Many parents often ask me for advice on how to help their children become more resilient and self-reliant. However, today, I am going to share a few things that parents should avoid doing to help their children thrive in the face of adversity. These include not rushing to their children's rescue when facing frustration and not dismissing their children's emotions. By adopting a nurturing approach that balances support and autonomy, connected parents can encourage their children's...

Have you ever wondered if our loving and nurturing parenting style prepares our kids for the harsh realities of the real world? Well, let's dive into this important discussion today as I explore a fascinating question from a concerned dad: How does our parenting method equip our children to face a world that might not be as gentle as our homes? From the very first moments of life, our children start understanding the real world – from a hospital delivery room to preschool dramas and...

Hello, parents! Have you ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of rewards and consequences, searching for a way out? Let's talk about it. Today, I'll answer a question from my Instagram community: How can we break free from the constraints of rewards and consequences in parenting? But before we dive into specific strategies, let's take a moment to consider what you want from your parenting journey. Do you want a quick fix to get your kids to do chores, or do you want to build a lifelong,...

What if the key to raising resilient children lies in our ability to navigate the delicate balance between mistakes and growth? Today we explore the profound impact of internal shame and guilt, which can guide us toward moral integrity. However, what about the external shame that is often unknowingly incorporated into traditional parenting practices? I will share personal insights challenging the norm by examining how corrections, lectures, and judgments may unintentionally erode our...

Hey there, amazing parents! Ever wondered if you could truly trust your child's moral compass, especially when they seem to make those tiny, questionable decisions? Today we're diving into a profound exploration of why trusting our little ones is the key to unlocking a beautiful parent-child relationship. Many believe that children are too young to understand the difference between right and wrong. However, did you know that by the age of two, they have already learned a significant amount...

Ever felt the pressure to have kids who always toe the line, never stepping out of bounds? Let's challenge that notion today as we unravel the beauty of raising children who make mistakes, who try on different behaviors, and who are authentically themselves. But here's the catch: creating a secure connection with your child doesn't always mean smooth sailing. Discover why moments of off-track behaviors are actually signs that your child feels safe expressing their true feelings. We'll...

Are you a parent who struggles with how to respond when your child says hurtful things? Do you feel caught between wanting to discipline them and wanting to maintain a strong bond? What if I told you there's another approach to help you build a closer connection with your child while teaching them important life lessons? In a world where punishment and consequences are the norm, it can be hard to imagine a different way of parenting. But by using affection and play, you can turn your child's...

Imagine that you have just asked your child to clean their room, but instead of cooperating, you are met with resistance. Frustration builds up, and you think, "How can I make them listen?" Today, we will explore the essence of discipline and understand the significant difference between limits and consequences. In a world where traditional approaches often rely on punishments and rewards, I want to introduce you to a more empathetic path. The aim is to unravel the misconception that limits...

Have you ever experienced your child's unkind comments that made you feel like their emotional punching bag? In today's episode, we will delve into this common belief that we, as parents, often feel victimized by our children's behavior. Let's explore why we tend to assume this role and challenge this perception. We will examine the power dynamics between us and our little ones and see if there is a more empowering way to handle such situations. 🔗 Interested in our 1:1 Coaching? Book a...

Let me share a secret with you about connection, it's not about more time; it's about making every moment count. Today on the Peace and Parenting podcast I delve into the magic of connection. What is it, really? It's not about sacrificing every second or dodging boundaries. It's about building a holistic relationship with room for mess-ups and repair. It's about creating a safe space where mistakes are part of the journey, not the end of it.  Plus, I have an exciting invitation for you! Join...

Do you feel society’s pressure pushing our kids to go to college? Well, today on the Peace and Parenting Podcast I want to break free from the college-or-bust narrative! In this episode, I dive deep into the pressures our children face to go to college, not just in the U.S., but across the globe. My daughter, Esme, recently faced the daunting decision of leaving for college, sparking a candid conversation at our dinner table. From alternative paths like community college to challenging the...

Imagine this: you're at the grocery store, your child throws an unexpected tantrum, and suddenly, you feel the judgmental eyes of society on you. I get it; I've been there. In this episode I unravel the myth of the "good mom" and the relentless pressure we put on ourselves. Together, we'll explore the historical roots of this pressure, the need for control, and the generational traumas we unknowingly carry. Let's break free from the cycle of judgment and embrace the imperfect, beautiful...

Are you currently in a toxic relationship, but you're staying in it for the sake of your children? Today, I am joined by Kate Anthony, the author of "The D-Word," as we explore the topic of divorce, co-parenting, and the difficult decision-making process that many women have to go through when considering divorce. Kate shares her insights on toxic marriages, societal roles, and how they can affect children. As a divorced parent myself, we both share our personal experiences, discussing our...

Many parents often come to me and say "I don't have enough time to be more connected with my kids." They feel that connecting with their children requires a lot of time and effort. However, my answer to that is that the more connected you are to your children, the more time you will eventually have. You can find small moments in your everyday routine to connect with your kids and you will notice a significant difference in your relationship with them. Today, I am thrilled to announce the...

Are you struggling to bridge the gap with your older kids through play? Today I am joined by parenting coach Mary Van Geffen in a beautiful conversation that explores the magic of play, especially with the often misunderstood tweens and teens. Mary unveils the secrets of connecting with "spicy" children through play, emphasizing its role as their love language. From penguin wrestling to dance parties, Mary and I share practical tips, creative play ideas, and some unconventional approaches...

Are you using star charts or food rewards to motivate your kids? Do you think it's making a difference in how they respond? Today I want to take you on a reflective journey into the world of parenting strategies. Drawing from my teaching experience, I question the effectiveness of these methods and explore the individual responses our children have to them. I’ll share the long-term effects of relying on external motivators and uncover the transformative power of connected parenting. It’s time...

Today, I talk with a parent who is going through a common issue that most of us have faced at some point in our parenting journey - a child who refuses to communicate during tough moments. Kimberly, a follower of my podcast, is experiencing the highs and lows of raising her 3.5-year-old. Despite practicing connective parenting for over a year, she is struggling as it is difficult to connect with her child when they are not willing to communicate. I share her with some insights on shifting...

When your children are playing, sometimes aggression can surface, and one of your kids might start hitting, causing screaming and crying. Your first instinct might be to console the hurt child, but what if I told you that this approach may not be the best way to resolve the situation? Instead, intervening with connection, empathy, and love can create a turning point and help the aggressive child to calm down. Today, I share some real-life strategies and a counterintuitive approach that...

Do your kids often fight with each other and you're looking for a better way to handle such situations? Today, I have Shannon, one of my podcast listeners, on the show to help her tackle the sibling rivalry between her two daughters.  Join us as I provide a unique perspective on why addressing the aggressor before the child who was hurt can help resolve the issue faster. We'll also take a deep dive into the complex web of family dynamics and explore how understanding the roots of sibling...

What if just 20 minutes a day could revolutionize your connection with your child? In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative power of "special time" in connective parenting. Join me as we unravel the magic of setting aside dedicated moments, navigating distractions, and witnessing the incredible impact on cooperation and family dynamics. Plus, special time isn't just for little ones – discover how this practice transcends age boundaries. Don't miss this chance to enhance your...

In relationships, especially with your kids, it can be difficult to balance control and free will. Today, we'll explore the complex dynamics of autonomy and connection, and how they apply to parenting. We'll question the different standards we set for children, and consider the parallels between adult relationships and conventional parenting. Have you ever had a partner who tried to control you? Imagine living in a relationship where your free will is constantly suppressed. Now, think about...

Have you ever found yourself struggling to manage the needs of your children, especially when they are of different ages and require different levels of attention? Parenting can sometimes feel like a never-ending challenge, and it's not always easy to stay calm and connected with your kids, especially when you're feeling overwhelmed. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Christina, one of my Instagram followers, to discuss this very topic. Christina had a great question that I'm...

As we kick off the holiday season, I've got a special episode for all of you who are navigating family gatherings with kids. From questionable hugs to forced thank-yous, we explore why children shouldn't be burdened with these expectations. Today I discuss cultivating genuine connections, respecting a child's boundaries, and the power of play in diffusing tense moments. Learn how setting limits with a playful twist can transform family dynamics. And for those challenging sibling squabbles or...

Picture this scenario: you have spent several hours at Chuck E. Cheese with your child, surrounded by flashing lights, loud noises, and annoying animatronics. It's time to leave but your three-year-old is throwing a tantrum because they want to stay. Today, my guest Shanon and I tackle the challenge of maintaining a strong connection with your child in stimulating environments. I share my secrets for fostering cooperation when traditional discipline methods just won't work. Join us as we...

Ever tried distracting your kids when they’re in the middle of a meltdown, you know like “Hey, look at that cute puppy over there” or “Wow, a fire engine”. Today we delve into the world of parenting strategies, specifically the age-old methods of distraction and redirection. We'll explore the potential long-term impacts of steering our little ones away from their feelings. Could it inadvertently shape their coping mechanisms down the road? Spoiler alert: Connection is the key! Discover the...