Aug 16: Why shouting a random word stops a meltdown
Good morning. A sudden, random observation can instantly break a cycle of severe dysregulation.
When a toddler is fully dysregulated, traditional soothing often backfires. Psychologists recommend a tactic called pattern interrupt—abruptly shouting a random word or pointing out a sudden noise to break their thought cycle. Confusing them with a completely unrelated observation works faster than trying to reason.
Little kids pick
Psychologists recommend 'pattern interrupts'—like pointing out a random noise—to break a toddler's dysregulated thought loop faster than traditional soothing.
Emotional Regulation
Pattern interrupt for toddler meltdowns
To stop an inconsolable toddler meltdown, abruptly shout a random word or point out a sudden noise to break their thought pattern.
Why it matters: Toddler meltdowns can be overwhelming, and traditional soothing often fails when they are fully dysregulated.
For: Parents of toddlers experiencing severe, inconsolable meltdowns.
“Psychologists call it pattern interrupt. So it's like something just interrupting whatever is going on in your brain in the moment... I would be like, oh, what does that sound? ... And that would grab her attention”
ApproachInstead of trying to soothe or reason with a melting-down toddler, confusing them with a completely unrelated observation works faster.
Ep. 422: Summer Camp Drama · Aug 3, 2026
Big kids pick
This clinical analogy depersonalizes painful exclusions, helping teens realize that being iced out is often about the group's insecurity rather than their own flaws.
Relationships
The chemical compound friendship framework
When a teen is dropped by friends, explain that unstable social groups often kick out an 'atom' to artificially strengthen their remaining bonds.
Why it matters: Post-pandemic social delays mean middle school-style exclusion is now happening frequently in high school.
For: Parents of teens who have been iced out
“think about social groups as almost like chemical compounds... they decided, oh, I know how to stabilize. Let's kick out that atom, and that will strengthen our bonds.”
ApproachDepersonalizing a friendship breakup helps teens realize the exclusion is about the group's insecurity, not their own flaws.
283: ENCORE: Best of Ask Lisa: Friendship Breakups & Conflict · Aug 4, 2026
Today's Parenting Tips
Actionable advice distilled from this week's parenting podcasts.
Emotional Regulation
Pattern interrupt for toddler meltdowns
To stop an inconsolable toddler meltdown, abruptly shout a random word or point out a sudden noise to break their thought pattern.
Why it matters: Toddler meltdowns can be overwhelming, and traditional soothing often fails when they are fully dysregulated.
Relationships
The chemical compound friendship framework
When a teen is dropped by friends, explain that unstable social groups often kick out an 'atom' to artificially strengthen their remaining bonds.
Why it matters: Post-pandemic social delays mean middle school-style exclusion is now happening frequently in high school.
Discipline
The interview technique for lying
To determine if a child is lying, write down their detailed account of an event, then ask them to repeat the story an hour later.
Why it matters: Lecturing a child about honesty often leads to more defensiveness, whereas a neutral comparison of facts makes the lie obvious without a screaming match.
Health & Wellness
Toddler appetite and preference shifts
Do not panic if your adventurous baby suddenly rejects foods as a toddler; this is a normal developmental shift driven by a naturally decreased appetite.
Why it matters: Counters the social media myth that feeding 100 foods before age one guarantees a non-picky eater.
Health & Wellness
Toddler growth deceleration and appetite reduction
Expect your toddler's appetite to drop significantly compared to their first year, and resist the urge to exclusively offer hyper-palatable foods when they eat less.
Why it matters: Understanding normal growth patterns prevents parents from panicking and creating bad food habits.
Health & Wellness
Evidence-based pediatric OCD treatments
Ensure your child's therapist uses Exposure Response Prevention as the frontline approach, potentially supplemented by Acceptance Commitment Therapy or SPACE, rather than non-evidence-based methods.
Why it matters: Standard talk therapy or cognitive reframing can actually act as a compulsion (neutralizing or ruminating), making OCD worse.
Discipline
Tolerating Imperfect Household Chores
Resist the urge to re-fold towels or reorganize the dishwasher after your child completes a chore, as fixing their work teaches reliance.
Why it matters: Parental perfectionism often inadvertently stunts a child's independence and willingness to contribute to the household.
Emotional Regulation
Modeling Healthy Anger Processing
Stop hiding your own anger from your children; letting them see you experience and safely process frustration teaches them that anger is normal.
Why it matters: Children learn emotional regulation primarily through observation; seeing a parent safely navigate anger provides a real-time blueprint.
Health & Wellness
Male postpartum depression symptom recognition
Male postpartum depression often manifests as anger, irritability, risk-taking behavior, and an obsessive need to control infant sleep schedules rather than traditional sadness.
Why it matters: Recognizing atypical depression symptoms prevents marital breakdown and accelerates treatment during the vulnerable postpartum period.
Emotional Regulation
Physically rehearse the school environment
Lower your child's anxiety by physically practicing their routine before school starts, including walking the hallways, opening their locker, and locating the bathrooms.
Why it matters: Psychologist Albert Bandura's research on self-efficacy shows that experience must precede confidence.
Emotional Regulation
Gradual exposure for school drop-off
Instead of letting an anxious child stay home, use gradual exposure by walking them halfway to the door one week, then to the front door.
Why it matters: Clinical exposure therapy principles can be applied to everyday parenting challenges to build long-term capability.
Communication
Nonverbal after-school transition routine
Instead of asking "how was your day?" right after school, initiate physical contact or a nonverbal movement game to help your child transition before talking.
Why it matters: The transition from school to home is a notorious trigger point for behavioral challenges.
Relationships
Partner accountability for delegated tasks
When you delegate a task like packing school lunches to a partner, redirect any corrective phone calls from the school directly to them.
Why it matters: Women are frequently judged for their partner's parenting mistakes, leading them to reclaim delegated tasks rather than letting the partner learn.
Education
Sensory-Focused School Tours
When touring a prospective school, ignore test scores and evaluate the sensory environment—lights, crowds, and noise—through your child's specific triggers.
Why it matters: Sensory safety is a prerequisite for learning; a child cannot access curriculum if the building itself overwhelms their nervous system.
Relationships
Clinical definition of bullying versus conflict
Psychologists define bullying strictly as when a child is targeted and unable to defend themselves; everything else, including mutual meanness, is considered conflict.
Why it matters: Accurate labeling helps parents and schools apply the right interventions.
Health & Wellness
Newborn circadian rhythm sunlight exposure
To help a newborn differentiate day from night, expose them to morning sunlight by a window or outside starting on day one.
Why it matters: Setting the circadian rhythm early improves long-term sleep foundations and helps consolidate nighttime sleep.
Relationships
Reframing two-faced behavior as workplace politeness
When teens feel that being cordial to a peer they dislike is 'two-faced,' explain that adults simply call this being polite in shared environments.
Why it matters: The pressure to be 'authentic' can lead kids to be unnecessarily harsh to peers they have outgrown.
Communication
The parent-blame friendship exit strategy
If your child wants to distance themselves from a peer, advise them to reply and blame you for being busy rather than ghosting.
Why it matters: Kids need concrete scripts to avoid the cruelty of ghosting or last-minute cancellations.
Communication
The curiosity sandwich technique
When you strongly disagree with your child, sandwich your opinion between statements of genuine curiosity to keep them engaged rather than defensive.
Why it matters: Teens have the power to simply leave a conversation; maintaining their engagement requires explicitly signaling that you value their perspective.
Discipline
Three yeses for high energy
When stopping an unsafe physical behavior like running indoors, offer three alternative ways they can still move fast safely, such as wiggling fingers.
Why it matters: Giving a hard "no" to a dysregulated child often leads to a meltdown; offering immediate "yes" alternatives channels the energy productively.
By Stage
What each age group needs this week — patterns across multiple shows.
Toddlers
Normalizing the toddler appetite drop
Experts are pushing back against the myth that early exposure prevents picky eating. Dietitians emphasize that a toddler's natural growth deceleration causes a sharp drop in appetite, which parents often misinterpret as behavioral refusal.
School-Age
Physical rehearsal over verbal reassurance
Psychologists agree that talking about school anxiety is less effective than physical exposure. Walking the hallways, locating bathrooms, and establishing nonverbal transition routines build the experiential confidence required to lower nervous system arousal.
Teens
Redefining authenticity and polite distance
Clinical psychologists are helping teens navigate social drama by reframing two-faced behavior as necessary workplace politeness. Teaching adolescents to maintain cordial distance preserves social harmony without forcing them to fake close friendships.
Expert Corner
When the psychologists and pediatricians weigh in with specifics.
Standard talk therapy can worsen OCD
Child therapist Natasha Daniels warns that standard cognitive reframing or play therapy can act as a compulsion for children with OCD. Ensure providers use Exposure Response Prevention as the frontline approach.
Male postpartum depression manifests as anger
Atypical depression symptoms in fathers often look like irritability, risk-taking, or an obsessive need to control infant schedules. Recognizing these signs prevents marital breakdown and accelerates critical mental health interventions.
Distinguishing bullying from mutual conflict
Dr. Lisa Damour defines bullying strictly as a dynamic where a targeted child cannot defend themselves. Mislabeling mutual meanness as bullying changes how schools and adults respond to the situation.
Real Talk
Honest moments from the mic — the stuff that made us nod along.
Your perfectionism is stunting their independence
Kids will strategically underperform on household chores if they know you will eventually step in to refold the towels or reorganize the dishwasher.
Redirecting the school's corrective phone calls
When you delegate packing lunches to a partner, stop absorbing the mental load of their mistakes. Redirect any corrective feedback from teachers directly to them.
From the Conversations
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens
The chemical compound friendship framework
283: ENCORE: Best of Ask Lisa: Friendship Breakups & Conflict
Aug 4, 2026 · 23m · 4 quotes pulled
▶ Listen“think about social groups as almost like chemical compounds... they decided, oh, I know how to stabilize. Let's kick out that atom, and that will strengthen our bonds.”
“Post-pandemic social delays mean middle school-style exclusion is now happening frequently in high school.”
Gradual exposure for school drop-off
Episode 398: Our 5 Tips for Back to School Transition with David and Sissy
Aug 4, 2026 · 50m · 2 quotes pulled
▶ Listen“The next week, her mom walked her halfway. The following week, she walked to the front door. A few weeks later, she watched from the parking lot... every single week, that little girl's confidence grew.”
“Clinical exposure therapy principles can be applied to everyday parenting challenges to build long-term capability.”
Nonverbal after-school transition routine
TPP 104b: Dr. Lori Baudino on the Power of Movement, Dance, and the Mind/Body Connection
Aug 7, 2026 · 44m · 2 quotes pulled
▶ Listen“Having a back and forth when you first greet your child at the end of the day, making some physical contact, playing some type of nonverbal movement game is a wonderful way to start that connection.”
“The transition from school to home is a notorious trigger point for behavioral challenges.”
Sources
▶ ListenBig Fat Positive: Pregnancy and Parenting (BFP)
Ep. 422: Summer Camp DramaIn the special segment "Stump the Moms," Shanna and Laura embark on a tour through history, grilling each other with surprising parenting trivia that takes them from prehistoric cave paintings to a 1974 marketing disaster to a present-day TikTok trend. Also, Shanna recaps a 4th of July fireworks adventure that almost didn't happen, and Laura shares an unexpected summer camp development that required some quick problem-solving. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 7.5 and 10 years old, and Laura's kids are 7.5 years old and 5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:• Taking your kids to their first 4th of July fireworks show• When summer camp isn't the right fit: how to handle it with your child• To tell or not to tell: navigating difficult conversations with kids• Prehistoric cave paintings• The invention of finger painting• The TikTok trend that stops toddler meltdowns cold• Pattern interrupt as a parenting technique• Why Gerber's attempt to launch a new product line failed spectacularly• How kids across the world draw people the same way at age three• How many minutes per year parents spend driving kids to school activities• Spirit days at camp: making them inclusive and fun• Preschool yearbooksProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:• 4th of July Extravaganza at Warner Center Park• Ruffignac Cave / Cave of 100 Mammoths• Ruth Faison Shaw• Ziplock finger painting• Gerber Singles• The "Jessica" TikTok trend• Camp GalileoConnect with Us:• Become a Patreon member to access ad-free episodes, bonus content, live hangouts and more!• Follow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcast• Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.• Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.com• Email us: [email protected]• Send us a voice message: speakpipe.com/bfppodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
▶ ListenAsk Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens
283: ENCORE: Best of Ask Lisa: Friendship Breakups & ConflictYour kid comes home devastated after being left out, dropped, or caught in the middle of a friendship blowup. You may want to help, but don’t know what to say—or whether you should step in at all. Take heart: this episode will help you navigate the situation with confidence. In this encore “Best of Ask Lisa” compilation, Dr. Lisa Damour has curated her most essential guidance on friendship conflict, bullying, and social drama — the stuff that can make the tween and teen years so painful for kids and so hard to watch as a parent. Whether your child is being targeted by peers, doing the excluding, or trying to navigate a friendship that's run its course, you'll walk away knowing exactly what to say and how to help them through it with calm, clarity, and compassion. 💡 YOU'LL LEARN: - The crucial difference between bullying and conflict, and why getting this distinction right will change how you respond - Why middle schoolers are so prone to cruelty, and how anxiety about belonging makes meanness a fast track to social power - How excluding, icing out, and rumor-spreading work as a form of relational aggression — and why kids sometimes gang up to push someone out - Why social behaviors that used to peak in 7th and 8th grade are now showing up in 9th and 10th grade, and what the pandemic has to do with it - What to actually say to your kid when they've been left out or dropped, including how to offer a sense of perspective without dismissing how awful it feels Social challenges are some of the most painful experiences of adolescence. But there’s a lot you can do to help. ________________GET DR. DAMOUR'S FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER Guidance, strategies, and tips delivered straight to your inbox → https://drlisadamour.com/sign-up-for-my-newsletter/ DR. DAMOUR'S BESTSELLING BOOKS - Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood – https://bit.ly/UntangledBook - Under Pressure: Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls – https://bit.ly/UnderPressuretheBook - The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents – https://a.co/d/cbOmTKp UNTANGLING 10TO20 MEMBERSHIP Premium courses & resources for teens and the adults who care for them → https://lnkd.in/gr52MB-F VISIT DR. LISA'S WEBSITE → https://drlisadamour.com/ ________________ Today's sponsors: Jones Road Beauty: Use the code ASKLISA for a free full sized Mascara with your first purchase at https://www.jonesroadbeauty.com. LMNT: Receive a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at https://drinklmnt.com/asklisa. Rocket Money: Join at https://www/RocketMoney.com/ASKLISA Simple Practice: Sign up for a free 7-day trial, and get 50% off your first three months at https://www.simplepractice.com. ________________ Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday. ________________ Episode keywords: friend group dumped, kids friendship breakup, middle school social drama, tween friend problems, teen friend group conflict, child excluded by friends, iced out friend group, middle school bullying, relational aggression kids, how to help child with friend drama, friendship breakup tween, kids mean friends, middle school cliques, how to drop a friend, tween friendship problems, tween social drama, middle school friend group, how to help excluded child Podcast keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
▶ ListenBratBusters Parenting Podcast
Why Calm Leadership Parenting is Misunderstood#197 In this episode, Lisa discusses her thoughts on calm leadership being misunderstood. She covers the difference between the authority style and pleaser parent style, parents looking for a kinder approach, the importance of sustainability with parenting, how feeling overwhelmed can cause changes to parenting, and signs your calm leadership may be working. Lastly, Lisa addresses five listener questions, discussing what to do when a 3-year-old is emotionally invested in being upset, h...
▶ ListenThe PedsDocTalk Podcast: Child Health, Development & Parenting—From a Pediatrician Mom
The Follow-Up: Feeding Our KidsIn this episode of the PedsDocTalk podcast follow-up, Dr. Mona sits down with Amy Palanjian, founder of Yummy Toddler Food. Together, they break down how to take the stress, guilt, and mental load out of feeding your kids. If dinner prep feels overwhelming or your toddler suddenly stopped eating their favorite foods, this quick dose of real, relatable parenting advice is for you! Letting Go of Meal Prep Perfection: Why realistic expectations make kitchen logistics much easier. Theme Nights to Reduce Decision Fatigue: How setting categories (like taco or pasta night) simplifies shopping and cooking. Leaning Into Smart Shortcuts: Why frozen veggies, canned beans, and store-bought sauces save time, money, and sanity. Creating Safe Table Experiences: How adding simple safety-net foods (like fruit or crackers) keeps mealtimes calm. The Social Media Food Myth: Debunking the idea that offering 100 foods before age one prevents picky eating. Understanding Toddler Appetite Shifts: Normalizing why toddlers naturally eat differently than babies. Want more? Listen to the full, original episode. Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. Join the newsletter! Shop Dr. Mona’s favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link) And don’t forget to follow @pedsdoctalkpodcast on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
▶ ListenRaising Good Humans
Picky Eating & Food Guilt with Jennifer AndersonIs your child's relationship with food already shaped by guilt, fear, or "good food/bad food" rules — even before they can talk? Registered dietitian Jennifer Anderson, founder of Kids Eat in Color, joins Dr. Aliza Pressman to unpack "embodied independence" — the idea that raising confident eaters means combining a healthy relationship with food and the practical skills to take care of one's body. This is a must-listen for any parent trying to raise a healthy eater without passing down diet culture baggage. What you’ll learn: Why labeling foods "good" or "bad" creates food rules, guilt, and inflexible thinking later in life Practical scripts for introducing dessert without using food as a reward or a bargaining chip Red flags for extreme picky eating and ARFID — and when to bring concerns to your pediatrician The "sit, connect, and expose" approach that gets even the pickiest toddlers trying new foods How to set boundaries with grandparents and relatives around sweets and body comments 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS: Learn more about Jennifer Anderson’s work: 📖 Feed Them Well: A Guide to Raising Healthy, Confident Eaters for Life https://kidseatincolor.com/landing-pages/feed-them-well-book/?utm_source=podcast-guest&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=book-awareness&utm_content= 📱 Follow Kids Eat in Color on Instagram:@kids.eat.in.color 🧪 Take the Pediatric Screener for ARFID and Extreme Picky Eating (PSAE):https://kidseatincolor.com/picky-eating-and-arfid-screener-for-kids-psa-eat/ Buy Dr. Aliza Pressman's Book: 📖Order "The 5 Principles of Parenting" by Dr. Aliza Pressman: https://www.amazon.com/Principles-Parenting-Essential-Raising-Humans/dp/166801453X Follow Raising Good Humans: 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinggoodhumanspodcast/ 🎙️ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-good-humans/id1473072044 Subscribe on Substack for weekly articles and exclusive LIVE Q&As: 📧 https://dralizapressman.substack.com/ This episode is brought to you by: Great Wolf Lodge: With 22 lodges across the country, you’re always only a short drive away from adventure. Learn more at GreatWolf.com and strengthen the pack. Boar’s Head: For lunchtime inspiration visit: boarshead.com/backtoschool. For Boar’s Head, head to your local deli counter. Goodr: Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/HUMANS to claim $10 off your first order. OneSkin: Born from over 10 years of longevity research, OneSkin is helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code RGH at oneskin.co/RGH. Tell them we sent you. Kodiak: Feel good about snack choices with Kodiak Bars. Find them at kodiakcakes.com or your local grocery store. They’re the ones with the bear on the box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
▶ ListenAT Parenting Survival | Raising Kids with OCD & Anxiety
What Parents Get Wrong When Deciding Whether OCD Treatment Is Working<p>It can be hard to tell whether OCD treatment is helping, especially when compulsions haven’t noticeably decreased, distress seems higher, or new themes suddenly appear.</p><br><p>But progress is not always measured by how quiet OCD looks on the outside. Sometimes treatment is preventing OCD from getting worse. </p><p>Sometimes a therapist is building trust and readiness before beginning ERP. And sometimes increased distress is a sign that your child is learning to face discomfort instead of immediately escaping it.</p><br><p>In this episode, I’ll walk through the common ways parents misjudge treatment progress and the less obvious signs that therapy may be working, from greater openness and willingness to attend, to applying skills across themes, doing more of what OCD once blocked, and beginning to feel more hopeful.</p><br><p>Download the free episode handout at <a href="http://www.natashadaniels.com/handouts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.natashadaniels.com/handouts</a> and explore my OCD courses for parents, kids, and teens at<a href="http://atparentingsurvivalschool.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> <strong>atparentingsurvivalschool.com</strong></a>.</p><p>***</p><p>This podcast episode is sponsored by NOCD. NOCD provides online OCD therapy in the US, UK, Australia and Canada. To schedule your free 15 minute consultation to see if NOCD is a right fit for you and your child, go to</p><p><a href="https://go.treatmyocd.com/at_parenting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://go.treatmyocd.com/at_parenting</a></p><br><p>This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the guidance of a qualified professional.</p><br><p>Parents, do you need more support? </p><br><p>🌸 Here’s are resources I offer parents 👇🏻❤️</p><br><p>Online classes for parents raising kids with anxiety and OCD:</p><p><a href="https://atparentingsurvivalschool.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://atparentingsurvivalschool.com</a></p><br><p>Join the AT Parenting Community (A membership designed to support parents raising kids with anxiety or OCD):</p><p><a href="https://atparentingcommunity.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://atparentingcommunity.com</a></p><br><p>Take one of my FREE webinars:</p><p><a href="https://www.natashadaniels.com/webinars" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.Natashadaniels.com/webinars</a></p><br><p>Check out my books: </p><p><a href="https://www.natashadaniels.com/books" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.Natashadaniels.com/books</a></p><br><p><strong>🌸 Other social places I hang out:</strong></p><br><p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/ATparentingSurvival" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/ATparentingSurvival </a></p><p><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ATparentingSurvival" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.pinterest.com/ATparentingSurvival</a></p><p><a href="http://www.instagram.com/ATparentingSurvival" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.instagram.com/ATparentingSurvival</a></p><p><a href="http://www.twitter.com/Parentingsurvival" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.twitter.com/Parentingsurvival</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
▶ ListenRaising Boys & Girls
Episode 399: The Back to School Break We All Need with Melanie Shankle and Sophie HudsonMelanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson join David and Sissy for a funny, honest conversation about raising capable kids without giving in to pressure, perfectionism, or the urge to rescue them from every hard moment. Drawing from their friendship and experiences parenting young adults, they discuss the importance of allowing kids to fail, advocate for themselves, handle responsibilities, and develop confidence in their own decision-making. They also share how laughter creates perspective and strengthens family relationships, making room for both lighthearted moments and harder conversations. Melanie and Sophie encourage parents to know their individual child, model an authentic faith, apologize when they get things wrong, and remember that struggles are often what help kids develop resilience and make their faith their own. Resources mentioned: The Big Boo Cast Podcast with Melanie Shankle & Sophie Hudson The Lion and the Bear: A 100-Day Guide for Facing Your Giants | Devotional for Teen and College Girls by Melanie and Caroline Shankle More listening: Ep 50: How to Help Kids Handle Conflict with Melanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson Ep 151: Raising Boys and Girls Live with Sophie Hudson and Melanie Shankle Ep 246: Freeing Your Children from your Own Trauma with Melanie Shankle Ep 304: Faith, Family, and the Power of a Good Devotional with Melanie and Caroline Shankle . . . . . . Sign up to receive the bi-monthly newsletter to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Order our new book, Capable, here!! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . . If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our Advertise With Us form. ADVENTURE BIBLE: Get an Adventure Bible for your child and begin reading and exploring it together to build confidence and curiosity in God’s Word https://tinyurl.com/RBGAdventureBible. CHRISTIAN HEALTHSHARE MINISTRIES: Take charge of your healthcare by visiting chministries.org/solution. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg. Exclusions apply. QUINCE: Go to Quince.com/rbg for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. GO MINNO: Visit GoMinno.com and use code RBG to get a one-month free trial. THE ABSORPTION COMPANY: Visit absorbmore.com and use code RBG for up to 35% off your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
▶ ListenPop Culture Parenting
Episode 136: Anger & Lethal WeaponEvery parent knows the feeling. Your kid goes from zero to meltdown in seconds, over something that seems completely trivial. In this episode we use Lethal Weapon as our jumping-off point to explore what's actually happening in a child's brain when anger takes over. We talk about why children's brains are wired to detect and react to emotional triggers before they're wired to interpret them, why telling a young child to "just calm down" is often a developmental mismatch rather than a discipline problem, and why feeling angry and acting aggressively are actually two separate events, which is more hopeful than it sounds. We also explore what the science tells us actually helps when supporting an angry child. We can't wait to read your reflections, questions and advice about anger in the kids you love and care for.
▶ ListenGood Inside with Dr. Becky
When Depression Doesn't Look Like DepressionWhat does depression look like? It’s not always… sadness. Dr. Becky talks to Dr. Chris Choukalas about why this form of depression is so easy to miss, what it costs the whole family when it goes unnamed, and what getting help actually looked like for one father who needed it badly.
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Raising Boys & Girls
Episode 398: Our 5 Tips for Back to School Transition with David and SissyAs the new school year approaches, Sissy Goff and David Thomas help parents understand why transitions can bring big feelings, physical symptoms, and anxious thoughts for both kids and adults. They share an easy-to-remember “A+ Anxiety Plan”: anticipate anxiety, create an action plan, avoid avoidance, act it out through practice, and affirm courage. With practical scripts and strategies for navigating school drop-off, social situations, and after-school conversations, Sissy and David encourage parents to help kids take small, brave steps and collect evidence that they are capable of handling hard things. Resources mentioned: Capable by David Thomas and Sissy Goff I Am Capable by David Thomas and Sissy Goff Search Institute research on relationships with caring adults Albert Bandura’s research on self-efficacy Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset and praising effort . . . . . . Sign up to receive the bi-monthly newsletter to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Order our new book, Capable, here!! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . . If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our Advertise With Us form. QUINCE: Go to Quince.com/rbg for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg. Exclusions apply. ADVENTURE BIBLE: Get an Adventure Bible for your child and begin reading and exploring it together to build confidence and curiosity in God’s Word https://tinyurl.com/RBGAdventureBible. CHRISTIAN HEALTHSHARE MINISTRIES: Take charge of your healthcare by visiting chministries.org/solution. LIBERTY HEALTH SHARE: Visit LibertyHealthShare.org to learn more about healthcare sharing options for your family. GO MINNO: Visit GoMinno.com and use code RBG to get a one-month free trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
▶ ListenFull-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children
TPP 104b: Dr. Lori Baudino on the Power of Movement, Dance, and the Mind/Body ConnectionDance/movement therapist Dr. Lori Baudino talks about how teaching differently wired kids to tap into the mind-body connection can help with emotional regulation, social communication, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
▶ ListenNo Guilt Mom | Overcoming Mom Guilt, Parenting Tips, & Self Care for Moms
Why You Feel Like You're Failing at Everything (You're Not, the System Is) with Dr. Anne WelshNew here? Start with our Start Here playlist — five episodes that will change how you think about motherhood. Do you ever feel like you're failing at work and at home at the same time? Dr. Anne Welsh, psychologist, executive coach, and author of Ambitious Mother, joins JoAnn to explain why that feeling isn't a personal failure, it's a sign you're carrying too much without enough support. In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between doing something because you want to and doing it out of guilt, and why that distinction changes everything Why the mental load keeps growing even as women achieve more at work The early signs of "functional burnout," where you're still showing up but feel numb, irritable, or completely disconnected from your own life How to redefine ambition using Anne's ladder versus web metaphor, so wanting more doesn't mean losing your edge The one degree compass shift that can start changing things without blowing up your whole life Resources mentioned in this episode: Dr. Anne Welsh on Instagram Ambitious Mother: From Surviving to Thriving in Your Career and at Home by Dr. Anne Welsh (Bloomsbury, out August 6) —https://amzn.to/4fxiyoo Pre-order bonuses on Dr. Anne Welsh's website — https://www.drannewelsh.com/ambitious-mother-book The Guilt Equation with Dr. Jen Reed Register for the Mom's Setting Boundaries Summit Ready to work on your own boundaries? Register for the Moms Setting Boundaries Summit, it's free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Full-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children
TPP 515: Dr. Emily King & the Neurodivergent Learner: A New Approach to Your Child's SuccessToday we’re exploring a more holistic, humane approach to supporting neurodivergent learners — one that starts with understanding the nervous system and builds from there. My guest is Dr. Emily King, a child psychologist who has spent more than 20 years working with neurodivergent youth in both school settings and private practice. She’s the creator of The Neurodiverse Classroom®, a professional development curriculum for educators, and the author of her new book The Neurodivergent Learner, which we’ll be talking about today. In our conversation, Emily and I talk about why safety and regulation are foundational for learning, how relationships at school can shape outcomes in powerful ways, and what it means to redefine success for kids who don’t fit traditional models. We also explore practical ways parents can partner with schools to better support their children, and how shifting our lens can open up new possibilities for growth, connection, and well-being. About Dr. Emily King Dr. Emily King is a child psychologist who has worked with neurodivergent learners for over 20 years. She received a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and began her career in Houston, Texas, specializing in school-based mental health in K-12 public schools. She has since worked in private practice in North Carolina supporting the mental health, executive functioning, and social needs of neurodivergent youth. Dr. Emily hosts the Learn with Dr. Emily Substack, where she provides parent workshops, is the creator of The Neurodiverse Classroom®, a professional development curriculum for educators, and her first book, The Neurodivergent Learner, was released in August 2026. Things you'll learn from this episode How mental health, education, and neurodivergence are deeply interconnected in shaping a child’s experience Why building felt safety and a true sense of community at school is foundational for learning How navigating IEPs, homework, and behavior systems benefits from a flexible, relationship-centered approach Why prioritizing social satisfaction over social achievement supports authentic connection and well-being How parents can assess and choose school environments that truly fit their neurodivergent child Why leading with relationships and adaptability strengthens both parenting and advocacy Resources mentioned Dr. Emily King’s website Learn with Dr. Emily (Emily’s Substack) Learn with Dr. Emily Podcast Dr. Emily on Instagram Dr. Emily on Facebook Free downloads on Emily’s website Redefining Success for Neurodivergent Children, with Dr. Emily (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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The PedsDocTalk Podcast: Child Health, Development & Parenting—From a Pediatrician Mom
The Follow-Up: Routines for KidsIn this "Follow-Up" episode of the PedsDocTalk Podcast, Dr. Mona catches up with pediatric occupational therapist Jessica Irwin (Rooted in Routine) to discuss how simple daily rhythms create predictability, lower stress, and reduce decision fatigue for both parents and kids. They break down why routines focus on the order of steps rather than rigid clock-watching, how to build healthy habits early on, and the simple non-negotiable areas that anchor a child's day. Episode Highlights: Routine vs. Schedule: A routine is about following the same steps in the same order, offering flexibility without the stress of strict clock-watching. Lower Stress & Tantrums: Predictability calms a child’s stress response, which improves mood, enhances sleep, and helps curb challenging behaviors. Empowered Parenting: Consistent daily flows eliminate constant decision fatigue, giving parents more confidence in their parenting approach. Early Circadian Rhythms: Starting on day one, exposing infants to morning sunlight and keeping nights dark helps lay the foundation for daytime/nighttime routines. The 5 Routine Non-Negotiables: Building simple rhythms around sleep, mealtimes, playtime, and outdoor time creates a solid, supportive daily structure. Evolving Bedtime Habits: Bedtimes naturally transition from quick newborn feeds to structured infant/toddler sequences (like baths, massages, and songs) that clearly signal sleep. Want more? Listen to the full, original episode. Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. Join the newsletter! Shop Dr. Mona’s favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link) And don’t forget to follow @pedsdoctalkpodcast on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Raising Good Humans
How to Disagree With Your Kids Without FightingDo you know how to disagree with your kid without a fight breaking out? Most of us have been told that the fix for a bad disagreement is more empathy — really try to see it from their side. But Julia Minson, negotiation researcher at Harvard's Kennedy School, joins Dr. Aliza Pressman to share what her experimental research actually shows: telling someone to "try harder to empathize" barely changes the outcome of a conflict. Instead, Julia and Aliza dig into why disagreement has gotten so much more fraught in families, what really makes someone feel heard, and a concrete, teachable framework for disagreeing with your kids, your partner, or anyone else without torching the relationship. What you’ll learn: Why "try to see it from their perspective" doesn't actually work, according to the research "Listening with your words": the specific language that proves you're actually paying attention The "curiosity sandwich" — a script for disagreeing without abandoning your own point of view Argue, don't fight: how to model constructive disagreement in front of your kids The HEAR framework: hedge, emphasize agreement, acknowledge, and reframe to the positive 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS: 📖 Buy Julia Minson's book, How to Disagree Better https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/774525/how-to-disagree-better-by-julia-minson/ 📱 Follow Raising Good Humans Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinggoodhumanspodcast/ 📧 Follow Raising Good Humans with Dr. Aliza Pressman on Substack: https://dralizapressman.substack.com/ 🎙️ Follow Raising Good Humans Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-good-humans/id1473072044 📖Order "The 5 Principles of Parenting" by Dr. Aliza Pressman: https://www.amazon.com/Principles-Parenting-Essential-Raising-Humans/dp/166801453X This episode is brought to you by: Great Wolf Lodge: With 22 lodges across the country, you’re always only a short drive away from adventure. Learn more at GreatWolf.com and strengthen the pack. Boar’s Head: For lunchtime inspiration visit: boarshead.com/backtoschool. For Boar’s Head, head to your local deli counter. Kodiak: Feel good about snack choices with Kodiak Bars. Find them at kodiakcakes.com or your local grocery store. They’re the ones with the bear on the box. BetterHelp: See the reviews, see what stands out, and see if BetterHelp is right for you. Visit Betterhelp.com/humans. OneSkin: Born from over 10 years of longevity research, OneSkin is helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code RGH at oneskin.co/RGH. Tell them we sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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