In this episode of Parenting Understood, we are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Rebecca Dekker founder of Evidence Based Birth. Rebecca is a nurse and researcher who is dedicated to supporting parents in pregnancy and the birthing process. She recounts her traumatic first birth experience, which involved unnecessary interventions and separation from her newborn, and how it led her to research the evidence behind common birthing practices. She found that many practices were not supported by evidence...
May 29, 2024•40 min
In this episode, we discuss boundaries with parent coach Cindy Shuster. We talk about what boundaries are and how to establish them with ourselves and our children. We further discuss the core principle of boundaries and why we have them. Additionally, we speak about how to change boundaries once they have been set. Lastly, we address mutual boundary setting. Cindy Shuster, founder of Partner in Parenting, LLC, is a PCI® certified parent coach and a Nurtured Heart Approach® Advanced Trainer. Bef...
May 22, 2024•29 min
In this episode of Parenting Understood we are joined by Chelsey Goodan, author of Underestimated: The Wisdom and Power of Teenage Girls. In this episode we talk about girls’ experiences feeling unheard while also experiencing societal pressures to be perfect and likable. We delve into the role of social media in girls’ views of themselves and others. We further discuss the role of gender in girls and boys identity development. Chelsey also offers advice on how to support girls and to provide st...
May 15, 2024•35 min
This week we discuss how AI language models, specifically ChatGPT and Gemini, can support us in parenting. We delve into how ChatGPT and Gemini may help with things from crafting meals to creating personalized bedtime stories, generating craft ideas and developing educational games. We note, however, that AI models are best used as a starting point for evidence-based information and should not replace the input of a qualified professional.
May 08, 2024•17 min
In this episode of Parenting Understood we speak with Dr. Harriet Tenenbaum about the importance of parent-child talk for a child's development. As we discuss, parents who speak more about emotions with their children help their children understand emotions better. Interestingly, there does not appear to be a large difference between explaining emotions to children and asking them questions about emotions in supporting their learning about emotions. We also address the role of parent talk in bot...
May 01, 2024•22 min
In this episode, we discuss how a reward chart can support young children when traveling. More specifically, we walk through the key steps to using a reward chart, and the role of supporting positive behaviors. Traveling is a time of transition and often stress for children (and parents) but there are evidence based strategies to support children in the experience. For more information on Spot It and to get a copy please e-mail Michelle at [email protected]...
Apr 24, 2024•15 min
We are thrilled to be re-releasing our episode with Dr. Clancy Blair as part of our four week back to school series before our reflection on the past 100 plus episodes in two weeks. Dr. Blair is a developmental psychologist and Professor at New York University, who studies self-regulation in young children. His primary interest concerns the development of cognitive abilities, referred to as executive functions, and the ways in which these aspects of cognition are important for school readiness a...
Apr 17, 2024•16 min
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Holly Gover, a board-certified behavior analyst with extensive experience working with children with developmental disabilities. Dr. Gover, currently a faculty member in pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins us to tackle a common concern for parents: picky eaters. Dr. Gover shares valuable insights on how to encourage children to try new foods in a relaxed and enjoyable manner, empowering them to feel in control of their eating choices. W...
Apr 10, 2024•50 min
In this episode, we are joined by Lauren Smith-Brody, founder of the Fifth Trimester movement and the author of The Fifth Trimester: The Working Mom's Guide to Style, Sanity, and Big Success After Baby . We discuss with Lauren how her work addresses the research and policy around early parenthood, as well as the practical. Lauren speaks about how her work dissects the systems that drive the inequities that make new motherhood, and especially new employed motherhood, so challenging, and her missi...
Apr 03, 2024•42 min
In this episode, we discuss 9 key principles to consider when having conversations with children around difficult topics, such as illness. We discuss ways to be developmentally appropriate with one’s approach, especially for younger children. In addition, we talk about supports to consider when having these conversations, and the importance of gearing one’s approach towards one’s own child’s needs. Resources: Talking to Children about Cancer Talking to Children about Mental Illness Talking to Ch...
Mar 27, 2024•21 min
In this episode we are joined by Harvard Professor, Dr. Paul Harris, to delve into the intricate world of children's imagination and its developmental significance. Drawing on his research, Dr. Harris challenges historical views, notably those of Freud and Piaget, highlighting the pragmatic value of children's imaginative play. He shares experiments involving young children's responses to pretend scenarios, revealing their sophisticated understanding and application of imagination in everyday si...
Mar 20, 2024•29 min
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Felienne Hermans to delve into the world of programming and its significance in children's development. We explore why programming is vital for children, emphasizing their shift from being digital consumers to creators. Felienne underscores the importance of fostering creativity in the digital realm, highlighting how programming empowers children to craft their own digital creations. Felienne also offers insights into age-appropriate programming activities. ...
Mar 13, 2024•24 min
In this episode, we are joined by Danielle DuBosie, co-Founder of Sakara Life, which merges modern science and ancient healing wisdom. We explore the intricate connection between nutrition, emotions, and childhood development. Danielle, who had a background in functional medicine, delves into the emerging research on the gut microbiome's impact on emotional well-being, emphasizing how food directly influences gut health, which in turn affects mood and mental health. She also advocate for teachin...
Mar 06, 2024•31 min
In this latest episode, Professor Noguera argues for a shift in education, prioritizing both academic achievement and social-emotional development. He highlights how schools often neglect fostering positive student-adult relationships, which are crucial for well-being. Dr. Noguera proposes a holistic approach, emphasizing a supportive environment in schools. Further, we discuss how parents are key in promoting balanced lifestyles and social interactions. We also touch on broader societal trends ...
Feb 28, 2024•23 min
In this episode, we are joined by Drs Marc Brackett and Niobe Way to discuss the importance of human connection for children, teenagers, and adults. We talk about the significance of supportive relationships for healthy social emotional development, and the potential negative effects of a lack of supportive relationships, including violence and self-harm. Further, Marc and Niobe dive into the topic of relational intelligence and ways in which this can be understood and learned. Finally, we discu...
Feb 21, 2024•42 min
In this episode we speak with Dr. Keegan Tangeman about the use of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to support children and adults in overcoming difficult thoughts and behaviors. We speak about the use of this type of therapy in general, as well as with suicidal adolescents. Further, we discuss how the principles of DBT can be used to support children not only in therapy but in their interactions with others. Dr. Tangeman is a licensed, child and adolescent psychologist. He received his doct...
Feb 14, 2024•26 min
We are thrilled to be joined in our first episode of the New Year by Jessica Grose. Jessica is an opinion writer at The New York Times who writes a popular newsletter on parenting. Jessica was the founding editor of Lenny, the email newsletter and website. She also writes about women’s health, culture, politics and grizzly bears. She was named one of LinkedIn’s Next Wave top professionals 35 and under in 2016 and a Glamour “Game Changer” in 2020 for her coverage of parenting in the pandemic. She...
Feb 07, 2024•29 min
In this episode, Dr. Whitney discusses her book "Doing It All: Stop Over-Functioning and Become the Mom and Person You're Meant to Be." She addresses the challenges faced by mothers who feel overwhelmed and pulled in multiple directions, offering strategies for self-compassion, setting boundaries, and prioritizing what matters most. Dr. Whitney emphasizes the importance of being sensitive and responsive to children's needs, establishing routines, nurturing internal motivation, and modeling emoti...
Jan 31, 2024•26 min
In this episode, we are joined by Professor Susan Neuman to explore early literacy and how parents can best support their young children. Susan emphasizes the importance of understanding the science of reading and highlights key skills that contribute to a child's success as a reader. The conversation delves into various aspects of early literacy, such as phonological awareness, representational language, and the significance of play. Susan encourages parents to engage in activities that align w...
Jan 24, 2024•21 min
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Richard Weissbourd to speak about achievement pressure. We discuss how parents can be mindful of the messages they send and how to prioritize children’s well-being over external validation. Dr. Weissbourd speaks as to how collective action is critical to address systemic issues that are fueling achievement pressure. Richard Weissbourd is a Senior Lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Kennedy School of Government. His work focuses on mo...
Jan 17, 2024•32 min
In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome back Dr. Jeanne Donaldson to speak with her on the topic of behavior basics and creating a foundation of a warm, loving, safe, nurturing environment in our homes. We take on a variety of topics including establishing the foundations of sleep, nutrition, movement, safety, parental attention, and building and supporting independence through choice making. With all of the information out online and on social media, we wanted to take a moment to do an epis...
Jan 11, 2024•1 hr 8 min
As we head into the holiday season, we are re-airing our interview with Eve Rodsky, a mom of 3, an attorney, an activist, and NY Times Best Seller Author of “Fair Play” and “Find Your Unicorn Space.” In this episode, we discuss what “Unicorn Space” is, and what we can do to help discover this space. We also discuss the mental load of motherhood, an especially pertinent topic during these times. You can learn more about Eve Rodsky and purchase “Find Your Unicorn Space” at her website: https://www...
Jan 03, 2024•31 min
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Damour about the emotional lives of teenagers. We pay especial attention to the pressures that both genders feel yet how those may be manifested differently across genders, at times. Dr. Damour unpacks parent-child relationships, especially the mother-daughter relationship, and the role of identification in that relationship as girls mature. We also discuss how research methods may not always allow for the identification of areas of concern for boys. Dr. Lisa D...
Dec 27, 2023•30 min
In this brief episode, Michelle and I discuss techniques to support young children in their listening. This is our last episode of the year as we take a month break. During our break, we will be re-airing episodes on selective eating, the emotional lives of children and developing emotional self-awareness. Wishing you and your families a joyous holiday season and New Year!
Dec 20, 2023•16 min
In this episode, we discuss with Chloe Massey, Cooper Education Team Parenting Expert and Doctoral Candidate- parenting, teaching, and learning challenges. We dig into some of the behavioral, social, and academic challenges that might surface around this time of year among school aged children. Chloe brings her knowledge and experience as a former classroom teacher, as well as a parent navigating all of this herself. We talk through strategies on how to communicate best with your child's teacher...
Dec 13, 2023•27 min
In this episode we speak with Dr. Aliza Pressman about her new book, The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans. Aliza outlines what those five science backed principles are, and what they look like in parenting. We further discuss how these principles apply across a broad range of children’s ages, and the various roles that temperament and family values play in their application. To learn more about Aliza visit her website and to pre-order her book visit Amazo...
Dec 06, 2023•33 min
As we head into the holiday season, we are re-airing our interview with Eve Rodsky, a mom of 3, an attorney, an activist, and NY Times Best Seller Author of “Fair Play” and “Find Your Unicorn Space.” In this episode, we discuss what “Unicorn Space” is, and what we can do to help discover this space. We also discuss the mental load of motherhood, an especially pertinent topic during these times. You can learn more about Eve Rodsky and purchase “Find Your Unicorn Space” at her website: https://www...
Nov 29, 2023•31 min
In this episode, we have a slightly different format, as we bring my class to the podcast. Michelle guest lectures on anxiety in childhood. She outlines what childhood anxiety is, how it manifests, and ways to support children experiencing anxiety. Michelle weaves in examples from her practice to illustrate concepts. We discuss anxiety in the home and school contexts. To learn more about Michelle and her practice visit: https://michelletangeman.com/...
Nov 22, 2023•40 min
In this episode, we are thrilled to be joined by members of the Fisher Price development team. We discuss the research and development that goes into the making of a toy. As we learn, it takes a lot to get a toy to completion! We also talk about the many ways to engage children with toys, and how we can build emotional connections to toys. To learn more about Fisher Price and their play lab visit: Fisher Price...
Nov 15, 2023•32 min
In this episode, we follow up from episode 106 where we discussed a situation in which recess was taken away from a kindergarten class in response to the behavior of a few children. We speak about the importance of caregiver-school communication to ensure appropriate supports for our children in school. We also discuss what may be potential barriers to effective home-school partnerships. The Article We Refence In This Episode: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/131/1/183/30893/The-C...
Nov 08, 2023•22 min
