing a well kept household (with and without kids). They discuss some small actions which can be done to help reduce the feelings of being overwhelmed by mountains of washing and cleaning. Follow them on @youvegotthispodcast on Instagram and grab their free resources at www.patreon.com/youvegotthis

In this episode Zazi shares some ridiculous strategies she uses in her household to ensure everyone keeps clean. Tess and Zazi unpack some reasons why your little one might be avoiding the bath or shower and as usual, discuss some tips and tricks to make the dreaded routine easier for all

In this episode, Zazi and Tess discuss why visuals make lives easier, reduces anxiety and helps with unnecessary arguments in the home, classroom or therapy clinic. They share some examples of where to start and how to embed them into your routines.

In this episode, Zazi and Tess dive deep into the world of autism and neurodiversity. We’re breaking down common misconceptions—like the idea that neurodiverse brains are "broken" or need to fit into a mold of "normal." Spoiler alert: they don’t! Together, we’ll explore why neuro-affirmative practices are the best way to support your child’s unique strengths and needs. You’ll learn how environments, not individuals, can be disabling and how you can create a more supportive world for neurodiverse children. Whether you're a parent or an educator, this passionate and down-to-earth conversation is packed with insights to help your child thrive just as they are.

In this episode, Zazi and Tess respond to a question (more of a help call) from one of their followers who is struggling with juggling breast feeding twins and her 2 year old girl. Zazi suggests a shocking strategy which goes against normal parenting advice for the sake of a sane household.

In this episode, Zazi opens up about her recent struggles with school drop-offs for August. The tried-and-true strategies she once relied on have stopped working, leaving her searching for new approaches. Join Zazi and Tess as they explore creative solutions, including using binaural beats—special music designed to calm the brain and ease anxiety. Tune in for a candid conversation on adapting to changing challenges, finding what works for your family, and embracing new techniques when old ones fall short. Whether you’re dealing with tricky transitions or looking for fresh ideas, this episode offers practical insights and heartfelt advice for parents navigating similar journeys. https://vitallinks.com/support/documents/therapeutic-listening-app/

In this hilariously candid episode, Tess and Zazi leave no stone—or nipple—unturned as they dive deep into the world of tongue ties. Ever wondered if a tiny piece of skin could wage war on your nipples? Well, Tess and Zazi have been there, done that, and are ready to overshare every cringe-worthy detail. From their personal experiences with tongue ties (and the battle scars to prove it) to the burning questions on every parent's mind—Does it impact speech development? Does it really need snipping? And what on earth should you do if your baby’s got one? Tune in for the laughs, stay for the answers, and get ready for some serious nipple talk!

In this episode, Zazi and Tess dive into the all-too-relatable topic of parental preference. If you've ever found yourself being the "chosen one" or the parent left on the sidelines, you're not alone. Zazi opens up about her nearly 3-year-old’s strong preference for Mum over Dad, sharing how it affects everyone in the family. Together, Zazi and Tess discuss the emotions that come with being the favored (or not-so-favored) parent and offer practical advice on how to navigate these tricky dynamics. Whether you’re a parent or an educator, this episode is packed with insights to help you better understand and support the kids in your life through their attachment phases—while keeping your own emotions in check.

In this episode Zazi and Tess discuss six key areas of literacy development which support (all) children to develop their literacy skills. They discuss the research behind the importance of shared reading and give some tips and tricks for families who are struggling to introduce literacy into their homes.

In this episode Zazi and Tess discuss the importance of developing stop and go skills within play and how this can support emotional regulation and impulsivity, and promote healthy relationships as adults.

In this episode Zazi and Tess talk about vocal fry, and Tess' experience with identifying that she is doing it and how she worked to reduce hers over time. As usual, they delve into the research behind vocal fry and it's impacts (particularly on women).

In this episode Zazi and Tess explore some of the evidence based approaches to supporting motor development and help your little one with safe risk taking.

In this episode Zazi and Tess discuss baby containers and the significant impact prolonged use can have on motor development, play and communication development.

This episode explores the taboo topic of masturbation and delves into what is typical and what is not in relation to self-exploratory behaviour in children.

August has turned five and has started school! His transition was not all smooth sailing, despite Zazi doing her best with preparation strategies. In this episode Zazi shares her best transition strategies and how to stop and reflect when things don't go to plan. Different schools (and countries) do things slightly differently so Zazi and Tess also discuss some of the differences in strategies and support families to advocate for when they need more.

In this episode Zazi and Tess answer more listener questions - some of which had them stumped. From replacing word with 'zimmo' to advocating for more speech and language therapy support for your little one, they cover a range of topics and give their expert advice. If you'd like your questions answered or a topic discussed don't be shy and reach out on their instagram @Youvegotthispodcast

In this episode Zazi and Tess answer a few listener questions ranging from speech sounds, tongue ties, tricky behaviours, toileting woes and the use of visuals and communication systems! Zazi opens up about her challenges with toilet learning and her kids and the duo agree on getting rid of star charts to support nighttime toileting. They both talk about the importance of using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and how these HELP promote spoken language.

This episode explores the world of stimming: what are they, who does them and why?! Zazi and Tess discuss their stims, finding commonalities between their cricket feet and enjoyment for sharp items in their hands (weird, we know). They explain why stims shouldn't (for the most) part be discouraged, but give practical strategies for if they become self injurious. As per usual, Zazi and Tess share what's going on in their personal lives, from masseter botox to topical steroid withdrawal.

In this episode, Zazi and Tess talk about their top three language strategies to support all children with making their language boom. Tess gives her best Peppa Pig impression, showing that one must do anything to get the attention of a little one during shared reading! These strategies are supportive of children with and without language delay and go hand in hand with Episode 15. Make sure to listen to Episode 15 first, and download the free resource from https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis to help your little one with their language journey!

In this episode Zazi and Tess discuss some key features that your little one might have delayed language development. They also highlight what they are looking for as speech therapists when doing home visits, in particular the flags for autism. This episode is supported with a milestones handout on our Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/youvegotthis) and is Part 1 of a two part series.

On this episode Zazi and Tess explore the strategy of affect (emotional signalling) and its importance on your child's development. They highlight how much of what we communicate relies on affect and the impact Tess' botox might be having on her work as a therapist.

Have speech milestones got you stressed? Zazi and Tess discuss the most common speech errors and at what age you'd expect them to be gone. They also explain some red flag speech errors which indicate speech therapy might be required and as per usual, highlight some key strategies which will help bring your child's speech development along. This episode is best listened to with Episode 10 - Strategies Speech Therapists Wish You Knew.